14 Things to Do Your First Year in Rapid City, SD
New to Rapid City? Don’t let your first year pass you by without taking advantage of all the region has to offer. Your newcomer bucket list should start with these 14 things to do in Rapid City SD.
In This Article
1. Badlands National Park
Located just 45 minutes from Rapid City, Badlands National Park features overlooks, scenic drives and trails, making it ideal for those wanting to take in the natural beauty of the region. Keep a watchful eye on the horizon. If you’re lucky, you might just spot bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs.
2. Bear Country USA
If you’re looking for a beautiful drive, you can’t do much better than Bear Country USA. This 200-acre wildlife park offers a 3-mile drive-through that provides a fantastic view of scenery and wildlife. You’ll likely see black bears, elk, reindeer, bobcats or cougars.
3. Chapel in the Hills
A replica of the Borgund Stavkirke Church in Norway, this tucked-away chapel is a nod to the region’s Scandinavian heritage. Not only is it stunning, but the surrounding land is beautiful and peaceful, with a Meditation Trail behind the chapel.
4. City of Presidents Walking Tour
As you explore downtown, you’ll see the life-size bronze statues of every U.S. president placed along the sidewalks. Download a self-guided tour or embark on a scavenger hunt as you learn about U.S. history through public art.
5. Crazy Horse Memorial
An ongoing project decades in the making, Crazy Horse Memorial honors Lakota leader Crazy Horse. A trip to see what has been accomplished so far should be at the top of your list, along with a visit to the on-site museum and visitor center.
6. Dahl Arts Center
Run by the Rapid City Arts Council, this is the go-to place for all things visual and performing arts. Enjoy five visual arts galleries, regular art classes for all ages, a cafe and free live music on Friday evenings.
7. Main Street Square
Be sure to explore every inch of the square, where fountains, art, shops, restaurants make for fun times.
8. Mount Rushmore
You can’t live in South Dakota without visiting Mount Rushmore – it’s the state’s most famous landmark and one that draws visitors from all across the nation.
9. Rapid City Rush
Be sure to catch a pro hockey game at The Monument while they’re in season (October through April).
10. Reptile Gardens
As one of the world’s largest reptile zoos, Reptile Gardens is a must. For those who don’t love reptiles, enjoy a stroll through the beautiful plants and flowers in the Sky Dome.
11. Sheridan and Pactola Lakes
Get ready for a fun lake day. Pactola Lake is great for fishing, boating and swimming, while Sheridan Lake offers a more secluded setting.
12. Skyline Wilderness Trail
If you’re looking for panoramic views of Rapid City and the Black Hills, this trail is a must. It’s perfect for hikers and photographers who like a moderate trek with high reward. Plus, Skyline Drive is home to Dinosaur Park.
13. Stratobowl Rim Trailhead
With its natural depression in the Black Hills, the trailhead was used for hot air balloon launches in the 1930s. Today, that legacy is celebrated with the Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch each September.
14. The Journey Museum & Learning Center
Visit the Journey Museum & Learning Center to explore all things geology, archaeology, paleontology, Native American and pioneer history, which tell the rich and vibrant story of the Black Hills region.
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