Rapid City
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Rapid City's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore. Take in the stunning views and enjoy a short hike in the Black Hills area.
Have lunch in downtown Rapid City where you can try local cuisine. Spend the afternoon visiting the Journey Museum to learn about the area's history.
Dine at a local steakhouse for a true taste of South Dakota. Enjoy a walk through the beautifully lit downtown area.
Begin your day at Custer State Park, where you can spot bison and other wildlife. Enjoy a scenic drive along the wildlife loop.
Pack a picnic and relax at Sylvan Lake while soaking in nature. Consider renting a kayak for some fun on the water.
Head back to Rapid City for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Wind down with a stroll through the city to admire local art and sculptures.
Visit the beautiful Badlands National Park this morning. Hike one of the many trails and marvel at the unique rock formations.
After exploring, stop for lunch at a nearby cafรฉ. Spend your afternoon visiting the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park.
Return to Rapid City for a comforting dinner. Consider catching a local show or event for some evening entertainment.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local diner. Then head to the nearby Black Hills to hike up Harney Peak.
After your hike, have lunch at a quaint cafรฉ in Hill City. Spend the afternoon exploring local shops and art galleries.
Join a stargazing event at a nearby observatory. Cap the night off with a warm drink at a cafรฉ.
Start your day at the Reptile Gardens to see an array of fascinating creatures. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and shows.
Afterward, head to the Rushmore Mountain Adventure Park for some outdoor fun. Try zip-lining or go on a mountain coaster ride.
Grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby. Enjoy some ice cream before heading back to your hotel.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic George S. Mickelson Trail. Enjoy the adjoining forests and landscapes as you pedal through.
Stop for lunch at a picnic area along the trail. Continue your biking adventure in the afternoon, heading toward the historic town of Deadwood.
Return to Rapid City and unwind with dinner at a local pub. Explore the nightlife or catch a live band if available.
Begin with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum. Admire various aircraft and learn about aviation history.
After lunch, visit the Dahl Arts Center to explore the local art scene. Participate in any workshops that may be available.
Dine at an upscale restaurant to enjoy a fine dining experience. Make sure to check if there are any local theater performances happening tonight.
Visit the Bear Country USA this morning to get close to North American animals. Observe them in a natural setting while driving through the park.
Enjoy lunch at a cafรฉ nearby before heading to the Cosmos Mystery Area. Explore the optical illusions that will leave you puzzled and entertained.
Have dinner at a local favorite BBQ joint. Finish your day with a movie at a nearby theater or an outdoor seating area.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a cafรฉ before heading to Needles Highway. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the granite spires and tunnels.
Visit the scenic spot of Cathedral Spires and take a quick hike. Find a nice viewpoint to relax and have lunch while surrounded by nature.
Wrap up the day with dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the Black Hills. Relax with a glass of wine as you watch the sunset.
Spend a leisurely morning at the local farmers market if it's the weekend. Enjoy the fresh produce and handmade goods.
After lunch, head to a local escape room for some fun challenges with friends or family. Use your teamwork skills to escape!
Dine in Rapid City's vibrant downtown area. Consider visiting a local brewery to sample some craft beers.