The Hills

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with The Hills's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Nature in The Hills
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike at Custer State Park. Marvel at the scenic views and the local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Sylvan Lake surrounded by majestic granite cliffs. Take a leisurely walk around the lake to appreciate its beauty.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset drive through Needles Highway. The stunning rock formations make for perfect photo ops.

day 2
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride the Mickelson Trail early in the morning. Experience the tranquility of the hills while surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Stop by a local cafรฉ in Hill City for a hearty lunch. Continue your biking journey in the afternoon to increase your adrenaline.

evening
:

End your day with a campfire at your accommodation. Share stories under the stars and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

day 3
Scenic Views and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit Mount Rushmore to see the iconic sculptures. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and soak in the historical significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the Black Hills Gold Factory for a unique shopping experience. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery and explore more local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant with local cuisine. Reflect on your day while enjoying some delicious dessert.

day 4
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Spend the morning at Bear Country USA to see wildlife up close. Children will love the interactive exhibits and animal encounters.

afternoon
:

Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial for educational tours. Have lunch at the on-site cafรฉ with a stunning view of the monument.

evening
:

Drive to Rapid City for evening entertainment. Explore local dining options that cater to families.

day 5
Historic Journey
morning
:

Dive into history at the Adams House in Deadwood. Explore the Victorian architecture and learn about the area's mining history.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a historic saloon, experiencing the old-west charm. Afterward, walk through the streets of Deadwood, checking out its unique shops.

evening
:

Catch a live reenactment of a historic shootout or performance. End the night with a stroll through the dimly lit streets.

day 6
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the Journey Museum in Rapid City to explore local art and history. Engage with interactive exhibits for an informative start.

afternoon
:

Visit the Dahl Arts Center for a rotating exhibit of local artists. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro to fuel your creativity.

evening
:

Attend an art gallery opening or local theater performance. Immerse yourself in the cultural vibe of the Hills.

day 7
Western Lifestyle
morning
:

Start with a horseback ride through the scenic hills at a local ranch. Experience the rugged beauty of the landscape on horseback.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the ranch and enjoy some cowboy stories. Spend the afternoon learning about western culture through demonstrations.

evening
:

Relax by a fire with some cowboy music. Think about your exciting day surrounded by nature and history.

day 8
Night Sky Appreciation
morning
:

Visit the Black Hills Observatory to learn about the stars. Time your visit for an engaging astronomy workshop.

afternoon
:

Explore local parks for a scenic picnic while discussing the wonders of the universe. In the afternoon, head to a nearby town for lunch.

evening
:

Join an evening stargazing program at the observatory. Relax and enjoy the vastness of the night sky.

day 9
Thrill-Seeking Day
morning
:

Kick off with a visit to the amusement park in Keystone. Enjoy various thrilling rides and attractions that cater to all ages.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the park's cafรฉ and recharge for more fun. Continue enjoying the rides and donโ€™t miss the water rides for a splash of excitement.

evening
:

Visit a nearby arcade for some friendly competition. Share a relaxed dinner at a local pizzeria before heading back.

day 10
Wildflower Walks
morning
:

Spend the morning exploring Spearfish Canyon. Take short nature trails to see vibrant wildflowers in bloom.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy outdoors while surrounded by the fragrant nature. Spend time photographing the stunning scenery.

evening
:

Find a cozy little spot for dinner near the canyon. Reflect on the colorful beauty of the day over a warm meal.

Discover The Hills

Read more in our The Hills 2024 Travel Guide.

The Hills Travel Guide