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Rapid City

Mt. Rushmore, Black Hills National Forest, United States
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Overview

Take a trip to Rapid City on your United States vacation.

Rapid City, South Dakota, is the state’s second-largest city, next to Sioux Falls. It lies east of Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota and is known as a gateway city. To the east lie the mysteriousBadlands; to the north stands Devils Tower; south is Wind and Jewel Cave National Parks and Custer State Park; and it’s an easy day trip to majestic Mount Rushmore, the massive iconic sculpture of four U.S. presidents. 

History buffs will love the area’s 1880s replica town or the Black Hills Central Railroad for a roundtrip scenic steam train ride. City attractions include Dinosaur Park and the City of Presidents' self-guided sculpture walking tour, the Dahl Art Center and galleries, and The Journey Museum and Learning Center to learn about geology, paleontology, archaeology, pioneer stories, and Native American culture.

Outdoor activities in and around Rapid City abound, including trail rides and hiking, Black Hills adventure tours, the Skyline Wilderness Area, scenic Skyline Drive, and paddle boating in Canyon Lake Park. 

In summer, Rapid City is a great base for the unbelievable Annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival, where you can see cowboys round up more than 1,400 thundering bison. Or book a ticket to the Black Hills Powwow, which draws thousands every October. Bear Country USA is a unique drive-through park featuring North American wildlife and black bears. Explore the underground landscape of the Black Hills Caverns or visit Reptile Garden, billed as “The World’s Largest Reptile Zoo.”

For dinner, discover some Dakota regional specialties: buffalo, elk, walleye, rainbow trout, pheasant, Dakota beef and Indian tacos. Or dine at The Blind Lion's prohibition-style speakeasy for a Korean BBQ bison burger and craft cocktails!

At a Glance

Languages

English

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

What do the experts say?

Aylin Esin

Aylin Esin

Team Lead
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One hidden gem is the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado. Sand dunes against the backdrop of the Rockies, with sand sledding, hiking, and amazing night skies.
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