Rapid City

Overview

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.