Rapid City and the greater Black Hills region serve up hearty Western fare and some genuinely wild scenic drives beyond the memorial itself. Here's where to eat and what else to see on a Black Hills trip.
Western Fare in Rapid City
Rapid City's restaurant scene leans into South Dakota's ranching heritage — bison burgers and steaks show up on menus across downtown, alongside the city's quirky life-size President statues that line its sidewalks, a fun scavenger hunt while you're waiting for a table.
Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road
Two of the most scenic drives in the country run right through this region — Needles Highway threads through granite spires and one-lane tunnels in Custer State Park, while Iron Mountain Road's pigtail bridges and tunnels are specifically aligned to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance as you drive toward it.
Bison, Wind Cave, and the Badlands
Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop Road is one of the best places in the country to see free-roaming bison up close from your car, and Wind Cave National Park, just south, protects one of the longest cave systems in the world. The otherworldly rock formations of Badlands National Park are also within a day-trip range if you have extra time. Browse Mount Rushmore and Black Hills tours and experiences below to plan your trip.
Pack for the Black Hills
Long scenic drives and outdoor stops call for a bag that can handle both. The VacationGrabs Vintage Leather Backpack is a durable option for a multi-stop Black Hills day.
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