Black Hills Attractions

Located 8 miles south of Rapid City, Bear Country U.S.A. offers visitors intimate views of most North American mammals. A three-mile drive through several enclosures allows you to see black bear, elk, reindeer, cougars and much more. You can get out at of the care at Babyland for a close-up view of cubs.

A visit to the Circle B Ranch is like stepping back in time. Guests can stroll along the wooden sidewalks of the Old West town, browse in the Wild Horse Gift Shop, sip a cold sarsaparilla in the Circle B Stage Stop, or watch the world-class woodcarver, Doug Ladd, shape one of his creations. Lots of folks come to experience a taste of the old west on our trail rides through the pine forest or a jaunt on a friendly pony.

The world’s largest sculpture of a horse and rider in the Black Hills mountain is a must see attraction. Boston-born sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski began this masterpiece in 1948, and years after his death in 1982, the work continues. The campus has a lot to offer, including museums, restaurants and gift shops.

Formerly known as Spearfish National Fish Hatchery, the now D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives is one of the oldest operating hatcheries in the country. Established in 1896 and devoted to fish culture and resource management, the hatchery is responsible for introducing trout to the Black Hills, and controlling the fish population in Yellowstone National Park. The hatchery has been preserved as a fish culture education center.

This second longest cave in the world is named for the jewel-like Nailhead and Dog-Tooth Spar crystals which line over 143 miles of passages. It’s a unique world of sparkling calcite crystals and other spectaular cave formations.

Amazing artist Jerrett Dahl displays his talents as he carves bears, eagles & more out of wood with his chainsaw! See the gallery. Personalized carving just for you.

Gutzon Borglum carved his mountain in the Black Hills of South Dakota. And much to skeptics’ surprise, his work proved neither incongruous nor ridiculous. Instead, the ambitious sculpture became one of the nation’s most beloved national memorials, and today it stands as a symbol of this country’s unflinching dedication to democracy and freedom.

The museum has a breathtaking “911 Remembered” display. As you tour the museum you will celebrate America’s proud heritage with a parade of U.S. presidents in dramatic historical settings, recall our nation’s leaders, relive history’s great events and recapture a spirit of patriotism.

Located in Custer State Park, Needles Highway stretches over 14 miles and takes its guests past some of the most picturesque places in South Dakota. Only 30 miles south of Rapid City, this drive features remarkable Black Hills scenery including: granite spires, the Needles Eye, narrow tunnels, Sylvan Lake, and hairpin curves. Once deemed “impossible” by critics, Needles Highway has been a Black Hills must-see since 1922.

Stroll through our garden oasis of colorful blooms, lush vegetation, and well manicured lawns. Meet exotic residence, enjoy a chance encounter with our rare Komodo Dragon and notorious saltwater crocodile. You will also see snakes, tortoises, a bald eagle and some fun loving Prairie Dogs!

Closest trail rides to Crazy Horse Memorial. Friendly, knowledgeable staff guide your small group on beautiful trails in the Black Hills National Forest. Reasonable rates, families welcome. Bring your camera! Memorial weekend through September.

Explore the closest cave to Mount Rushmore, “Where Nature Does the Carving!” Journey on an amazing walking tour and experience the stalactite filled Big Room! This ancient Black Hills treasure, buried beneath the earth’s surface is now yours to discover and explore.

All aboard for a 20-mile journey on a vintage steam train like the ones that helped settle the great American West. This two hour and fifteen minute ride is a great way to see the area and take in the breathtaking views.

Enjoy the fourth longest cave in the world with 188 miles of passageways. The cave is well known for it’s outstanding display of boxwork, an unusual cave formation composed of thin calcite fins resembling honeycombs. The park’s mixed-grass prairie is one of the few remaining and is home to native wildlife such as bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes and prairie dogs.