As the last motorcycle rides off into the horizon and the aisles are filling with back-to-school supplies, you might be thinking about the fall season.
But summer fun isn’t over just yet! The Black Hills and Badlands is open and family-favorite attractions are ready to continue welcoming visitors to the region.
August is a perfect time to visit the region, as a quiet, yet adventurous get-a-way.
Things to Do
Fun for the entire family awaits in the region. Animal adventures allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife and learn more about the habitats in the Black Hills and Badlands. Animal adventures at popular attractions like Old MacDonald’s Farm, Reptile Gardens, and Bear Country U.S.A. are located just outside of Rapid City along Highway 16 offer an up-close-and personal encounter with an expansive variety of wildlife.
Defy the laws of gravity at Cosmos Mystery Area, also along Highway 16, and continue to Keystone where fun awaits at Sprockets Fun Foundry, a virtual reality arcade. And if aerial adventures are your thing, you can fly through the pines on alpine roller coasters and ziplines at Rushmore Tramway Adventures.
Challenge your family to a game of putt-putt at Putz n Glo Black Light Miniature Golf or Holy Terror Mini Golf, an outdoor course in Keystone.
Check out Black Hills and Badlands Things to Do for more family fun!
Educational Excursions
Museums and parks throughout the region offer opportunities for hands on experiences where kids can actively engage with exhibits learning about the Native American culture, regional history, and prehistoric wonders like dinosaurs!
Monuments, memorials, and other historic sites also have ranger-led youth programming or exhibits to learn more about the history and culture of the region. At Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park, kids can earn a ranger badge as a souvenir!
Check out a list of museums and historic sites here.
Natural Wonders
The region is filled with natural wonders to spark curiosity and excitement. Take a cave tour and explore underground passageways. Wonderland Cave and Black Hills Caverns are two of several cave explorations offering tours and other interactive exhibits. Rushmore Cave at Rush Mountain Adventure Park offers cave tours, as well as gemstone mining, where you can see if you strike it rich! In addition, the park offers natural outdoor adventures like a Rush Mountain coaster and Soaring Eagle Zipline, where thrills meet the outdoors.
Miles of hiking trails are waiting to be explored throughout the region. Many are accessible for all ages. While hiking, identify trees, plants, and wildlife along the trail.
Lakes and creeks throughout the Black Hills also offer prime spots for fishing. You will need to obtain a South Dakota Fishing License via the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks.
Dining
The Black Hills and Badlands is nothing short of delicious dining for the entire family to enjoy. The local flare is sure to make your mouth water, so sit down after a day of exploring for a bison burger or Native American taco. Grapes & Grinds in Keystone has a relaxing patio with a playground for kids and large yard games for friendly family competition. Experience a Chuckwagon dinner with Blue Bell Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer, where your family can eat like the cowpoke on the prairie! Savor the meal while listening to live entertainment, which is part of the cookout.
Be sure to save room for homemade fudge, ice cream, and other sweet treats while visiting! Check out a candy shop or chocolate shop located along popular regional routes. Rushmore Candy is located along Highway 16, south of Rapid City, while Candyland is at Three Forks outside of Hill City. For handcrafted truffles and chocolates, visit Chubby Chipmunks in Deadwood.
Learn more about dining options throughout the Black Hills and Badlands.
Lodging
From cabins to RV resorts and hotel waterparks, the region offers fun family get-a-ways for summer adventuring. The weather will still be prime for camping, and there many private and public campgrounds located within the Black Hills National Forest and State Parks to enjoy a night under the stars. Many private RV resorts include full hook-ups and other amenities including a pool, showers, laundry, dining, and more. Affordable hotels provide comfort and convenience in Black Hills and Badlands communities, as well, located a short distance from favorite activities.
View all lodging accommodations.
Free Activities
Fun and free? Yes, please! The region offers unique, educational and memorable activities for a budget-friendly trip.
Step into your favorite stories at Storybook Island in Rapid City with mini playgrounds, train rides and interactive fun!
Take a hike along Dinosaur Park along Skyline Drive. Larger than life dinosaurs overlook a panoramic view of Rapid City. To extend the adventure, grab an ice cream and head to the Skyline Trail System, an urban hiking trail connected to the park.
Cool off at Main Street Square in Rapid City with a splash pad and relax on the green with live music after walking along the City of Presidents.
Many museums throughout the region are free of charge and offer exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning.
View the Black Hills & Badlands Events Calendar for a full list of community events, which include free, live music and movie nights, as well as other family-fun events.
Digital Coupons
For extra savings, be sure to check out Black Hills & Badlands Digital Coupons, featuring savings at regional attractions, restaurants, and lodging in the region. Extra savings allow for extra adventures!
