Frolicking in the snow or wandering among monuments and through national parks, you’re sure to feel the crisp, refreshing welcome of winter in the Black Hills and Badlands. But as the temperatures dip and you want to defrost the nose and toes, we’re here to warm you up with some of our favorite indoor adventures and inviting locales for food and drink.
History & Education
The Black Hills and Badlands history runs deep from Native American heritage to the pioneer pasts and geologic formations that now are your favorite photography moments. Learn from regional experts and immersive exhibits in the area.
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs • Hot Springs
One of the world’s largest active site digs, The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs is an educational adventure highlighting the Ice Age. Interactive dig sites and other immersive educational exhibits add to the fun for the kids —and kids at heart.
The Journey Museum • Rapid City
The Journey Museum invites you to uncover the stories of the Black Hills and Badlands and learn about the Native American culture, pioneer and Wild West pasts, geological formations, and space exploration throughout the region.
Family Fun
Nothing warms the soul more than laughter shared among the family. Enjoy friendly competitions at indoor arcades and putt-putt or splash into fun at indoor waterparks.
Sprockets Fun Foundry • Keystone
Challenge the entire family at Sprockets Fun Foundry indoor arcade in Keystone. A fully immersive virtual reality and arcade set-up, and duckpin bowling. Grab a bite to eat while you’re there and leave with warm family memories.
Putz n Glo Black Light Mini Golf • Rapid City
Putt your way through the decades under glowing neon lights at an indoor miniature golf course. Add to the fun, chasing that high score in arcade games like pinball and skee-ball.
Evans Plunge Mineral Springs • Hot Springs
Slide into fun at Evans Plunge Mineral Springs, an indoor pool and playground where the water is warmed from natural springs in the Black Hills. From slides to water rings to water volleyball and basketball, water adventure is just as exciting as during the hot summer months.
Cozy & Chill Vibes
Warm up with comforting flavors this winter in inviting restaurants, breweries and wineries, and coffee shops.
Prairie Dog Taproom • Hill City
Sip on locally crafted stouts, porters, and ales inside a warm taproom all while tapping your feet to live music held throughout the winter.
Belle Joli Winery & Sparkling House • Sturgis
Cheers to friends and family with a glass of sparkling wine or warm red while enjoying a savory charcuterie board. Enjoy the warmth of vino and conversation while looking out over the vineyard and rolling winter landscape of the Black Hills.
The Local • Rapid City
Coffee shops like The Local are a great space to sip a hot latte or tea, unwind with a warm breakfast, and enjoy a book or play a board game.