Custer
Minutes, Not Miles, from Adventure!
The city of Custer stands as a captivating blend where history and nature converge. As one of the oldest towns in the Black Hills, Custer invites adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers to immerse themselves in its unique allure. Here’s why this historic gem should be your next travel destination.

A Leap into the Unique: Custer’s Charm
Custer stands out with its unique combination of geological marvels, historical narratives, and an inviting community spirit. The town’s vicinity to the striking granite spires and peaceful meadows gives it a distinct spot on the map for those seeking serenity and adventure. This blend of natural wonders and a storied past, dating back to the Wild West and gold rush eras, offers a travel experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
Maximize Your Custer Experience
Dive into the great outdoors by exploring the endless hiking and biking trails, such as the renowned 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail. The trails not only provide an exhilarating route through the heart of Black Hills but also offer encounters with wildlife and breathtaking vistas. For those drawn to history, Custer's museums and historic sites recount the area's vibrant past, offering a glimpse into the days of gold discovery and frontier life.

Explore Things to Do
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
- 13389 Hwy 16A
Exciting off-road adventure deep into the wildlife herds! Your guide takes you on an unforgettable…
Art Expressions Gallery
- 449 Mt Rushmore Rd
Make Art Expressions Gallery a stop while in Custer. Located in the heart of the beautiful Black…
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
- 429 Mt Rushmore Rd
Everything you could ever need for all of your outdoor adventures, under one roof! The South Dakota…
Black Hills Balloons
- 747 Mt Rushmore Rd
Black Hills Balloons invites you to explore South Dakota's breathtaking scenery from above…
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar
- 511 Mt Rushmore Rd
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar offers a dining experience like no other. Whether you're…
Four Mile Old West Town
- 11921 W Hwy 16
Experience yesterday in the old west at Four Mile where the outhouse talks. Step back for family fun…
Crazy Horse Memorial®
- 12151 Avenue of The Chiefs
Hidden within the heart of the Black Hills, the Crazy Horse Memorial® invites you to hear the story…
Blue Bell Chuckwagon Cookout
- 25453 US Hwy 87
Ever dreamt of stepping back into the wild, wild West? Blue Belle Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer State…
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
- 529 Mt Rushmore Rd
Located in the heart of Downtown Custer, South Dakota, Begging Burro Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar…
Trail Rides at Blue Bell Stables
- 25453 US Hwy 87 at Blue Bell Lodge
Explore the 71,000-acre wildlife preserve of Custer State Park on a peaceful guided horseback ride…
Black Hills Nature Shop by Black Hills Parks & Forest Association
- 833 Mt Rushmore Road
The Black Hills Nature Shop offers a wide variety of unique, high-quality gifts and educational…
1881 Courthouse Museum
- 411 Mt Rushmore Rd
The Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum is housed in the original Custer County Courthouse in…
Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service
- 429 Mt Rushmore Rd
Sylvan Rocks Climbing School is dedicated to sharing the thrill of rock climbing while fostering a…
Black Hills National Forest
- 1019 N 5th St
Black Hills National Forest is a remarkable and diverse natural destination that draws visitors from…
The Custer Wolf Food & Drink
- 506 Mount Rushmore Rd
At Custer Wolf every bite captures the spirit of the Black Hills and Badlands. Our casual, yet…
Jewel Cave National Monument
- 11149 US Hwy 16 Bldg B12
Jewel Cave National Monument, the third-longest cave in the world, protects a remarkable underground…
Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company
- 140 Mt Rushmore Rd
Welcome to the Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company. Here, the spirit of America infuses every pint we pour…
Black Hills Playhouse - Theatre 605
- 24834 S Playhouse Rd
The Black Hills Playhouse, in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, is where theater lovers gather…
Festivities for Every Traveler
Embrace the festive spirit of Custer as the town comes alive with events and festivals throughout the year. These gatherings are a testament to the area’s rich culture and traditions, offering visitors an authentic slice of local life. From seasonal celebrations to commemorations of historical events, each festival provides unique entertainment, arts, crafts, and culinary delights, creating lasting memories for visitors of all ages.

The Haunting of Keystone
- Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
WaSpooki
- WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort
- Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
Fall Festival Days at Old MacDonald's Farm
- Old MacDonald's Farm
- Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
Paranormal Investigations of the Adams House
- Adams Museum & Adams House
- Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
Bingo at the Custer Beacon
- Oct 21, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
Skate Nights
- Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center
- Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026

Rest Your Head with Ease: Accommodations in Custer
After a day of adventure and exploration, Custer offers a variety of accommodations to cater to your comfort and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a rustic cabin in the woods, or a convenient hotel in the heart of the town, Custer's array of lodging options ensures a restful stay. Each accommodation choice provides the perfect basecamp for your Black Hills adventure, blending convenience with the warm hospitality South Dakota is known for.
Explore Places to Stay
Blue Bell Lodge
- 25453 Hwy 87
Blue Bell Lodge invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the tranquility and…
Echo Valley Park - Campground and RV Park
- 12129 Echo Valley Rd
Welcome to Echo Valley Park, your gateway to an unforgettable outdoor experience in the heart of the…
Big Pine Campground
- 12084 Big Pine Rd
Amidst towering, fragrant Ponderosa pines, Big Pine Campground offers a serene, no-frills camping…
Super 8 Custer/Crazy Horse
- 535 W Mt Rushmore Rd
You don’t need a map to know where you’re headed. Wherever your spirit takes you, follow the signs…
Elk Haven Vacation Cabins
- 25050 Little Italy Rd
Elk Haven Cabins offers a unique retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Just minutes from…
Custer's Gulch RV Park & Campground
- 25112 Golden Valley Rd
Custer's Gulch RV Park and Campground invites you to the South Dakota Black Hills. This RV park…
Sunset RV Park
- 12246 Sunset Ln
A cozy, boutique‑style getaway designed especially for couples, adults, and seniors. Sunset RV Park…
Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn
- 310 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Experience classic Black Hills hospitality at Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn in Custer. Surrounded…
Frenchy's Hideaways
- 12251 Aviation Way
Welcome to the beautiful Black Hills—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always…
Black Hills Retreats LLC
- 14 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Black Hills Retreats Vacation Rentals specializes in offering premium vacation homes in a scenic…
Fort Welikit Family Campground
- 24992 Sylvan Lake Rd
Fort Welikit Family Campground is your go-to base for exploring the awe-inspiring Black Hills of…
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Custer
- 433 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Get more out of your vacation at Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Here, everything is designed to keep…
Outlaw Ranch
- 12703 Outlaw Ranch Rd
Outlaw Ranch in South Dakota’s Black Hills offers a dynamic blend of faith-based programs, outdoor…
Beaver Lake Campground
- 12005 W Hwy 16
Beaver Lake Campground is the perfect basecamp for exploring the Black Hills. Nestled in the pines…
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Cabins
- 12350 Moss Rock Ln
Experience fresh mountain air and quiet comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Cabins, your…
Legion Lake Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
Perfect for young families! Private cabins with lake views. Dockside Grill features tableside…
Sylvan Lake Lodge at Custer State Park
- 24572 SD Hwy 87
Atop the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, this gem within Custer State Park offers a blend of natural…
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort
- 35 South 4th St
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort sits at the heart of Custer, South Dakota, offering a one-of-a-kind…
Gold Valley Camp
- 12598 US Hwy 16A
Gold Valley Camp is a premier camping destination located just half a mile from the west entrance to…
Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins
- 15 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Within the serene settings of a 10-acre land that borders the National Forest, Rock Crest Lodge &…
Why Custer Should Be Your Next Destination
In conclusion, the City of Custer invites travelers to immerse themselves in a world where the grandeur of nature meets the rich tapestry of American history. It’s a destination that promises not only a retreat into the breathtaking landscapes of South Dakota but also an enriching journey through the cultural and historical essence of the Black Hills region.

