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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
1881 Courthouse Museum
- 411 Mt Rushmore Rd
The Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum is housed in the original Custer County Courthouse in…
Black Hills National Forest
- 1019 N 5th St
Black Hills National Forest is a remarkable and diverse natural destination that draws visitors from…
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
- 529 Mt Rushmore Rd
Located in the heart of Downtown Custer, South Dakota, Begging Burro Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar…
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar
- 511 Mt Rushmore Rd
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar offers a dining experience like no other. Whether you're…
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 Balloons
- 747 Mt Rushmore Rd
Black Hills Balloons invites you to explore South Dakota's breathtaking scenery from above…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
- 13389 Hwy 16A
Exciting off-road adventure deep into the wildlife herds! Your guide takes you on an unforgettable…
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.

Corn Palace Murals — “250 Years of America”
- Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
Evening Lighting Ceremony at Mount Rushmore
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
- Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Monumental Memories: Special Programming Series
- The Journey Museum
- Sep 13, 2026 - Oct 1, 2026
Native American Performers and Storytellers at Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Black Hills Veteran March and Marathon
- Days of '76 Museum
- Sep 16, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
Black Hills Plein Air Paint Out
- Sep 17, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
Free Entrance Day in the National Parks
- Sep 17, 2026 - Nov 11, 2026
Deadwood Jam
- Outlaw Square - Deadwood
- Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 19, 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
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…
Nomad Vancamp & RV Park
- 144 S 4th St
Nomad Vancamp & RV Park places you in the heart of Downtown Custer, South Dakota, for a true Black…
Elk Haven Vacation Cabins
- 25050 Little Italy Rd
Elk Haven Cabins offers a unique retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Just minutes from…
Frenchy's Hideaways
- 12251 Aviation Way
Welcome to the beautiful Black Hills—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always…
Beaver Lake Campground
- 12005 W Hwy 16
Beaver Lake Campground is the perfect basecamp for exploring the Black Hills. Nestled in the pines…
Bavarian Inn, Black Hills
- 855 N 5th St
With a unique blend of European influences, the Bavarian Inn offers a serene contrast to the Wild…
Comfort Inn & Suites - Custer
- 339 Mt Rushmore Rd
Experience comfort in the heart of the Black Hills at Comfort Inn & Suites Custer. Surrounded by…
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…
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…
Calamity Peak Lodge
- 12557 US Hwy 16A
Calamity Peak Lodge & Cabins invites you to enjoy a welcoming stay. Located along French Creek, a…
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…
Big Pine Campground
- 12084 Big Pine Rd
Amidst towering, fragrant Ponderosa pines, Big Pine Campground offers a serene, no-frills camping…
Creekside Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
This lodge is on the grounds of the State Game Lodge features 30 luxurious, over sized rooms with…
Needles Nook
Escape to a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Black Hills. Nestled on 10 private acres minutes…
Spokane Creek Resort Cabins & Campground
- 24631 Iron Mountain Rd
Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground is a welcoming getaway nestled along scenic Iron Mountain Road…
Legion Lake Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
Perfect for young families! Private cabins with lake views. Dockside Grill features tableside…
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…
State Game Lodge at Custer State Park
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
Nestled in the heart of Custer State Park, the State Game Lodge stands as the park's largest resort…
Custer/Crazy Horse/Black Hills KOA
- 12021 W US Hwy 16
Surrounded by beautiful ponderosa pines just three miles west of Custer, Custer/Crazy Horse/Black…
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.

