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
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…
1881 Courthouse Museum
- 411 Mt Rushmore Rd
The Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum is housed in the original Custer County Courthouse in…
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…
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…
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…
Black Hills Balloons
- 747 Mt Rushmore Rd
Black Hills Balloons invites you to explore South Dakota's breathtaking scenery from above…
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…
Black Hills Bronco Adventures
- 11388 Pass Creek Rd
Black Hills Bronco Adventures offers open-top Bronco tours that highlight the area's landscapes and…
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…
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.

America 250 in Spearfish
- Visit Spearfish
- May 16, 2026 - Jul 3, 2026
Corn Palace Murals — “250 Years of America”
- May 16, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
Country Music Series at Blue Bell Lodge
- Blue Bell Lodge
- May 16, 2026 - May 17, 2026
Custer State Park Open House & Free Fishing Weekend
- Custer State Park
- May 16, 2026 - May 17, 2026
Native American Performers and Storytellers at Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Crazy Horse Memorial®
- May 18, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Deadwood's 150th Celebration Events
- May 22, 2026 - Dec 4, 2026
Evening Lighting Ceremony at Mount Rushmore
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
- May 22, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Mahkoche Kin
- Crazy Horse Memorial®
- May 22, 2026 - Sep 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
Frenchy's Hideaways
- 12251 Aviation Way
Welcome to the beautiful Black Hills—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always…
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…
Comfort Inn & Suites - Custer
- 339 Mt Rushmore Rd
Experience comfort in the heart of the Black Hills at Comfort Inn & Suites Custer. Surrounded by…
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…
Elk Haven Vacation Cabins
- 25050 Little Italy Rd
Elk Haven Cabins offers a unique retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Just minutes from…
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…
Creekside Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
This lodge is on the grounds of the State Game Lodge features 30 luxurious, over sized rooms with…
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…
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…
Blue Bell Lodge
- 25453 Hwy 87
Blue Bell Lodge invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the tranquility and…
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.

