Things to do in Rapid City

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Rapid City Travel Guide

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What to do in Rapid City

Discover the most popular places to visit in Rapid City

Your kids will never forget this amazing experience! About $10 per person, this up close and personal zoo-like drive is a brilliant way to get close to nature.

Bear Country USA

Visit the native and exotic animals who call Bear Country USA home during your travels in Rapid City. Check out the notable monuments and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

A good place to get a case of the creepy crawlies.

Reptile Gardens

See the exotic and native animals who live at Reptile Gardens during your travels in Colonial Pine Hills. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's notable monuments.

Watiki Water Park

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Watiki Water Park during your visit to Rapid City. Attend a sporting event while in this family-friendly area or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants.

The Monument Civic Center

Learn about the events happening at The Monument Civic Center during your trip to Rapid City. Make time for the notable monuments and horseback riding in this family-friendly area.

Monument Health

Though Monument Health might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Rapid City while you are here.

Main Street Square

Find out about the history of Rapid City when you spend time at Main Street Square. Check out the notable monuments and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Rushmore Mall

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Rushmore Mall during your trip to Rapid City. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Walk around the campus at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology during your visit to Rapid City. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Central States Fairgrounds

Enjoy an outing to Central States Fairgrounds during your stay in Rapid City. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Rapid City

Rapid City featuring a city and night scenes

Historic Rapid City

Historic Rapid City is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Main Street Square or Art Alley.

West Boulevard Historic District

While West Boulevard Historic District isn't home to many top sights, Main Street Square and Art Alley are some notable places to visit nearby.

#Perspective
Stopped off in Rapid City on our way to Yellowstone NP, was blown away by the graffiti art down some of its back lanes. Thought the overhead power lines created great leading lines through the image.

Downtown Historic District

While visiting Downtown Historic District, you might make a stop by sights like Main Street Square and Art Alley.

Rimrock

Rimrock might not have many top sights, but Thunderhead Falls and Black Hills Caverns are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Popular day trips from Rapid City

Mount Rushmore which includes mountains and a monument

Keystone

Hill City

Deadwood

Box Elder

Frequently asked questions

Is Rapid City worth visiting?

Rapid City offers an interesting mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, nature or regional cuisine, there are many things to enjoy here.

How do I spend a day in Rapid City?

Watiki Water Park and Bear Country USA are two great places to begin your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Rapid City while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Rapid City?

Don't leave without visiting Watiki Water Park, rated the top tourist attraction in Rapid City.

Is three days enough to stay in Rapid City?

You can easily visit leading attractions like Watiki Water Park, Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show and Storybook Island with a three-day stay in Rapid City. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and head to Keystone.

Is Rapid City a walkable city?

With awesome attractions like Storybook Island in the area, Rapid City is every bit a place to enjoy on foot. Up for visiting some vibrant neighborhoods within walking distance of downtown? Historic Rapid City is just 0.32 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Rapid City with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Rapid City with kids.

What to do in Rapid City for adults?

There are loads of things to do in Rapid City, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Museum of the American Bison or Journey Museum & Learning Center.

Are there free things to do in Rapid City?

One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Rapid City is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on cool neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.