Tourist city of South Dakota – 4 recommended sightseeing spots in Rapid City

Rapid City is a city located in the western part of the U.S. state of South Dakota. In 1874, gold was discovered in the Black Hills, and the city developed as a gold mining town. Today, mining, agriculture, and forestry are thriving industries, but with nearby national parks such as Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Devils Tower, the city attracts more than 3 million visitors annually as a base for tourism.

Although it’s a small city, you’ll find statues of former presidents scattered throughout, so be sure to look for them. Also, Native American crafts are of high quality and make great souvenirs. Now, let’s take a look at some recommended sightseeing spots in Rapid City.

1. Bear Country USA

Bear Country USA is a safari park located about 12 km from Rapid City, at the foot of the Black Hills. It is one of Rapid City’s most popular tourist attractions. The facility covers an area equivalent to 17 Tokyo Domes. The animals live in an environment close to their natural habitat, and visitors can drive their own cars along a 5 km path through the park.

The park is home to a variety of North American animals, including bears, buffalo, elk, wolves, reindeer, beavers, and coyotes, which you can observe up close. After the safari, be sure to visit Babyland, where you can see baby animals. You can also interact with small animals under the supervision of a zookeeper. The gift shop offers Bear Country-exclusive merchandise—perfect for a Rapid City souvenir.

2.1880 Town

As the name suggests, 1880 Town is a tourist attraction that recreates a South Dakota town from 1880 to 1920. It’s also one of Rapid City’s popular tourist spots. Originally built as a film set for a western movie, it was later turned into a theme park by bringing in old buildings from Rapid City and nearby towns.

With more than 50 buildings including a city hall, church, and school, it feels like stepping into an old western town! Horse-drawn carriages and steam locomotives also run, making it an enjoyable destination for both children and adults. The restaurant is modeled after a dining car from a 1950s train. There are also costume rentals for small children, so they can enjoy the visit as if they’ve traveled back in time.

3. Black Hills Caverns

Black Hills Caverns is a sightseeing destination located east of Rapid City. The cave’s crystals were used by Native Americans, but it was discovered in 1882 by people searching for gold and became widely known. The cavern stretches for 1 km, showcasing a complex and fantastical landscape.

There are two tour options available at Black Hills Caverns in Rapid City. The Adventure Tour takes about an hour and allows visitors to explore nearly the entire cave, which spans three levels. The Crystal Tour covers only the first level of the cave and takes 30 minutes. Both tours offer a chance to appreciate the beauty of the caverns and are very popular with tourists. If you're visiting Rapid City, be sure to check it out.

4. Black Thunder Gold Mine

The next sightseeing spot in Rapid City is Big Thunder Gold Mine. This gold mine was actually excavated in the 19th century and is now open to the public as a tourist attraction. After exploring the mine with a guide, you can try your hand at panning for gold in a nearby stream. With careful instruction, you might just find some real gold!

There is also an adjoining museum where you can see tools and machinery once used in the mine. It’s a fascinating spot to learn about the history of Rapid City. There’s also a dining area and an ice cream shop where you can take a break. The gift shop offers antiques, crafts, and alcoholic beverages, so you’re sure to find a great Rapid City souvenir.

Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Rapid City

So, how did you like our introduction to Rapid City’s sightseeing spots? Rapid City is a small city with a population of less than 100,000, yet it attracts over 3 million visitors each year. Be sure to use it as a base to explore the nearby national parks.

Besides the spots introduced here, Rapid City offers several other attractions, and shopping for local gourmet food and crafts is part of the fun. The people of Rapid City are generally open and friendly, so you’re sure to have a memorable trip.

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Tourist city of South Dakota – 4 recommended sightseeing spots in Rapid City