A Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Rapid City & the Black Hills
Rapid City isn’t just a stop on the way to Mount Rushmore—it’s a surprisingly great base for exploring some of South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks and scenic drives. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a low-key adventure with the kids, this three-day itinerary blends history, design, nature, and a bit of small-town charm.
Day 1: Downtown Rapid City + Skyline Views
Morning
Start with coffee at Harriet & Oak, a downtown cafe set inside a restored VW van with cozy lighting and exposed brick. Walk a few blocks to Art Alley, a rotating display of street art between 6th and 7th Street. From there, explore Main Street Square and the bronze presidential statues scattered around the historic downtown. You can also continue and take a stroll by the namesake Rapid Creek.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Tally’s Silver Spoon—go for the seasonal risotto or the pheasant salad. Then make your way to The Journey Museum, which weaves together Lakota culture, Black Hills geology, and pioneer history in a surprisingly immersive way. Later, drive up Skyline Drive for views of the city and beyond.
Evening
Check in to a downtown hotel like the DoubleTree, Hotel Alex Johnson or The Rushmore Hotel. For dinner, try The Vertex rooftop bar (at Alex Johnson) for cocktails and sunset views. If you're feeling curious, book a spot on the downtown ghost tour—especially fun if you're staying somewhere haunted.
🛒 Amazon Finds Inspired by Downtown Rapid City:
Day 2: Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park & Scenic Drives
Morning
Head out early and drive to Mount Rushmore (about 30 minutes). Stop for breakfast in Keystone at Peggy’s Place or grab something quick and beat the crowds. Plan for about 60–90 minutes at the monument—plenty of time to walk the Presidential Trail and check out the museum. You can also check out the Crazy Horse Memorial, about 30 minutes from here.
Midday
Take the scenic route south through Iron Mountain Road. You’ll hit several tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore—bring a camera. Continue onto the Needles Highway, where granite spires rise out of pine forests. Stop at Sylvan Lake or hike the short but stunning Lover’s Leap Trail.
Afternoon
Drive the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park. You might spot bison, burros, pronghorns, or wild turkeys. If you packed a picnic, this is a great spot to pull over and relax.
Evening
Return to Rapid City and opt for something relaxed. Pizza from Independent Ale House or dinner and a nightcap at Murphy’s Pub both hit the spot. Families might opt for the Ramkota or Residence Inn—comfortable, casual, and close to the highway.
Amazon Finds Inspired by the Mount Rushmore & Crazy Horse:
Amazon Finds Inspired by the Needles Highway & Custer State Park:
Looking for more finds inspired by a Rapid City getaway? Check out my Rapid City Design Inspiration guide.
Day 3: Choose Your Own Day Trip
Option A: Deadwood + Spearfish Canyon
Drive to Deadwood (just under an hour). Grab brunch at the Deadwood Social Club, wander the Old West-style streets, and step inside The Bullock Hotel if you’re into haunted history. On the way back, take the scenic Spearfish Canyon Byway—especially pretty in fall.
Option B: Wall Drug + Badlands National Park
Leave early and stop at Wall Drug for donuts and souvenirs. Then head into Badlands National Park, just minutes away. Drive the loop, hike Notch Trail or Door Trail, and stop for photos at Pinnacles Overlook.
Evening
Back in Rapid City, wrap up your trip with a quiet dinner and maybe one last walk through downtown. If you didn’t catch the ghost tour yet, tonight’s your chance.
Final Tips
Rent a car—you’ll need it for almost everything.
Plan for weather shifts. It can swing 30 degrees in a single day.
Book hotels in advance during peak months (especially July and early August).
Ready to plan your trip? Check out our Rapid City hotel guide to find the perfect stay—from rustic lodges to haunted charmers.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What’s the best time of year to visit Rapid City and the Black Hills? | Late spring through early fall is ideal. July and August are busiest, while September offers great weather with fewer crowds. |
| Do I need to rent a car for this itinerary? | Yes. Most attractions are spread out, and public transit is limited. A rental car gives you flexibility and access to scenic drives. |
| Can this itinerary work for families with kids? | Absolutely. While the tone leans couple-friendly, everything here is family-accessible—especially Custer State Park, WaTiki, and the Badlands. |
| Are the ghost tours suitable for kids? | Some are. Most are more historical than scary, but it’s best to check the tour description before booking with younger kids. |
| Is Mount Rushmore worth it? | Yes—but don’t expect to spend all day. Most visitors enjoy it best as a half-day stop paired with a scenic drive or hike. |
| Where should I stay? | Downtown Rapid City has charm and walkability. Families might prefer hotels along I-90 near WaTiki Waterpark. Keystone is best for early starts at Mount Rushmore. For hotel recommendations by vibe and budget, check out our full Rapid City hotel guide. |
