Two-Week Trip Itinerary: Denver, CO and South Dakota

Day 1: Arrival & Denver City Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Denver and settle into your hotel. Take a leisurely walk around Union Station to get a first taste of the city's vibe.

Afternoon: Visit the Denver Art Museum to enjoy its extensive collection of Native American art and contemporary works.

Evening: Dine in the lively LoDo District, known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants.

Day 2: Denver Highlights & Mountain Views

Morning: Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, famous for its stunning natural acoustics and panoramic views.

Afternoon: Head to Coors Field for a stadium tour or catch an afternoon game if available.

Evening: Relax with dinner at a local brewery, sampling Denver's craft beer scene.

Day 3: Denver to Rapid City, SD

Morning: Drive northwest towards Rapid City, South Dakota; enjoy scenic views along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive and visit Downtown Rapid City to explore local shops and galleries.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner and prepare for upcoming adventures.

Day 4: Badlands National Park

Morning: Drive to Badlands National Park and take the scenic loop drive, stopping at key viewpoints.

Afternoon: Hike one of the park’s trails, such as the Window Trail or Fossil Exhibit Trail.

Evening: Return to Rapid City for dinner and rest.

Day 5: Mount Rushmore & Black Hills

Morning: Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial and learn about its history.

Afternoon: Explore Custer State Park, famous for its wildlife and scenic drives.

Evening: Enjoy local cuisine in the Black Hills region.

Day 6: Crazy Horse Memorial & Deadwood

Morning: Tour Crazy Horse Memorial, one of the largest mountain carvings in progress.

Afternoon: Visit the historic town of Deadwood, experiencing its Old West charm.

Evening: Return to Rapid City, relax, and enjoy dinner.

Day 7: Journey to Sioux Falls, SD

Morning: Drive to Sioux Falls, stopping at scenic points along the way.

Afternoon: Walk around Falls Park and see the waterfalls in the heart of the city.

Evening: Explore local dining options in downtown Sioux Falls.

Day 8: Prepare for Return & Departure

Morning: Finish any last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Sioux Falls.

Afternoon: Begin your journey back home or to your next destination.

Evening: End of trip; reflect on your adventures in Denver and South Dakota.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Union Station, Denver - 1 hour, $0
• Denver Art Museum - 2 hours, $15
• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre - 2 hours, $0
• Downtown Denver - 1 hour, $0
• Drive to Rapid City - 6 hours, transportation cost varies
• Badlands National Park - 3 hours, $0 (park fee included)
• Mount Rushmore - 2 hours, $10
• Custer State Park - 2 hours, $20
• Crazy Horse Memorial - 2 hours, $30
• Downtown Sioux Falls & Falls Park - 2 hours, $0
• Additional meals, accommodations, and transport costs - varies
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $125 (excluding transportation and accommodations)

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding more days in the Black Hills or exploring other nearby attractions like Wind Cave National Park. If you prefer a shorter stay, focus on the highlights such as Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Denver’s main sights to make the most of your time.