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Family Friendly South Dakota Road Trip on a Shoestring Budget

Viewed by 100 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Rapid City

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tally's Silver Spoon

Start your day with a delicious and affordable breakfast at Tally's Silver Spoon, known for their hearty meals and friendly service.
Head to Tally's Silver Spoon located at 530 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Reptile Gardens

Explore the fascinating world of reptiles at Reptile Gardens, a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Drive to Reptile Gardens located at 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702.
$15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Firehouse Brewing Company

Enjoy a tasty lunch at Firehouse Brewing Company, a historic brewery with a cozy atmosphere and affordable menu options.
Head to Firehouse Brewing Company located at 610 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701.
$12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Main Street Square

Take a leisurely stroll at Main Street Square, where you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy street performances, and relax by the fountains.
Walk to Main Street Square located at 512 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sickies Garage

End your day with a fun dinner at Sickies Garage, known for their wide selection of burgers and fun atmosphere.
Head to Sickies Garage located at 3313 E Mall Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701.
$8, 1 hour
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Day 2: Mount Rushmore Adventure

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

9:00AM

Breakfast at Powder House Lodge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Powder House Lodge, offering delicious American classics at affordable prices.
Drive to Powder House Lodge located at 24125 US-16, Keystone, SD 57751.
$12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Marvel at the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, a must-see landmark with breathtaking views and rich history.
Drive to Mount Rushmore National Memorial located at 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751.
$10 (parking fee), 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Mount Rushmore Picnic Area

Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch with a view at the Mount Rushmore Picnic Area, surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills.
Head to Mount Rushmore Picnic Area located within the memorial grounds.
BYO, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Presidential Trail

Take a leisurely walk on the Presidential Trail to get up close to the sculpted faces of the presidents at Mount Rushmore.
Follow the signs within the memorial for the Presidential Trail.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ruby House Restaurant

Indulge in a hearty dinner at Ruby House Restaurant, offering delicious American cuisine in a charming setting.
Drive to Ruby House Restaurant located at 126 Winter St, Hill City, SD 57745.
$15, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Mount Rushmore

Day 3: Exploring Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Pass Restaurant

Start your day with a simple breakfast at Cedar Pass Restaurant, offering quick bites and beautiful views of Badlands National Park.
Head to Cedar Pass Restaurant located at 20681 SD-240, Interior, SD 57750.
$8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Scenic Loop Drive

Embark on a scenic drive through Badlands National Park, marveling at the unique rock formations and stunning landscapes of the park.
Start the Scenic Loop Drive from the visitor center at Badlands National Park.
$20 (park entrance fee), 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Interior Coffee Shop

Grab a quick and affordable lunch at Interior Coffee Shop, a cozy spot with delicious sandwiches and baked goods.
Head to Interior Coffee Shop located at 130 N SD Highway 377, Interior, SD 57750.
$10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hike the Door Trail

Embark on an easy hike along the Door Trail, offering panoramic views of the Badlands and unique geological formations.
Start the Door Trail hike from the Door Trail Parking Lot.
Free, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Wall Drug Store

Enjoy a quirky dining experience at Wall Drug Store, a historic landmark known for its affordable food and unique atmosphere.
Drive to Wall Drug Store located at 510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790.
$5, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Badlands National Park

Day 4: Discovering Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

9:00AM

Breakfast at Josiah's Coffeehouse, Café & Bakery

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Josiah's Coffeehouse, Café & Bakery, known for their freshly baked goods and comforting meals.
Head to Josiah's Coffeehouse, Café & Bakery located at 104 W 12th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Falls Park

Visit the picturesque Falls Park, where you can admire the beautiful waterfalls and historic ruins while enjoying a leisurely walk in nature.
Walk to Falls Park located at 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sanaa's 8th Street Gourmet

Savor a flavorful lunch at Sanaa's 8th Street Gourmet, offering a diverse menu of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine at affordable prices.
Head to Sanaa's 8th Street Gourmet located at 401 E 8th St #100, Sioux Falls, SD 57103.
$12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Great Plains Zoo

Explore the Great Plains Zoo, home to a variety of animals from around the world, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Drive to the Great Plains Zoo located at 805 S Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.
$15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Jacky's Restaurant

Enjoy a fulfilling dinner at Jacky's Restaurant, known for their delicious comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.
Head to Jacky's Restaurant located at 702 E 8th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103.
$10, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Sioux Falls
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More About South Dakota

Trip Packing List: Rapid City, South Dakota — May 1–6, 2026
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Grand Teton → Yellowstone → Custer State Park Road Trip
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