Epic 3-Day Road Trip in South Dakota: Rapid City, Mount Rushmore, Badlands, and Beyond

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks

Rapid City, SD

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Carrot Seed Kitchen Co.

Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at The Carrot Seed Kitchen Co., known for its fresh, local ingredients.
Drive 30 minutes via SD-244 W to Mount Rushmore.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Mount Rushmore

Marvel at the iconic faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into granite.
Explore the visitor center and enjoy the views.
USD 10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Carver's Cafe

Enjoy lunch at The Carver's Cafe, conveniently located at Mount Rushmore, offering great views and sustainable cuisine.
Relax and recharge before continuing your journey.
USD 20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Crazy Horse Memorial

Head to the Crazy Horse Memorial, a stunning work-in-progress dedicated to Native American culture and heritage.
Drive 30 minutes via SD-244 E.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Crazy Horse Memorial

Learn about the sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and view the museum exhibits before enjoying the impressive site.
Spend your time walking the grounds.
Included in earlier cost, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive to Deadwood

Observe the charming Black Hills scenery while heading to the historic town of Deadwood.
Drive 1 hour via US-85 N.
N/A, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Deadwood

Walk through the streets of Deadwood, a town steeped in Wild West history.
Visit the Sara W. McClernan, National Historic Landmark.
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Deadwood Social Club

Indulge in a tasty dinner at The Deadwood Social Club, famous for its pasta and steaks.
Conveniently located in downtown Deadwood.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Natural Marvels

Badlands National Park, SD

7:30AM

Breakfast at Deadwood's Lee Street Station

Start your day with hearty breakfast options at Lee Street Station before heading to the park.
Prepare for your day trip.
USD 15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Badlands National Park

Travel to the stunning landscapes of Badlands National Park, with its striking rock formations.
Drive 1 hour via SD-34 E.
N/A, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Badlands National Park

Hike one of the trails and soak in the incredible views of the unique landscapes.
Drive along Badlands Loop Road to access multiple viewpoints.
USD 20, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Savor a filling lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge, while enjoying views of the Badlands.
Conveniently located within the park.
USD 25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Wind Cave National Park

Journey to Wind Cave National Park to explore one of the longest caves in the world.
Drive 30 minutes via SD-87 N.
USD 10, 2 hours

3:30PM

Cave Tour at Wind Cave

Join a guided cave tour to learn about its unique boxwork formations.
Book the tour in advance to secure your spot.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Deadwood

Return to Deadwood for the evening.
Drive 1 hour via US-85 S.
N/A, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Saloon No. 10

Enjoy a casual dinner with live music at this fun venue known for its historic charm.
Located in the heart of Deadwood.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Explorations

Rapid City, SD

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dale's Family Restaurant

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite known for its homestyle cooking.
As you prepare for your final day of exploration.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive on Needles Highway

Experience the breathtaking views along Needles Highway, with its unique granite formations.
Drive 30 minutes via SD-87 S.
N/A, 2 hours

11:00AM

Enjoy Devil's Peak

Stop for a photo op at Devil's Peak, one of the most photographed sites along the highway.
Take in the views and appreciate the natural beauty.
N/A, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Return to Rapid City

Head back to Rapid City after your morning explorations.
Drive 1 hour via SD-244 E.
N/A, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Firehouse Brewing Co.

Enjoy a casual lunch at this unique venue in a historic firehouse, serving up great craft beer and food.
Located in downtown Rapid City.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Last-minute local shopping

Explore local shops for South Dakota souvenirs before ending your journey.
Stroll through the downtown area.
N/A, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return Rental Car at Rapid City Airport

Head to the airport, returning your rental car and preparing for your next adventure.
Drive 20 minutes via I-90 E.
N/A, 30 minutes

4:00PM

End of Trip

Reflect on an incredible journey through South Dakota's stunning landscape and rich history.
Head to your departure gate.
N/A, N/A
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