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Epic 3-Day South Dakota Road Trip: From Rapid City to the Wonders of the West

Viewed by 123 travelers

Day 1: Historic Sites

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Tumblewood Teahouse

Start your day with a homey breakfast at this cozy teahouse known for its delicious, locally sourced dishes, including breakfast burritos and freshly brewed herbal teas.
Drive 30 minutes to Mount Rushmore.
USD15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Immerse yourself in American history as you admire the iconic faces carved into granite, with scenic viewpoints and interpretive trails to explore.
Continue 20 minutes to Crazy Horse Memorial.
USD30, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Laughing Water Restaurant

Savor a buffet-style lunch at Crazy Horse, featuring traditional Native American dishes along with a variety of American fare.
Drive 1 hour to Deadwood.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Deadwood

Wander the historic streets of this Gold Rush town, visiting key sites like Wild Bill Hickok's grave and the infamous saloons.
You can park and explore the town on foot.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Settle in at your Hotel

Check in and refresh at your hotel in Deadwood, preparing for dinner at a local favorite.
N/A
Varies by hotel, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Deadwood Social Club

Enjoy a hearty meal in this local hotspot known for its fabulous steaks and welcoming atmosphere, perfect after a day of exploration.
Short walk to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rapid City

Day 2: National Parks

Badlands National Park

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Farmhouse Café

Savor a hearty farmhouse breakfast that includes eggs, pancakes, and fresh baked goods to fuel your adventures ahead.
Drive 1 hour to Badlands National Park.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Explore Badlands National Park

Discover the stunning landscapes of unique rock formations and canyons while hiking several amazing trails offering breathtaking views.
Utilize the park’s well-marked trails.
USD30, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Native American-inspired dishes while soaking in incredible views of the park's magnificence.
Short drive to the lodge.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Wind Cave National Park

Prepare to descend into one of the world’s longest caves, exploring fascinating formations and learning about its unique ecology.
Drive 30 minutes to Wind Cave.
USD20, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Scenic drive back to Deadwood

Relax and enjoy the scenic backroads as you return to Deadwood, taking in the beautiful South Dakota landscapes.
Head back to Deadwood.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Steakhouse at Deadwood

Indulge in a well-deserved dinner filled with prime cuts of meat and delicious sides in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere.
Short drive or quick walk from your hotel.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Badlands National Park

Day 3: Scenic Drives and Natural Wonders

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery

Start your final day with a comforting breakfast from this family-friendly restaurant known for its extensive menu of breakfast staples.
Drive 30 minutes to Needles Highway.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive the Needles Highway

Take a scenic drive along Needles Highway, admiring the stunning granite spires and breathtaking vistas along the way.
Follow the road signs for Needles Highway.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Devil's Tower National Monument

Marvel at this iconic geological wonder, where hiking trails allow for exploration close to the tower's base.
Drive 1 hour to Devil's Tower.
USD20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Devil's Tower View Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with stunning views of the tower, featuring burgers and local fare in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive back to Rapid City

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Rapid City while reflecting on an unforgettable trip filled with natural beauty and history.
Drive back to Rapid City.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Exploring Rapid City

Wrap up your trip by exploring downtown Rapid City with its unique shops, art galleries, and friendly local vibe.
Park downtown and explore on foot.
USD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Silver Star Steak Company

Conclude your adventure with a delicious steak dinner at one of the top-rated steakhouses in Rapid City, featuring gourmet sauces and sides.
Short walk to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rapid City
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