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14-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip in South Dakota

Viewed by 144 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Rapid City

Rapid City, South Dakota

1:00PM

Check-In at Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly hotel in Rapid City, a great base for your adventure.
Drive from the airport to the hotel. Approximately 20-minute drive.
USD150, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Downtown Rapid City

Stroll through downtown Rapid City, admiring the unique dinosaur sculptures and shops.
Walk around downtown area.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Firehouse Brewing Co.

Enjoy a family dinner featuring local craft beers and delicious burgers.
Short walk from downtown.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rapid City

Day 2: Visit Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before a day of exploration.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mount Rushmore

Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial with engaging exhibits and spectacular views.
Drive: 30 minutes from Rapid City.
USD10 (parking), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Carver's Market

Savor delicious sandwiches and local delicacies while overlooking the monument.
On-site dining.
USD60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking Around Mount Rushmore

Take the Presidential Trail to get a closer view of the sculptures and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Walk along the trails adjacent to the monument.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center

Learn about the history and the artists behind Mount Rushmore.
Short walk from the Mount Rushmore grounds.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Rapid City

Head back to your hotel to relax after a full day.
Drive back to the hotel.
N/A, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Tally's Silver Spoon

Enjoy a comforting family dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Rapid City.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Rushmore

Day 3: Custer State Park Adventure

Custer, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast to prepare for a day filled with adventure.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Custer State Park

Head to Custer State Park, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
Drive: 1 hour from Rapid City.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Wildlife Loop Road

Drive along Wildlife Loop Road to spot bison, elk, and deer in their natural habitats.
Follow the loop road within the park.
USD20 (vehicle entrance fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Custer State Park

Have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery of the park.
Bring your picnic supplies or purchase at a local store before heading in.
USD40 (for supplies), 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking at Custer State Park

Explore one of the many hiking trails, suitable for families.
Choose a trail based on family preference.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Visitor Center

Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the park's history and ecology.
Driving to the visitor center within the park.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive back to Rapid City

Head back to your hotel after an adventurous day.
Return drive to Rapid City.
N/A, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Take some time to unwind, perhaps using the hotel pool or game rooms.
Hotel amenities.
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Fuji Japanese Steakhouse

Enjoy an interactive dining experience with fresh sushi and hibachi grilled favorites.
Close to the hotel.
USD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Custer

Day 4: Crazy Horse Memorial

Crazy Horse, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Have breakfast and prepare for another great day.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Crazy Horse Memorial

Take a scenic drive to the Crazy Horse Memorial, another iconic site in South Dakota.
Drive: 30 minutes from Rapid City.
USD10 (parking fee), 30 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Crazy Horse Memorial

Learn about the history of Native Americans and the memorial's significance.
Visit the exhibits and watch a film at the visitor center.
USD30 (adult entry), kids free under 5, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Laughing Water Restaurant

Savor Native American cuisine while surrounded by scenic views.
On-site dining at the memorial.
USD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Native American Educational and Cultural Center

Engage with local culture through interactive exhibits.
Walking distance from the memorial.
Included in primary entry fee, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Head back to Rapid City

Drive back to the hotel for a bit of relaxation.
Drive back to Rapid City.
N/A, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Chill out and reflect on the day's experiences.
Hotel amenities.
N/A, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Market

Delight in gourmet burgers and artisanal dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Close to the hotel.
USD85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Crazy Horse

Day 5: Badlands National Park

Interior, South Dakota

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up for a day of adventure ahead.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Badlands National Park

Set out on a scenic drive to Badlands National Park, known for its stunning landscapes.
Drive: 1 hour from Rapid City.
USD30 (vehicle entrance fee), 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ben Reifel Visitor Center

Start at the visitor center to gather maps and learn about the park's eco-system.
Visitor Center inside Badlands.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Scenic Drives and Overlooks

Take the Badlands Loop Road for spectacular views, stopping at key overlooks.
Driving and stopping at various points.
N/A, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Enjoy lunch with a view, featuring local dishes.
Cedar Pass Lodge inside Badlands.
USD75, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking at Badlands

Opt for a family-friendly hike, such as the Notch Trail - fun and adventurous for all ages.
Short drive to trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Wall Drug

Continue your adventure with a drive to Wall, famous for its quirky attractions.
Drive: 30 minutes from Badlands.
N/A, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Explore Wall Drug

Visit the famous Wall Drug store, full of fun exhibits, shops, and tasty treats.
Directly on the main street in Wall.
Free (shopping extra), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Wall Drug Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner featuring homemade bread and hearty meals at this iconic cafe.
Located within Wall Drug.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Interior

Day 6: Travel to Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Pass Lodge

Enjoy breakfast overlooking the beauty of the Badlands.
Lodge on-site.
Included in overnight stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sioux Falls

Leave Badlands behind as you head to Sioux Falls to explore the city.
Longer drive: 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Falls Park

Explore the beautiful waterfalls, trails, and viewing platforms in Falls Park.
Directly at Falls Park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Falls Overlook Cafe

Enjoy lunch with spectacular views of the waterfalls.
On-site cafe at Falls Park.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore SculptureWalk

Wander through downtown Sioux Falls to see engaging public art installations.
Walking distance from Falls Park.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Washington Pavilion

Check out the visual arts museum, science center, and performing arts venues.
Short drive to the pavilion.
USD30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Minervas

Enjoy a nice dinner featuring a menu with local flavors and a fantastic wine list.
In downtown Sioux Falls.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Sioux Falls

Day 7: Discover De Smet

De Smet, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel for the day ahead with a nutritious breakfast.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to De Smet

Travel to De Smet, the hometown of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Drive: 1.5 hours from Sioux Falls.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Site

Visit the site where Laura and her family lived and learn about pioneer life.
Located within De Smet.
USD10 (adults), kids free under 5, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Prairie House

Enjoy a hearty meal with a homey atmosphere in De Smet.
Near the historic site.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ingalls Homestead

Engage in fun children-friendly activities such as panning for gold and bouncing on hay bales.
Across the street from the cafe.
USD24 (adults), kids free under 5, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Letterbox Trail

Take a family-friendly hike on the trail while looking for letterboxes hidden along the way.
Trailhead near the Ingalls Homestead.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Pierre

Head over to Pierre, the state capital.
Drive: 1 hour from De Smet.
N/A, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pierre

Have dinner at this family-friendly restaurant with an extensive menu.
Downtown Pierre.
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in De Smet

Day 8: Explore Pierre

Pierre, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to start the day off right.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the South Dakota State Capitol

Take a guided tour of the beautiful state capitol building.
Short drive to the capitol.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the South Dakota State Historical Society

Discover South Dakota's history through engaging exhibits and activities.
Nearby the capitol.
USD10 (adults), kids free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Fort Pierre

Head over to Fort Pierre for a peek into the historical past.
Drive: 15 minutes.
Free, 15 minutes

11:45AM

Visit Fort Pierre National Historic Site

Learn about the early history of the area at this historic site.
Located in Fort Pierre.
Free, 1 hour

12:45PM

Lunch at The Star Bar & Grill

Enjoy lunch at a local favorite spot for its friendly service and hearty meals.
Back in Pierre.
USD50, 1 hour

1:45PM

Explore the Oahe Dam

Learn about the dam and enjoy some time by the water.
Drive: 15 minutes to dam.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the South Dakota Discovery Center

Engage in hands-on science exhibits and fun activities for the kids.
Located in Pierre.
USD25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Capitol Grill

Savor a delightful meal at this stylish modern restaurant.
In downtown Pierre.
USD85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pierre

Day 9: Visit Palisades State Park

Garretson, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Palisades State Park

Travel to Palisades State Park for nature exploration.
Drive: 45 minutes from Pierre.
USD10 (vehicle fee), 45 minutes

10:00AM

Hike the Swenson's Island Trail

Enjoy an easy hike along the river with the family.
On site in the state park.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Sioux River

Spend some time by the river and enjoy a lovely picnic.
Designated picnic areas in the park.
USD30 (picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Palisades

Explore the stunning rock formations and take some family photos.
Accessible drive within the park.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Drive to Vermillion

Travel to Vermillion, home to the University of South Dakota.
Drive: 1 hour.
N/A, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the National Music Museum

Check out this unique museum with a fascinating collection of musical instruments.
Located downtown Vermillion.
USD10 (adult), children free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bamboo Asian Bistro

Wrap up your day with delicious Asian cuisine and sushi.
Close to the museum.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Garretson

Day 10: Black Hills Adventure

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before a day filled with adventure in the Black Hills.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Black Hills National Forest

Set out for an adventurous day in the Black Hills area.
Drive: 30 minutes from Rapid City.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Wind Cave National Park

Tour one of the world's longest caves while exploring unique geological formations.
Drive within the Black Hills area.
USD15 (vehicle entry), 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Rockerville Lodge

Dine at this rustic lodge with homestyle meals and a warm atmosphere.
Close to Wind Cave.
USD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking in Black Hills

Enjoy a family-friendly hike in the Black Hills where kids can explore.
Choose one of the many trails.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Custer State Park (again)

Explore any spots you missed last time or revisit highlights.
Drive back into Custer State Park.
N/A, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Take some time to unwind and enjoy family activities at the hotel.
Return to Rapid City.
N/A, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the Pizza Ranch

Wrap up your day with a family-friendly dinner serving pizza and more.
Conveniently located in Rapid City.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rapid City

Day 11: Scenic Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Savor a delicious breakfast to start your day off right.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Spearfish Canyon

Take a scenic drive to Spearfish Canyon, a beautiful area known for its towering cliffs and waterfalls.
Drive: 50 minutes from Rapid City.
Free, 50 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Bridal Veil Falls

Hike to Bridal Veil Falls, an easy short trail for the whole family to enjoy.
Last chance parking near the trailhead in the canyon.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Spearfish Falls

Explore another stunning waterfall within the canyon at Spearfish Falls.
Short drive to another access point.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cove

Dine at The Cove, a family-oriented restaurant with delightful views.
Located close to the canyon.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Lookout Point

Admire the breathtaking view of Spearfish Canyon from Lookout Point.
Easily accessible by car.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Return to Rapid City

Drive back to Rapid City after a day filled with natural beauty.
Drive back to Rapid City.
N/A, 50 minutes

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Use hotel amenities or relax in your room after an active day.
N/A
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Red Lobster

Enjoy a family dinner featuring seafood dishes and hearty options.
Conveniently located in Rapid City.
USD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Spearfish

Day 12: Final Exploration in Black Hills

Black Hills, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with breakfast before heading to your final adventures.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to the Black Hills

Another day of exploration awaits as you head into the Black Hills.
Drive: 30 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Jewel Cave National Monument

Embark on an exciting guided cave tour and marvel at the beautiful crystals inside.
Short drive from other Black Hill attractions.
USD15 (adult), kids free under 5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Custer Wolf

Refuel with delicious comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Close to Jewel Cave.
USD70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Bear Country USA

Drive through a wildlife park and see bears, wolves, and other animals up close.
Short drive to the park entrance.
USD100 (vehicle fee), 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Alpine Slide

Experience thrilling rides at the local amusement park.
Short drive from the previous attractions.
USD60 (for family pass), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Rapid City

Head back to your hotel for relaxation and preparation for departure.
Drive back to Rapid City.
N/A, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Golden Corral

Finish your trip with a buffet-style dinner where everyone can find something they love.
Located in Rapid City.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Black Hills

Day 13: Relaxation and Farewell

Rapid City, South Dakota

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to celebrate the final day.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Reptile Gardens

Explore one of the largest reptile zoos in the world and learn about various species.
Short drive from hotel.
USD50 (family pass), 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Carver's Cafe

Delight in a casual lunch prior to journey's end.
Near Reptile Gardens.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Pioneer History Museum

Learn about the heritage of the Black Hills and South Dakota pioneers.
Short drive to the museum.
USD10 (adults), kids free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Last-Minute Shopping

Visit local shops for souvenirs and gifts before departing.
Walking distance from Pioneer History Museum.
Varies, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Hotel and Check Out

Gather luggage and prepare for departure.
N/A
N/A, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Delmonico's

Enjoy a farewell dinner at this gourmet steakhouse to cap off your trip.
On the way to the airport.
USD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rapid City

Day 14: Departure

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check Out and Head to Airport

Prepare for your departure and cherish memories made on this incredible journey.
Drive to the airport.
N/A, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Rapid City
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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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