Epic 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary in the Black Hills

Day 1: Explore Rapid City

Rapid City, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Market

Start your day at The Market, savoring the delicious homemade granola and fresh fruit bowl alongside their famous craft coffee.
Located at 6th and Main in Rapid City, just a 5-minute walk from many downtown hotels.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the City of Presidents

Stroll around downtown Rapid City to see life-sized bronze statues of each U.S. president, making for great photo opportunities.
This is a walking tour; the nearest statue starts just a minute away from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Corn Exchange

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring locally sourced sandwiches and salads at this lively downtown eatery.
The Corn Exchange is located on Main Street, a short walk from the City of Presidents.
USD18, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Museum of Geology

Delve into the fascinating geological history of South Dakota with exhibits showcasing fossils and minerals.
Just 10 minutes' drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Canyon Lake Park

Head to Canyon Lake Park to unwind by the serene waters, enjoying walking trails and beautiful views.
A quick 15-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Firehouse Brewery

Wrap up your day with a casual dinner at Firehouse Brewery, tasting their local craft beers and barbecue ribs.
This brewery is conveniently located about 5 minutes from Canyon Lake Park.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Mount Rushmore Adventure

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a complimentary breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
You can eat at your hotel to maximize time.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Marvel at the iconic faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into granite.
Just 30 minutes drive from Rapid City.
USD10 (per vehicle), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Carver's Café

Enjoy lunch at Carver's Café inside the park, featuring local flavors and a stunning view of Mount Rushmore.
Located within the park for convenience.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking in the Presidential Trail

Take a scenic hike on the Presidential Trail for closer views of the monument and surrounding landscape.
Trailhead is near the café and well-marked.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

Just 20 minutes away, explore the incredible work at Crazy Horse Memorial, which pays tribute to Native American heritage.
Drive from Mount Rushmore to Crazy Horse Memorial.
USD12 (per person), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Laughing Water Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner at Laughing Water, enjoying native-inspired dishes in a beautiful setting.
Located at Crazy Horse Memorial, making it easy for an evening meal.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Custer State Park

Custer State Park, South Dakota

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Custer State Park, preparing for a day of adventure.
Start at your hotel in Rapid City.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Custer State Park Wildlife Loop

Embark on a scenic drive through the Wildlife Loop Road to witness bison, elk, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Drive from Rapid City to Custer State Park, approximately 45 minutes.
USD20 (per vehicle), 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Custer State Park’s State Game Lodge

Enjoy a delightful lunch at the lodge, where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Conveniently located within the park, just a drive from the Wildlife Loop.
USD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking at Harney Peak

Challenge yourself with a hike to Harney Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies, for stunning panoramic views.
Hiking trailhead is nearby; allow 30 minutes to drive there.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Sylvan Lake

Unwind by beautiful Sylvan Lake, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll or simply enjoying the serene environment.
Within the park, just a short drive from Harney Peak.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Blue Bell Lodge

Complete your day with dinner at The Blue Bell Lodge, offering delicious comfort food amidst a cozy atmosphere.
Located near Sylvan Lake, making for an easy transition.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historic Deadwood

Deadwood, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your hotel breakfast before making your way to the historic town of Deadwood.
Drive from Custer State Park to Deadwood takes about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Historic Main Street

Wander down Deadwood’s Main Street, where you’ll find casinos, shops, and historic buildings from the gold rush era.
Main Street is easily walkable once you park your car.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at The Deadwood Social Club

Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Deadwood Social Club, famed for its unique menu and historic ambiance.
Located on Main Street within walking distance from the previous stop.
USD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Mount Moriah Cemetery

Pay your respects at Mount Moriah Cemetery, the final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok, among other famous figures.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tour the Adams Museum

Explore the Adams Museum to learn about the culture and history of the Black Hills region.
Just a short walk from Mount Moriah Cemetery.
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Days of '76 Museum

Discover the western heritage of Deadwood at the Days of '76 Museum showcasing historical artifacts.
Located about a 10-minute drive from the Adams Museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bullock Hotel

Enjoy your meal at The Bullock Hotel restaurant, where you can dive into traditional American cuisine.
Easily accessible from the Days of '76 Museum.
USD28, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure in Badlands

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Charge up for your last day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Deadwood.
Begin your journey at your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Badlands National Park

Drive approximately 1.5 hours to reach the stunning landscapes of Badlands National Park.
Keep your camera ready for scenic views along the way.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hike the Notch Trail

Embark on the Notch Trail, known for its stunning views and exciting ladder climb to the scenic platform.
Trailhead is well-marked and accessible from the main park road.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Savor a tasty lunch with views of the Badlands at Cedar Pass Lodge, featuring local specialties.
Located right within the park, making it an easy eat-stop.
USD22, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Badlands Loop Road

Experience the breathtaking views along the Badlands Loop Road, stopping at scenic overlooks and geological formations.
The loop road starts from the lodge, with countless stop-off points.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center

Stop by the visitor center to learn about the unique ecology and geology of the Badlands.
Just a drive from the Loop Road; look out for signage.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Wall Drug Store

Finish your trip with a classic American dinner at Wall Drug Store, a quirky landmark full of charm.
Wall Drug is about a 30-minute drive from the Badlands park exit.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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