7-Day Scenic Road Trip from Madison to South Dakota’s Iconic Attractions

Day 1: Travel and Sightseeing

Madison, WI to Mitchell, SD on June 17, 2025

7:00am

Departure from Madison

Start your drive from Madison early in the morning for an efficient travel day toward Mitchell, South Dakota.
USD0, 2h30m

10:00am

Visit the Corn Palace

Explore the iconic Corn Palace in Mitchell, known for its unique murals made from corn and grains, a testament to local agriculture and culture.
USD0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Corn Exchange Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring Midwestern classics such as bison burgers and fresh salads in a cozy, local setting.
USD15, 1h

1:00pm

Drive to Deadwood

Continue your journey west to historic Deadwood, settling in for tomorrow’s exploration of its Wild West charm.
USD0, 4h

5:30pm

Dinner at Deadwood Social Club

Dine at a local favorite offering classic American cuisine with a nod to the town's old mining days.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Historic Deadwood

Deadwood, SD on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Deadwood Toast Co.

Start your day with delicious breakfast offerings including artisan toasts and strong coffee in the heart of Deadwood.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Explore Deadwood Historic District

Walk through the lively historic district visiting museums, casinos, and old saloons, soaking in the stories of the gold rush era.
USD20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Saloon No. 10

Enjoy classic western fare at this famous saloon, known for its rich history and thematic decor.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Rapid City

Head to Rapid City, your base for exploring main attractions like Reptile Gardens and Mount Rushmore.
USD0, 1h15m

4:00pm

Visit Reptile Gardens

Experience one of the largest reptile zoos in the world featuring exotic reptiles and stunning botanical gardens. Open until 6pm during summer months.
USD20, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tally's Silver Spoon

Relax with a casual dinner serving creative American dishes in a rustic atmosphere.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mount Rushmore & Hill City

Rapid City to Hill City, SD on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Firehouse Brewing Co.

Enjoy breakfast and fresh coffee at this local brewery with a warm atmosphere.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Witness the iconic sculpture of four U.S. presidents carved into granite; walk the Presidential Trail and explore the visitor center. Open 5:00am to 11:00pm.
USD0, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Carvers Café

Dine with a great view at Carvers Café located in Mount Rushmore’s visitor center, offering fresh sandwiches and salads.
USD18, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Hill City

A short drive to Hill City to board the historic 1880 Train for an immersive rail journey.
USD0, 30m

2:30pm

1880 Train Ride

Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Black Hills on a vintage steam locomotive that operates roughly 2:00pm to 5:00pm during summer.
USD30, 2h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Pizza Company

Relax with hearty wood-fired pizzas and local craft beers in Hill City.
USD20, 1h
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Day 4: Custer State Park Drive

Hill City to Custer, SD on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Java Jacks

Grab a quick, tasty breakfast with fresh pastries and espresso to start the day.
USD10, 45m

8:00am

Drive to Custer State Park

Travel to Custer State Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and wildlife including bison herds.
USD20 park entrance fee, 1h

9:00am

Wildlife Loop Road

Embark on the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road to spot bison, pronghorn antelope, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Included in park fee, 3h

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Sylvan Lake

Enjoy a scenic picnic at Sylvan Lake picnic area surrounded by granite peaks and forest.
USD15 for picnic supplies, 1h

2:00pm

Relax or kayak at Sylvan Lake

Take in the serene atmosphere with options for kayaking or hiking around the lake.
USD20 kayak rental, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Custer Wolf Restaurant & Bar

Savor rustic meals paired with local craft beers in a cozy setting near Custer.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Needles Highway Adventure

Custer State Park, SD on June 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Buglin’ Bull Restaurant

Dive into a wholesome breakfast with specialties like biscuits and gravy to fuel your day.
USD12, 1h

8:30am

Drive Needles Highway

Cruise along the scenic Needles Highway, noted for unique granite spires and tunnels; stops include Cathedral Spires and Sylvan Lake viewpoint.
Included in park fee, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

Refuel with gourmet burgers made from local ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere in Custer.
USD18, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Legion Lake

Spend the afternoon walking the easy trails or resting by the quiet Legion Lake inside Custer State Park.
Included in park fee, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Sylvan Lake Lodge Restaurant

Enjoy dinner by Sylvan Lake with views and hearty Western cuisine in a relaxed lodge ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Relax and Explore Rapid City

Rapid City, SD on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tally's Silver Spoon

Start with a flavorful breakfast featuring fresh ingredients and eclectic flavors.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit City of Presidents Art Walk

Explore this outdoor series of bronze statues of past U.S. presidents scattered throughout downtown Rapid City.
USD0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Independent Ale House

Relax with a casual, savory lunch featuring sandwiches and gourmet pizza along with craft beer options.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Journey Museum and Learning Center

Learn about the history, culture, and geology of the Black Hills area with interactive exhibits. Open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
USD10, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at All Stein Brewing Co.

End your day with a craft beer and hearty German-inspired dishes in a communal setting.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 7: Return Travel

Rapid City, SD to Madison, WI on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Spearfish Canyon Coffee

Grab a quick coffee and breakfast sandwich for the road, perfect for an early start.
USD10, 30m

7:30am

Depart Rapid City for Madison

Begin your approximately 10-hour drive back to Madison, with optional brief breaks in Sioux Falls or along the route.
USD0, 10h

12:30pm

Lunch stop in Sioux Falls

Break for lunch at Carnaval Brazilian Grill offering diverse and flavorful options.
USD18, 1h

7:30pm

Arrival in Madison

Arrive back home after a memorable week exploring South Dakota’s top sights.
USD0, N/A
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