7-Day Road Trip from Madison to South Dakota Including Wall Drug and Key Attractions

Day 1: Travel and Corn Palace

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

7:00am

Depart Madison

Begin your scenic drive westward from Madison, targeting Mitchell for the day’s destination.
USD0, 2h30m

10:00am

Visit Corn Palace

Discover the famous Corn Palace in Mitchell, decorated with stunning murals made from thousands of corn ears and grains celebrating regional farming heritage.
USD0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Corn Exchange Restaurant

Enjoy a meal featuring Midwestern dishes including buffalo burgers, served in a cozy local atmosphere.
USD15, 1h

1:00pm

Drive to Wall, SD

Continue west for about 3 hours to Wall to visit the famous Wall Drug Store.
USD0, 3h

4:00pm

Explore Wall Drug Store

Experience this iconic roadside attraction known for free ice water, quirky shops, western souvenirs, and a large outdoor sculpture garden. Open until 7:00pm.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Wall Drug Café

Savor comfort food classics like chicken fried steak or homemade pies at the Wall Drug Café.
USD20, 1h

7:30pm

Drive to Deadwood

Head south about 2 hours to Deadwood where you'll stay overnight.
USD0, 2h
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Day 2: Historic Deadwood

Deadwood, SD on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Deadwood Toast Co.

Kick off your day with a tasty, artisanal breakfast in downtown Deadwood.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Walking Tour of Historic Deadwood

Explore the historic streets featuring original gold rush architecture, museums, and famous saloons with rich Wild West history.
USD20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Saloon No. 10

Dine in this legendary saloon known for its Old West connections and hearty dishes.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Leisure time in Deadwood

Spend a relaxed afternoon visiting local shops, galleries, or trying your luck at casinos.
Optional expenses, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Deadwood Social Club

Enjoy upscale American cuisine with a Western twist in a comfortable setting.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 3: Reptile Gardens and Mount Rushmore

Deadwood to Rapid City, SD on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Deadwood Toast Co.

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast before departure.
USD12, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Reptile Gardens

Travel about 45 minutes south to Rapid City to visit this top-rated reptile zoo and botanical garden.
USD20, 45m

9:30am

Explore Reptile Gardens

Discover exotic reptiles, interactive shows, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Open 9:00am–6:00pm during summer.
USD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tally's Silver Spoon

Relax over fresh and creative American dishes in Rapid City’s welcoming restaurant.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Experience the monumental carved faces of four U.S. presidents; enjoy hiking trails and the visitor center. Open 5:00am to 11:00pm.
USD0, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Rapid City

Head back to Rapid City to prepare for tomorrow’s train ride adventure.
USD0, 30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Firehouse Brewing Company

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with exceptional house-brewed beers and inventive pub fare.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 4: 1880 Train & Hill City

Rapid City to Hill City, SD on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Firehouse Brewing Co.

Start with a hearty breakfast paired with brewed coffee or a craft beer if you prefer a later brunch vibe.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Hill City

Short drive to Hill City to prepare for the train journey.
USD0, 30m

10:00am

1880 Steam Train Ride

Board the historic steam locomotive for a scenic excursion through the Black Hills. The train operates mainly early afternoon but check schedule for morning options.
USD30, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch in Hill City at The Pizza Company

Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and relaxed dining after your scenic train journey.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Hill City

Visit local shops, the art galleries, and enjoy the small-town charm of Hill City.
USD0, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Ruby House Restaurant

Dine on diverse American cuisine with local ingredients in an inviting atmosphere.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Custer State Park & Needles

Hill City to Custer State Park, SD on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Java Jacks

Quick breakfast with excellent coffee and pastries to start your park adventure.
USD10, 45m

8:00am

Drive to Custer State Park

Arrive early at South Dakota’s famous state park for wildlife viewing and scenic drives.
USD20 park entrance fee, 1h

9:00am

Wildlife Loop Drive

Spot bison, elk, and other wildlife on this 18-mile loop celebrated for its accessibility and views.
Included in park fee, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch picnic at Sylvan Lake

Enjoy a peaceful waterside picnic with supplies from local markets or stores.
USD15, 1h

2:00pm

Kayaking or Hiking at Sylvan Lake

Relax with a refreshing kayak rental or explore easy hiking trails around the lake.
USD20 kayak rental, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Custer Wolf Restaurant & Bar

Wrap up your day with satisfying local fare and craft beers in Custer.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 6: Needles Highway Scenic Drive

Custer State Park, SD on June 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Buglin’ Bull Restaurant

Start with a classic hearty breakfast to prepare for the scenic journey ahead.
USD12, 1h

8:30am

Drive Needles Highway

Enjoy driving the Needles Highway’s twisting roads, granite spires, and highlights including the famous tunnels and Cathedral Spires.
Included in park fee, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Black Hills Burger & Bun Co.

Savor gourmet burgers with locally sourced ingredients in a casual setting.
USD18, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Legion Lake

Spend a relaxing afternoon walking easy trails or just soaking in the peaceful lake views.
Included in park fee, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Sylvan Lake Lodge Restaurant

Dine lakeside with western classics and beautiful views in a comfortable lodge ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Return Journey

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

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Spearfish Canyon Coffee

Grab a coffee and breakfast sandwich to go before hitting the road.
USD10, 30m

7:30am

Depart Rapid City for Madison

Begin your approximately 10-hour drive back home, with a relaxing stop in Sioux Falls.
USD0, 10h

12:30pm

Lunch in Sioux Falls at Carnaval Brazilian Grill

Break your drive with flavorful, diverse dishes at this popular local eatery.
USD18, 1h

7:30pm

Arrive in Madison

Complete your memorable seven-day tour through South Dakota and return home safely.
USD0, N/A
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