Road Trip from Mount Horeb, WI to South Dakota: Corn Palace, Historic Towns & Scenic Parks

Day 1: Corn Palace & Deadwood

Mount Horeb, WI to Deadwood, SD on June 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Gundersen’s Bakery & Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your long drive westward.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Corn Palace, Mitchell, SD

A 7-hour drive west; take breaks along the way for stretches and snacks. The Corn Palace is a unique building decorated with corn murals, showcasing local culture.
Fuel cost approx USD50, 7h

3:30pm

Visit Corn Palace

Explore the colorful murals that change yearly and learn about the significance of corn in the area.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Drive to Deadwood

A 2.5-hour scenic drive northwest to historic Deadwood, a Wild West town full of character and history.
Fuel cost approx USD10, 2.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Deadwood Social Club

Enjoy classic American dishes with a modern twist in a historic setting right in Deadwood’s heart.
USD25, 1.5h

8:30pm

Check into Hotel in Deadwood

Rest and prepare for next day’s exploration in historic Deadwood and surrounding parks.
USD120, Overnight
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Day 2: Train Ride & Scenic Drive

Deadwood and Surrounding Areas, SD on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Deadwood’s Midnight Star Buffet

Start your day with a diverse buffet offering hearty breakfast options.
USD18, 1h

9:00am

1880 Train Ride

Experience a historic steam train ride between Hill City and Keystone; offers breathtaking views of the Black Hills. Open 9am-6pm. Reservations recommended.
USD40, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Keystone Cowboy Cafe

Savor local favorites and homemade specialties in Keystone, near the train area.
USD20, 1h

12:30pm

Drive Needles Highway

Scenic 14-mile drive featuring granite spires and tunnels; must-see for nature lovers and photographers. Drive slowly to enjoy sights safely.
Free, 2h

2:30pm

Explore Custer State Park

Famous for wildlife viewing and beautiful landscapes including lakes and granite formations. Open year-round from dawn to dusk.
USD20 per vehicle, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Custer Wolf Restaurant

Rustic dining with views of the surrounding forest and wildlife, offering bison and other local specialties.
USD30, 1.5h

7:30pm

Overnight in Custer or Deadwood

Relax at local lodging for an early start next day.
USD120, Overnight
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Day 3: Wildlife & Nature

Rapid City and Sylvan Lake, SD on June 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wall Drug Cafe

Famous roadside stop offering classic American breakfasts to start your day with energy.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Bear Country USA

Drive-through wildlife park where you can see bears, wolves, elk, and other native species up close. Open 8am - 7pm in summer.
USD20 per vehicle, 2h

10:30am

Visit Reptile Gardens

One of the world’s largest reptile zoos featuring snakes, alligators, and tropical birds. Opens 9am-6pm.
USD23, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Firehouse Brewing Co.

Enjoy pub-style food and craft beer in historic Rapid City.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Sylvan Lake

A beautiful glacial lake located in Custer State Park, perfect for walking, photography, and relaxing by the water.
Entry included with park pass, 2h

3:30pm

Return drive or continue exploring

Begin the return drive or explore more of the Black Hills area depending on your schedule.
Fuel cost variable, Flexible
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