Western Region

 

Commonly referred to as the Black Hills, South Dakota’s Western Region features many well known attractions including Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Crazy Horse, Sturgis Rally and so much more.

Mount Rushmore

Each year, more than 3 million travelers visit South Dakota’s top attraction, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located 25 miles southwest of Rapid City, South Dakota. The majestic granite sculpture of Mount Rushmore commemorates four powerful presidents who helped shape our nation: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

The Badlands

One of the most popular attractions in western South Dakota, the Badlands National Park provides its visitors dazzling views of beautiful, striking rock-like formations. The buttes, pinnacles, and spires formed by winds and glacial erosion more than 35 million years ago enchant the over one million annual visitors to The Badlands National Park.

South Dakota’s western region is a stark contrast to the eastern & central regions of the state. It has some of the most well-known attractions in the state, including Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Western South Dakota offers a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the majestic peaks of the Black Hills to the sprawling plains of the Badlands, this region beckons adventurers and explorers alike.

Discover the iconic Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four American presidents are etched into the granite cliffs, or journey through the otherworldly terrain of Badlands National Park, where dramatic rock formations and fossil beds tell tales of ancient creatures.

Delve into the storied past of the Wild West at historic towns like Deadwood and Lead, where legends of gold rushes and outlaws come to life. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a scenic drive through the heart of the Great Plains, Western South Dakota offers endless opportunities for discovery and inspiration.

Things To Do In Western South Dakota

The Western Region in South Dakota features millions of travelers every year. Whether you are looking for something to do, a place to stay, an attraction, outdoor activities, or a nearby restaurant there are endless opportunities in the region. Take a peak at some of the many area hotspots below.

Prairie Homestead

Prairie Homestead

Philip

Rushmore View Inn

Rushmore View Inn

Keystone

Black Hills Mile Hi Motel

Black Hills Mile Hi Motel

Custer

Sunset RV Park

Sunset RV Park

Custer

Fall River Suites and Jitterbug Junction

Fall River Suites and Jitterbug Junction

Hot Springs

Buffalo Museum & One Room Schoolhouse

Buffalo Museum & One Room Schoolhouse

Buffalo

Super 8 by Wyndham Keystone/Mt. Rushmore

Super 8 by Wyndham Keystone/Mt. Rushmore

Keystone

The Hitch Rail Bar and Restaurant

The Hitch Rail Bar and Restaurant

Pringle

Sturgis Coffee Company

Sturgis Coffee Company

Sturgis

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Belle Fourche

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Belle Fourche

Belle Fourche

Sandy Swallow Gallery

Sandy Swallow Gallery

Hill City

Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites

Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites

Keystone

Rodeway Inn

Rodeway Inn

Mitchell

Black Hills Rally Weddings

Black Hills Rally Weddings

Lead

Mount Rushmore Lodge at Palmer Gulch

Mount Rushmore Lodge at Palmer Gulch

Hill City

Great Faces. Great Places.

South Dakota is an incredibly unique state in that each region offers a completely different experience then the others. Check out each of the regions to see what each has to offer!

Badlands

Western South Dakota

Featuring the Black Hills, Badlands, the Sturgis Rally. This region tends to be the most popular.

CENTRAL REGION

This region of South Dakota offers some of the best hunting and fishing in the entire central US. 

Eastern Region

The eastern region is home to the largest city in the state and provides visitors with a true "prairie" experience.