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.
![Press Start Retro Arcade Bar](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/bbdfaa8b19b8a60be40bc31688acd140_cc04-09-17PressStartArcade0026_opt.jpg)
Press Start Retro Arcade Bar
Rapid City
![Singing Horse Trading Post & Bed and Breakfast](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/the-singing-horse-1999.jpg)
Singing Horse Trading Post & Bed and Breakfast
Porcupine
![Rabbit Bicycles and Black Hills Shuttle](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Rabbit Bicycles and Black Hills Shuttle
Hill City
![Loud American Roadhouse](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Loud American Roadhouse
Sturgis
![Rushmore Mountain Sports](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Rushmore Mountain Sports
Spearfish
![Baymont Inn & Suites](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Baymont Inn & Suites
Pierre
![Harney Camp Cabins](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Harney Camp Cabins
Hill City
![FlatIron Inn](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/705c91b093211dd60c15c381053cfe4f_FlatIronInn_HotSprings_front.jpg)
FlatIron Inn
Hot Springs
![Moonshine Gulch Saloon](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/moonshine-gulch-saloon-rochford-4328.jpg)
Moonshine Gulch Saloon
Rochford
![The Mill Iron Coffee House](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
The Mill Iron Coffee House
Whitewood
![Vertex Sky Bar](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/bar-2046.jpg)
Vertex Sky Bar
Rapid City
![Trailshead Lodge](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cabin-rental-3108.jpg)
Trailshead Lodge
Lead
![Super 8 Hot Springs](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/exterior-3621.jpg)
Super 8 Hot Springs
Hot Springs
![Shooters Wood Fire Grill](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/d580e32846209b106a02f2be6a1833de_ShootersWoodFireGrill_RapidCity_outside.jpg)
Shooters Wood Fire Grill
Rapid City
![Gallery Six13](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/e91cb3d9734df904cc6b56f51659388d_GallerySix13_RapidCity_front_door.jpg)
Gallery Six13
Rapid City
![Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/welcome-to-dakota-dream-320.jpg)
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
Custer
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](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/western-region.png)
Western South Dakota
Featuring the Black Hills, Badlands, the Sturgis Rally. This region tends to be the most popular.
![](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/central-region.png)
CENTRAL REGION
This region of South Dakota offers some of the best hunting and fishing in the entire central US.
![](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/eastern-region.png)
Eastern Region
The eastern region is home to the largest city in the state and provides visitors with a true "prairie" experience.