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.

Ponderosa Motor Lodge

Ponderosa Motor Lodge

Lead

Emerald Hills Bed & Breakfast

Emerald Hills Bed & Breakfast

Rapid City

The Covered Wagon Cafe

The Covered Wagon Cafe

Murdo

T&M Trail Rides

T&M Trail Rides

Nemo

State Game Lodge

State Game Lodge

Custer

The Green Bean Coffeehouse

The Green Bean Coffeehouse

Spearfish

Cheyenne Crossing and Stage Stop Cafe

Cheyenne Crossing and Stage Stop Cafe

Lead

Dakota Frontier Tours

Dakota Frontier Tours

Custer

Trails End Cabins & Motel

Trails End Cabins & Motel

Hill City

Sage Meadow Ranch

Sage Meadow Ranch

Hot Springs

Hotel Alex Johnson

Hotel Alex Johnson

Rapid City

Begging Burro Bistro & Coffeehouse

Begging Burro Bistro & Coffeehouse

Custer

Camp Custer Log Cabins

Camp Custer Log Cabins

Custer

Visitor Magazine

Visitor Magazine

Rapid City

Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary

Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary

Hot Springs

Dinosaur Museum

Dinosaur Museum

Rapid 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.