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.  If you’re not drawn to the western region for these, you will be drawn by its rugged beauty and adventurous spirit.

When planning your trip to this region of the state, we definitely recommend you visit all the top attractions if time allows. Attractions such as Mount Rushmore, the Badlands & Crazy Horse and many more.

However, the Black Hills area offers endless options for fun. Due to the vast amount of adventures available you will never have the same trip twice!

Check out some of the popular things to do below. 

Popular Cities in the Region

Find 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.

Holiday Inn Spearfish – Convention Center

Holiday Inn Spearfish – Convention Center

Short Pines Hunting

Short Pines Hunting

Super 8 Deadwood

Super 8 Deadwood

Black Hills Inn and Suites

Black Hills Inn and Suites

Alaska Cafe

Alaska Cafe

Fort Welikit Family Campground

Fort Welikit Family Campground

Loud American Roadhouse

Loud American Roadhouse

Lizzie Burgers

Lizzie Burgers

1880 Train

1880 Train

Museum of Geology

Museum of Geology

Powderhorn Family Restaurant

Powderhorn Family Restaurant

Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association

Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association

Sheep Hill Chalet

Sheep Hill Chalet

The Custer Beacon

The Custer Beacon

The Hotel by Gold Dust

The Hotel by Gold Dust

Black Hills Burger & Bun

Black Hills Burger & Bun

WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort

WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort

Dakota Sky Stone

Dakota Sky Stone

HOTELS / Lodging

South Dakota is loaded with excellent hotels, bed & breakfasts, camping and cabin rentals throughout the state. Here are some popular hotels located in the popular Rapid City/Deadwood areas.