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.

Desperados

Desperados

Vertex Sky Bar

Vertex Sky Bar

Pageant Hill

Pageant Hill

Broken Arrow Trading Company Inc.

Broken Arrow Trading Company Inc.

Killian’s Food & Drink

Killian’s Food & Drink

First Deadwood Cottages

First Deadwood Cottages

Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Best Western Plains Motel

Best Western Plains Motel

Old Style Saloon #10

Old Style Saloon #10

Black Hills Open-Top-Tours

Black Hills Open-Top-Tours

Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries

Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Belle Fourche Country Club

Belle Fourche Country Club

Whistler Gulch Campground

Whistler Gulch Campground

Termesphere Gallery

Termesphere Gallery

Buffalo Museum & One Room Schoolhouse

Buffalo Museum & One Room Schoolhouse

The Gyro Hub

The Gyro Hub

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

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.