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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.

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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.

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Home » Western Region

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. 

1880 Train

Hill City, SD

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Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame

Sturgis, SD

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Rushmore Borglum Story

Keystone, SD

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State Parks

Western SD

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Caves and Caverns

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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.

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Dakota Nature & Art Gallery and Fine Gifts

Dakota Nature & Art Gallery and Fine Gifts

Arts & Antiques, Shopping
Rockin R Trail Rides

Rockin R Trail Rides

Animal Attractions, Attractions
Gunsel Horse Adventures

Gunsel Horse Adventures

Horseback Riding, Outdoor Activities
Big Thunder Gold Mine

Big Thunder Gold Mine

Attractions, Museums
Sheep Hill Chalet

Sheep Hill Chalet

Cabin Rentals, Lodging
The Covered Wagon Cafe

The Covered Wagon Cafe

Casual Dining, Food & Dining
8th Avenue Bakery

8th Avenue Bakery

Bakery & Coffee Shops, Food & Dining
White River Drive-In

White River Drive-In

Cafes & Diners, Food & Dining
Days Inn Spearfish

Days Inn Spearfish

Hotels & Motels, Lodging
Black Hills Wilderness Edge Adventures

Black Hills Wilderness Edge Adventures

Outdoor Activities, Rentals & Outfitters
Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites

Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites

Hotels & Motels, Lodging
Loud American Roadhouse

Loud American Roadhouse

Brewery & Pub
Armadillos Ice Cream and Food

Armadillos Ice Cream and Food

Cafes & Diners, Food & Dining
Elk Ridge Bed & Breakfast

Elk Ridge Bed & Breakfast

Bed & Breakfasts and Inns, Lodging
Harley-Davidson Rally Point

Harley-Davidson Rally Point

Concert Venues, Entertainment
The Sturgis Motel

The Sturgis Motel

Hotels & Motels, Lodging
Bullwacker’s Saloon

Bullwacker’s Saloon

Brewery & Pub
Badlands Distillery

Badlands Distillery

Brewery & Pub

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.

AmericInn Lodge and Suites

Rapid City, SD

Join us at AmericInn Lodge & Suites Rapid City, a friendly hotel off exit 59 on I-90, near Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) and just east of the Black Hills National Forest. Enjoy some family fun at our onsite Splash Bay Adventure, featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, and 140-ft water slide.

Book Today!

Courtyard by Marriott

Rapid City, SD

Conveniently located at Exit 61 off Interstate 90.

The Courtyard by Marriott is within easy access to Ellsworth Air Force Base, Rapid City Regional Airport, Black Hills, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, WaTiki Indoor Water Park and Rushmore Plaza Civic Center.

Book Today!

DoubleTree Deadwood

Deadwood, SD

DoubleTree, also known as Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort is just a short walk from the center of Deadwood off Highway 14.

Try your luck with slots and table games on the smoke-free gaming floor, and choose from four restaurants at the resort. Relax by the outdoor pool and patio firepits.

Book Today!

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Rapid City, SD

We are located directly off Interstate 90, Exit 61 in Rapid City, South Dakota. Conveniently located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near Mount Rushmore and Rapid City Regional Airport, the Fairfield offers popular amenities for a relaxing hotel stay.

Book Today!

Home2 Suites

Rapid City, SD

Set against the Black Hills of South Dakota and just off the I-90, we’re less than 35 minutes from Mount Rushmore and the trails of Custer State Park.

Fill up on free breakfast and head next door to WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort. Airport shuttles and WiFi are on us.

Book Today!

Hotel Alex Johnson

Rapid City, SD

Built in 1927, our hotel combines historic architecture with handcrafted Native American art in tribute to the area’s Lakota and Sioux culture.

Main Street Square is a block away, and we’re 25 minutes from Mt. Rushmore. We feature a rooftop bar, Irish pub, salon, and spa.

Book Today!

Residence Inn by Marriott

Box Elder, SD

Located in Box Elder, SD, the Residence Inn by Marriott offers a business center, free breakfast & high speed internet, fitness center and much more.

Popular tourist attractions are only short drive away! Relax & enjoy your stay at the Residence Inn.

Book Today!

SpringHill Suites

Deadwood, SD

Welcome to SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Historic Deadwood, SD. Located conveniently at the beginning of Historic Main Street just as you enter town.

Discover an all-suite hotel offering stylish space and inspiring design, all at an affordable price, free Wi-fi and more!

Book Today!

Tru by Hilton

Deadwood, SD

It doesn’t get much more iconic than Mount Rushmore Memorial, in the nearby Black Hills National Forest; but don’t overlook Custer State Park and Spearfish Canyon.

Try knocking on wood at Jack’s Gaming Resort, attached to the hotel. WiFi and build-your-own breakfast are on us.

Book Today!

Hampton Inn & Suites

Deadwood, SD

We’re on Main Street, attached to Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort, where you’ll find games, a full-service bar, and several dining options.

Discover more casinos, restaurants, and old west history at Days of ’76 Museum, Adams House, and Mt. Moriah Cemetery, all within a mile. Broken Boot Gold Mine is three minutes away. Enjoy free hot breakfast and free WiFi..

Book Today!