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.

McGuigan Farm Experience

McGuigan Farm Experience

Spearfish

Lintz Bros. Pizza

Lintz Bros. Pizza

Hermosa

Yak Ridge Cabins and Farmstead

Yak Ridge Cabins and Farmstead

Rapid City

Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel

Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel

Custer

Scott Jacobs Gallery

Scott Jacobs Gallery

Deadwood

Black Hills Aerial Adventures

Black Hills Aerial Adventures

Custer

The Wagons at Rushmore Shadows

The Wagons at Rushmore Shadows

Rapid City

Lamphere Ranch Campground

Lamphere Ranch Campground

Sturgis

Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center

Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center

Spearfish

Reflections of South Dakota Fine Art Gallery

Reflections of South Dakota Fine Art Gallery

Rapid City

Quality Inn Spearfish

Quality Inn Spearfish

Spearfish

Wild Idea Buffalo Co

Wild Idea Buffalo Co

Rapid City

Dakota Drum Company

Dakota Drum Company

Rapid City

Town Hall Inn

Town Hall Inn

Lead

Comfort Inn & Suites

Comfort Inn & Suites

Mitchell

Black Hills Escape Rooms

Black Hills Escape Rooms

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.