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.
![Aspen Ridge](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/aspen-1-3636.jpg)
Aspen Ridge
Lead
![Dakota Frontier Tours](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Dakota Frontier Tours
Custer
![Dew Drop Inn Cafe](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/b27c873a5aa55dc4211c170b3a566621_DewDropInnCafe_HotSprings.jpg)
Dew Drop Inn Cafe
Hot Springs
![Sweet Secrets Bakery](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/de4b2a4c7b738052d86e5dce10aede39_SweetSecretsBakery_RapidCity_case.jpg)
Sweet Secrets Bakery
Rapid City
![Cosmos Mystery Area](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/no-one-stands-straight-1677.jpg)
Cosmos Mystery Area
Rapid City
![Custer Econo Lodge](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Custer Econo Lodge
Custer
![The Hotel Sturgis](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/dd1699a1c103fb2a05d9ac06401a314a_TheHotelSturgis_Sturgis_outside.jpg)
The Hotel Sturgis
Sturgis
![Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/59862c2bbfd9f4321bd02c08bc619c2d_SpearfishRecAquaticsCenter_Spearfish_waterpark.jpg)
Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center
Spearfish
![Native West Trading Company](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/native-west-trading-company-4738.jpg)
Native West Trading Company
Interior
![Broken Arrow Trading Company Inc.](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/our-store-1610.jpg)
Broken Arrow Trading Company Inc.
Keystone
![Old Style Saloon #10](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/south-dakota-profiles-1.png)
Old Style Saloon #10
Deadwood
![Black Hills Reptile Gardens](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/reptile-gardens-sky-dome-444.jpg)
Black Hills Reptile Gardens
Rapid City
![Triangle Ranch Bed & Breakfast](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/triangle-ranch-bed-breakfast-327.jpg)
Triangle Ranch Bed & Breakfast
Philip
![Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/keystone-board-walk-inn-suites-585.jpg)
Keystone Boardwalk Inn & Suites
Keystone
![Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/deadwood-gulch-gaming-resort-4717.jpg)
Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort
Deadwood
![White Tail Ridge Bed & Breakfast](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/white-tail-ridge-b-b-4273.jpg)
White Tail Ridge Bed & Breakfast
Hermosa
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](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/western-region.png)
Western South Dakota
Featuring the Black Hills, Badlands, the Sturgis Rally. This region tends to be the most popular.
![](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/central-region.png)
CENTRAL REGION
This region of South Dakota offers some of the best hunting and fishing in the entire central US.
![](https://southdakota.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/eastern-region.png)
Eastern Region
The eastern region is home to the largest city in the state and provides visitors with a true "prairie" experience.