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.

WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort

WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort

Rapid City

Black Hills Open-Top-Tours

Black Hills Open-Top-Tours

Rapid City

John Lopez Studio / Kokomo Gallery

John Lopez Studio / Kokomo Gallery

Lemmon

The Covered Wagon Cafe

The Covered Wagon Cafe

Murdo

La Quinta by Wyndham

La Quinta by Wyndham

Rapid City

Kemps Kamp & Cabins

Kemps Kamp & Cabins

Keystone

Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort

Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort

Custer

Backroads Inn and Cabins

Backroads Inn and Cabins

Keystone

White River Drive-In

White River Drive-In

White River

Black Hills Contraband Distillery

Black Hills Contraband Distillery

Rapid City

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Watertown

Cosmos Mystery Area

Cosmos Mystery Area

Rapid City

Scott Jacobs Gallery

Scott Jacobs Gallery

Deadwood

Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Custer

Wonderland Cave

Wonderland Cave

Nemo

Lil Harvester’s Pumpkin Patch

Lil Harvester’s Pumpkin Patch

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.