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.

Matthews Opera House & Arts Center, The

Matthews Opera House & Arts Center, The

Whispering Pines Campground

Whispering Pines Campground

Sweetgrass Inn

Sweetgrass Inn

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Rush-No-More RV Resort, Cabins and Campground

Rush-No-More RV Resort, Cabins and Campground

Steerfish Steak & Smoke

Steerfish Steak & Smoke

The Sturgis Motel

The Sturgis Motel

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

The Sculpture Project: Passage of Wind and Water

The Sculpture Project: Passage of Wind and Water

Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

Hills Inn

Hills Inn

Rushmore Borglum Story

Rushmore Borglum Story

The Rushmore Hotel and Enigma Restaurant

The Rushmore Hotel and Enigma Restaurant

Rodeway Inn

Rodeway Inn

Minervas Restaurant & Bar

Minervas Restaurant & Bar

MainStay Suites

MainStay Suites

Black Hills Glass Blowers

Black Hills Glass Blowers

Bear Butte State Park

Bear Butte State Park

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.