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.

Mount Rushmore Tours & Fort Hays Chuckwagon

Mount Rushmore Tours & Fort Hays Chuckwagon

The Mill Iron Coffee House

The Mill Iron Coffee House

Battle Creek Lodge

Battle Creek Lodge

Mad Mountain Summer Adventures

Mad Mountain Summer Adventures

Edelweiss Mountain Lodging

Edelweiss Mountain Lodging

Black Hills Contraband Distillery

Black Hills Contraband Distillery

First Gold Hotel & Gaming

First Gold Hotel & Gaming

Mineral Palace Hotel and Gaming

Mineral Palace Hotel and Gaming

Millstone Family Restaurant

Millstone Family Restaurant

Frontier Cabins Motel

Frontier Cabins Motel

Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota

Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota

The Green Bean Coffeehouse

The Green Bean Coffeehouse

Deadwood Mountain Grand, a Holiday Inn Resort

Deadwood Mountain Grand, a Holiday Inn Resort

Super 8 Belle Fourche

Super 8 Belle Fourche

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

Jerry’s Cakes and Donuts

Jerry’s Cakes and Donuts

Days End Campground & RV Park

Days End Campground & RV Park

Town Hall Inn

Town Hall Inn

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.