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.

The Rushmore Hotel and Enigma Restaurant

The Rushmore Hotel and Enigma Restaurant

Country Inn & Suites

Country Inn & Suites

Best Western Plains Motel

Best Western Plains Motel

Ramada

Ramada

Country Charm Cabins and Corrals

Country Charm Cabins and Corrals

Horatio’s Homemade Ice Cream

Horatio’s Homemade Ice Cream

Comfort Inn & Suites Hill City

Comfort Inn & Suites Hill City

Chapel in the Hills

Chapel in the Hills

Good Day Cafe

Good Day Cafe

Holiday Inn Spearfish – Convention Center

Holiday Inn Spearfish – Convention Center

Historic Deadwood

Historic Deadwood

Black Hills Ponderosa Place

Black Hills Ponderosa Place

Rusty Spur

Rusty Spur

Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service

Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service

Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill

Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill

Tatanka: Story of the Bison

Tatanka: Story of the Bison

Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company

Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company

Range Country Lodging

Range Country Lodging

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.