Updated April 4, 2026
The Badlands and Black Hills comprise a HUGE area within South Dakota and the surrounding towns have so much to see and do, I'm going to handle this post a little differently and let you draw up your own itinerary based on what interests you and your family. I'll list dining options by town separately.
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When hubby and I traveled to South Dakota on our cross country road trip, we spent a full 2 weeks in the Badlands and Black Hills and still didn't have time to see and do everything we wanted to!
Keystone was one of our favorite South Dakota towns. For as small as this quaint little town is, it packs a whole lot into it as far as things to see and do. I'd recommend spending at least 3 nights in Keystone.
Keystone is a fun little town to explore.
Carrie Ingalls Swanzey
There's a free historic walking tour available including parts of the Ingalls family history (Little House on the Prairie Series). Keystone was home to Carrie Ingalls Swanzey, sister of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
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Visitors can follow the numbered signs and follow their map while reading about the history of one of the fastest growing boom towns in the Hills. Children that finish the tour may visit Halley’s Store and Big Thunder Gold mine for a free gift!
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Additionally kids can receive two stamps at two different locations for a Laura Ingalls Wilder All Sites Tour Passport
We discovered the neatest little store you just have to see... Holy Terror Antiques. 1201 Old Hill City Rd, Keystone
The store opened in May 2005, after Pam Brodine, Dennis Kling, and Westly Parker custom designed the building in which the store is located, to replicate an old mine building.
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They did a great job! The interior does indeed resemble an old mine building and products are uniquely displayed.
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They have an eclectic array of furniture, pottery, glass, country store items, advertising, and much more. With over 40 years in the trade, this has allowed them to put together a collection rarely seen in one place.
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(You will have to tear the kids away from the candy counter!)
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The Holy Terror Antique Store is located at 1201 Old Hill City Rd. Keystone, just 2 miles west of town.
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They're open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
1880's train
A scenic steam train ride through the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. Departing from Hill City and Keystone near Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Crazy Horse Memorial.
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Each 10-mile leg of your ride takes approximately one hour and features a narrated history of the mining districts and communities served by the original rail line. Round trip departures are available from either community depending on the train schedule.
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Any combination of departure and return times can be combined for a custom itinerary. Delaying your return allows you to break for lunch, sightsee or shop at the opposite town.
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Both depots are located several blocks from numerous restaurants, shops, and museums.
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Standard Fares
One-Way Round Trip
Adults $38.00 $43.00
Children (2-12)
$21.00 $23.00
Infants on lap FREE
Rates include a $4 Historic Preservation Fee.
Sales tax of 8.7% not included.
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cosmos mystery center
The only way I can describe the Cosmos Mystery Area is that it's kind of creepy and unsettling yet fun at the same time. It is the strangest location in the entire Black Hills.
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Once you enter, all laws of nature and physics appear to be suspended. Water flows uphill, tall people appear shorter, and what seems to be crooked turns out to be completely level. Making your way through the Mystery House is a physical experience you'll never forget.
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Admission is $15.
big thunder gold mine
If you want to experience what gold mining was like Big Thunder Gold Mine is the place to do it.
(You won't believe how much work gold mining actually was!)
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Located just off the hustling and bustling Keystone strip, Big Thunder Gold Mine invites visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the mining history of the Black Hills as told throughout an immersive tour of this authentic 1890’s gold mine.​
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After you’re done exploring the mine, head over to the Mining Museum where you’ll find the largest collection of equipment and artifacts from the Black Hills Gold Rush. Stop by their on-site gold panning beds afterwards and try your hand at panning gold. There is a Big Thunder Bar & Grill on site as well as the Big Thunder Coffee Cabin.
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Mine tour rates are separate from panning rates and are:
Adults: $16.95
Children, Ages 6 – 12: $13.95
Children, Ages 5 and Younger: Free
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Check the website for panning rates and also for current hours. A tour of the mine lasts 2 hours.
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The mine is located at 604 Blair St. Keystone.
Money $aving Tips: Printable coupon - $1.50 Off Admission Per Person & $1.00 Off Gold Panning Good for the Entire Family. Expires May 1, 2026.
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Check out other printable coupons on their website!
rushmore tramway adventures
If it's adventure you're seeking you'll find it at Rushmore Tramway Adventures.
203 Cemetery Rd, Keystone
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This is an adventure park that offers a myriad of different activities.
The fees vary by the activity you book. You can see the various activities with their associated fees here.
We purchased the all inclusive package because it was cheaper than paying for each activity separately, even though we didn't want to do all of the activities. We did the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride, the Scenic Chairlift, the Jump & Slide, and the Jump Tower. All of them were a blast.
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They do have food at a place called George's Grill that serves fare like the Cloud Burger, brats/hot dogs, buffalo burgers, and chicken sandwiches. You can wash lunch down with a cold brew.
The nice thing about George's Grill was the view overlooking Mt. Rushmore National Memorial and the vast expanse of the Black Hills National Forest.
For a $20 meal voucher you get (1) entree, (1) side, + (1) fountain drink. Must purchase Chairlift or Alpine Slide ticket to reach George's Grill.
Money $aving Tips:
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Printable coupon for George's Grill, Buy One, Get 50% off your second item. No expiration date on coupon.
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Check Valuecom for discount codes.
Rush Mountain Adventure Park & Rushmore Cave
Rush Mountain Adventure Park & Rushmore Cave offers family adventure with seven thrilling attractions in one location. Tour scenic Rushmore Cave, cruise down the mountain on the Rushmore Mountain Coaster, experience the Soaring Eagle Zipride, test your aim at the Gunslinger 7-D Ride, sift through dirt and sand in Gemstone Mining, and find your inner daredevil at the Wingwalker Challenge Course + Sky Tykes. You will find fun on all levels at Rush Mountain Adventure Park! They are located five miles east of Keystone and are open May-October.
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13622 SD Highway 40, Keystone Tickets & Passes
national presidential wax museum
Hubby and I stopped at the Presidential Wax Museum on a whim as it was pouring rain. 609 Hwy 16A, Keystone.
It's entertaining on a rainy day. The museum contains over 100 wax figures, including every U.S. President.
Tours of the National Presidential Wax Museum are self-guided and on a walk-in basis. Guests wishing to take the tour may begin the tour at any time during the hours of operation (9:00AM to 5PM before Memorial Day weekend and after Labor Day weekend; 8:30AM to 8PM during the summer months). The museum will be open for the 2026 season from March 6th to November 1st.
Group tours of 10 or more are also available, with each group member receiving a discount off regular-priced admission.
Self-guided tours are self-paced as well. Most guests to the museum spend anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours in the museum, depending on the number of audio tracks they choose to listen to.
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Tour Rates
Adults (13 years & older) $12
Seniors (65 & older) $10
Children (6-12 years) $9
Children 5 & Under FREE
Military & Veterans $2 off regular-priced admission
Groups of 10 or more $2 off each regular-priced admission
We arrived at Mount Rushmore on July 3rd. This wasn't planned, it was coincidental. We ended up spending July 4th at Rushmore as well, in order to see the night time ceremony. I'll always be glad we made that decision. That ceremony was profound!
The layout of the Rushmore monument grounds:
There is no admission fee to tour the monument and the grounds. There is a $10 parking fee.
There is no public transportation to Rushmore unless you are part of an independent guided tour in a bus or other vehicle. You will park in one of 2 parking garages, either the Washington or Lincoln parking structure.
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Your first stop once inside should be the Audio Tour building on your left. For $6 you can rent an audio tour wand. You'll be glad you spent the money as you'll get much more information about the different sights on the grounds and about the monument itself than you will just walking around on your own.
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A Living Memorial is a recorded audio guide at Mount Rushmore National Memorial incorporating narration, music, interviews, sound effects and recordings of Gutzon Borglum, Lincoln Borglum, Native Americans and workers. It's really one of the best audio tours I've ever heard, very skillfully done.
​The tour is also translated in Spanish, German, French and Lakota.
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Your next stop should be the Information Center & Bookstore directly across from the Audio Tour buildling.
The Information Center provides information about the park - including how to access the sculptures and nearby attractions. It also features exhibits that provide insights into the creation of Mount Rushmore and the lives of the four presidents depicted.
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This is also where you can participate in Ranger-led activities and programs that explore the site's history and local wildlife.
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From the Information Center you'll proceed down the Avenue of Flags.
The Avenue of Flags at Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a significant feature that visitors can walk along, admiring the flags that represent the United States. The flags are arranged in alphabetical order, with the A's near the concession building and the W's near the Visitor Center and Museum. Each flag corresponds to a state, district, commonwealth, or territory, and the names of each are listed on the pillars directly below.
You'll pass Carver's Cafe and a gift shop.
Don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing the walkway with one of these fellas. They like to come down to visit.
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At the end of the Avenue of Flags is the Grand View Terrace viewing area where you see the monument from.
Below the viewing area is the auditorium where the lighting ceremonies are held.
Auditorium
From the Grand View Terrace walk counterclockwise to the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center. This is one of the most interesting exhibits at Rushmore.
The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center inside Mount Rushmore features several exhibits and activities:
Watch a 14-minute film titled "Mount Rushmore: The Shrine," which provides insights into the monument's creation. View tools used during the carving and original plaster models of the presidents, including some of the original boxes of dynamite used on the monument.
It's here that you gain a real understanding of what it took to construct Mount Rushmore.
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From the Lincoln Borglum Center begin your walk of the Presidential Trail.
The Presidential Trail is 0.6 miles long and has 425 stairs. The trail goes right under Mount Rushmore and gets you a lot closer than just staying at the visitor’s center. The trail is open only when weather permits and is usually closed in the winter.
On this trail I recommend you take the trail starting at the west and then go east. The trail starts out smooth and there is less stairs and incline. Starting the trail from the east, you hit most of the stairs going up and it is a lot harder.
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Along the Presidential Trail you'll see plaques about each of the 4 presidents on the monument and get as close to the monument itself that it's possible for you to get.
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OTHER ATTRACTIONS TO SEE AT RUSHMORE
Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village
The Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village at Mount Rushmore is a cultural and historical site that offers visitors a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions of the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota tribes. The village is located along the accessible portion of the Presidential Trail and is open to the public during the summer months. Cultural interpreters are present to answer questions and promote awareness for the visiting public. The village serves as a place for culture sharing and provides insights into the history and beauty of Native American culture. Visitors can learn about the history of Mount Rushmore, the sculpting process, and the significance of the site to the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota tribes.
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THE SCULPTOR'S STUDIO
In 1939, this structure was built as a second on-site studio for sculptor Gutzon Borglum. Unique plaster models and worker tools related to the sculpting processes are displayed in this studio. Special programs including a short studio talk on the mountain carving process and exhibits explaining Gutzon Borglum’s vision.
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The museum houses over 5,200 square feet of interactive exhibits which inform you of the history and development of the sculpture. There are also two 125-seat theaters where the 18 minute film “The Shrine,” gives you an introduction to the memorial.
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CARVER'S CAFE
We ate here while watching the sun rise on Rushmore. Long lines for mediocre food.
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HIKE THE BLACKBERRY TRAIL
The Blackberry Trail, a designated National Recreational Trail, is a moderately strenuous one mile gravel trail that connects with the Centennial Trail in the Black Elk Wilderness, part of the Back Hills National Forest.
Equestrian users, hikers, and wildlife observers will all find something to enjoy. There are several small water crossings, a wooden bridge, several horse tie-up stations, and two picnic tables to enhance recreational enjoyment.
Hikers can begin their exploration at the Blackberry Trail trailhead located across South Dakota Highway 244 from the parking facility.
This trail is pet friendly. Remember to keep your pet on a leash shorter than six feet and to pick up after your pet.
Cruizzers. 110B Winter St, Keystone.
Recommended to us by a local. The pizza is fantastic and loaded with toppings.
It was right up there with some of the best pizza I've ever had. Every pizza I saw come out of the kitchen was PILED with toppings.
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The service was warm and friendly and the owner told us a little about the area which was also nice.
And your pizza comes out in less than 10 minutes!
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The prices are a little bit high but the portions and quality are worth it.
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Eat on the outdoor back deck if you can.
Money $aving Tip: Cruizzers provides military discounts, making it a great choice for service members.
Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show
Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show - experience the Old West like never before. Fort Hays is the site of the Oscar award-winning movie set of Dances with Wolves. Check out the film set and stand in the same spot that John D. Dunbar (Kevin Costner) was given his new posting orders in the movie. As you walk up and down the boardwalk you'll find craftsmen at work making tools and ropes. Make your own tin plate or brick and even watch your own hunting knife take shape at the Blacksmith shop.
At 6:30 p.m. the Supper Bell rings loud. Bring your appetite for the tastiest Chuckwagon menu in the West. Supper is served on handmade tin plates with drinks poured into tin cups. The Fort Hays Wranglers then take the stage to entertain you with the Black Hills' most popular music variety show – guaranteed to be a foot-stompin', belly shakin', good time! If your visit leaves you wanting more, come back for their daily 0.99-cent, all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast.
Red Garter Saloon. 124 Winter St, Keystone.
I feel the need to qualify this. The Red Garter Saloon and Red Ruby Restaurant are connected but serve different menus and food experiences. The Red Garter Saloon is known for its lively atmosphere and cocktail bar, while the Red Ruby Restaurant offers a more traditional dining experience with a separate menu. Both establishments are family-friendly and connected through a shared business, but they cater to different types of dining preferences.
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I've eaten at both and since I last ate at the Red Ruby Restaurant, things have really gone downhill according to its customers. Not so with the Red Garter Saloon menu so have dinner at the Red Garter Saloon
South Dakota Railroad Museum - 222 Railroad Ave., Building A,
Hill City.
Railroads played a big role (and still do) in South Dakota's development. This facility has preserved that history to share it with the public.
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Exhibits include a wooden caboose, the depot itself, a model train layout, the "time rail", an 80 foot wall summarizing the history of railroading in South Dakota, and other railroad memorabilia.
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The admission fee for the South Dakota State Railroad Museum is $5, and children's admission is free.
Daily hours for the South Dakota State Railroad Museum are 10 am to 3 pm.
Black Hills National Forest - Hill City
Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
Nestled in the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills lies the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve—a place where rugged beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure come together.
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The preserve is named after Peter Norbeck, a South Dakota conservationist, State Senator, Governor, and later U.S. Senator. In 1905, Norbeck visited the southern Black Hills and was captivated by its dramatic landscapes. His dream? To create a protected area that preserved natural beauty, safeguarded wildlife, and remained accessible to all.
Covering some of the highest and most rugged terrain in the Black Hills, the preserve offers endless opportunities for adventure and connection with nature.
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At its center lies the Black Elk Wilderness, named for the Oglala Lakota holy man, Black Elk. Here you’ll find:
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Black Elk Peak – the highest point east of the Rockies and a popular hiking destination.
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Trail #9 South – the most heavily used trail in the Forest, welcoming up to 500 visitors a day during peak season.
Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway
Established in 2001, this 70-mile scenic route winds through the preserve, showcasing breathtaking views, pigtail bridges, and narrow rock tunnels. Portions were designed by Norbeck himself to provide “the grandest view” and encourage visitors to slow down and savor the scenery.
crazy horse monument
There was a whole lot of controversy involved in building Mount Rushmore between the government and the Lakota Sioux, the Lakota stating Mount Rushmore was built on their sacred land. Long story short, the government tried to buy off the Lakota with a financial settlement but the Lakota refused, saying they wanted the deed to their sacred land. The government refused. The Lakota were angry that the faces of 4 Presidents who all directly persecuted (and worse) the Sioux in some manner had been placed on their sacred land.
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Which brings us to the Crazy Horse Monument...
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Crazy Horse Memorial® honors all Indigenous people of North America, stands as a reminder of the importance of reconciliation, respecting differences, embracing diversity, striving for unity, and appreciating life’s deeper meaning as it has always been represented in Native American cultural values. This will never change. The arm of Crazy Horse points to his tribal land as a reminder of this need for reconciliation among all people.
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When completed, the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the largest sculpture in the world, the face of Crazy Horse being larger than the 4 faces on Mount Rushmore.
Crazy Horse
Admission includes access to three museums, an orientation film, viewing of the sculpture from the veranda and the wall of windows, and scheduled cultural programming.
Admission is as follows; 10/1/25 to 5/14/2026
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$30.00: 3 or more people in a vehicle
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$24.00: 2 people in a vehicle
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$12.00: 1 person in a vehicle
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$7.00: Per person on a motorcycle, bicycle, or walking
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No parking fee.
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Group rates available - Call group sales (605) 673-4681
The bus to base is a separate, optional experience for an additional fee of $5 per person. Admission to the Memorial is not refundable.
5/15/2026 - 9/30/2026
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$35.00: 3 or more people in a vehicle
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$30.00: 2 people in a vehicle
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$15.00: 1 person in a vehicle
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$10.00: Per person on a motorcycle, bicycle, or walking
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No parking fee.
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Above rates not applicable for large groups or commercial groups. Please call to book group reservations.
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Group rates available - Call group sales (605) 673-4681.
Alpine Inn. 133 Main St, Hill City.
European cuisine - German specialties.
They also have a kids menu.
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The Alpine Inn has been noted in several national & international publications for its friendly, homey atmosphere steeped in mellow old world charm and its delicious meals. The luncheon menu boasts both ethnic European and contemporary dishes.
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Summer Hours
Memorial Day to Labor Day
Lunch
Monday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Sunday: CLOSED
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No reservations are required unless you're a party of 8 or more.
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Cash or Check Only
ATM located inside