Rapid City is both a great place to visit and a great place to live. The city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and small-town charm. Whether you’re passing through on your way to Mount Rushmore, planning a family vacation, or have made the city your home, it’s easy to find fun things to do in Rapid City.
The following lists some of the top fun things to do in Rapid City, from historical landmarks and scenic hikes to local art, dining experiences, and indoor adventure parks that are fun for the whole family.
Fun Things To Do In Rapid City
Here are some of the top things to do in Rapid City, whether you’re a local family looking for a fun outing or a vacationer coming to South Dakota.
1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
No trip to Rapid City is complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Located just 30 minutes from downtown, this awe-inspiring monument features the colossal carved faces of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Wander through the Avenue of Flags, learn about the monument’s history in the visitor center, and hike the Presidential Trail for up-close views of the carvings.
2. Dinosaur Park
Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, Dinosaur Park is a must-visit for families and anyone with an interest in prehistoric creatures. This quirky park features life-sized dinosaur sculptures that have been towering over Rapid City since 1936. The park is free to enter, and kids will love climbing on the dinosaurs while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Black Hills.
3. Jump N Slide Adventure Park
A new addition to Rapid City’s lineup of family fun, Jump N Slide Adventure Park offers an exciting indoor playground perfect for all ages. This inflatable park features a variety of safe, fun attractions for the whole family. They include massive slides, obstacle courses, and a designated toddler zone, all designed to provide hours of entertainment. Ideal for parties or a fun day out, the park also offers memberships and passes, making it a go-to spot year-round. Be sure to snap a picture with Sunny the Sloth, the park’s lovable mascot!
4. Custer State Park
Just a short drive from Rapid City, Custer State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Spanning over 71,000 acres, the park is famous for its free-ranging bison herds and breathtaking scenic drives like the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or driving the Wildlife Loop, Custer State Park offers endless outdoor activities and opportunities to spot wildlife such as elk, pronghorn, and mountain goats.
5. Downtown Rapid City
Take a stroll through Downtown Rapid City to experience the local culture and art scene. Main Street Square serves as the heart of the downtown area, with seasonal events, concerts, and a splash pad for kids in the summer. While walking around, don’t miss the City of Presidents sculptures—life-sized bronze statues of U.S. presidents placed throughout the downtown streets. Art lovers can also explore galleries like Art Alley, a vibrant open-air art gallery where local artists showcase their work on the walls of alley buildings.
6. Bear Country USA
For a wildlife experience unlike any other, visit Bear Country USA, a drive-through wildlife park located just outside of Rapid City. The park is home to black bears, elk, wolves, and other North American animals. Drive through the park and observe these creatures in their natural habitats, then explore the walking area, which features baby animals and smaller species like porcupines and raccoons.
7. Badlands National Park
Less than an hour east of Rapid City, Badlands National Park is a must-see for anyone looking to explore one of the most unique landscapes in the country. Known for its rugged terrain, dramatic rock formations, and rich fossil beds, the park is a haven for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. Scenic drives like the Badlands Loop Road provide stunning views while hiking trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes through the colorful rock formations.
Rapid City is a destination filled with history, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re exploring its museums, visiting nearby parks, having a fun day at an inflatable park, or enjoying downtown’s art and culture, there’s something for everyone.
