Discover Native American Heritage in Rapid City

Early Morning: Bear Butte State Park

The Black Hills of South Dakota are rich in Native American History and one way to appreciate this culture is to take an early morning hike up Bear Butte. Located approximately 25 miles north of Rapid City, Bear Butte State Park is geological wonder and a place of worship for many Native American tribes. The hike to the top is rugged but the view is spectacular.  Visitors are asked to be respectful of worshippers and their religious practices.

Mid-Morning: The Journey Museum

Head back to Rapid City for a hearty breakfast or sit down and enjoy a bagel and latte.  After recharging, take a tour of the Journey Museum in downtown Rapid City.  This unique museum will show you the history of the “Paha Sapa” (Lakota for Black Hills.)  When you leave you will have a greater respect for the land and its people.

Noon: Sioux Pottery

If you have time stop in Sioux Pottery, you will see traditionaly designed and hand-crafted pottery by Sioux Indian Artists. Come browse their wide inventory located in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Early Afternoon:  Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries

Enjoy a delightful lunch in historic downtown topped off by shopping at Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries.  Here you’ll find fine Native American arts and crafts, beadwork, clothing and replicas of authentic wares.

Evening: Crazy Horse Memorial

One of the most comprehensive ways to learn about Native American history in South Dakota is to spend an afternoon at Crazy Horse Memorial. This ongoing mountain carving of the great Lakota warrior is not only a tribute to the Sioux Nation, but to tribes everywhere. The Indian Museum of North America, located within the complex, showcases authentic items donated from Native American all over the United States and Canada.