Winter Fun in Rapid City

Rapid City is a year-round vacation destination that has winter adventures for the whole family. Often referred to as the “banana belt” of South Dakota, Rapid City’s moderate winter temperatures mean outdoor activities are comfortable and fun.  

Located approximately 50 miles east of Rapid City, you’ll find two Black Hills ski resorts that offer downhill, snowboarding and tubing. You will also find several trailheads in the area that give you access to more than 350-miles of groomed and marked snowmobile trails.

In Main Street Square, in downtown Rapid City, you can enjoy outdoor ice skating on a rink that rivals Rockefeller Center. After twirling on the ice, enjoy hot chocolate or other tasty sweets at one of the local cafes and coffee shops.

Take time to browse the local shops and art galleries and find the perfect gift for the hard-to-buy-for person on your list. Rapid City also offers many free attractions including the City of Presidents featuring life-sized statues of former heads of state.

The winter months are filled with unique events like the Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo, Rapid City Rush Hockey, Christmas Nights of Light at Storybook Island and more.