See what shopping in Rapid City is all about by going beyond the big box stores and stepping into a few of the locally owned treasures. They’re the perfect place to find that one-of-kind reminder of your big adventure or to enjoy during your visit.
These nine unique items are what I would consider great Rapid City finds, but if you prefer to hunt for your own check out other shopping options or scroll to the bottom of this blog for some suggestions!
1. A PIECE OF HANDMADE POTTERY
There’s nothing better than sipping your coffee or hot chocolate from a handmade piece of pottery. Made from local South Dakota clay, you can shop for your one-of-a-kind piece at Prouty Pottery and ship it anywhere in the United States.
2. A TOP-OF-THE-LINE CIGAR
Grab the perfect gift for any cigar lover in your life at the Tinder Box. You’re sure to find a high-quality selection here at the 37th official Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge in the world.
3. A DINO SOUR T-SHIRT
Named in honor of Rapid City’s historic landmark Dinosaur Park, you can sample a “Dino Sour” – locally brewed sour beer at Hay Camp Brewing Company – and take the t-shirt home, too.
4. BISON JERKY
Bite into a savory snack from Bashful Bison. Before you leave Rapid City, we recommend picking up a pack of authentic, locally made bison jerky. Be sure to check out all the great locally made items they sell while you're there!
5. A CHILDREN’S BOOK
Serving as the first gift shop for Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Mount Rushmore Memories features unique collectibles like these children’s books exploring Black Hills National Forest, local wildlife, natural history and so much more.
6. AIR ROASTED COFFEE BEANS
Each bag of coffee at Pure Bean is freshly air roasted to exact specifications, leaving you with a smooth, balanced, perfect cup every time. Buy your own bag (or two!) from this specialty boutique air roaster, so you can enjoy your favorite cup of coffee again and again.
7. A Bottle of MYTHICAL BEAST WINE
Tall tales in Northern American folklore feature the fearsome jackalope. With notes of strawberry jam, brown sugar, and black cherry, you can find this legendary bottle at Firehouse Wine Cellars.
8. A SMALL CUSTOM TEEPEE
Find your favorite handcrafted souvenir celebrating Native American art and culture at Dakota Drum. Stop by the downtown store to see a variety of vibrant teepees on display and more beautifully handmade items.
9. A Piece of Black Hills Gold Jewelry
With rich history, elegant designs, and eye-catching color, it’s no wonder Black Hills Gold jewelry has been a sought-out South Dakota souvenir since 1874. Visit the showroom at Mt Rushmore Black Hills Gold Outlet to choose your own unique gift. While you're there, take the free tour to see how these stunning pieces are made!
Other Unique Stores To Explore
Rapid is home to a vast selection of unique stores that carry everything from handcrafted mementos to unique keepsakes so you can preserve the memory of a time well spent. These stores are a few of my favorites to explore when I am searching for gifts for myself or for others.
Browse a great selection of locally made merchandise inside the Alex Johnson Mercantile. They carry everything from jewelry, original wall art and Native American artwork. Art House (formerly Perfect Hanging Gallery) goes beyond framing and selling local and regional art with great gifts options like vintage puzzles, stationery, and so much more. You'll find an unexpected shopping experience at The Celtic Connections of the Black Hills as you explore their selection of knits, handmade soups, and Celtic art.
Who’s Hobby House has been a store to explore in Rapid City since 1950. They are one of the largest hobby stores in the region so you're bound to find something great to give as a gift or keep for yourself. If you honor great memories with great tunes check out Black Hills Vinyl. Their collection of new and used vinyl, CDs, tapes, turntables and stereos will quench the thirst of any music lover. Vintage clothes shops in Rapid City are brimming with great finds, like Garbage Tale Vintage which offers timeless treasures from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
Consider shopping for something delicious during your travels in Rapid City with one of these great options. The Rushmore Candy Company is one of the largest candy stores in South Dakota. So if you have a sweet tooth like myself, there is no way you are leaving this store empty handed. Experience more deliciousness inside the Vita Sana Olive Oil Company. Their unique tasting bar format allows you to try out and compare over 50 varieties of the finest imported extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. They also have spices, sea salts, pastas, and gift sets to create gourmet meals.
Rapid City stores offer a little bit of everything and then some. Have fun exploring them all and finding something you will treasure.