Spend time exploring the outdoors in Rapid City! Recent influencer, Wes Eisenhauer, had an itinerary full of outdoor exploration that will inspire you for your own getaway!
It all starts with a great place to stay like The Rushmore Hotel and Suites. They offer modern amenities, a great downtown location, and outstanding customer service.
Located in the center of town are the trails and views of Skyline Wilderness Area. After a scenic and curvy drive up on Skyline Drive, you can select a trail from the six hiking or biking options this park offers. They provide a great escape to the forest while still in city limits paired with one of the best scenic overlooks. On the same ridge as the Skyline Wilderness Area you'll discover the eye-catching statues Dinosaur Park. Save some time to walk the park's path and visit seven depression era dinosaur statues that stand over the city.
Downtown Rapid City offers some unique outdoor activities. Beyond the City of Presidents self-guided walking tour, you can explore the walls of the most colorful alley in the area, Art Alley. Located between 6th and 7th Street, artists who obtain a permit can leave their mark making the walls an ever-changing canvas. Art Alley isn’t the only place to find to street art murals downtown. You can find stunning artwork all around downtown including a large Badlands mural on the side of the Elks Movie Theatre that can be seen from Main Street Square.
End a first day full of adventures with a great dish from Dakotah Steakhouse! Serving up dishes featuring Elk, Bison, and Walleye, it’s a great place to get a taste of the area including the South Dakota favorite - Chislic.
Fuel up for another day of adventures with breakfast at Alternative Fuel Coffee House! Conveniently located at the Shops at Main Street Square, this locally owned coffee shop offers some delicious breakfast options and a great cup of joe all in a cozy atmosphere.
Canyon Lake Park is an excellent place to get outside and relax. Enjoy the view as you stroll along the walking paths, or take a seat and soak up some sun as you watch the ducks play on the water. Just up the road you can enjoy another peaceful outdoor attraction, Chapel in the Hills. Tour the grounds and admire the architecture of this Borgund Stavkirke replica.
When lunch time hits head to Tally’s Silver Spoon in Downtown Rapid City, they offer creative dishes that will leave your taste buds wanting more. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner so you could enjoy them for all meals of the day if you love their food as much as we do.
Time to kick it into gear exploring the trails of Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park. The park offers over 20 miles of trails for hiking or mountain biking, along with bouldering spots for climbers. The best part is it’s only five minutes from Downtown Rapid City making it a convenient natural escape.
Celebrate another day of fun with the perfect pair at Independent Ale House – pizza and beer. With over 40 options on tap, it’s a great place to sit back, sip, savor and relax.
If you aren't ready for the night to end, get nostalgic with a visit to Press Start a local arcade bar. Once you have your quarters in hand you can kick it old school with Pac Man, Frogger, Ski Ball and more for a blast from the past.
Plan these activities and more while visiting Rapid City! For more inspiration and planning tips follow us on social media.