9 Worthwhile Attractions To Visit During Your Winter Vacation

Mild temperatures set the stage for new adventures and exciting experiences can be found at local attractions that are open year-round. When you linger a little longer during a winter trip to Rapid City, there’s more to discover. Here’s a list of nine top spots to get you started.

1. Dinosaur Park

On a nearby hilltop overlooking Rapid City, you’ll discover seven giant dinosaurs. These seemingly silly sculptures can be an acquired taste, but we’re drawn to the charm of this historic site. And we’re not the only ones. Locals and visitors love returning year after year to create new memories. Built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration, Dinosaur Park offers an interesting local history lesson, free fun for all ages, and incredible 100-mile views so you can take in the Black Hills and Badlands in the distance. Although the Visitor Center is closed in the winter months, you won’t want to miss these snowy scenic views.

*Recent enchancements to this park make it more accessible to visitors.

2. The Journey Museum

Unearth dinosaurs, take a trip to outer space, or find rare artifacts from our country’s storied past at The Journey Museum. Learn about Native American traditions from the Sioux Indian Museum exhibits and listen to the stories of the Lakota people throughout the museum. This astounding museum offers 2.5 billion years of Black Hills history through these captivating exhibits, a STEAM powered lab filled with experiential activities, and much more.

3. Rapid City Rush

rapid city rush hockey player on the ice with local rapid city crowd in the background

Join locals to cheer on Rapid City’s professional ice hockey team – the Rapid City Rush. With seating in The Monument’s state-of-the-art facility and an excellent selection of food and drink available, sitting on the sidelines has never been this exciting! Find upcoming games on our event calendar.

4. Main Street Square

Ice skating during the holiday season at sunset at main street square in downtown rapid city

Have some winter fun at Main Street Square where you can rent skates or bring your own gear and spin circles around our city’s charming ice rink. If you’d rather skip the skates, then step inside to browse the local shops, or grab a delicious midday snack. Before you leave the square, check out the stunning granite sculptures inspired by the Badlands. This public art project is just one example of the big things on display downtown.

5. City of Presidents

City of Presidents statue Bill Clinton wearing winter gear in downtown Rapid City, SD

Take a walk through downtown to see the bronze statues of past presidents on each city block and snap some selfies or listen to the free audio tour. You might notice winter gear worn by the City of Presidents this time of year, including hats, coats, scarves and more. It’s a local tradition to dress the statues in warm clothing and offer these items to our community members in need.

6. Black Hills Escape Rooms

Two visitors trying to solve the Black Hills Escape Rooms Puzzle about Pactola in the Black Hills

Looking for new ways to challenge yourself while on vacation? Enter Black Hills Escape Rooms to choose your own adventure like solving a murder mystery at Saloon #10 or fighting off zombie prairie dogs in a sci-fi scenario. Test your team-building skills and reserve a private booking for two to eight guests per room. From start to finish, this unique experience offers big fun in local settings and great memories.

7. Dahl Arts Center

Visit the Dahl Arts Center to see western South Dakota’s premier collection of contemporary arts free of charge. All ages are welcome to enjoy five continiously changing galleries showcasing visual arts and traveling exhibitions as well as an interactive art start studio for creative expression. Don’t miss the gift shop, which features the work of Black Hills area artists, and offers plenty of high-quality, handmade souvenirs.

8. Performing Arts Center of Rapid City

Crowd watching a performance at the Performing Arts Center of Rapid City

Spend an evening at the theater! In addition to hosting national and international productions, The Performing Arts Center of Rapid City is the home base for the local talents of the Black Hills Community Theatre, Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, Shrine of Democracy Chorus, and more. Find tickets for dance, music, comedy, and drama at this cultural beacon of the Black Hills.

9. The Museum of Geology

Explore a fascinating collection of rare fossils and minerals on the campus of South Dakota Mines. The Museum of Geology is sure to entertain visitors of all ages. If you're a planning a trip to the Badlands, this local museum has some interesting exhibits connecting to the national park.

Don't wait until winter ends to discover new places to explore!

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