Rapid City is one of the most unique Instagrammable places around. The city’s rich blend of urban creativity, historical character, natural landscapes, and whimsical attractions creates visually striking and camera-ready settings for every photographer to enjoy. If you’re a traveler drawn to visually rich landscapes and distinct regional landmarks, explore the region’s most desirable locations for a memorable visual experience you won’t soon forget!

 

American Flag Mural

A large mural of the American flag painted on a white wall. Two children stand joyfully with arms raised beneath it, conveying a patriotic and cheerful mood.

Located at the corner of Apolda Street and 7th Street, this large American flag mural stretches across the side of a downtown building. Painted directly onto the façade, the flag’s bold colors and sweeping motion make it a striking tribute to patriotism and a popular stop for photos.

 

Art Alley

A child joyfully jumps mid-air in the vibrant Art Alley filled with colorful graffiti art on brick walls. Power lines stretch across the blue sky above.

Colorful, gritty, and deeply personal, the walls within Art Alley are splashed with impressive artwork from various local artists. Between 6th and 7th, and Main and Saint Joseph Streets, you’ll find this ever-evolving community gallery, with its walls constantly changing with new work, so you’re always seeing something different through your lens. 

 

Canyon Lake Park

A woman in a light dress joyfully lifts a toddler in a pink outfit and sunhat on a lakeside dock, with serene water and a gazebo in the background at Canyon Lake Park

Known as one of Rapid City’s oldest city parks, Canyon Lake Park is a must for nature lovers, but also anyone looking for a scenic place to frame a great shot. Spanning 29 acres, the park features towering trees, smooth trails beside the water, and a fishing bridge that makes for stellar photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. 

 

Chapel in the Hills

A wooden stave church with intricate carvings stands amidst a lush forest. A person in white stands at the entrance, conveying a sense of tranquility.

Chapel in the Hills is a historic landmark in the region, dating back to 1969. It’s a replica of the 12th‑century Norwegian stave church Borgund Stavkirke and sits in the middle of the wilderness, nestled within the trees. Between its natural surroundings and exquisite architecture, the space offers a quiet and visually rich backdrop. Visitors can also stop into the small museum and gift shop during posted hours to learn more about the chapel’s history and craftsmanship. 

 

City of Presidents

A child in a purple raincoat stands smiling next to a bronze statue of a historical figure outside a Starbucks Coffee. The child holds an open umbrella with a playful design. The scene is lively and casual.

Rapid City is known as the City of Presidents for its monumental attraction that people from all over come to visit. Take a stroll downtown and you’ll be welcomed by 44 life-sized bronze statues of America’s past presidents. Take the self-guided audio tour to hear stories and facts about each figure, with voiceovers in character from Truman to Trump.

 

Dinosaur Park

Two dogs are on a sunny platform; one sits on a green bench, the other stands beside it. A giant dinosaur statue is prominently behind them.

Dinosaur lovers have to make a pit stop at Dinosaur Park while in town, but anyone looking for a fun photo will also want to check it out. The impressive 80-foot-long brontosaurus is included in the city skyline, which will make your pictures look like you’re on a movie set. If you’re craving the most magical shot, the golden hour is your best bet when the city is doused in a warm, soft glow. 

 

Greetings from the Rapid City Mural

A woman in a pink shirt poses cheerfully in front of a colorful mural reading "Greetings from Rapid City, South Dakota" on a gray brick wall.

A trip to this destination is not complete without checking out the iconic Greetings from the Rapid City mural in the Alley of 7th and St. Joseph Street. This bright, retro postcard-style mural is the go-to spot for visitors looking for a collectible keepsake to help remember their time here.

 

Storybook Island

A smiling girl in a floral dress poses playfully beside a large colorful rabbit statue, set in a sunny park with lush trees and a pond.

Storybook Island may be a children’s park, but it doesn’t mean it’s only intended for the little ones. With whimsical childhood characters, bright colors, and fairytale scenes, this park allows anyone’s imagination to come to life and provides a nostalgic setup for imaginative visuals. The park is open Memorial weekend through Labor Day, and we recommend arriving earlier or later in the day to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting. 

 

Rapid City’s visual diversity makes for the ideal Instagrammable photo spot. From bold murals to scenic vistas, the area’s charm spans wide with many opportunities to capture unique moments. Explore our most exciting and memorable places to capture and share your experiences. Don’t forget to tag @VisitRapidCity or use #VisitRapidCity to join the community and highlight your favorite finds. Plan your next adventure today!