That awe-inspiring destination for your next meeting or convention is closer than you think. Whether your attendees are from nearby cities throughout the region or Rapid City locals, each can experience the wonder of the Black Hills while they gather. See what you can plan for your group, from iconic attractions with meeting space to team-building adventures.
Meet In Spaces Like No Other
Meeting in “America’s hometown” is convenient as it is inspiring. Rapid City has incredible attractions that double as meeting spaces. Many offer exciting and engaging group activities and experiences your attendees will love.
At the Shrine of Democracy
Carver’s Café is a meeting and event space with panoramic views of America's most iconic monuments, Mount Rushmore. With space for 25 to 250 guests, your attendees can easily gather here, dine on delicious menu items and enjoy an eye-opening tour of the monument and other exciting activities.
In the Presence of a Legendary Chief
The Welcome Center at Crazy Horse Memorial® houses multi-use conference facilities (offering theater-style seating for up to 300 people) along with breakout and small-group rooms. While meeting there, ensure your group has the ultimate visit to the monument by taking a special tour, souvenir shopping at the gift shop and more.
Surrounded by Downtown Charm
Meet in the heart of Rapid City in Main Street Square. Offering plenty of outdoor space, the Square is perfect for open-air events. And because it’s located downtown, your group can conveniently take advantage of all the activities and experiences in the area, such as shopping, checking out Art Alley, visiting 43 president statues and more.
Curious about other local attractions that provide spaces for groups to meet? Check out our blog featuring 15 of Rapid City’s unique meeting spaces.
Explore Traditional Spaces
Multi-Use Venues
Rapid City has versatile venues that accommodate groups of different sizes and make an experience out of gathering. Venues include The Monument, Rapid City's largest indoor venue located downtown and the forty-five-acre Central States Fairgrounds with indoor and outdoor space.
Hotels With Meeting Space
If you’re looking to eliminate attendees’ commutes between where they’re staying and meeting, our destination has a variety of hotels with event spaces.
Embark on Team Building Adventures
If you’re looking to build more camaraderie within your group, consider enjoying some of Rapid City’s team-building adventures at a local attraction. Here are some activities and adventures that teams can embark on to foster unity, collaboration, and trust.
Tour Downtown on a Party Pedaler
The Black Hills Party Pedaler in Rapid City offers a unique and fun-filled way to explore the city. This multi-passenger, pedal-powered vehicle lets groups navigate through the city's streets while enjoying the camaraderie and music while combining sightseeing, exercise, and socializing.
Hop on a Wildlife Jeep Safari
Explore the beauty of Custer State Park, spotting buffalo, elk, and pronghorns. Your tour-guide will take you off-road for the best view of park critters. Teams can be tasked with wildlife spotting challenges, encouraging collaboration and keen observation.
Beat the Clock at Black Hills Escape Rooms
A more urban adventure, but incredibly effective for team-building. Escape rooms challenge a team's communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Better yet, Black Hills Escape Rooms crafts their rooms and challenges in-house to tie with the region's history.
Discover more team building adventures here.
Attend a Signature Event
It's impossible to overlook event experiences in Rapid City and the Black Hills region. And many offer a chance for attendees to connect with the history and culture of western South Dakota.
Experience the Western Frontier
The Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park provides onlookers with a glimpse into the untamed heart of the Wild West. Observing horseback riders as they gather approximately 1,450 buffalo is a mesmerizing sight. Held annually in late September, this event ensures the bison population remains in harmony with the park's carrying capacity.
See A Native American Powwow
The esteemed Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City is a cultural extravaganza that attracts thousands every October. Talent flows from every corner as dancers, singers, and artisans converge to display their artistry in a setting that feels both spellbinding and enchanting. Visitors have the chance to explore various vendors, experience diverse dance forms, peruse the fine arts expo, and much more.
For more events to plan around, see our Top 10 Events list and explore our signature events throughout the year.
Ready to Plan Rapid City?
When planning your meeting, you have a valuable source within our destination. The Visit Rapid City team is dedicated to helping you bring everything together to make your next event memorable. Reach out to our local office at 605-718-8484 or submit your RFP to start planning.