Celebrate the Holidays in Rapid City
Tis the season for joy and wonder! While candy canes and garland add some Hallmark holiday charm to the heart of Rapid City, you can use this holly jolly itinerary to join us for citywide celebrations.
Get Festive
Whether you’re trying new things or returning to timeless traditions, you can create great memories together in Rapid City. Make it merrier with these fun-filled activities and really bring on the holiday cheer this year.
Main Street Square Ice Rink
Snowflakes fall and Main Street Square glistens! Bring your own gear or rent skates here and enjoy this enchanting ice rink illuminated by twinkling city lights. Or sit by a toasty firepit to watch the skaters and sip on homemade hot chocolate or apple cider from close by shops.
Storybook Island
Stop along a brilliantly lit path to pose for photos with your favorite storybook characters at Storybook Island Christmas Nights of Light. See fairytales come to life under the stars and enjoy the magic of sparkling Christmas lights. This is a memory-making experience for one and all.
Outdoor Campus - West
Ready to delight in a different kind of South Dakota fun? Learn how to ice fish, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and more with Outdoor Campus - West. Free educational classes are available for youth, adults, and groups to get comfortable exploring the winter beauty of the Black Hills.
Prouty Pottery
Not everyone dreams of a white Christmas! If you prefer an indoors-y festive feel, try a holiday-themed art class at Prouty Pottery. Choose a piece to paint in the studio or order an ornament kit to go and get creative at home before your next gift exchange.
Go Holiday Shopping
Take a stroll through Downtown Rapid City to see beautifully decorated store windows and find the perfect presents for loved ones on your list. Try these local shops for unique gift ideas.
Art House Black Hills
Discover the work of talented local artists at Art House Black Hills (formerly Perfect Hanging Gallery) through vibrant collections of jewelry, pottery, and more. Bring in artwork for custom framing that fits your budget or browse the visual arts on display. You can find fun stationery supplies and vintage holiday puzzles here.
Gift Shop At The Dahl
Plan for extra time to explore the Gift Shop at The Dahl. Located inside western South Dakota’s largest arts center, this lovely shop is brimming with inspired gifts featuring many talented Black Hills area artists. Gift shop sales also help support the Rapid City Arts Council programs and events. You can take home high-quality, handmade arts, crafts, photography, music, and more. This is a great place to find locally made stocking stuffers.
Vita Sana Olive Oil Company
You’ll find meats, cheeses, wines, and pastas at this one-stop shop for your hard to buy for friends and family. Vita Sana offers fresh, high-quality products, including gift sets to create gourmet meals or make a side dish sizzle. And a special bonus, you can sample fine olive oils and balsamic vinegars at the in-store tasting bar while you shop.
Who's Toy House
Find special gifts for all ages at Who’s Toy House. Children dreaming of dress up will love the selection here for little princesses and dinosaur lovers alike. Plus, books, games, and plush stuffies. Shopping with children? Kids love the hands-on fun available in store. Grab a child-sized cart when you enter and go see the one-of-a-kind Super Perplexus interactive sculpture. Lastly, don’t miss the glow in the dark room featuring lava lamps, slime labs, and much more.
Enjoy Cozy Comfort Foods and Drinks
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to warm up with comfort foods and delicious holiday drinks. Create your own mix and match menu tour with these Rapid City recommendations.
Elks Theatre
The Elks Theatre pops classic popcorn to salty, buttery perfection and this historic landmark is a beautiful site to see. Swing in during your downtown shopping spree to get yourself a yummy snack – by the bucket or bag. Spending Christmas Day in Rapid City? Take part in a holiday tradition and see “It’s A Wonderful Life” on the big screen.
Harriet & Oak
Fa la la flavorful drinks at this local café keep people coming back for breakfast, lunch, and coffee any time in between. Grab a hot cup of your favorite featured drink from Harriet & Oak and pair it with a homemade pop tart or pastry.
Bokujo Ramen
Fill your belly with a bowl full of ramen from Bokujō Ramen this holiday season. Each meal is made from locally sourced ingredients, which create great color, texture, and phenomenal flavor. Oh, what fun it is to try!
¿Que Pasa? Cantina
If you’re craving fresh, modern Mexican dishes combined with classic authentic cooking, then ¿Que Pasa? is a downtown must-do for lunch or dinner. Dine on the outdoor patio in a 12-by-12-foot heated igloo and watch the snow fall while you stay warm with some tasty tequila.
Piesano's Pacchia
Grab a table in this festive diner and feast on some truly delicious pizza and other Italian dishes. Their made-from-scratch dough and sauces make this local pizza joint worth a stop.
Cheers to Another Great Holiday Season
With eight local breweries, a local winery, and other unique venues, our city serves up great options for your end of season celebration. Top off your holiday festivities with a toast to spending time with loved ones and drinking local.
*For your safety and that of others we encourage you to grab a ride with a designated driver, Lyft, Uber or other cab service.
Aby's Rapid City
You can drink good wines or order spicy red beers here at Aby’s Rapid City. This beautiful bar and open event space can take many forms, inviting people to enjoy live music, community events, private holiday parties, or a spontaneous night out on the town.
Tinder Box Cigar Lounge
The holidays come and go quick, so sit and stay for a while at the Tinder Box and appreciate a well-made cocktail with the slow burn of a fine cigar. The sweet smell of tobacco and soft lighting here creates a comfortable place to catch up with long-time friends or meet new ones.
Lost Cabin Beer Co.
This rustic brewery captures the spirit of the outdoors and welcomes people to show up, let go, and embrace last call with a warm winter cabin feel. Keep your glass half full of delicious local beers from Lost Cabin as you look ahead to the new year.