Celebrate the Holidays in Rapid City
Tis the season for joy and adventure! While candy canes and garland add holiday charm to the heart of Rapid City, you can use this holly jolly itinerary to join us for citywide celebration this season.
Get Festive
Whether you’re trying new things or returning to timeless traditions, you can create great memories together in Rapid City. Make your moments here merrier with these fun-filled activities and really bring on the holiday cheer.
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 and watch the skaters while sipping on homemade hot chocolate or apple cider from close by shops. Attend the most festive night of them all by visiting during Winter Market!
Storybook Island
Stop along a brilliantly lit path to pose for photos with your favorite storybook characters at Storybook Island's Christmas Nights of Light event. See fairytales come to life under the stars and enjoy the magic of sparkling Christmas lights and tunes played throughout the park. This is a memory-making experience for all.
Christmas at the Chapel
Tour the magical grounds of Chapel in the Hills open for select dates in December. Decorated with lights and holiday decor, the grounds are a peaceful place to visit in the quiet of winter and admire the architecture adorned with lights.
Prouty Pottery
Not everyone dreams of a white Christmas. If you prefer to get festive indoors, try a holiday-themed art class at Prouty Pottery. You can also choose a special piece to paint in the studio or shop their selection of already created pieces for the perfect holiday gifts.
Do Some Holiday Shopping
Take a stroll through Downtown Rapid City and its beautifully decorated store windows to find the perfect presents for your loved ones. Check out these local shops to discover a collection of 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 also find fun stationery supplies, vintage puzzles and a collection of stocking stuffers 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.
Vita Sana Olive Oil Company
Shop a collection of quality 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 the young ones on your list at Who’s Toy House. Children dreaming of dress up will love anything from their selection for little princesses, and the glow in the dark section holds treasures that are fun for all ages. This local shops carries of variety of toys 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. An added bonus - they offer complimentary gift wrapping!
Pure Fox
There's a little something for everyone at Pure Fox. This locally owned lifestyle store carries everything from non-toxic beauty products to a small collection of clothing. You can even create your own scent at the make your own Perfume Bar. During the holiday season you'll discover a collection of irresistible goodies to add as stocking stuffers.
Enjoy Cozy Comfort Foods
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to warm up with comfort foods and delicious holiday drinks. Create your own foodie tour with these Rapid City recommendations.
Elks Theatre
The Elks Theatre pops classic popcorn to salty, buttery perfection inside their historic location. 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 seasonal drink from Harriet & Oak and pair it with a homemade pop tart or pastry.
Bokujo Ramen
Fill your belly with a bowl full of delicoius ramen from Bokujō Ramen this holiday season. Each meal is made from locally sourced ingredients, which create great color, texture, and phenomenal flavor.
¿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. If you've got a group of four or more you can dine on the outdoor patio in a 12-by-12-foot heated igloo and watch the snow fall while you stay warm with chips and queso and a margarita.
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 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 quickly, 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 of this Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge 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 that warm winter cabin feel. Keep your glass half full of delicious local beers from Lost Cabin which roll out speciality brews special for the holiday season.
BIN 605
Wine is what's on the menu at BIN 605, and a variety of beers. This cozy atmosphere offers a large selection of wines for your tasting pleasure. Can't decide on one? Get a flight of reds or whites to sample a selection. All pair deliciously with their locally named flatbreads.