1 - Independent Ale House
625 St. Joseph Street | Pet Friendly
This downtown hotspot is known for its 40+ rotating craft beers and creative flatbread pizzas. The small patio is often packed during happy hour, and for good reason! The vibe is relaxed, the service is efficient, and the beer list is extensive.
2 - Tally's Silver Spoon
530 6th Street | Pet Friendly
A refined “fine diner” offering locally sourced, elevated takes on American classics. The peaceful outdoor seating is perfect for brunch or a romantic dinner. Tally’s is especially loved for its creative seasonal menus and top-notch service.
3 - The Silver Lining Creamery
512 Main Street | Pet Friendly
Homemade ice cream, inventive flavors, and some outdoor tables right in the heart of Main Street Square make this a favorite stop for downtown strollers. Grab a cone of one of their constantly rotating flavors and enjoy it outside in the sun. It’s a simple joy that hits every time.
4 - Murphy’s Pub & Grill
510 9th Street | Pet Friendly
A local favorite with a large, lively patio, and a menu full of elevated pub classics. Known for comfort foods like chislic, fried pickles, and buffalo meatloaf sandwiches, Murphy’s delivers comfort food with a twist.
5 - Firehouse Brewing Co.
610 Main Street
South Dakota’s oldest brewery and a downtown icon. Set in a historic firehouse, the expansive patio features string lights, fire pits, murals, and live music throughout the summer. Pair your beer with hearty burgers or ribs and soak in the energetic atmosphere.
6 - Armadillos Ice Cream Shoppe
202 Main Street | Pet Friendly
A nostalgic, family-friendly ice cream stop with outdoor benches and picnic tables. Whether you’re craving a classic cone or a loaded sundae, Armadillos is a sweet way to enjoy Rapid City’s warm-weather days, especially after dinner or during a downtown stroll.
7 - Paddy O’Neill’s Irish Pub
523 6th Street (Hotel Alex Johnson) | Pet Friendly
A casual Irish pub with a street-facing patio perfect for people-watching. Classic pub fare, cold pints, and a spirited vibe make this a great spot to relax and take in the downtown scene, especially when the weather’s warm and the patio’s buzzing.
8 - Juniper at The Vertex Sky Bar
523 6th Street (Rooftop of Hotel Alex Johnson)
Perched above downtown, Juniper blends fine dining with rooftop elegance. The menu features seasonally inspired dishes and elevated cocktails in a chic setting with panoramic views of the Black Hills.
9 - Thirsty’s Burgers & Beer
819 Main Street | Pet Friendly
A casual local favorite with a shaded, greenery-lined patio perfect for a relaxed lunch or happy hour. Known for classic burgers, loaded appetizers and a rotating selection of regional beers on tap.
10 - Alternative Fuel Coffee House
512 Main Street | Pet Friendly
This downtown favorite blends craft coffee with a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for soaking in Rapid City’s sunshine. The spacious patio invites you to sip everything from cold brews and lattes to smoothies and teas while watching the energy of downtown roll by. Pair your drink with a breakfast sandwich, pastry, or light lunch option and you’ve got a cozy stop that fuels both locals and visitors.