Rapid City Shared Tour
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3

Rapid City Shared Tour

Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This Rapid City tour is unique because it offers a concentrated experience designed to maximize your time and provide a comprehensive overview of the city's highlights. In just 4-5 hours, you'll not only get a glimpse of Rapid City's role as the gateway to Mount Rushmore, but you'll also delve into its own distinct character with an up-close encounter with the "City of Presidents" statue collection, giving you a richer understanding of the area's history and culture beyond just the iconic monument. It's the perfect introduction to Rapid City for those on a tight schedule.

Available options

Rapid City Shared Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
Entrance fee
English Guide
Snacks
Umbrellas and blankets in van

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Rapid City Tour includes a trip up Skyline Drive to see an overview of east and west Rapid City, Dinosaur Park, Hangman’s Hill, and a drive through the West Boulevard historical district with its lovely old homes. We drive through downtown Rapid City which features bronze statues of all but the last two U.S. Presidents, as well as the historic Alex Johnson Hotel and the Prairie Edge Native American Store. Then we drive over to the Civic Center to see a display of pieces of the Berlin Wall and the Rose Gardens. As we drive into the west side of Rapid City we will see the parks created from the ravages of the 1972 Flood. We will also see Storybook Island, the Formal Gardens, Canyon Lake Park and Stavkirke Chapel In the Hills, which is an exact replica of an 850 Norwegian church with its storehouse and log museum building.

2
Stop 2

We can go to the Journey Museum which depicts the history of the area starting from the beginning of time in the Black Hills up through modern day Rapid City.

3

The South Dakota School of Mines Geology Museum is a captivating destination for rockhounds, fossil enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the Earth's history. Located on the campus of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, the museum boasts an impressive collection of minerals, fossils, and meteorites from South Dakota and around the world. Explore exhibits showcasing the region's rich geological history, including the famous Badlands and Black Hills formations. Discover fascinating specimens like dinosaur bones, rare minerals, and even pieces of the solar system. The museum offers educational opportunities for all ages, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the wonders of geology.

4
Stop 4

The Dahl Arts Center is a prominent fine arts center located in downtown South Dakota, offering a vibrant hub for artistic expression and cultural engagement.

5

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of aviation and space exploration. Located near Ellsworth Air Force Base, the museum showcases a diverse collection of aircraft, missiles, and artifacts, highlighting the significant contributions of South Dakota and the Air Force to aerospace technology. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the evolution of flight, the challenges of space travel, and the stories of the men and women who shaped these fields. With both indoor and outdoor displays, the South Dakota Air and Space Museum provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

6
Stop 6

If you are not into museums we can go to the Black Hills Gold Jewelry Factory for a tour of the jewelry making process and shopping in the outlet store.

What's not included

Gratuities
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Rapid City

Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota, known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and cultural attractions, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Black Hills.

Top Attractions

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

A massive granite sculpture featuring the 60-foot heads of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (parking fee applies)

Badlands National Park

A stunning landscape of layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires. The park offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Nature Full day Free (parking fee applies)

Crazy Horse Memorial

A massive mountain carving honoring the Lakota leader Crazy Horse. The memorial includes a museum and cultural center.

Historical 2-3 hours $12 per adult, $6 per child (ages 6-12), free for children under 6

Reptile Gardens

A family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The park also offers live animal shows and a petting zoo.

Nature 1-2 hours $18 per adult, $10 per child (ages 4-12), free for children under 4

Must-Try Local Dishes

Chislic

Cubed, deep-fried meat, typically made from lamb or venison, seasoned with garlic salt. A South Dakota specialty.

Appetizer/Snack Not vegetarian/vegan

Bison Burger

A burger made from bison meat, often served with local toppings and sides.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options available

Kuchen

A German-inspired dessert, similar to a coffee cake, often made with fruit and topped with a crumbly streusel.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Rock climbing Mountain biking Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and all attractions open. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rapid City is generally safe with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air
  • Rapid City Regional Airport • 10 miles from city center
By bus

Jefferson Lines

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient bus service covering major areas of Rapid City. Fares are reasonable, and schedules are available online.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Rapid City West Blvd Black Hills

Day trips

Deadwood
35 miles • Half day to full day

A historic gold rush town with a rich Wild West heritage. Deadwood offers a variety of historical sites, casinos, and entertainment options.

Custer State Park
30 miles • Full day

A beautiful state park with scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a large herd of bison and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Wind Cave National Park
45 miles • Full day

A unique national park known for its extensive cave system and surface features. The park offers cave tours, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Festivals

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally • August Days of '76 Rodeo • July

Pro tips

  • Visit Mount Rushmore early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Check for special events and festivals before planning your trip.
  • Explore the Black Hills National Forest for stunning scenic drives and hiking trails.
  • Try local specialties like chislic and bison dishes.
  • Use the Rapid Ride bus service for convenient and affordable transportation around the city.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-100
1
Childs
Age 4-11
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook