Rapid City , United States

Premier Private Badlands Day Tour

Active

(48 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience another world in Badlands National Park. Wildlife and fossil spotting is a favorite as we weave our way through the spires and pinnacles of the park. We make many stops, and can incorporate a hike if you wish! Lunch in the park with spectacular views will be a highlight. On to the Minuteman National Historic Site, for some incredible living WW2 history. On our way back to Rapid City, Wall Drug calls us in for homemade donuts.

Tour with our knowledgable local guides and take in the park in your own time. Our private tours are flexible, with time to take photos, walk and enjoy the area as you wish to!

This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

Available options

Premier Private Badlands Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

All Fees and Taxes

Bottled water

Snacks

Air-conditioned vehicle

An expert local guide who would love to show you around!

Detailed itinerary

Wonder through the marvelous and other-wordly habitat of the Badlands. See wild animals, take in incredible geology and learn about the parks place in history.

Learn about South Dakota's important place in Cold War History.

Hear the fun story of the Hustead family and how they turned their dying drugstore into riches!

What's not included

Delicious picnic lunch available - enquire

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

As much as we love good doggos, this tour is not pet friendly.

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.