Photo of Sylvan Lake, One of the Most Popular Black Hills Attractions.Everyone remembers their first visit to South Dakota’s piney, rolling Black Hills. A child might not remember the unparalleled beauty or the tranquility one gains when standing amid sheer backcountry. But memories of Mount Rushmore, Dinosaur Park, or Wind Cave will last a lifetime. Perhaps the only thing more important than your itinerary filled with classic Black Hills attractions is the overnight accommodations. That’s where Rushmore Express enters the picture. Not only is our summertime haven located within a few miles of one of the world’s most-visited landmarks, but you’ll also be minutes away from the region’s many highlights. Our cozy, affordable Rushmore hotel can act as your hub for any type of long-awaited Black Hills vacation. 

Black Hills Attractions: Reasons to Visit Keystone, SD

Compiling a list of quintessential Black Hills attractions seems like an effortless exercise on the surface. But it’s never easy erasing the likes of Black Elk Peak, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Bear Country U.S.A. However, we think that these 10 mid-day sights truly encapsulate the region’s many offerings. Most Black Hills attractions cater to all types of travelers, most notably families, couples, and motorcycle clubs. Hopefully, this handy western South Dakota visitor’s guide provides you with enough fuel to start planning that next escape.

  1. Photo of a Pronghorn on the Custer Wildlife Loop, One of the Best Black Hills Attractions.Take a step back in time by meandering through Mount Rushmore’s many exhibits. We recommend visiting around dusk to gain a beautifully dissimilar perspective.
  2. Motor through Custer State Park’s 18-mile Wildlife Loop to meet a wide variety of beasts, such as mammoth bison, friendly burros, chatty prairie dogs, peaceful white-tailed deer, and majestic pronghorns.
  3. Go caving at Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, or Rushmore Cave, a splendid trifecta of family fun.
  4. Walk around the picturesque, mirror-like Sylvan Lake during the morning’s first light with a coffee in hand.
  5. Explore historic Deadwood with an afternoon of shopping, guided tours, classic South Dakotan cuisines, and perhaps some gambling. The town itself has rapidly evolved into one of the most beloved family-friendly Black Hills attractions.
  6. Photo of the Cathedral Spires, One of the Prettiest Black Hills Attractions.After your visit to Deadwood, rumble up into the mountains en route to the Needles Eye Tunnel. This jaw-dropping stretch of road is a must, especially for motorcyclists.
  7. Hike to the Cathedral Spires’ precipice. The Spires are less frequented than the majority of neighboring trails; it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and simply bask in the fresh mountain air.
  8. Snap dozens of photos inside Roughlock Falls State Nature Area, home to the prettiest waterfall in the Black Hills.
  9. Soar high above the Spires in a hot air balloon, thanks to the friendly folks at Black Hills Balloons.
  10. After a full day of adventure, make a short pit stop at Miner Brewing Company to sip on a hazy IPA or a cranberry sour. And don’t forget to purchase a souvenir growler filled with your favorite ale.

Family-Friendly Hotels near Mount Rushmore

Over the years, Rushmore Express has developed into the quintessential Keystone lodging option near Mount Rushmore. Yes, the inn is just a few miles down the road from George Washington and his three friends. But we’re also within walking distance of downtown Keystone and all of its kitschy, old-world goodness. The inn itself boasts a wide variety of accommodations, most of which feature unique designs, so no two stays are alike!

Start each morning with a complimentary breakfast, soak in your private whirlpool tub, and share stories of the day’s best adventures near your electric fireplace. For even more things to do in the Black Hills, feel free to visit our website. And, when you’re ready to book that long-awaited getaway, please give us a call at 1-800-323-6476 (or click the Book Now button).