Gateway to the Black Hills

With a vibrant culture and eclectic mix of events, Rapid City offers year-round activities for travelers of all ages.

Rapid City was founded in 1876 by a group of down-on-their-luck prospectors who saw potential in its central location midway between the Hills and prairie. They named their community Hay Camp and sold supplies to the miners and settlers flocking to the region. It was later renamed Rapid City and billed as the “Gateway to the Black Hills.” Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota and a hub for transportation, commerce, education, health care, and tourism. It offers a variety of shops, boutiques, parks, galleries, restaurants, and family-friendly activities perfect for all ages.

Rapid City’s central location between the Black Hills to the west and prairie to the east position the town as a gateway to adventure.

Quaint and Historic Downtown

Rapid City’s downtown is a perfect blend of historic and quaint. Its bustling streets are lined with a cozy collection of buildings restored to their original architectural grandeur. The Hotel Alex Johnson has dominated the city skyline since opening its doors in 1928, welcoming an eclectic group of visitors over the years, including presidents and celebrities. Don’t overlook the unique shops and galleries that also call downtown home; you’ll find a diverse collection of keepsakes including Native American artwork and local craft goods.

While you’re here, don’t miss Art Alley, located between 6th and 7th Streets, for a colorful expression of the area’s urban artists. It’s a constantly-evolving mosaic of eye-catching graffiti and murals.

Rapid City’s burgeoning arts scene gives amateurs and professionals alike an opportunity to showcase their creativity. From the ever-changing brick canvas of Art Alley to rotating exhibits at galleries throughout town, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to view the works of local artists committed to sharing their talent with the public.

Life-Size Sights

Standing sentinel over town is Dinosaur Park, which features seven life-size concrete dinosaur replicas and spectacular views that stretch 100 miles. The park is free and has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1936.

Home of SD Mines

Founded in 1885 to provide instruction in the mining industry, South Dakota Mines has become a nationally recognized science and engineering research university. The school offers a wide variety of bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees to nearly 2,800 students, who enjoy small class sizes and personal attention. From neutrino experiments in an underground laboratory to collaborations with NASA, research at South Dakota Mines brings talent and innovation to local, national, and global initiatives.

Rapid City’s patriotic spirit is on full display with the City of Presidents life-size bronze statues located along the downtown corridor’s street corners. Pick up a map for a walking tour, and be sure to pose for photos with your favorite presidents.

44 life-size bronze statues of our nation’s presidents line the city’s streets and sidewalks. The project began in 2000 as a way to celebrate the legacy of America's presidents and is a popular photo stop for tourists. Locals place scarves, gloves, and winter clothing on downtown statues to help the area’s homeless stay warm.

The Heart of the City

Main Street Square is a fun-filled public space in the heart of downtown. It’s host to a variety of free activities, including special events, art exhibitions, fairs, and concerts.

During the winter, the square is transformed into an ice-skating rink. Strap on a pair of skates and enjoy an evening beneath the lights; in the warmer months, you’ll find children splashing around in the interactive fountains. Be sure to check out The Sculpture Project: Passage of Wind and Water, a public art display carved out of granite by sculptor Masayuki Nagase. 21 pieces depicting the history of the Black Hills and Badlands line the Square.

Main Street Square is transformed into an iceskating rink during the winter months.

Surrounded by Beauty

When you’re ready for a break from city life, stop by one of Rapid City’s parks or green spaces, or venture outside the city limits. Just a short drive away, you will find yourself surrounded by two million acres of ponderosa pine forests, national parks, extensive trail systems, and breathtaking geological formations, providing easy access to a wide variety of outdoor activities. Go hiking, biking, climbing, snowshoeing, or ice fishing— and come back to town for drinks, dinner, nightlife, and a comfortable night’s sleep.