Come let loose in Deadwood, South Dakota. The fun you’ll have here is truly historic. Seriously, the entire town is a National Historic Landmark. Our roots go back to 1876 when outlaws, gamblers and gunslingers like Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Poker Alice came to town looking for gold and a good time. We still know how to have a good time today from our free Wild West re-enactments to our wild nightlife. Be a player in our gaming halls and feel like a teenager again as you go wild at our live concerts and comedy shows. In Deadwood, just about anything goes. You want a Bloody Mary for breakfast? We won’t judge. In fact, we just might join you.

Maddie's absolute favorite thing to do!

Reptile Gardens has one of the largest collections of reptile species and subspecies of any zoo or wild animal park in the world! Reptile Gardens is a premier South Dakota destination that houses some of the world’s deadliest snakes and has been in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Reptile Zoo. The unique animal park set in beautiful botanical gardens. Acres of lush flowers and foliage create a wonderful setting for you to enjoy the shows and experience the exhibits and attractions.

Reptile Gardens is a South Dakota attraction the whole family can enjoy. Experience the thrills, explore the grounds, and learn about reptiles, one of nature’s beautiful but, often misunderstood creatures.

Tickets include a season pass

Adults (16+) $26

Seniors (62+) $25

Youth (11-15) $22

Children (4-10) $20

You know it... Just over two million people visit Mount Rushmore each year. The busiest months are June, July and August. May, September and October are less busy and popular months to visit as well.

Free entry September 17: Constitution Day

Admission is only the price of parking:

$10 per vehicle

$5 for Seniors (62 and older)

Free for Active Duty Military

If you don't know it... Crazy Horse Memorial honors all Indigenous people of North America, stands as a reminder of the importance of reconciliation, respecting differences, embracing diversity, striving for unity, and appreciating life’s deeper meaning as it has always been represented in Native American cultural values. This will never change.

The most well-known portion of the work of the Memorial is certainly the colossal Mountain Carving of Lakota hero Crazy Horse. But the Dream of preservation and celebration has overflowed into endeavors like The Indian Museum of North America® and Crazy Horse Memorial University®. People are drawn in by the largest Mountain Carving in Progress, but once they’re here, they’re able to discover the whole story of the Native American People.

$35.00: 3 or more people in a vehicle

$30.00: 2 people in a vehicle

$15.00: 1 person in a vehicle

The breathtaking limestone palisades of this creek-carved gorge are more ancient than the Grand Canyon – albeit much closer together. Once accessible only by horseback, Spearfish Canyon’s narrow, 1000-foot walls are among the most spectacular scenery in the Black Hills.

Spearfish Canyon is the Northern Hills' number one natural attraction. A great spot for wildlife enthusiasts, as the diverse array of plant life, provides a comfortable home for deer, mountain goats, porcupines and bobcats, Spearfish Canyon is also a place for outdoor enthusiasts. Rock climbing, biking, hiking, and fishing are just a few of the activities that visitors and residents utilize this natural wonder for.

Maddie worked here as a Naturalist the summer of 2025.

Custer State Park offers endless exploration and wildlife viewing. Home to the American Bison, this park spans over 70,000 acres where one has the unique chance to see one of the most endangered ecosystems and species in North America, the prairie and the black-footed ferret. It offers scenic drives along the Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and the Wildlife Loop Road. If you are planning to extend your trip to explore the hills, do not skip Custer State Park.

7 day pass: $25 per vehicle

This is where Maddie and Mike had their first dinner date. This is not their original location but the view is amazing!

Welcome to Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar, the pinnacle of local cuisine and cocktails, located on the rooftop of the Hotel Alex Johnson.

Savor panoramic views of Rapid City while relishing craft cocktails, appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts. Whether it’s happy hour, a private party, or a scenic dinner, Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar elevates service and splendor to new heights. Indulge in a culinary experience where local flavors meet mixology artistry, making every visit unforgettable.

For Dinner Reservations, utilize OpenTable or Call or Text.

One of our favorite spots in the Black Hills to have a corn dog and a Grand Canyon cocktail (one shot of Jim Beam and one shot of Fireball in the same glass). The Moonshine Gulch Saloon remains a classic destination for everyone’s visit to the Black Hills and is rich with history.

A sports bar in Deadwood with the goal to make the best darn burger you ever had. They also serve mini corn dogs!

HIKE This trail you can get a little bit of everything, including forest, grassland, and two different reservoirs. The trail is well maintained and has a good amount of elevation gain. The reservoirs provide picturesque scenery. You can find the starting point by searching 'Deadman Pass Trailhead' on Google.

This 4.4 mile, 488 foot elevation gain, point-to-point trail near Sturgis is generally considered an easy route.

This trail requires a fee but, you will catch an excellent view of the surrounding area. There is very little shade so be sure to bring water and sun protection. The trail to the summit is 1.85 miles and has significant elevation gain. The footing on this trail can also be a little loose in spots.

Mato Paha or "Bear Mountain" is the Lakota name given to this site. To the Cheyenne, it is "Noahvose." This geological formation is one of several intrusions of igneous rock in the Black Hills that formed millions of years ago. The mountain is sacred to many American Indian tribes who come here to hold religious ceremonies. Please be respectful of worshippers and their religious practices.

Roughlock Falls is one of the most visited areas in South Dakota. The Roughlock Falls trailhead is located just beyond Spearfish Canyon Lodge along FSR 222. The trail is approximately one mile from the falls, and is considered an easy trail which showcases plenty of breathtaking views, wildlife, trout fishing and one of the few places in the Black Hills to observe the rare American dipper, a bird that can both walk and swim under water.