Hill City South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hill City, South Dakota.
1. 1880 Train/Black Hills Central Railroad
HISTORIC SCENIC RAILROAD
The 1880 Train/Black Hills Central Railroad offers a nostalgic two-hour round trip between Hill City and Keystone through the beautiful Black Hills. Passengers experience narrated journeys aboard vintage steam and diesel engines, enjoying picturesque views and local history along the way. This attraction is a favorite for families and train enthusiasts seeking a unique glimpse into the area's past.
2. Museum at Black Hills Institute
WORLD-CLASS FOSSIL MUSEUM
The Museum at Black Hills Institute is renowned for its impressive collection of over 1,300 fossils and 150 research-quality replicas, including dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and mammals. The museum features interactive displays and real dinosaur bones, captivating visitors of all ages with the wonders of prehistoric life. Its compact but densely packed space makes it a must-visit for those interested in paleontology and natural history.
3. Prairie Berry Winery
AWARD-WINNING LOCAL WINERY
Prairie Berry Winery offers a celebrated selection of locally crafted wines, with complimentary tastings available in a modern, welcoming tasting room. Known for its unique fruit wines, including the popular 'Red Ass Rhubarb,' the winery provides an educational and enjoyable experience for wine lovers. The onsite kitchen serves delicious pairings and light bites to complement the wine selections.
4. Alpine Inn
HISTORIC EUROPEAN DINING
The Alpine Inn is a beloved Hill City landmark housed in a historic building, famous for its German-inspired menu and signature filet mignon dinners. Lunch includes a diverse selection of European dishes and acclaimed desserts, while the dinner menu is focused on a simple but expertly prepared steak entree. Its charming ambiance and exceptional value make it one of the region's most popular dining spots.
5. Dakota Stone Rock Shop
UNIQUE ROCKS AND GIFTS
Dakota Stone Rock Shop is a treasure trove for rockhounds, offering a vast selection of locally sourced rocks, minerals, and fossils. The shop features fair prices and knowledgeable staff, making it an enjoyable stop for collectors and casual shoppers alike. It is well-known for its hands-on experiences and the array of unique geological finds that delight visitors.
6. South Dakota State Railroad Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY EXHIBITS
The South Dakota State Railroad Museum showcases the history of railroads in the Black Hills region through engaging displays, photographs, and artifacts. It serves as a gathering place for rail fans, offering educational insights into the pivotal role trains played in South Dakota's development. The museum complements the nearby 1880 Train experience, creating a complete rail-themed outing.
7. Dahl's Chainsaw Art
CHAINSAW SCULPTURE GALLERY
Dahl's Chainsaw Art features the creative work of internationally recognized carvers who transform ponderosa pine into stunning sculptures, including the world's largest Smokey the Bear. Visitors can watch live carving demonstrations and browse an outdoor gallery filled with whimsical and intricate wooden art. This roadside attraction is a favorite for art lovers and families seeking something unusual.
8. Hill City Main Street Shops
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING DISTRICT
Hill City's Main Street is lined with art galleries, boutique stores, souvenir shops, and antique stores, offering a vibrant shopping scene in a walkable setting. Shoppers find everything from local crafts and Black Hills gold jewelry to home décor and unique gifts. The street's welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for leisurely browsing after a day of sightseeing.
9. Bumpin' Buffalo Bar & Grill
WESTERN-THEMED RESTAURANT
Bumpin' Buffalo Bar & Grill delivers a lively Western dining experience with a menu featuring buffalo burgers, steaks, and local beers. The restaurant's décor pays homage to the region's frontier heritage, offering a fun setting for casual meals. It is a family-friendly venue popular among locals and tourists alike.
10. George S. Mickelson Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile converted rail trail that passes through Hill City, offering breathtaking Black Hills scenery perfect for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The trail features gentle grades and multiple trailheads, making it accessible for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. Its location near Hill City provides easy access to nature and adventure.
11. Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota
CCC HISTORICAL EXHIBITS
The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota offers insightful exhibits about the men and achievements of the CCC during the Great Depression, focusing on their impact in the Black Hills. Visitors can view photographs, personal stories, and memorabilia in a setting that honors this essential piece of American history. It is an educational stop for those interested in conservation and New Deal history.
12. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located just a short drive from Hill City, features the colossal carved faces of four U.S. presidents atop the Black Hills. The site provides a visitor center, interpretive displays, and walking trails for exploring the monument and its scenic surroundings. It stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in America.
13. Crazy Horse Memorial
MASSIVE MOUNTAIN SCULPTURE
Crazy Horse Memorial, situated near Hill City, celebrates Native American heritage with the world's largest sculptural project, depicting the Oglala Lakota leader Crazy Horse. The complex includes a visitor center, museum, and cultural education facilities, offering insight into Native American history and art. The memorial continues to be a work in progress and a powerful symbol of indigenous pride.
14. Custer State Park
PREMIER WILDLIFE AND HIKING
Custer State Park, spanning 71,000 acres near Hill City, is famous for its scenic drives, bison herds, sparkling lakes, and abundant hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park's Needles Highway and Sylvan Lake are especially popular for exploring the area's rugged beauty. It is a premier outdoor destination for both relaxation and adventure.
15. Wind Cave National Park
UNIQUE UNDERGROUND CAVE SYSTEM
Wind Cave National Park, located south of Hill City, is one of the world's longest and most complex cave systems, renowned for its rare boxwork formations. The park offers guided cave tours as well as aboveground hiking trails through mixed-grass prairie home to bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Its diverse attractions make it a hidden gem for nature and geology enthusiasts.