2019-12-20 06:27:11
MINUTES FROM ADVENTURE Prospects of gold brought the first settlers to Custer. But today, other, less tangible lures entice visitors to the oldest town in the Black Hills. Spectacular scenery, a wide variety of recreational opportunities, world-class attractions, ample accommodations and an indefinable essence, often described as an aura of spirituality, make Custer the ideal headquarters for Southern Hills adventure seekers. Named for Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, the area gained notoriety after Custer brought a 1,000-men-strong 1874 expedition to the Black Hills. This quest led to the discovery of gold near present-day Custer. The news of a gold discovery marked the last big gold rush in the continental United States. To celebrate this event, the town of Custer will hold the 97th annual Gold Discovery Days celebration July 17 to 19, 2020. ATTRACTIONS Gordon Stockade, located a few minutes east of town on Hwy 16A, is a vestige of Custer’s history. The Gordon Party of gold seekers originally built the log fortress in 1874 as protection from Lakota attacks during the gold rush. The site has been meticulously restored on the original location, with interpretive signs that tell the story of this short-lived illegal occupation. The stockade sits at the entrance to Custer State Park, the 71,000- acre crown jewel of South Dakota’s park system. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial®, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Wind Cave National Park are all within a 30-minute drive of Custer. The town also offers easy access to trailheads for the 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail. In town, visit the 1881 Courthouse Museum. Housed in the original Dakota Territory courthouse, this three-floor museum explores the history of the Black Hills and Dakota Territory from 1874 to present, with exhibits highlighting Native American culture, local wildlife, pioneer life, the 1874 Custer Expedition and much more. Step back in time as you walk through the 50 buildings at Four Mile Old West Town. Reenactors share their knowledge of life in the Old West and perform a weekly family-friendly melodrama. Thrill-seekers are bombarded with adrenaline-spiking adventures. Have you always wanted to take off on a hot air balloon ride? Check it off your bucket list by booking a tour with Black Hills Balloons. Their experienced flight team guides visitors high above the untouched wilderness for 360-degree views of the Hills. Back on the ground, seal the experience with a traditional Champagne toast and first flight certificate. Cool off afterward as you zoom down the waterslide at Beaver Lake Campground. GET OUTSIDE While you’re here, be sure to take advantage of some of the world’s finest rock climbing with guided climbing services provided by Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service. Roam across the Black Hills on a heart-pounding ATV ride with outdoor gear from Adventure Rentals. Horse enthusiasts enjoy trail rides with Blue Bell Stables and Rockin’ R Trail Rides. Both offer unique riding areas with an emphasis on safety-conscious rides, gentle, seasoned horses and friendly, knowledgeable guides. FOOD & DRINK Downtown Custer is a great place to explore with its unique shopping, galleries and eateries. Custer is home to a large selection of dining options. For a savory meal, visit the Buglin’ Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar where they offer up a wide variety of favorites and a vast selection of wines and microbrews. Nearby, the Begging Burro Mexican Bistro serves a host of classic Mexican plates and margaritas. Downtown, the Custer Beacon is a live music and event venue that provides space to eat, drink, play and be together. CRAFTED LOCALLY Get a taste for the local beer scene at the Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company. Featuring 24 rotating taps of Black Hills craft beer, this brewery specializes in bringing artisan ales and brewery inspired food from their restaurant, Pounding Fathers, to the Custer area.
©South-Dakota. View All Articles.
CUSTER
https://digital.milespartnership.com/article/CUSTER/3561793/642122/article.html