2017-01-14 04:38:00
WHERE IT ALL COMES TOGETHER Custer Stampede Buffalo Art Both outdoor adventurers and art lovers are apt to amble through Custer on their way to enjoying their favorite activities. Custer, the oldest town in the Black Hills, has gained a name for itself with its picturesque downtown and close proximity to unique attractions. Then there’s the town’s appealing setting – a landscape studded with granite outcroppings and surrounded by Ponderosa pines. With numerous hotels/motels, B & B’s, campgrounds, restaurants, and attractions, Custer makes an ideal base camp for exploring all that the Hills have to offer. Named for General George Armstrong Custer, the area first appeared on a map in 1874 when Custer brought a large expeditionary force into the Black Hills to scout this unknown wilderness. The news of a gold discovery near today’s downtown Custer touched off the last big gold rush in the continental United States. In 2017, July 21-23 will mark the 94th annual celebration of Gold Discovery Days in Custer. A vestige of that history is Gordon Stockade, located only a few minutes east of town on Hwy 16A. The meticulously restored log enclosure, with cabins inside, was originally built in 1874 by John Gordon and his party of gold seekers. The stockade sits at the entrance to the 71,000-acre Custer State Park, the crown jewel of South Dakota’s park system. All within a 30-minute drive of Custer are Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Wind Cave National Park. There’s also access to the 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail. In town, gather a sense of the historical significance of Custer at the 1881 Courthouse Museum. This three-floor museum details history from 1874 to present, with exhibits highlighting Native American culture, local wildlife, pioneer life, the 1874 Custer Expedition, and much more. Just four miles west of Custer, Four Mile Old West Town features reenactors who are extremely knowledgeable about life in the Old West, as well as a weekly family- friendly melodrama. A stroll through the stockade and historic town with the guided audio tour will transport you to an unimaginable world of yesteryear. Then commemorate your trip back in time with a memorable souvenir from the gift shop. Also nearby are the slippery flumes at Beaver Lake Waterslide, where the fun is fast – and wet. Then seek out some high adrenaline adventure by booking a bucket- list ride 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, the experience is sealed with a traditional champagne toast and first flight certificate. Or take advantage of some of the world’s finest rock climbing with the guided climbing service, Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service. For the horse enthusiasts in your party, schedule a trail ride with one of the local outfitters, such as Blue Bell Stables, Rockin’ R Trail Rides or Sage Meadow Ranch. Each offers unique riding areas and experienced, knowledgeable guides. Custer is home to a large selection of highly acclaimed dining options. For a savory meal, visit the Buglin’ Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar in downtown Custer. This family-friendly restaurant serves up a wide variety of favorites including sandwiches, steak, pasta, salads and vegetarian entrées as well as a huge selection of wines and micro-brews. Nearby, the Begging Burro Mexican Bistro serves up a host of classic Mexican plates, table-side guacamole, and of course, chilled margaritas. If you’re looking to fill the cravings of everyone in your party, visit the Custer Corral Family Buet. They offer a wide selection of foods featuring American, Asian, Italian, Mexican, and a fresh salad bar. Also located in downtown Custer, Pizza Works serves up handcrafted pizzas made from their secret dough recipe, topped with only the freshest ingredients. In addition to pizza, their menu includes pastas, cal-zones, sandwiches and salads. Get a taste for the local beer scene at the Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company. Featuring 24 rotating taps of Black Hills craft beer, this new brewery specializes in bringing locally handcrafted, artisan ales and brewery inspired food to the Custer area. If wine is more your style, enjoy a tasting at the Calamity Jane Winery & Mercantile. Then shop their elegant apparel and gift shop—featuring an art gallery and a wide selection of South Dakota made products. They even offer a gourmet coffee bar and bike rentals. Main Street is a great place to explore with its unique shopping, galleries and eateries. And along the way, don’t miss your photo opportunity with one of the Custer Stampede buffalo art pieces, standing proud along the street.
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