South Dakota Scenic Drives Guide - South Dakota Scenic Drives '24

At a Glance  → Distance: 2 miles Trip Length: 1 day Start/Stop: Rapid City

This wee route tucked inside Rapid City’s Skyline Wilderness Area provides excellent vantage points of the city and surrounding Black Hills. Take any of the pull-offs or hiking trails for panoramic views, and don’t pass up the chance to stop and play at a few of Rapid City’s favorite attractions. If you want to stretch your legs, leave the car in town and pick up one of the trails from Quincy Street, Flormann Street or Tower Road and switchback your way to the top of the hillside.

TOP STOPS

Skyline Wilderness Area

There are six trailheads within the area’s 150-acre boundaries that range from 3 to 6 miles and are frequented by hikers and mountain bikers.

Dinosaur Park

Originally built in 1936, this attraction is populated by concrete Apatosauruses, Stegosauruses and Triceratops, giving you a peek into what prehistoric life was like when these massive creatures really did roam the area.

Stonewall Overlook

One of Skyline Drive’s popular overlooks is an ideal place to revel in the view of the city below and the vastness stretching to the horizon.

Storybook Island

Delight in this beloved free amusement park where kids can ride a miniature train and historical carousel. Open May–September.

The Journey Museum

Travel 3 billion years back in time to learn about the Black Hills’ geology and archaeology, tales of the Lakota and pioneers, andre.

Hotel Alex Johnson

Take the walking tour (and spend the night) at this centrally located, six-story marvel that combines “the heritage of the Plains Indians and Germanic Tudor architecture.” Be sure to find the Sacred Four Directions in the lobby tiles.

Dahl Arts Center

This cultural hub is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the work of artists who have lived in the region. Stop by on Saturdays for Art Adventure, with free activities for kids.

Main Street Square

Always bustling with activity, do some people-watching and use it as a jumping-off point for finding great downtown restaurants.

Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post

This is definitely one of the best places in the state to learn about the Northern Plains people and purchase their artworks.