BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION Play at Dinosaur Park America’s Founding Fathers Exhibit Gators at Reptile Gardens Rapid City Continued from Page 98 ATTRACTIONS Whether you are looking to explore the world’s largest collection of reptiles, go on a scavenger hunt for the nation’s past presidents or discover seven prehistoric beasts that overlook the city skyline, Rapid City offers all of these opportunities and more. The City of Presidents allows visitors to experience all that downtown offers, while simultaneously posing for a picture next to their favorite president. Visit the most recently installed statue of President Obama and his daughter, Sasha. America’s Founding Fathers Exhibit, on U.S. Hwy 16 toward Mount Rushmore, houses a life-size diorama installation of John Trumbull’s iconic “Declaration of Independence” painting. Just next door to the exhibit, you can test your abilities with a musket at the Musket Range. For modern gun enthusiasts, check out Smoking Gun Indoor Range & Training Center. The facility has 12 lanes that allow handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Bring your own firearm or choose from their large selection of rentals. A mile southwest of downtown Rapid City, Dinosaur Park on Skyline Drive pays tribute to the dinosaur fossils that were found here. Climb to the top of the park and experience spectacular 100-mile views in every direction. For the wildlife lover, find magnificent creatures at Reptile Gardens, home to the largest reptile collection in the world. You’ll see reptiles, 100 // #DiscoverBlackHills prairie dogs, exotic birds and a botanical garden filled with tropical plants and flowers. Pet one of three 100-year old tortoises — Orville, Tank and Samson — interact with Fluffy the baby alligator and even hold Marilyn, the park’s 12-foot python. Just down the road at Bear Country U.S.A., experience the world’s largest collection of privately-owned black bears — currently over 200. Drive through the wildlife park to view bears, elk, bison, wolves and other North American wildlife from the comfort of your vehicle. Take the Wildlife Walk to see bear cubs and other young animals born and raised in the park. Continue further on U.S. Hwy 16 to Old MacDonald’s Farm, where the whole family can hand-feed, pet and even bottle-feed some of the animals. Further down the road, experience Cosmos Mystery Area. There, the world is different, topsey and turvey, with nothing in its normal position — including you. Aircraft and history enthusiasts enjoy South Dakota Air & Space Museum, located near Ellsworth Air Force Base. More than 30 vintage military aircrafts from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War and the modern-day B-1 are on display in the museum’s two major static exhibits — an outdoor air park and an immersive indoor experience. At the heart of Rapid City, the Journey Museum & Learning Center tells stories through prehistoric and historic collections of the region. The museum includes archaeological artifacts, Native American and pioneer culture, as well as interactive space and science displays. Rapid City Continued on Page 104
South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide 2020: Page 100
