A Vibrant Time

Founded in 1876 by a group of prospectors, Rapid City stands as the second largest city in South Dakota. It offers a variety of shops, boutiques, family attractions, parks, galleries, and restaurants. No matter where you're staying, Rapid City is a must-see community in the Hills.

Stroll through a downtown of bustling streets lined with a cozy collection of historic buildings featuring phenomenal architecture that has been restored to its original state. Peek into the town’s unique shops and galleries, and pick up one-of-a-kind pieces of Native American artwork and local craft goods. Shoes, clothes, gifts, and more will be a perfect keepsake to remember your trip to the Black Hills.

While you’re here, don’t miss Art Alley, located between 6th and 7th Streets, for a colorful expression of the area’s urban artists. It’s a mosaic of sanctioned graffiti that is constantly evolving.

Main Street Square is a fun-filled public space in the downtown district where you can enjoy free activities, including special events, art, fairs, and concerts.

You’ll be able to see families running through the interactive fountains, eating handmade ice cream cones, and drinking fresh smoothies from the café out on the green daily.

Surrounded by 1.5 million acres of ponderosa pine forests, parks, trails, and breathtaking geologic formations, consider venturing out to go hiking, biking, climbing, or horseback riding—and then come back for drinks, dinner, nightlife, and a good night's sleep.

Ellsworth AFB In 1942, Rapid City Air Base (now Ellsworth Air Force Base) was established six miles northeast of the city. Today, Ellsworth serves as one of two B1 Bomber home bases in the continental United States. It will be the nation's first base to house an operational B-21 bomber unit and serve as the formal training location for the B-21 Raider.

Founded in 1885 to provide instruction in the mining industry, the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is operating today as a world-class science and engineering research university. From neutrino experiments in an underground laboratory to collaborations with NASA, research at SD Mines brings talent and innovation to local, national, and global initiatives.

Visitors can tour the Museum of Geology in the O'Harra Building to see fascinating exhibits the entire family will enjoy.