
Best Hotels in Rapid City, SD [2026 Ranked]
Expert-ranked accommodations near Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills
Updated: October 9, 2026 | Summer rates from $59/night
Comparing towns first? See Black Hills hotels by area, from Keystone and Custer to Deadwood and Spearfish. Coming for the holidays? Our Black Hills Christmas events guide has the Festival of Lights Parade and Storybook Island dates.
We've analyzed guest reviews, industry ratings, amenities, and location to rank the 10 best hotels in Rapid City for 2026, from family-friendly hotels to luxury downtown accommodations to value lodging near Mount Rushmore tours. Rapid City has the region's airport and sits on I-90, which makes it the most flexible base for day trips to the Badlands (see where to stay for both) and the closest big-city lodging to the Sturgis Rally hotels. Compare prices on Expedia (opens in a new tab).
Quick Answer: What is the best hotel in Rapid City, SD?
The best hotel in Rapid City is the Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore, our #1 pick for 2026 with typical summer rates from $89/night, rated 9.0 with free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, and free parking. Families should book La Quinta at WaTiki Waterpark from $95/night for direct indoor waterpark access. Budget travelers can grab the Grand Gateway Hotel from $65/night with its 130-foot waterslide, while couples wanting downtown history and a rooftop bar should choose the Hotel Alex Johnson from $105/night.
Top Hotels in Rapid City (2026 Rankings)
From historic luxury to family-friendly hotels, here are the best places to stay in Rapid City, ranked by our scoring system. Prices shown are typical summer rates, not live quotes; rates usually drop from October through April.
Choose a stay that fits your trip
Indicative USD rates, not live quotes. Your dates, room and fees change the total. We may earn a commission when you book, at no extra cost to you.
Our first choice
Best Western Plus Rapid City RushmoreBest Value & Families. Free Breakfast · Free WiFi · Pool
Tradeoff: Parking lot fills up quickly
For families
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Watiki WaterparkFamilies with Kids. Waterpark Access · Free Breakfast · Indoor Pool
Tradeoff: Can be very busy and noisy
Lowest listed starting rate
Grand Gateway HotelFamilies, Groups. Indoor Pool w/ Slide · On-site Restaurant · Pet Friendly
Tradeoff: Decor is dated/aging
Compare all 10 hotels at a glance
| Hotel / best for | Indicative USD/night | Breakfast | Parking | Pets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore Best Value & Families | From $89 | Free Breakfast | Free Parking | Pet Friendly |
| Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton Couples, History Enthusiasts, Luxury Seekers | From $105 | - | - | Pet Friendly |
| Cambria Hotel Rapid City Business Travelers, Couples, Modern Luxury | From $115 | - | Free Parking | - |
| Sleep Inn & Suites Families, Budget Travelers | From $90 | Free Breakfast | Free Parking | - |
| La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Watiki Waterpark Families with Kids | From $95 | Free Breakfast | - | - |
| Baymont by Wyndham Rapid City Families, Business Travelers | From $100 | Free Breakfast | Free Parking | - |
| Summerset Hotel & Suites Budget Travelers, Extended Stays | From $75 | - | Free Parking | Pet Friendly |
| Summer Creek Inn Couples, Romantic Getaways | From $180 | Free Breakfast | - | Pet Friendly |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rapid City - Rushmore South Business, Road Trippers | From $110 | Free Breakfast | Free Parking | - |
| Grand Gateway Hotel Families, Groups | From $65 | - | Free Parking | Pet Friendly |
A dash means not listed. Confirm fees, pet restrictions and included amenities for your room with the booking provider.

Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore
Rapid City
Best for: Best Value & Families
Why choose this hotel?
Best Western Plus with free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, free WiFi, and free parking. Confirm pet fees and family room terms for your dates.
Pros
- Excellent location for Mount Rushmore
- Top-rated cleanliness
- Generous hot breakfast buffet
- Quiet & comfortable
Cons
- Parking lot fills up quickly
- Elevators can be slow during peak times
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton
Rapid City
Best for: Couples, History Enthusiasts, Luxury Seekers
Why choose this hotel?
A historic downtown hotel, built in 1927 and now part of Hilton's Curio Collection. It has hosted presidents and celebrities over the years. The decor mixes late-1920s style with Native American art: the lobby carries the 'four sacred directions' symbols, a tribute to the area's Native American culture and beliefs, along with a chandelier shaped like a teepee and hand-painted Sioux designs. Downtown Rapid City and Main Street Square, with shops, restaurants, museums, and family activities, are within walking distance.
Pros
- Historic landmark architecture
- Rooftop bar with panoramic views
- Prime downtown walkable location
- Unique stylish decor
Cons
- Small rooms due to historic nature
- Valet parking only (fee applies)
- Street noise in lower rooms
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Cambria Hotel Rapid City
Rapid City
Best for: Business Travelers, Couples, Modern Luxury
Why choose this hotel?
An all-suites hotel with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and the Reflect restaurant and lounge. Wolfgang Puck coffee is served in the rooms and at the Barista Bar, and beds have pillow-top mattresses. A free shuttle runs to the airport and anywhere within a 5-mile radius. The Grab and Go and Refill Sundries food areas are open 24 hours. Every suite has two flat-screen HD TVs, a microwave, and a refrigerator.
Pros
- Modern all-suite rooms
- Tech-friendly amenities
- Great on-site bar & restaurant
- Spacious bathrooms
Cons
- Not walkable to downtown core
- Breakfast not complimentary
- Near highway noise
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Sleep Inn & Suites
Rapid City
Best for: Families, Budget Travelers
Why choose this hotel?
A family-friendly Rapid City hotel. Rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a refrigerator, and free Wi-Fi. The property has a pool and includes free breakfast, and parking is free for guests arriving by car. Fast food restaurants and a pizza place are within walking distance.
Pros
- Great value for families
- Reliable cleanliness
- Good hot breakfast included
- Quiet location
Cons
- Basic generic decor
- Pool is small
- Distance from main attractions
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Watiki Waterpark
Rapid City
Best for: Families with Kids
Why choose this hotel?
A renovated La Quinta by Wyndham with meeting rooms, a business center, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour fitness center. The Sliders bar runs a daily happy hour, and a full continental breakfast is served every morning. Renovated rooms have a 55-inch flat-screen TV, mini fridge, microwave, and coffee and tea maker. The hotel connects directly to WaTiki Waterpark, which bills itself as the state's largest indoor waterpark and is open year-round. Waterpark passes are included with every stay, up to the room's maximum occupancy.
Read our full La Quinta at WaTiki Waterpark review
Pros
- Direct access to huge waterpark
- Modern renovated rooms
- Great for kids/families
- On-site bar & lounge
Cons
- Can be very busy and noisy
- Standard rooms are compact
- Breakfast area gets crowded
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Baymont by Wyndham Rapid City
Rapid City
Best for: Families, Business Travelers
Why choose this hotel?
A family-friendly Baymont by Wyndham. Rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk, a gift shop, and a convenience store, plus an on-site pool and free breakfast. Parking is free for guests arriving by car.
Read our Baymont Rapid City review
Pros
- Affordable rates
- Solid breakfast selection
- Friendly staff
- Easy highway access
Cons
- Older property needing updates
- Small pool area
- Thin walls
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Summerset Hotel & Suites
Rapid City
Best for: Budget Travelers, Extended Stays
Why choose this hotel?
A hotel in Summerset, SD, just outside Rapid City, with straightforward access to Rapid City attractions and Mount Rushmore.
Pros
- Very quiet location
- Newer facility
- Great value price
- Spacious suites
Cons
- 15 min drive from Rapid City center
- Limited dining nearby
- Basic amenities
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Summer Creek Inn
Rapid City
Best for: Couples, Romantic Getaways
Why choose this hotel?
A bed and breakfast on Summer Creek Drive near Pactola Lake, rated 9.4 from 485 reviews. Breakfast is included, and the rooms are set up for couples. You need a car to reach anything from here.
Pros
- Romantic adults-only vibe
- Gourmet homemade breakfast
- Beautiful nature trail
- Upscale luxury feel
Cons
- Expensive rates
- Requires car for all travel
- Not suitable for families
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rapid City - Rushmore South
Rapid City
Best for: Business, Road Trippers
Why choose this hotel?
A Holiday Inn Express south of downtown, near the hospital and the highway. It has a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, and free hot breakfast. It is quieter than the downtown hotels and still on the road to Mount Rushmore.
Pros
- Newer modern property
- Excellent hot breakfast
- Very clean and spacious
- Quiet area
Cons
- Not walking distance to dining
- Pool area can be busy
- Standard chain decor
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.

Grand Gateway Hotel
Rapid City
Best for: Families, Groups
Why choose this hotel?
A long-running family stop just off I-90. The indoor pool complex has a 130-foot waterslide, and there is a Perkins Restaurant & Bakery and a lounge on site. Some areas are older, and it is one of the cheapest listings on this page.
Pros
- Huge pool with water slide
- Restaurant on-site
- Easy I-90 access
- Affordable rates
Cons
- Decor is dated/aging
- Cleanliness varies by room
- Hallways can be dark
Opens expedia. Rates vary by date; check total price, guest reviews and room cancellation terms before booking.
Table of Contents
How We Rank Hotels
Our rankings combine four inputs: guest reviews, hotel class, amenities, and location. We don't accept payment for placement.
Guest Reviews
Aggregated ratings from verified guests across major booking platforms
Hotel Class
Industry star ratings from AAA and hotel classification systems
Amenities
Quality and variety of on-site facilities and services
Location
Convenience to attractions, dining, and Black Hills access
Editorial Independence: Our rankings are created by analyzing publicly available guest reviews, hotel ratings, and amenity data. We receive no payment for hotel placement. Prices shown are approximate and subject to change based on dates and availability.
Plan Your Tours From Rapid City
Rapid City is 30 miles from Mount Rushmore and a 90-minute drive to Badlands National Park, most guests day-trip from here. Bookmark the tour guides you'll need:
Mount Rushmore Tours: Complete Guide →
Every guided, private, self-guided, and combo tour explained.
Best Private Mount Rushmore Tours →
Per-group pricing for parties of 3+, usually cheaper than shared.
Best Sunset & Lighting Ceremony Tours →
Evening tours timed for the 9 PM lighting ceremony (May - Sep).
Mount Rushmore Tour Prices Compared →
Viator pricing snapshots by tier, from audio guides to premium private tours.
Top Tours From Rapid City
Most visitors stay in Rapid City and day-trip to Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Badlands. Book the guided tour before the parking-lot rush.
We earn a commission on Viator bookings, at no extra cost to you. Check dates and final prices on Viator. Tour information collected May 15, 2026; not live availability.

Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony
Confirm group format · 6h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (38 reviews)
Route and experience details
Experience the scenery of the Black Hills on this private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, in pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations. We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance. We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony, a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 760
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Western Horizons Hot Air Balloon rides
Confirm group format · 3h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (38 reviews)
Route and experience details
Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons offers panoramic views of the beautiful Southern Black Hills of South Dakota. Our hot air balloon rides last approximately one hour. The entire experience from pre-flight set up to post-flight refreshments can last from 2 to 3 hours. We fly out of Hot Springs, SD, just after sunrise, weather permitting.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 395
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Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Tour
Confirm group format · 9h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (34 reviews)
Route and experience details
What makes this tour unique is the combination of three of Western South Dakota's most iconic destinations, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, into a single, comprehensive, and fully narrated experience. Over 8-9 hours, you'll not just see these landmarks, but gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for their history, cultural significance, and natural beauty. We always give the guest time to buy their lunch during the tour.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 312
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Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Bike Adventure on the Mickelson Trail - Private
Private tour · 24h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (31 reviews)
Route and experience details
See the Black Hills in a unique way. Enjoy the quiet, scenic trail and let our guides tell you on some of the history, culture and flora and fauna of the area! Great fun for any fitness level - we can accommodate all in your group, even if some want to ride and others don't. This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 375
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private)
Private tour · 7h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (26 reviews)
Route and experience details
A once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the incredible Badlands; first in the afternoon and into a golden sunset - followed by the official National Park stargazing program. The best of both worlds, this tour allows us the view wildlife and the parks formations before the sun sets, and then taking on the park after dark! Because Badlands National Park is not surrounded by big cities or other major sources of light pollution, night skies in the park are very clear. After dark, visitors can see many of the night sky’s greatest hits: constellations, the moon, satellites, and airplanes. But the special darkness of Badlands National Park helps visitors to see even more like planets, the Milky Way, star clusters, nebulae, the International Space Station, shooting stars, and, very occasionally, the aurora borealis.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 850
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Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Private Tour of the Badlands with Local Experts
Private tour · 9h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (25 reviews)
Route and experience details
The Badlands have many secrets and requires a seasoned guide to explain and reveal them. GeoFunTrek Tours' guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal-guides, part-time guides or trainee-guides. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-Team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's and a van may be rented for larger groups. Please enquire about vehicles if you have any questions. This tour is great for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 425
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)Best Areas to Stay in Rapid City
Where you stay in Rapid City affects your daily commute to attractions, dining options, and overall experience. Here's our breakdown of the best neighborhoods:
Downtown Rapid City
Walkable access to restaurants, Main Street Square, Art Alley, and City of Presidents. Best for couples and those who enjoy urban amenities.
Top Hotels: Hotel Alex Johnson, DoubleTree, Cambria Hotel
Price Range: $100-$180/night
I-90 Corridor
Easy highway access, surrounded by shopping and restaurants. Most hotel options and best for road trippers visiting multiple attractions.
Top Hotels: Grand Gateway, Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta
Price Range: $70-$140/night
Highway 16 (Mt. Rushmore Rd)
Direct route to Mount Rushmore with scenic drive through the Black Hills. Best for visitors prioritizing Mount Rushmore access. The 30-minute drive makes it easy to return for the evening lighting ceremony, which runs through September 30.
Top Hotels: Best Western Plus, Country Inn & Suites, Quality Inn
Price Range: $75-$130/night
Canyon Lake Area
Quiet, scenic setting away from highway noise. Best if you want trees and water nearby with town a short drive away.
Top Hotels: Canyon Lake Resort, nearby vacation rentals
Price Range: $90-$150/night
Avoid: Airport Area
While convenient for early flights, the airport area is about 20 minutes from downtown with limited restaurants and no walkable attractions. Only recommended for very late arrivals or early departures.
Rapid City Hotels With Pools
Rapid City has the deepest bench of pool hotels in the Black Hills, and the indoor ones stay open all year. These four have pools listed on their property pages. Confirm pool hours when you book, since hotels close pools for maintenance.
| Hotel | Pool | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| La Quinta Inn & Suites at WaTiki Waterpark | Attached indoor waterpark with slides, lazy river, and wave pool | Kids and rainy days |
| Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore | Indoor pool | Value with free hot breakfast |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rushmore South | Indoor pool and hot tub | Fast Highway 16 run to Mount Rushmore |
| Cambria Hotel Rapid City | Pool and fitness center | Modern rooms near I-90 |
Rapid City Hotel Booking Tips
When to Book
- Peak Season (June-Aug): Book 2-3 months ahead
- Sturgis Rally (Aug): Book 6-12 months ahead or avoid
- Shoulder (May, Sep): 2-4 weeks ahead for best deals
- Off-Season (Oct-Apr): Flexible booking, lowest prices
Money-Saving Tips
- Join hotel loyalty programs for member rates
- Compare prices across multiple booking sites
- Choose free breakfast hotels to save $30-50/day
- Check AAA, AARP, military, or corporate discounts
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Warning
During the first two weeks of August, hotel prices in Rapid City can triple or quadruple due to the Sturgis Rally. The 2026 rally ran August 7 to 16, and the 2027 rally runs August 6 to 15, according to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. If your dates are flexible, avoid this period entirely. If you must travel then, book 6-12 months in advance or consider staying in Pierre or Sioux Falls.
Top Tours From Rapid City
The best-rated guided experiences within an easy drive of your hotel, Mt Rushmore, Badlands, Crazy Horse and more.
We earn a commission on Viator bookings, at no extra cost to you. Check dates and final prices on Viator. Tour information collected May 15, 2026; not live availability.

Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony
Confirm group format · 6h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (38 reviews)
Route and experience details
Experience the scenery of the Black Hills on this private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, in pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations. We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance. We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony, a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 760
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Western Horizons Hot Air Balloon rides
Confirm group format · 3h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (38 reviews)
Route and experience details
Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons offers panoramic views of the beautiful Southern Black Hills of South Dakota. Our hot air balloon rides last approximately one hour. The entire experience from pre-flight set up to post-flight refreshments can last from 2 to 3 hours. We fly out of Hot Springs, SD, just after sunrise, weather permitting.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 395
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Tour
Confirm group format · 9h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (34 reviews)
Route and experience details
What makes this tour unique is the combination of three of Western South Dakota's most iconic destinations, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, into a single, comprehensive, and fully narrated experience. Over 8-9 hours, you'll not just see these landmarks, but gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for their history, cultural significance, and natural beauty. We always give the guest time to buy their lunch during the tour.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 312
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Bike Adventure on the Mickelson Trail - Private
Private tour · 24h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (31 reviews)
Route and experience details
See the Black Hills in a unique way. Enjoy the quiet, scenic trail and let our guides tell you on some of the history, culture and flora and fauna of the area! Great fun for any fitness level - we can accommodate all in your group, even if some want to ride and others don't. This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 375
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private)
Private tour · 7h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (26 reviews)
Route and experience details
A once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the incredible Badlands; first in the afternoon and into a golden sunset - followed by the official National Park stargazing program. The best of both worlds, this tour allows us the view wildlife and the parks formations before the sun sets, and then taking on the park after dark! Because Badlands National Park is not surrounded by big cities or other major sources of light pollution, night skies in the park are very clear. After dark, visitors can see many of the night sky’s greatest hits: constellations, the moon, satellites, and airplanes. But the special darkness of Badlands National Park helps visitors to see even more like planets, the Milky Way, star clusters, nebulae, the International Space Station, shooting stars, and, very occasionally, the aurora borealis.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 850
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)
Private Tour of the Badlands with Local Experts
Private tour · 9h
Viator snapshot: 5.0/5 (25 reviews)
Route and experience details
The Badlands have many secrets and requires a seasoned guide to explain and reveal them. GeoFunTrek Tours' guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal-guides, part-time guides or trainee-guides. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-Team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's and a van may be rented for larger groups. Please enquire about vehicles if you have any questions. This tour is great for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.
Confirm pickup town, admission inclusions and cancellation deadline for your date.
From USD 425
Confirm whether the price is per person or per group. Cached price; check your dates.
Check dates on Viator (opens in a new tab)Rapid City's Downtown: A Base Worth Exploring
Most visitors treat Rapid City as a pass-through on the way to Mount Rushmore, but the downtown is worth a few hours on its own. Main Street Square is a pedestrian plaza with events most summer evenings, from free concerts to outdoor movies. The surrounding blocks have independent restaurants, local breweries, and the kind of hardware-store-turned-wine-bar energy that shows up in mid-size cities before they get expensive. The Monument, the city's arena complex on Mt. Rushmore Road North, hosts the annual Black Hills Powwow (October 9-11 in 2026).
Hotel Alex Johnson
Built in 1927 and still the most interesting building on Main Street. The rooftop bar has a view of the Hills to the west and is the best place in the city for a drink before dinner. It is a Hilton Curio property now but the original Native American art and teepee chandelier in the lobby are still there. Walking distance to everything downtown.
Presidents Sculpture Walk
Life-size bronze sculptures of all 44 presidents line the downtown sidewalks in chronological order. They are well-done and genuinely interesting, especially the earlier presidents most people can't place. Takes about 45 minutes to walk the full circuit and completely free.
Dining on Main Street
Firehouse Brewing Company (brewpub in a converted 1915 fire station), Que Pasa (New Mexican-inspired, usually a line), and Tally's Silver Spoon (Black Hills landmark, cash only for pie) are the locals' regular recommendations. No reservations needed at any of them but the Firehouse fills up by 6:30pm in summer.
Art Alley
A two-block stretch of alley between 6th and 7th Streets covered in rotating murals and street art, maintained by the city. It is a few blocks from most downtown hotels and makes for a good post-dinner walk. Nothing is particularly dangerous; it is just a normal alley that became a community art project.
If Mount Rushmore is your main goal, staying downtown adds 25-30 minutes each way to your morning drive versus staying in Keystone. The trade-off is access to better restaurants and a more interesting evening. For families on tight schedules, Keystone hotels get you closer to the monument. For couples who want a proper dinner and a rooftop drink, downtown Rapid City wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hotel in Rapid City?
Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore is our first pick for overall value. Hotel Alex Johnson suits a historic downtown stay, while La Quinta at WaTiki suits families planning waterpark time. Compare your dates and any separate waterpark admission charges.
How far is Rapid City from Mount Rushmore?
Rapid City is 25 miles (40 km) from Mount Rushmore, approximately 30-40 minutes by car via US-16 or SD-244. Hotels on Highway 16 offer the most direct route. This proximity makes Rapid City the ideal base for visiting Mount Rushmore and other Black Hills attractions. For every other drive time from a Rapid City base, including Custer State Park, Badlands, Deadwood, and Devils Tower, see our Black Hills driving distances guide, and our scenic drives guide covers the routes worth taking the long way round for.
What is the average hotel price in Rapid City?
Budget hotels: $59-$80/night. Mid-range hotels: $80-$130/night. Luxury hotels: $150-$250/night. Prices increase 50-100% during peak summer season (June-August) and can triple during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in early August.
Are there hotels with waterparks in Rapid City?
Yes! La Quinta at WaTiki Waterpark offers adjacent access to a full-scale waterpark with slides, lazy river, and wave pool. Best Western Ramkota has the largest on-site indoor water recreation center. AmericInn features a 140-foot waterslide. Holiday Inn Express has a smaller waterslide and pool.
Are there pet-friendly hotels in Rapid City?
Several hotels in this guide list pet-friendly rooms. Policies depend on the property and room type: confirm pet fees, size limits, and availability before booking. Our dog-friendly Black Hills guide lists park pet rules and the hotels we checked.
Is parking free at Rapid City hotels?
Yes, most Rapid City hotels offer free parking with ample space. Downtown hotels like Hotel Alex Johnson offer valet parking (fee applies). Hotels along I-90 and Highway 16 have large lots that can accommodate RVs and trailers.
Do Rapid City hotels offer free breakfast?
Many do! Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Inn, La Quinta, Best Western, Country Inn & Suites, and most budget hotels include complimentary breakfast. This typically saves $30-50/day for families. Check specific hotel amenities when booking.
What is the best area to stay in Rapid City?
Downtown is best for walkable dining and entertainment. The I-90 corridor offers the most hotel options and easy highway access. Highway 16 provides the most direct route to Mount Rushmore. The Canyon Lake area offers peaceful, scenic surroundings.
Start Planning Your Black Hills Trip
From Rapid City, Mount Rushmore tours, Custer State Park, Deadwood, and the Badlands are all within a day trip.
Rapid City is the practical base rather than the scenic one. If you are not sure which town fits your itinerary, start with our where to stay in the Black Hills guide. If you would rather trade convenience for setting, see our Black Hills luxury lodging guide for upscale lodges and glamping, or cabins and vacation rentals if you want a kitchen and more space.
Check Rapid City hotel rates
Compare prices and availability across our top 10 ranked hotels. Off-season stays from October through April are the easiest to book; for summer, book early. Check current rates and availability for all Rapid City hotels on Expedia (opens in a new tab).