Top Tours & Activities in South Dakota

Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons offers breathtaking 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.

Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable 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, nestled among 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 unforgettable 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

You'll love this guided tour because we love what we do! With a certified guide and driver, this is an opportunity to take in all the beautiful natural wonders without any of the hassles of planning or driving. Please read our Google Reviews for My XO Adventures. We'll visit stunning destinations; best of all, this tour allows for unscheduled stops. Devil's Tower, Deadwood, Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls, and a scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway! Lunch is included in this adventure. The Northern Black Hills is one of the most beautiful places in the Hills. We love it, study it, explore it, and share our knowledge during your adventure. ​Travel South Dakota has honored My XO Adventures with the Hospitality Award for 2021. We love what we do, and it's our mission to reveal what makes this part of South Dakota so special.

Formed by several hundred thousand years of erosion, the Badlands formations expose the layers of millions of years of the regions history. It is a landscape that makes you feel as though you’ve landed on Mars. On this day trip, we pedal the nice, moderate Badlands Loop Road for just under 30 miles through the heart of the pinnacles and lower shale formations to the other end of the northern segment of Badlands National Park, where we will enjoy a picnic lunch. There are also longer options available if desired. Enjoy close up views of wildlife and take in the breathtaking views of Badlands National Park. Enjoying this area by bicycle is a once in a lifetime opportunity! This tour is customizable. Contact us for more information.

This tour gives you incredible in-depth knowledge of the Flume Trail, the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore. There is a two person minimum to book this tour.

At Fly Badlands, we take your Badlands experience to new heights—literally. Unlike ground-based tours, our aerial adventures offer a unique and unmatched perspective of the region's dramatic geology and vast prairies. From the sky, you’ll witness the full scale and grandeur of the Badlands' rugged beauty—something you simply can’t grasp from the ground. Our flights are personalized and intimate, led by experienced local pilots who are passionate about the area’s natural history and striking formations. You won’t be packed into a bus or jostling for a photo spot—we ensure every seat is a window seat, and every guest enjoys uninterrupted views. Whether you're looking to capture stunning photographs, celebrate a special occasion, or just want a one-of-a-kind adventure, Fly Badlands delivers an unforgettable, bucket-list-worthy experience that stands above the rest.

You will have an opportunity to explore different areas within Custer State Park. The day will be spent within this historic State Park.

This tour allows you to experience the rare and exquisite beauty the Black Hills has to offer. This is a guided tour, and the guide will share the incredible history of the area.

You will see areas of the Black Hills few people can experience. View the stunning natural beauty and witness the lush greenery, towering trees, and crystal-clear streams. Be regaled with the fascinating history of the Mickelson Trail and what makes this trail so unique. There is a two-person minimum to book this tour.

Discover the best of the Black Hills on this unforgettable evening adventure. Your tour begins with a scenic drive along the world-famous Iron Mountain Road, a winding masterpiece with pigtail bridges, mountain vistas, and tunnels leading to Mt. Rushmore. Along the way, your guide shares insightful stories of the region’s history, people, and natural beauty. Arriving at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, we’ll stroll the Avenue of the Flags for a first close-up view of the monument. Your guide will bring the story of its creation to life with engaging details about the vision, artistry, and challenges behind this American landmark. As night falls, you’ll take part in the moving Evening Illumination Ceremony, where patriotic music and storytelling culminate in the dramatic lighting of the monument. This tour blends breathtaking scenery with cultural heritage and national pride, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a massive sculpture carved into Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Completed in 1941 under the direction of Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln, the sculpture’s roughly 60-ft.-high granite faces depict U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The site also features a museum with interactive exhibits.

This Northern Black Hills Shared Tour is unique because it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West history that shaped the region. You'll experience the natural beauty of the northern Black Hills while also uncovering the stories and historical points that bring the legendary Wild West days to life. It's a perfect balance of natural wonder and historical intrigue!

This tour covers the three major areas of the Black Hills and Badlands. You can put down the planning, and relax as we take you to the significant points of interest. At times, we may deviate from the itinerary for some surprise visits. We can spend more or less time at each location based on your interests. Our guides are trained in a way that enhances your experience on so many levels. We care about your time here most of all and are willing to go out of our way to ensure you have an excellent experience. Photography is something we love as well, and photos will be provided at the end of each day, free of charge.

This tour is unique because it offers a convenient and efficient way to experience two iconic South Dakota landmarks in a single day. Instead of having to drive yourself and navigate parking at both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, this tour provides shared transportation from Rapid City, maximizing your time to explore and learn about these impressive monuments. By dedicating 2 hours to each site, you'll have ample time to take photos, soak in the history, and appreciate the artistry of these incredible sculptures. This is a great option for travelers seeking a hassle-free and time-optimized introduction to these popular South Dakota attractions.

What makes this Badlands and Wall Drug Store tour unique is the depth of knowledge and storytelling it offers. It's not just a scenic drive, but a fully narrated experience that brings the Badlands and prairie areas to life with abundant information and captivating stories. This ensures a richer and more engaging experience compared to self-guided tours or those with less historical and cultural context, especially since it spans a substantial 7-8 hours.

Unlike traditional ground-based tours, this scenic flight offers a bird’s-eye view of South Dakota’s striking landscapes—something you simply can’t experience from a car or a trail. From the air, you’ll see the full scale and dramatic contrast between the rolling prairie of Buffalo Gap National Grassland and the jagged cliffs of Badlands National Park. ✈️ Exclusive Access – Cover more ground than any vehicle or hike can, including remote areas not visible from roads or overlooks. Incredible Photo Opportunities – Capture stunning aerial shots of layered rock formations, winding rivers, and wildlife. Wildlife Spotting – Spot bison herds, prairie dogs, and more from a unique, non-intrusive vantage point. Personal Experience – Led by a local pilot who shares stories, highlights, and insider knowledge throughout the flight. This isn’t just a tour—it’s an aerial adventure designed for travelers who want something unforgettable, immersive, and off the beaten path.

Hiking in Spearfish Canyon, located in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota, is a truly unforgettable experience. With its towering limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls, the canyon offers a mix of scenic beauty, accessibility, and serenity that sets it apart from other hiking destinations in the United States. Spearfish Canyon is one of the oldest natural canyons in North America—older than the Grand Canyon—and was carved by water over millions of years. Today, its vertical limestone cliffs rise up to 1,200 feet, surrounding hikers with dramatic, enclosed scenery that creates a sense of awe at every turn. Because of its narrow shape and elevation, the canyon has a unique cool, moist microclimate. This supports an unusually diverse range of plant life—over 1,200 species, including mosses, orchids, ferns, and wildflowers. In fall, the canyon bursts into brilliant hues of red, orange, and gold, rivaling famous leaf-peeping destinations.

Enter another world with the only e-bike tour of the Badlands, this is truly a unique way to experience this wonderful National Park. Ride along with the prairie dogs chirping and spectacular views. A private tour means we go at your pace and comfort level. A once in a lifetime opportunity awaits! If some in your group prefer regular bikes, we can arrange a mixed tour. Please contact us to discuss this option.

This isn’t just a tour—it’s a deeply personal exploration of the natural world, guided by a professional wildlife biologist who brings every moment to life. Designed exclusively for your group, the experience is entirely private and tailored to your interests, pace, and curiosity. What sets it apart is the focus on nature in its purest form—no monuments, no crowds, just the living heartbeat of the Black Hills. You’ll explore vast prairies, winding byways, underground caves, and wildlife-rich habitats with a guide who reads the landscape like a storybook. Rather than simply pointing out animals or naming plants, your guide offers insight into the complex relationships that tie geology, ecology, and wildlife together. You’ll walk away with not only stunning photos but a meaningful connection to the land itself. Unhurried, immersive, and rich with discovery—this tour invites you to slow down, look deeper, and experience South Dakota as few ever do.

This isn’t a tour—it’s a scientific expedition designed for curious minds. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this experience puts you in the shoes of a field biologist. You’ll go beyond the overlooks, entering areas few travelers explore. With your guide—an expert in ecology and geology—you’ll use real research tools to track wildlife, study ancient formations, and analyze one of the richest fossil environments in the world. Rather than passively observing, you’ll actively participate.Track animal behavior using field signs and biological patterns. Study geology hands-on, examining exposed strata millions of years old. Explore off-the-beaten-path zones like Sage Creek Wilderness, where bison, burrowing owls, and prairie dogs shape the ecosystem. This tour is ideal for inquisitive travelers, families with budding scientists, and anyone craving more than just surface-level experiences.

This road trip has become popular because it DOES NOT go to Mount Rushmore or Crazy Horse. This Mini Road Trip is for visiting and seeing the beauty of the Southern Black hills and the ever changing landscape of forests, canyons, towering rock formations and more. Explore unhurried at your pace a customizable 7-8 hour approximately 100 mile mini road trip led by local expert Mike Trike. This relaxed Southern Black Hills road trip takes you over the Norbeck Scenic Byway to iconic sites like the Iron Mountain Road Pigtails, Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Rd. & the Needles Highway. Travel in comfort aboard a classic 2000 Custom Suburban Woody, making unplanned stops at unique natural and man made attractions along the way. This mini road trip offers an experience tailored to your interests, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your adventure. - 7-8 hour custom tour of the Southern Black Hills with local guide - Comfortable travel in a custom classic air-conditioned Suburban Woody

'BUNDLE' Mt Rushmore and more! What sets our tour apart from others? We include the wonderful Custer Park mountain roads at no additional cost. Iron Mtn Road (one-way tunnels and pigtail bridges), the serene Sylvan Lake, Needles Highway (Needles Eye Tunnel). No driving stress, enjoy panoramic views from our "Woody" convertible top van. Mt Rushmore is great in mornings in our Woody convertible top vans. You will visiting the Artist's Studio, Avenue of Flags and Presidential Trail. You'll have time to explore on your own: Gift Shop, Carvers Cafe and take in the wonderful movie about the monuments history. Crazy Horse is huge . . . not just the mountain carving but also the 14,000 pieces of art at the Indian Museum of North America. First you will view a great 20 minute video about the origins and current ongoing production of the Monument. *Many guests prefer to meet in Keystone. We return about 2:00pm to Keystone and if you have your car there its easy to visit other attractions.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring presence of Devils Tower, a geological marvel unlike any other. Unlike typical mountain peaks, Devils Tower is a towering butte, possibly formed from a laccolith – a mass of cooled, solidified magma. This means you'll be witnessing a rare formation of igneous rock carved by the relentless forces of nature. Standing a staggering 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River, and 867 feet from summit to base, the sheer scale of Devils Tower is breathtaking. You'll be immersed in the rugged beauty of the Bear Lodge Ranger District within the Black Hills, far from the hustle and bustle, near the charming towns of Hulett and Sundance, Wyoming. This tour isn't just about seeing a rock formation; it's about experiencing the power of geological history and the grandeur of the American West.

What makes this tour unique is its immersive journey through Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop, offering a chance to witness the majestic buffalo herds, especially enchanting in springtime with the adorable newborn calves. Beyond the buffalo, you'll encounter a diverse array of wildlife, from graceful antelope and deer to playful prairie dogs and the charming begging burros, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery. The 7-8 hour narrated experience provides an in-depth understanding of the park's ecosystem and its inhabitants, making it more than just a sightseeing tour, but an educational and unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Get off the beaten path and onto your bike to see the real beauty of the Black Hills! This day tour takes you to some of the quieter and most beautiful areas of the Mickelson trail (where the locals ride) and a taste of South Dakotan produce. A true balance of effort and reward and a great day out! We give the option to stop at one of few breweries up in the Hill City area, with the outdoor Lost Cabin Beer Garden at the Mickelson Trail Burlington Trailhead being a favorite.

Drive the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, where bison roam freely and sweeping landscapes stretch before you. At the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, explore the park’s history and wildlife. The Needles Highway offers a winding route through jagged granite spires, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Black Hills. Mount Coolidge provides panoramic views of the entire park, revealing the diverse terrain that defines this stunning natural haven. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

This entirely private, customizable tour will tantalize the senses and take you to places only a local would know. Plus, you'll love it! Our tours are custom made, quant, curious, and fun. We'll also take photos along the way and provide them complimentary at the end of the tour. It's our honor to host and our pleasure to be your choice when visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Enjoy the best of the Northern Black Hills on this day tour. As a private outing, enjoy the area at your time and pace. Wander through beautiful Spearfish Canyon, enjoying the lush greenery and waterfalls. Take in historic Deadwood, understanding its importance during the Black Hills gold rush, and how it served wild west celebrities like Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok. In Lead, see one of the largest goldmines in the world, and understand how it has found a place in a modern economy. Options include visits to Devils Tower, and a selection of museums in historic Deadwood.

Your experience begins about an hour before sunset, the perfect time to witness the park’s wildlife at its most active. Watch as bison graze across the golden plains, bighorn sheep navigate the rugged cliffs, and prairie dogs dart among the buttes — all illuminated by the warm glow of twilight. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Badlands transform into a mystical wonderland of color and shadow. Your guide leads you through scenic overlooks and photo-perfect vistas, where the last light of day gives way to the deep blues of night. When darkness settles, prepare for a stargazing experience like no other. Far from city lights, the Badlands reveal a dazzling canopy of stars. Under some of the clearest skies in America, you’ll marvel at the Milky Way, trace constellations, and take in the quiet majesty of the night. With expert guides, premium binoculars, and comfortable zero-gravity chairs, this tour offers a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural wonder.

3Quest Challenge of Sioux Falls is a great way to see the city in a fun way! You'll use an app on your phone to submit photos of items you find around the city. The items will be given to you in riddle form. Get points for finding the items, as well as completing fun challenges as well! The items and challenges will be arranged in 3 different quests. Complete the quests, in order, to finish 3Quest Challenge! Try setting a time limit of 2 hours for yourself to make the game even more intense and see if you can do all 3 quests in the given time! During the game, you'll have a remote guide that will chat with you during the game in case you need anything! Let's see if you can do all 3 quests in Sioux Falls today!

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal guides, part-time guides or trainees. 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 larger vehicle (van) may be rented for larger groups. This is a great tour for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.

The best of the Black Hills in one day! Our most popular tour, and a wonderful way to make the most of your time in the beautiful Black Hills. Our experienced, local guides will take you to the highlights of the area. Private tour means you have more time to enjoy the things you want to see, a truly unique and personal experience. This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

Welcome to My XO Adventures! This is your tour, for your group! We don't mix with strangers on this adventure to ensure it's extraordinary. Your tour will be unscripted, unique, and back-road driven. We are always tuned in to your particular interests and automatically adjust accordingly. We aim to ensure you've had the most amazing experience possible. We do what we want, when we want, where we want. Think of it as the difference between a fast-food burger and a gourmet steak. We’ll customize your experience based on your interests, timing, and comfort level. Our extensive knowledge of the Black Hills means you’ll see famous spots and hidden gems that other tours can’t reach. This is your exclusive adventure, designed to create unforgettable memories in the Black Hills. We'll take you anywhere in the Black Hills within an 8-10 hour time period. Lunch is included.

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the cultural significance of Crazy Horse Memorial, & the untamed beauty of Custer State Park—all in one unforgettable day. Start your day at Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four presidents are carved into granite. Walk the Avenue of Flags, enjoy the views, & learn the story behind this American monument. Next, visit Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress. This monument honors Lakota leader Crazy Horse & celebrates Native American heritage. Tour the museum & see Lakota dancers. Your journey continues into Custer State Park, filled with dramatic granite peaks, pine-covered hills, and open prairie. Drive Wildlife Loop Rd, where you may encounter bison, pronghorn antelope, wild burros, & more.

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron Mountain Road. Experience Mt Rushmore with a local expert and make the most of your time in the Black Hills.

Celebrating 40+ years in business! Fly in a hot air balloon and soar over the beautiful Black Hills. Make memories that will last forever. Your Adventure Awaits! Black Hills Balloons flies in the southern Black Hills, making the Custer area, including the world-renowned Custer State Park the heart of our flying area. Your flight will vary over mountains, valleys, lakes and prairies - it's one of the best ways to view the Black Hills; home to elk, antelope, whitetail deer, buffalo and mule deer. If you're lucky, you might even see a mountain lion from our secure gondola! The Black Hills are the only place in the world where you can witness such historic, wild landscape and abundant wildlife from a hot air balloon. Phone hours are 8am - 8pm daily.

There's no better way to witness its raw beauty than with My XO Adventures' Badlands Sunset and Night Sky Tour. This isn’t just another tour; it's an immersive journey into one of nature's most spectacular displays, guided by experts who are as passionate about the region as they are knowledgeable. What sets this tour apart is the unparalleled access to the best sunset and night sky viewing spots in the entire Black Hills and Badlands region. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Badlands come alive with a symphony of colors that paint the sky in hues of pink, orange, and purple. Our guides know exactly where to position you for the most stunning views, ensuring you don’t just see the sunset—you feel it. To enhance this celestial experience, we provide zero-gravity chairs, allowing you to recline in ultimate comfort as you gaze up at the night sky.

Neal and Becky live in the Black Hills near the historic mining town of Hayward. Neal is a native South Dakotan having a close association with the Black Hills since his youth. As you tour the southern Black Hills, you'll get a narration of the history of the sights as well as personal stories of the area. They love people and have a desire to serve you to make your visit an enjoyable one. Suggestions and tips on how to make your stay more enjoyable freely offered!

During a government shutdown, Badlands and Mt Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services. In a 2023 budget standoff, South Dakota officials secured a deal with the NPS to keep some areas open.

Experience another world in Badlands National Park. Wildlife and fossil spotting is a favorite as we weave our way through the spires and pinnacles of the park. We make many stops, and can incorporate a hike if you wish! Lunch in the park with spectacular views will be a highlight. On to the Minuteman National Historic Site, for some incredible living WW2 history. On our way back to Rapid City, Wall Drug calls us in for homemade donuts. Tour with our knowledgable local guides and take in the park in your own time. Our private tours are flexible, with time to take photos, walk and enjoy the area as you wish to! This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

This is our favorite tour! We care about you, your experience, and your time in South Dakota. You'll be taken to special locations where animals congregate during the setting sun. As you enjoy the wildlife of the Badlands, we'll take care of any photos you wish. The "Blue Hour" begins after sunset and continues for an hour, highlighting the wild formations with the bright blue and orange sky. Next, we'll take you to the night viewing area in the park at a location only My XO Adventures knows. We'll see planets, shooting stars, and the Milky Way Galaxy. Our highly skilled guide will capture night photos and share them at the end of the tour, ensuring you have great memories of your experience.

This tour provides a unique glimpse into the beauty and all the Badlands offer! Learn about the area's history, and spend the day taking in the rare geology of the Badlands. Lunch will be enjoyed at an exquisite local restaurant of your choosing. There is a two-person minimum to book this tour.

During a government shutdown, Mount Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services.

During a government shutdown, Badlands and Mount Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services. In a 2023 budget standoff, South Dakota officials secured a deal with the NPS to keep some areas open.

My XO Adventures believes The Badlands can be a wonderful experience for your senses, and there are a lot of stories to be told about the park. It's also abundant with wildlife, but you've got to know where to go. We have walked, crawled, climbed, and taken the back roads through the park to find places we know you'll love. This is not a strenuous journey and is suited for all ages. We encourage you to check out our Google Reviews for My XO Adventures online to see what kind of experience you'll enjoy by coming along with us. We take care of the details and may even have some surprises for you along the way. Every day is different, and we love what we do. We explore the Badlands, not just tour them. Learn about the history, wildlife, fossils, geological shapes, and sacred places. Commonly missed and extraordinary places are where we go. We do what we want, when we want, where we want!

Uncover the hidden beauty and history of South Dakota with this combo tour of Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park! Get the full story behind one of America’s largest sculptures at Mount Rushmore. Learn who designed it, how they carved it, and why these four presidents were selected for the monument. Then, take a trip back to the Badlands, where a landscape of alien beauty hides ancient fossils, geological marvels, and Lakota history. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Spend the morning indulging your senses on one of South Dakota's largest and most beautiful lakes. Get up close and personal with the regional flora and wildlife. Lunch will be enjoyed at an exquisite local restaurant of your choosing. There is a two-person minimum for this tour.

This isn't just another tour; it's a chance to experience the Black Hills at their best, during the prime season of May through September. What makes this tour unique is its personalized touch. We take the hassle out of your day by picking you up directly from your Rapid City hotel at 8:00-8:30 AM, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. Then, we transport you to the charming town of Keystone, SD, where you have the freedom to explore for at least 1½ hours, crafting your own experience. Whether you're drawn to the unique shops, the thrilling Big Thunder Gold Mine, or the insightful Rushmore Borglum Story, you're in control. It's your day, your way, in the heart of the Black Hills.

This tour includes many of the most popular destinations and attractions in the Northern Black Hills. *Devils Tower National Monument ~ The First National Monument. Historically, many tribes of the Great Plains and Black Hills regions had connections with the area around Devils Tower. Stories and histories shared by tribal members indicate that the Tower was a sacred site - a place for winter camps, vision quests, and summer ceremonies. * Aladdin General Store which is the oldest general store in Wyoming since 1892. *Spearfish Canyon - Older than the Grand Canyon and is rated one of the best scenic byways in the US. Four ecosystems meet here (very rare) and several waterfalls were we picnic (included). *Sanford/Homestake Center - Old Gold and New Physics lots of info. *Deadwood - We visit Mt Moriah Cemetery, #10 Saloon, and Old Main Street. You will have time to shop on your own and you have option to watch the gunfight reenactments. * Sturgis option for photos and shopping.

Unearth the long-buried past in Badlands National Park, a place like no other! This strange, alien landscape of rocky peaks hides tens of millions of years of history. Learn all about it as you explore with this self-guided driving tour, which takes you along the Badlands Wall and shows you the best overlooks, hiking trails, and more. Along the way, your virtual narrator will share fascinating stories about everything from fossils to Lakota history and beyond. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Please note - This tour is NOT what TripAdvisor displays on their description. THIS TOUR is a Night Tour to Mt Rushmore and stargazing after the Ceremony. This is NOT a day tour to Custer State Park. TripAdvisor has several errors. Please contact us to confirm info. Black Hills Open-Top-Tours is the only tour company offering a Mt Rushmore tour that also includes the Night Lighting Ceremony, a tour of the Iron Mtn Tunnels and night stargazing (depending on weather). We tour in a variety of unique vehicles. All are comfortable and safe convertible top vehicles. They offer great elevated views and photo ops without needing to exit. This 5 hour tour departs from Rapid City between 5:00pm and 5:30pm. Private Tours Available for Groups. *The Night Ceremony at Mt Rushmore is only available from MAY 26th to AUGUST 10th: ceremony starts 9 PM *August 11th to SEPT 30th: ceremony starts 8PM *October 1 to May 25th we provide the tour of Mt Rushmore with a Mountain Sunset and Stargazing.

Saturday food tours are a collection of tastes from different restaurants and breweries in Downtown Sioux Falls. Join us for the history of the city and some amazing bites that might surprise you.

This entertainment package gives you the best bang for your buck! Ride on the one of kind Roller Coaster - The newest attraction in all of the Black Hills. Stick around for Dinner where you will get a full chuckwagon meal and then be entertained by the best nightly entertainment in the hills! You wont want to miss out on this opportunity!

At My XO Adventures, we don’t just guide tours—we create lifelong memories through deeply personal connections to the land. What makes this experience unique isn’t just the stunning Badlands views or the wildlife encounters—it’s who you’re sharing them with. Our team isn’t made up of part-time guides reading from scripts. We are storytellers, geologists, naturalists, and soulful travelers who call this region home. Every tour is customized to your interests, pace, and curiosity, and we treat our guests like family—from the first greeting to the final goodbye. Expect laughter, learning, comfort, and care in every moment. We go beyond the overlook and behind the scenes to places most travelers never see. You won’t be herded or hurried. You’ll be welcomed, inspired, and transformed. This isn’t a tour. It’s a journey with meaning—crafted from passion, guided with heart, and remembered forever.

Let’s Roam is the top app-led adventure hunt company, turning exploration into a thrilling game! Stroll to the best landmarks and hidden gems, tackle trivia questions, and conquer challenges. Team up or compete against each other while discovering fun facts and making unforgettable memories. Let’s Roam Adventure Hunts are perfect for everyday fun, bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, corporate team-building events, and more! Each player gets to choose an interactive role, with personalized challenges for everyone.

Explore the Black Hills with this self-guided walking and driving tour, weaving through landmark sites steeped in monumental art and history. Walk through the majestic Mount Rushmore, delve into the natural splendor of Custer State Park, experience the cultural resonance of Crazy Horse Memorial, and relax at the picturesque Sylvan Lake. Each location enriches your journey with its unique story and breathtaking vistas, creating memories that echo through the landscapes of South Dakota. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.