A Visit to Rapid City, South Dakota

BPT

 

Known as the “Gateway to the Black Hills,” Rapid City is close to many historic places and stellar views of natural and man-made landmarks that are enhanced by the color and weather of autumn.

 

Scenic routes

Enjoy the quietness of autumn in and near Rapid City. Whether you like to take long drives or a leisurely day hike, you’ll have so many scenic routes to choose from.

 

Pack the family into the minivan and drive through the Needles Highway and Badlands Loop Road. Or pack a lunch and hike through Badlands National Park, Custer State Park or Spearfish Canyon. No matter where you choose to go, you’ll be greeted by the changing of the seasons and surrounded by colorful fall foliage.

 

 

Downtown

Downtown Rapid City has so much to explore. With 26 restaurants, 34 shops and more than 150 events, you can find something everyone in the family will enjoy. Head to the heart of downtown to Main Street Square and attend a live concert or family-friendly festivals.

 

Afterward, head to Art Alley to take in unique murals. Be sure to check out the life-sized bronze statues of past American presidents throughout downtown.

 

 

National treasure

One of the most attractive aspects of Rapid City is that it’s centrally located near some of the country’s national treasures.

Just 12 minutes away, you can visit the Black Hills National Forest and explore canyons, grasslands, streams and deep blue lakes. Or take a quick 30-minute drive and take in the astonishing beauty of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. There’s no end to the educational and inspiring places you can visit in this area.

 

 

Tribal history

The Black Hills are home to a rich history of seven Native American Tribes, and you can learn and appreciate their sacred stories, lifeways, arts and traditions in Rapid City. Head over in October and witness the Black Hills Powwow, a three-day cultural event that displays the talents of hundreds of Native American dancers, singers and artisans.

 

Take a short day trip to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress, honoring one of the most recognized and revered figures of the Lakota Indian Tribe.

 

If you need a day of indoor activities, head to The Journey Museum and Learning Center and check out the interactive displays featuring geology, paleontology, archaeology, Native American culture and more.

 

To learn more about Rapid City and surrounding activities and attractions, check out VisitRapidCity.com.

 

This article, originally published by Brandpoint, is republished here with permission.

 

Image Sources:                                                                                                                               

--Brandpoint

--Pexels (Creative Commons)

--Gabriela Custudio da Silva (Pexels, Creative Commons)

 

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