Dinosaur Park: Get Prehistoric in the Black Hills
Fossils and other evidence of dinosaurs were once found in Rapid City on the sandstone ridge that's surrounded by the Black Hills. In honor of this former excavation site, the area has been converted to Dinosaur Park. The park now houses seven massive dinosaur replicas, a visitor center, gift shop and café. Explorers of all ages can learn about the area’s prehistoric past, take photos with these larger-than-life structures and get incredible views of the South Dakota Black Hills.
Visit Dinosaur Park today and revel in South Dakota’s prehistoric past.
Kickin' It Back Old-School
65 million years ago, the dinosaurs went extinct...or did they? Your favorite dinosaurs can be found hanging out at this fun, family friendly park. We promise the dinos won't bite!
What To Do?
Aside from marveling at the incredible, life-sized Dinosaur sculptures, the park also features stunning views of Rapid City along with a gift shop and cafe to boot. Selfie-worthy views, food and drink, and a souvenir for the kids? Seems like a recipe for fun if you ask us!
Bear Country USA
While you're in Rapid City, visit Bear Country USA. Drive through this 250-acre nature exhibit to see all kinds of North American wildlife including wolves, big horn sheep, buffalo and the largest collection of privately owned black bears in the world.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Take a quick drive over to Mount Rushmore National Memorial to see one of the nation's biggest attractions. Revel in the mastery of sculptor Gutzon Borglum at "America's Shrine of Democracy." The monument is just 30 minutes from Rapid City.
Dinosaur Park is a must-see attraction, but the Black Hills boast all sorts of adventures waiting to be discovered.
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PLACES to Stay near Rapid City
Accommodations here run the gamut, from a lauded historic hotel in the heart of it all to a lodge overlooking the Black Hills to international brands with all the familiar trappings.
Where to Eat and Drink
The food scene here is as vibrant as the city itself. Craft breweries offer menus as creative as their beers, refined restaurants make date-night perfection and cafés serve up the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.
What to See and Do Nearby
Whether you want to explore local indigenous culture, watch bear cubs play at Bear Country USA or browse boutiques at Main Street Square, Rapid City's itinerary potential goes well beyond Mount Rushmore – which is also close by.
View itinerary
There is so much to do in and around Rapid City, it can be hard to fit it all in: museums, wildlife parks, indigenous art galleries. Don't have much time? No worries: here's how to fit it all in over a couple of days.
Check Out These Businesses Near Dinosaur Park
