Black Hills Contraband Distillery

Black Hills Contraband Distillery, Rapid City

Based in Rapid City, the owner of Black Hills Contraband Distillery has turned a seven-generation family recipe into reality by producing flavored liqueur in South Dakota. Contraband flavored liqueurs have been perfected from generation to generation. In 2016, Contraband became the first licensed

Badlands Distillery

Badlands Distillery, Kadoka

Located south of Interstate 90 Exit 150 in Kadoka, Badlands Distillery is a family-owned and operated business that provides handcrafted distilled spirits. We specialize in distilling corn grown on our ranch and offer whiskey, unique spirits, free tastings, tours, and sales. There is history in the

Sitting Bull Stampede Rodeo

Sitting Bull Stampede Rodeo, Mobridge

Since 1945, traditions of the Old West come alive at the PRCA-sanctioned Sitting Bull Stampede Rodeo every July 2, 3 and 4, 7:30 p.m. nightly. Featured are top-name professional cowboys and cowgirls, top animals and top rodeo entertainment. In addition to the rodeo action, there is a carnival, two

Sturgis

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Sturgis

High-octane action and small-town charm go hand in hand here in Sturgis. World-famous for the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this Black Hills town offers a blend of motorcycle culture, rich history and year-round outdoor activities.​

For two weeks a year, the charming small town of Sturgis becomes a mecca for bikers around the globe — but you don't need a motorcycle to have a good time here. Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Sturgis is home to food, trails and all-season fun.

Sure, bikers come by the hundreds of thousands every first full week of August, but that’s only one reason Sturgis is known as the “City of Riders.” From Native American horse riders who considered the Black Hills sacred and cavalry once posted at Fort Meade to modern-day horsemen, ATVers and mountain bikers, all riders know what makes this area so special. Sturgis is a year-round outdoors destination hiding in plain sight.

Things to Do in Sturgis

Attend the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Get your motor running! The legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, a yearly summer tradition since 1938, is a must-do for bike enthusiasts. Find full-throttle events like motocross and races, alongside rock, classic rock and country music concerts. Explore countless vendors for gear and grub, and take epic rides through the stunning Black Hills. The week is an unforgettable experience of roaring engines and gleaming chrome.

Discover Motorcycle Museums & Biker Bars

Can’t join in August? No problem. Sturgis serves up rich biker culture all year long. Enjoy quieter rides through the Black Hills and a less congested exploration of motorcycle heritage.

Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame

At the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, explore a vast collection of vintage motorcycles and delve into the history of the iconic rally. Dating back to 1907, the collection of nearly 100 motorcycles includes unique, vintage and rare V-twin and metric motorcycles. View a 1908 Harley-Davidson, a 1909 Imperial and a 1913 Indian Single, as well as other motorcycles of all kinds, and learn how they evolved from motorized bicycles to symbols of freedom across the world.

Famous Biker Bars

Hit up the Full Throttle Saloon, the world's largest biker bar, featuring live music and unique entertainment. Take in the music and biker culture at Iron Horse Saloon, a legendary venue offering thrilling bike shows and free concerts.​

Motorcycle Museum Sturgis
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
Mountain Biking Black Hills
Mountain biking
Bear Butte Barn Sturgis
Bear Butte State Park

Hike, Camp, Fish, Picnic — and Ride the Scenic Route

Opt outside. Experience Sturgis’ state parks, recreation areas and scenic drives. Bear Butte State Park is unique due to its laccolith geological formation and its sacred significance to many Native American tribes. The park offers a combination of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking and camping. Fort Meade Recreation Area offers hiking and biking along the Centennial Trail, picnicking and fishing at the Fort Meade Reservoir, and camping at the Alkali Creek Trailhead or the Alkali Creek Horsecamp. Before exploring the approximately 6,700 acres of forest and grasslands, stop at the Old Fort Meade Museum to learn about the fort’s importance. Hike, bike, camp and fish to explore the many formations, canyons and gulches, open grasslands, tumbling streams and deep blue lakes of Black Hills National Forest. Here, motorcyclists find the best rides along two scenic byways, including Vanocker Canyon Road.

Uncover Unique Attractions

Soak up the quieter side of Sturgis. Savor locally-produced wines at Belle Joli Winery Sparkling House on an outdoor patio overlooking a 5-acre vineyard that borders the majestic ponderosa pines of the rugged Black Hills. Pay respects to veterans at the Black Hills National Cemetery, where rolling ponderosa forests flank manicured grounds with rows of precisely aligned headstones. Discover stunning formations in Wonderland Cave, one of the Black Hills' largest caves, or head to the new Saab Heritage Car Museum, which features more than 75 unique Swedish automobiles dating from 1950 to 2011.

Full Throttle motorcycle trick
Full Throttle Saloon
Belle Joli Winery
Belle Joli Winery Sparkling House

Restaurants in Sturgis

The restaurant scene in Sturgis boasts casual eateries, bars and grills, and some establishments with live music. Find hot spots with dog-friendly patio dining, a biker-friendly atmosphere and classic American fare.

Saloons, Bars & Breweries

The Knuckle Saloon is one of the most popular places for a bite and a brew in town. Treat yourself to pizza, wings, steak tips, nachos or one of a variety of sandwiches (including, of course, a “Knuckle Sandwich”). Treat yourself to a cold one (or more) from the Knuckle Brewing Company — the Pipe Wrench Porter and the Runkle Road IPA are favorites. Sturgis Brewing Company dispenses a diverse beer selection featuring a beloved Strawberry Blonde. Pair on-tap brews with a tasty burger and popular onion rings. The brewery often buzzes with live music, special events, dogs on the patio and souvenir-seeking visitors perusing the gift shop. Oasis Bar & Fireside Lounge offers a straightforward menu of classic bar fare, including burgers, sandwiches and appetizers like gizzards and egg rolls, catering to a casual and unpretentious palate. In the summer months, One Eyed Jack Saloon opens its sprawling, taxidermy-adorned biker bar and American restaurant.

Steakhouses, Grills & Pubs

Loud American Sturgis is a modern and bustling roadhouse-style restaurant, bar and live concert venue aiming to provide a legendary experience, as suggested by their hashtag #getloud. More than just a refueling stop, Gas Monkey Garage is a year-round bar and grill that serves up a Texas Roadhouse-style menu, promising hearty fare from breakfast through dinner. Red's Grill and Pub offers a more grounded experience amid the revved-up energy and serves classic American pub fare, including their reputed steak tips. Jambonz Grill & Pub distinguishes itself in Sturgis by offering a vibrant taste of Louisiana with its authentic Cajun and Southern cuisine.

Diners & Coffeehouses

The Sturgis Coffee Company serves expertly crafted coffee (the “Heavy Metal” blend is very popular) and light bites. It should only take one sip for you to understand why bikers making their annual pilgrimage to Sturgis always leave with a few bags of coffee. Uncle Louie's Diner is a popular breakfast and lunch spot, known for its classic diner menu and friendly atmosphere.

Places to Stay in Sturgis

Sturgis offers a range of accommodations, each with its distinct charm — from cycle-centric suites and stylish hotels to roadside charmers and classic campgrounds.

Hotels & Motels

The Hotel Sturgis stands out with a high rating (4.7 on Google) and is situated in a relaxed 1900s property in Downtown Sturgis. Its industrial-chic cafe and stylish rooms appeal to travelers seeking a boutique experience. Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sturgis offers relaxed rooms, free breakfast, a fitness center and parking.

Situated in Whitewood, Iron Horse Inn offers no-nonsense rooms and complimentary shuttle service to Sturgis. It's a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers and those primarily interested in easy access to Sturgis. Sturgis Lodge and Suites is an understated roadside hotel that features a game room and an indoor pool, making it a great family-friendly option. The Sturgis Motel offers a budget-friendly option with basic rooms and guest laundry facilities for travelers focusing on practicality.

Campgrounds & RV Parks

The Lamphere Ranch Campground offers shaded tent camping, cabins and RV sites with access to a general store stocked with food, beverages and souvenirs. The Days End Campground & RV Park provides camping experiences whether you prefer tents, RVs or a cabin. All options enjoy amenities including a convenience store, laundromat, shower, a dump station, cable TV and free wi-fi. Rush No More RV Resort also boasts RV sites, cabins and tent camping with modern amenities and scenic surroundings. ​

Coming to the Rally? The Buffalo Chip Campground sets up a unique camping experience adjacent to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip within walking distance to music concerts, bikes shows and races. The Big Rig RV Park Campground also provides full hookup sites and cozy cabins within walking distance of downtown.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Events in Sturgis

Annual Rallies & Events

  • Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Held for 10 days every year in early August, this gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts attracts around 500,000 people and fills the Black Hills with the sound of rumbling engines. Witness thrilling concerts, contests, pub crawls and races. Even if you’ve never revved a motorcycle engine, the event is something to behold and transforms Sturgis into the biggest celebration of freedom in the country. 
  • Sturgis Off-Road Rally: Featuring various off-roading options, including a scavenger hunt and poker run, the Off-Road Rally is one of the many unique events held during the Rally. 
  • Sturgis Camaro Rally: If you love all things Camaro, this party’s for you. Held every June, the event includes drag racing, poker runs, cruises and more.
  • Sturgis Mustang Rally: Motorcycles aren’t the only vehicles celebrated in Sturgis every August. At the end of the month, the week-long Sturgis Mustang Rally includes racing, cruises, a car show, and other fun events. Most events are open to registered participants, but anyone can enjoy the Show & Shine event as well as a parade. 
  • Black Hills Bluegrass Festival: Spend three days clapping and dancing during the only traditional bluegrass and acoustic music festival in South Dakota. The Black Hills Bluegrass Festival is held every June at the Rush No More RV Resort & Campground, so you can enjoy days of delightful music only steps away from your overnight accommodations. 2019 advance tickets range from $18 for a single show to $50 for a weekend pass.

Other Sturgis Events

  • Music on Main: Music on Main offers a family-friendly (and free) weekly festival in the summer, blending live local music with mountain bike races, bounce houses and food trucks.
  • Buffalo Chip: Born "By Bikers, For Bikers," the Sturgis Buffalo Chip is a legendary, sprawling music festival and motorcycle rally, boasted as the "Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling."
  • Mountain Bike Race Series: The Sturgis Mountain Bike Race Series hosts a unique blend of adrenaline and scenic beauty, a thrilling alternative to the city's famed motorcycle culture.

Sturgis FAQs

Q:

What’s the history of Sturgis?

Q:

What is the driving distance to the nearest large city, Rapid City, from Sturgis?

Q:

What is the weather like in Sturgis? 

Q:

What is the geography of Sturgis?

Q:

What are the busiest times of year in Sturgis?

Q:

For more information, whom can I contact for travel tips for Sturgis?

Plan Your Visit

A small South Dakota town settled where the prairies of the east meet the Black Hills. It's the City of Riders and the good times keep rolling year-round. 

2040 Junction Ave.
Sturgis, SD57785
United States

SEE WHAT DISCOVERIES WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU IN STURGIS
START PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA
2025 South Dakota Vacation Guide Cover
Order Your Free Vacation Guide

Find our Travel Guide, state map, and other free publications to aid in your travel planning.

Dignity: of Earth & Sky Statue Chamberlain South Dakota
Sign Up for the E-Newsletter

Receive monthly inspiration about places to see, activities to try and upcoming events.

Newton Hills fall hiking
Discover South Dakota's Great Finds

Earn prizes and discounts as you explore off-the-beaten-path attractions on your next South Dakota adventure.

For two weeks a year, the charming small town of Sturgis becomes a mecca for...

Meridian Corner

Meridian Corner, Freeman

Meridian Corner, located just south of Freeman at the intersection of Highways 18 and 81, is a family-owned establishment that offers excellent food, a full bar and the perfect country atmosphere. Our specialty foods are fried Chislic, Tiger Meat and fresh, hand-pattied burgers. We offer lunch and 5

Blue's Family Restaurant

Established in 2015, Blue’s Family Restaurant in downtown Freeman is locally-owned and -operated. We offer hot, fresh food and good service at a good price. Blue's Family Restaurant focuses on home-cooked foods, including pizza, pasta, sandwiches, chicken, international cuisines and more. Come dine

4th of July Parade

4th of July Parade, Watertown

Join us in downtown Watertown on July 4 for the annual community parade. The fun kicks off at 1:45 p.m. with a giant candy toss. At 2 p.m., the parade starts at 4th Street and East Kemp Avenue and continues west to the Watertown Stadium.

The Sturgis Motel

The Sturgis Motel, Sturgis

The Sturgis Motel is a family-owned and -operated motel located just a short walk from Main Street and downtown Sturgis. Our rooms come with free high-speed Internet, free Wi-Fi and free toiletries, and some have a microwave and refrigerator. There are laundry facilities on site. Sturgis is home to

The Mill Iron Coffee House

The Mill Iron Coffee House in Whitewood gained its name from the Mill Iron Ranch four miles down the road. The Mill Iron Ranch was part of the Continental Cattle Company, which owned 35,000-40,000 cattle in the late 1880’s. Today, it is a coffee house serving historic handmade Pasties, a variety of