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A man feeds fruit to a tortoise in front of two amazed kids at Reptile Garden

REPTILE GARDENS: A PHOTO ESSAY

Crocs. Gators. Parrots. Snakes. Tortoises. Parrots. And some surprises.

Written by: TravelSouthDakota.com Staff Writer

Founded in 1937 with dream and a sack of rattlesnakes, this visitor staple is officially home to the Guinness Book of World Records' largest collection of reptiles. Scroll on to see the slithery joy that awaits you at Reptile Gardens near Rapid City.

Home to gators, crocs, parrots, deadly snakes, ancient tortoises, and a few surprises, Reptile Gardens is where an entire adventure can happen at one place.

Reptile Gardens

Alligators at Reptile Gardens

Alligators at Reptile Gardens

Rattlesnake Gulch Fun-tier Town

Prairie dogs at Reptile Gardens

Worker at Reptile Gardens

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The business was started in 1937 by Earl Brockelsby, who quickly became known for ending his tours by revealing he'd been toting a sleeping rattlesnake under his cowboy hat the entire time. Today Reptile Gardens is a must-see (and, often, must-see-again since a ticket acts as your season pass) stop in the Black Hills.

Blooming vibrant flowers

Up close and personal with snakes

Curious parrots at Reptile Gardens

Blooming vibrant flowers

Up close and personal with snakes

Curious parrots at Reptile Gardens

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See live shows, get up close (safely) to some of the planet's most unique beings, and experience one of the most memorable places in the entire country.

Petting reptiles 

Reptile Gardens professional handling a snake

A baby reptile

Giant tortoise

Giant tortoise

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Reptiles & Raptors

What do giant tortoises, crocodiles and dinosaurs have in common? You can discover them all in South Dakota's Black Hills. Explore the fascinating world of reptiles, raptors and prehistoric giants in this wildlife-filled adventure.

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About the Author
TravelSouthDakota.com Staff Writer. This article was authored by Travel South Dakota's team of writers and editors. We’re passionate about sharing the best of South Dakota, whether it's exploring national and state parks, road-tripping, diving into local culture or uncovering hidden gems. Some of us grew up here, others got here as fast as we could — but we’re all on the lookout for the best spots to eat, stay and experience in the land of Great Faces, Great Places.