Things to do & places to visit in Custer, South Dakota, United States

Enveloped in the grandeur of the Black Hills, Custer makes the perfect base for your South Dakota vacation, whether you are visiting Custer State Park to learn about Custer's Last Stand, heading up to see the wonder of Mount Rushmore and the yet-unfinished Crazy Horse Memorial, making a motorcycle pilgrimage to Sturgis or spelunking in Wind Cave. Custer itself has much to offer, from family outings at Flintstones Bedrock City to hoe-down dinners at a chuck wagon cookout.

Custer city in South Dakota, United States. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Saturday, May 04, 2024, 8:59.

Top things to do (28)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Custer State Park (6.139 reviews)
- Beautiful state park with lots of wildlife
Spent < 1 hour State Parks

One of South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks, this park stands out for its granite peaks, rolling grasslands, and clear mountain waters. Stretching over 71,000 acres, Custer is home to abundant wildlife like bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and more. Drive down Wildlife Loop Road to spot the begging burros (they approach vehicles for food), hike the Little Devils Tower Trail for a bird’s eye view of the area, and go swimming or boating in one of its five lakes. With warm days and cool nights, summer is an ideal time to visit Custer. Don't miss out on exploring the rest of the Black Hills, including Mount Rushmore. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Sylvan Lake (1.985 reviews)
- beautiful lake
Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water

This lake, situated within the rolling green hills of Custer State Park, is a great spot for a fun day out. The cool waters of the lake are perfect for kayaking, paddle boating, and swimming, and if you're looking for an adventure, you can go on a hike or climb the rocks surrounding the lake. The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm, and the park is in full swing. The lake is typically a stop on a tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Needles Eye (1.731 reviews)
- Omg A Must See Scenic Drive on the way to Sylvan Lake!
Geologic Formations

A geological formation located in Custer State Park. See more..
5.0 Iron Mountain Road (1.716 reviews)
- Fun Drive with Great Views of Rushmore
Scenic Drives

Whether you are driving or simply riding, this is a fun drive with awesome views and fun, unique road features like corkscrew pigtails and one lane tunnels. Our group really enjoyed this as we made our way from Lake Sylvan to Mount Rushmore. It starts with a Meadow as you drive towards Keystone where you get your first glimpse of Rushmore. You then wind up to the top of Iron Mountain where there is a parking lot and observation area. You then start to descend passing a series of tunnels in the granite outcroppings with line up perfectly with the carvings on Rushmore. The final descent is accomplished by a couple of corkscrew bridges that allow you to drop elevation in a small space. It is a beautiful drive through the Black Hills that has some of the best views of Rushmore. You have to somehow reach Rushmore so be sure to take this route. See more..
5.0 Black Hills National Forest (909 reviews)
- Black Elk Peak
National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests

This empty expanse where Native Americans once roamed is now a national forest. See more..
5.0 Sylvan Rocks Climbing School And Guide Service (360 reviews)
- Highly Recommended
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Day Trips

I did two days with Sylvan Rocks, a 6-hour day and an 8-hour day, both with Doug. I'm a relatively experienced climber, so we didn't have to spend any time on equipment orientation, climbing basics, etc. Doug made it a point to do a thorough safety check of the gear I brought, and continued to focus on safety throughout the day, never a careless moment. The anchors he built were bomber, as was his leading and belaying. It was a blast, even if I was climbing well below my ability. Doug knew all the great climbs, chances for summits and excellent views, along with climbs on rocks with spectacular formations. It was clear he was most interested in me having a safe, fun time; he offered suggestions for the itinerary but always left it up to me, and checked in if it seemed like the climbs were frustrating, always ready to alter for something better. We never had to; the two days were full of good climbing. Highly recommended! See more..
5.0 Black Hills Aerial Adventures (268 reviews)
- Top notch outfit.
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Helicopter Tours • Sightseeing Tours

Was driving through the Black Hills area when I saw this heliport alongside the highway. Being a pilot myself, I had to go check it out. Did the Mt Rushmore with Crazy Horse tour solo in a piston powered Lycoming gear driven engined flat 6. Probably 410 to 44 cubic inches. Process was simple as a walk in. Pay for service, get weighed ( for CG and weights and balances in any aircraft) and within minutes it was a one on one pilot and myself taking a 20 minute ride. Pilot was extremely knowledgable and very courteous. I'm a frugal guy, but the $220 fee, to me, was an absolute bargain. I highly suggest you try to do this as early in the morning as possible, the air is smoother, and the lighting more dramatic if you're going to take videos or pictures. This is a must do if it's a once in a lifetime trip to the area, the aerial perspective is simply fantastic. Great oufit, would highly recommend them. See more..
5.0 Black Hills Balloons (260 reviews)
- One less item on my bucket list
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Balloon Rides

My husband surprised me with this balloon ride. I was nervous and excited, not knowing what to expect. We arrived a few minutes before 5 am and were greeted by very nice, you could even say comical staff members. We were loaded in vans and taken to the flight field, where we watched the staff unload and set up the balloons. Our pilot, Mike informed all passengers of do's and don'ts before allowing us to enter the balloon. We had an amazing flight with unimaginable views. Mike had a wonderful sense of humor and was willing to answer questions from everyone in the balloon. We landed in a field with tall wet grass and the staff came out to retrieve/push the balloon to a better unloading site a short distance away. The poor staff were wet from the waist down but were very happy to do it for us. I can't say enough about this group of people and the experience. I highly recommend everyone to use this group to mark a hot air balloon ride off your bucket list. See more..
5.0 Cathedral Spires Hiking Trail (234 reviews)
- Breathtaking views, steep hike
Hiking Trails

Without a doubt, this is a shorter "must do" hike if you are in the area. The drive up to the trailhead is an adventure as you pass thru LOW and NARROW tunnels along the Needles highway. You must pay $20 at a staffed checkpoint to access the highway and then drive to the trailhead. Please note: this trail is NOT a beginner trail, and it requires some level of fitness to go 1.2 miles (one-way) from the trailhead UP ~500 feet to the Cathedral Spires. There is no scrambling required, but there are areas of steep climb. There is NO infrastructure (well pumps, toilets, etc); so bring your own water. See more..
5.0 Rockin R Rides (230 reviews)
- Great Time and memorable experience
Horseback Riding Tours

Peggy and her team were great. Coming from Florida we set up the trip well in advance towards the end of the season. The weather turned bad and we were a bit concerned. Peggy worked it so we could come in on another day and even though it was cold for us Floridians (48 degrees with wind), they made sure we were comfortable. The first few minutes out to the Black Hills was a little windy/cold, but our leader Randy took us on trails were the wind subsided and the view was amazing. We even saw some wild life while on the trail. It was really an experience for us city slickers from Tampa. Thanks for the memories and we will be back if we are back in SD! See more..
5.0 Sunday Gulch Trail (119 reviews)
- Start counter-clockwise!
Spent 2-3 hours Scenic Walking Areas

We hiked this trail going counter-clockwise, that way you do the hard part at the beginning when your legs are still strong, and go down in the hard areas. When we did it, it was wet and there was some ice in the trail, so be extra careful. The trail in itself is great, not your typical trail, lots of rock scrambling, and at the end great views of the canyon. We are in our 60s and were able to do it this way. See more..
5.0 Adventure Rentals (103 reviews)
- Best rental ever and NO NEED to wash the ATV-only place in town who won’t make you wash them after your long day.
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Gear Rentals

Adventure Rentals is a family owned business. We are located Downtown Custer, SD. We are excited to give people the opportunity to go sight seeing in the Black Hills like never before --- on a UTV!!!!!! UTV's are street and highway legal, park passes and trail permits included. We also have bicycles, scooters, kayaks and paddleboards available to rent. The fun starts here!!!!! See more..
5.0 Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway (80 reviews)
- Engineering marvel of a road
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Drives • Geologic Formations

This scenic drive along 16A is a marvel of early 20th century engineering. A very winding road, it provides vistas and numerous areas to pull over and enjoy the scenery. The LOW and NARROW tunnels are quite the treat. Forget going to see Mount Rushmore at the park. This route includes an overlook that provides a FREE, commanding view from across the valley of the monument. The winding drive up to this overlook is its own adventure (especially the LOW and NARROW tunnels). Once at the overlook, the info placards and trails and rock scrambling and free parking are added bonuses that make this location a great opportunity. See more..
5.0 Needle Eye Tunnel (27 reviews)
- Take the time to go
Points of Interest & Landmarks

VERY cool tunnel! was riding in a dually truck and made it thru with about 2 inches to spare on each side - bring your side mirrors in! There are signs giving dimensions so if you drive a larger vehicle, knowing your measurements is crucial. Fun FUN riding the road and this was a cool extra spot! Several tunnels on the ride - Mt. Rushmore framed in one of them! See more..
5.0 Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center (26 reviews)
- Friendly staff
Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

Very knowledgeable and friendly staff to answer your questions. Lots of tips about local attractions. Stop in to get the full scoop. See more..
5.0 Iron Creek Tunnel (10 reviews)
- Tunnel Vision
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Iron Creek Tunnel is one of three tunnels on the awesome Iron Mountain Road. As you approach the tunnel from the south and look carefully through it, you will see Mount Rushmore perfectly framed. It's very cool. There is a small parking area on the south side if you want to take some photos. See more..
5.0 Black Elk Peak (5 reviews)
- A Long Hike but Worth it!
Mountains

We got a really early start to avoid the crowds. Hardly anyone on the way up. The trail is clearly marked-took the #9 up and the #4 back to create a loop. The fire tower was the hardest climb but the views are breathtakingly beautiful. If you do any hikes in the Black hills this is the one not to miss. See more..
4.5 Wildlife Loop Road (2.745 reviews)
- Buffalo round up
Scenic Drives

An 18-mile scenic drive in Custer State Park. See more..
4.5 Jewel Cave National Monument (1.415 reviews)
- A Must for Cave Lovers!
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Caverns & Caves

Jewel Cave National Monument is home to one of the longest caves in the world. Offering an assortment of cave formations and recreational opportunities, many visitors are truly amazed by this underground wilderness. Most impressive is the fact that exploration and discovery continue to take place at this significant natural resource. Please be advised that during the off-season (2020-2021), the visitor center, Park Store, surface trails, and picnic areas are open Thursdays through Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MDT. However, cave tours are suspended, due to an elevator construction project. For those visiting the monument, a one-way flow path is set up inside the visitor center, with directional signage for visitor awareness. Park rangers are on-site to answer questions and to assist with the ever-popular Junior Ranger and Pee Wee Ranger Programs. For specific questions and/or assistance, do not hesitate to contact the monument by phone or email in advance. See more..
4.5 Legion Lake (173 reviews)
- Another Beautiful Lake
Bodies of Water

A recreational and beach area. See more..
4.5 Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center (155 reviews)
- must visit if traveling with kids
Visitor Centers

This 1930s structure, named after a former South Dakota governor, is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. See more..
4.5 Stockade Lake (135 reviews)
- The Hidden Gem of Custer!
Bodies of Water

This South Dakota lake offers fishermen a variety of fish. See more..
4.5 Custer County 1881 Court House Museum (104 reviews)
- #1 stop after Mt. Rushmore, Badlands & Custer State Park
Speciality Museums

This was an amazing Trip! My family was passing by and we saw the Court House Museum so we decided to stop by. I was a little apprehensive as I had 2 little kids with me, but it was well worth it. The lady at the front gave my son a paper with a code that spelled something out. He needed to find fairy doors that had numbers corresponding to the Alphabet so he can be entertained & kept busy while my husband and I toured the court house. I was super impressed with everything I saw. They had the actual seving Custer County court room from the 1800's, an 1876 Centennial American Flag & many more historical artifacts. The most enjoyable part of this museum was the amount of historical objects that were able to be touched including military uniforms from world war 1 and many "wild west" items such as a real stagecoach. This is truly and underrated gem. See more..
4.5 Little Devil's Tower Trail (100 reviews)
- The highlight of our trip!
Hiking Trails

Cathedral Spires trail meets up with a trial that will bring you closer to the top of Little Devils Tower. This was the highlight of our trip. We did the whole Cathedral hike that brings you through crevasses in rock walls and into the spires, had a snake slither across my feet, and then on the way back there is a trail leading to Little Devils Tower trail. On that trail, we had two different times where bucks jumped out right in front of us, only 6 feet away. There are stunning views at the top of Little Devils Tower, bit if you want to go to the top, dogs can't make it and you do need to scamper up the side of rock mountain. Our 10 year old had no trouble making the hike up, but some people were giving up before they made it to the top. See more..
4.5 Black Hills Playhouse (93 reviews)
- So much fun!
Spent More than 3 hours Theaters

Generations of playgoers have been delighted by this gem of a seasonal summer stock theater located near Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse in Custer State Park. This professional theatre has played since 1946 from June through mid August, and is one of the oldest, continuously running summer stock programs in the country. Four to five incredible productions play throughout the summer Tuesday through Sunday. Descriptions and ratings of shows available at website. Beautiful picnic grounds, pre-order picnics, and concessions available. Park pass required on car for entry. See more..
4.5 Custer State Park Visitor Center (65 reviews)
- Great visitor’s center for the park
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

This stop has plenty of parking, Great displays, friendly staff, clearn restrooms and is COVID compliant. One of the displays is a 3d relief map of the park. There is also a movie to explain more about the park. I would recommend this stop before you go into the park to give you a better understanding of what sites that the park offers. See more..
4.5 Mount Coolidge (63 reviews)
- Incredible Views
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

We made the steep, narrow, curvy, gravelly drive up to the Mount Coolidge fire tower (at just over 6,000 feet elevation). The views are incredible in all directions. Be sure to look toward the Crazy Horse Memorial with binoculars--the carved face of the great Lakota leader will be looking right at you! I highly recommend a visit. See more..
4.5 Grace Coolidge Creek (41 reviews)
- Terrific fishing
Bodies of Water

This waterway, which passes through Custer State Park, is popular with fishermen and hikers. See more..
4.5 Center Lake (41 reviews)
- Hidden gem!
Bodies of Water

Located at Custer State Park, this lake offers fishing, swimming and a nearby campground. See more..
4.5 French Creek (22 reviews)
- Beautiful River and Scenery
Bodies of Water

Accessible only by hiking. See more..