Hidden Gems Places To Visit in South Dakota, United States

1. 5.0 Brule (95 reviews)
   - Brule'
   Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   My wife and I have seen Brule' four times, Hill City, Indianapolis, Mesa, Arizona, New Buffalo, Michigan. Always put on an excellent show. The native dancers are amazing. The energy they display is inspiring. The colors and designs of the costumes are wonderful to see. We will go again! Thanks you so much for such excellent entertainment. My personal favorite number is Nicole's "Neon Sun". A must see! See more..
   
2. 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..
   
3. 5.0 Sage Meadow Ranch (71 reviews)
   - Amazing place and people
   Ranches • Horseback Riding Tours
   
   
   The views, the horse and Holly were perfect! Holly truly loves what she does and loves to share that joy with others. We took our girls for a ride and they are still talking about what all they learned from Miss. Holly! Holly was so gentle with teaching the girls more about horses and the land. By the end of the ride they were so comfortable around the horses and talking with Holly and taking care of the horses. We will be back again to ride and learn more. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Andy's Trail Rides (70 reviews)
   - Sunset Horseback Ride - 2hrs
   Horseback Riding Tours
   
   
   Andy’s Trail Rides was a great activity on our trip. We did a “sunset horseback ride” for two hours which is more than enough time to see all of the sights and sunset. Our guide was Jasmine and she was absolutely amazing. She was super friendly, had a lot of knowledge of the area, and was checking in with us during the duration of our ride to make sure we felt comfortable. At some points, Jasmine asked if we wanted to did a little more of trotting and running in certain areas and we did what we were comfortable with at those points! We felt it was a very “personal” ride being that it was just us two and the guide which was awesome. I would recommend Andy’s Trail Rides! See more..
   
5. 5.0 The Farmer's Daughter (69 reviews)
   - Giant Sasquatch and other metal things
   Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Antique Shops
   
   
   Our little store has a variety of treasures for you to find...new things, old things, and just maybe a little bit bold things! Our inventory changes every day which makes it refreshing and exciting to visit regularly! Stop in soon! We would love to see you! See more..
   
6. 5.0 Terry Redlin Museum (68 reviews)
   - Let Redlin’s Paintings Tell You His Story
   Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Art Galleries
   
   
   The Terry Redlin Museum is an incredible gift to Watertown, South Dakota, and this great nation! When driving south on I-29, this massive mansion is easily seen and prominently located just to the west of I-29. Seriously! You can’t miss it! Even the amazing property around the mansion is wonderfully landscaped. Pure joy! Admission is free! Go in and see the original paintings that Terry Redlin has created during his life. Take your time walking through this fantastic place. Let Redlin’s paintings tell you the story about his life. His heart and soul was put into each of his paintings. If you spend time thinking about each painting, and the artist responsible for each painting, you come to know a pretty remarkable person. Merci Beaucoup! (Wed. June 3rd 2020) See more..
   
7. 5.0 Discovery Tours (61 reviews)
   - Excellent tour!
   Sightseeing Tours
   
   
   Watching the large bus come through Needles tunnel was so exciting. We had a wonderful tour. Our guide was Bonnie and she knew her history and facts. She was also an excellent driver around all those sharp turns and switchbacks. We met some really nice people on the tour. It was well worth the money....thanks Bonnie! See more..
   
8. 5.0 Panorama Point Overlook (60 reviews)
   - The WOW factor comes to life here.
   Spent < 1 hour National Parks • Geologic Formations
   
   
   Breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, beyond our wildest imagination! We arrived after a raging thunderstorm that turned the sky purple with huge thunder clouds.The short burst of torrential rain washed the spires and formations to reveal their rich colors in the late afternoon sunshine that followed. The kids (and adults) loved climbing and adventuring in the moonscape-like terrains. What nature and God conspired to create is truly a marvel worth experiencing at least once in your lifetime. See more..
   
9. 5.0 Strawbale Winery (56 reviews)
   - No Snobs Here
   Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
   
   
   The South family established Strawbale Winery in 2006. constructed of straw bales, the buildings are insulated for a prairie-style wine cellar, and an atmosphere of country farm living. Treat your self to relaxation and fun. Tucked in a farm setting between a 100-year-old red barn and established shelter belt, the straw buildings, vineyard and animals may remind you of simpler times. See more..
   
10. 5.0 Hurley Butte Horseback Riding (51 reviews)
    - Definitely worth your time!
    Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    Definitely want this on your list of things to do in South Dakota. We flew into Rapid City & drove an hour to ride horseback on this postcard property next to the Badlands with Casey & her wonderful horses. They are calm, easy riding horses. I rode on Ann and I hadn't rode in 25 yrs! I can't say enough about the beauty of the interior. Casey talked with us thru the ride with some history of the land. We put this near the top of our 4-day adventures in SD! See more..
    
11. 5.0 Black Hill National Cemetery (50 reviews)
    - National Cemetery
    Spent 1-2 hours Cemeteries
    
    
    What a somber sight to see. I always get choked up when I see a cemetery of our national men and women’s burial place after serving our country. It reminds me of their sacrifice for our nation of their dedication to serve when neither I nor others do not. I’m passed the age here but even so. See more..
    
12. 5.0 PaleoAdventures (46 reviews)
    - Bones, Teeth and More Bones.
    Archaeology Tours
    
    
    So nice for me I went twice this summer! Went the last of june and came back last of August. Purchased one of the larger bones I found, a Triceratops rib (partial) and all I get are "Wows" when I show to family and friends. They were very professional in preparing the specimen for shipment and it looked professional quality. Staff is just great. A must for your bucket list. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Granite Sports (42 reviews)
    - Gear Up!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Granite Sports is the oldest outdoor specialty store in the Black Hills. Our shop carries gear and clothing for rock climbers, hikers, backpackers, and campers. The team at GS is comprised of avid outdoor enthusiasts and climbing professionals who test and wear our products. Granite Sports also carries a wide variety of tasteful, well-made casual clothing and footwear for everyday life. Our expert sales staff is committed to providing customers with the highest quality and functional clothing produced by eco-friendly manufacturers who employ fair labor practices. We welcome you to come in, check out our merchandise, or just hang out. (And now you can shop in our online store 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, because adventure doesn't wait!) See more..
    
14. 5.0 Escape Rooms at that place (41 reviews)
    - 10/10 Experience!
    Saturday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Mitchell's downtown, interactive, unique, room-sized games have been a great escape from the ordinary since 2016! Attempt one of our "escape rooms" on Tuesdays through Sundays by booking your team's reservation online! Custom dates and times might be available upon request. These family-friendly but challenging escape rooms are located in the same building as our teen center "that place for teens" which has been providing a free place for students on Fridays for over 22 years! Not only will your team of 2-8 people have a great time finding clues, solving puzzles, and conquering our gadgets and gizmos, but you will also be supporting the efforts of our teen center! We have hosted businesses, classes, sports teams, birthday's, reunions, families, friends... really anyone who wants to work together to take on some challenging fun! Message or call us for more information about our escape rooms or with any questions that you might have. Stay Curious!! See more..
    
15. 5.0 SDSU Dairy Sales Bar (38 reviews)
    - Cookies-n-Cream!
    Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    This flavor was invented here in 1979! Open Monday-Friday and located in the middle of the SDSU campus, the Dairy Bar is well worth a visit. Lots of delicious flavors at a esto able price. Other baked goods as well as cheese and meat sticks available too. Get a 2-scooper! See more..
    
16. 5.0 Dakota Shivers Brewing (32 reviews)
    - Best little pour house in Lead
    Saturday: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Bars & Clubs • Breweries
    
    
    Great nanobrewery in downtown Lead. Nice selection of brews from IPA’s, lagers, ales and stouts. Excellent brewing skills make this THE place to go for good beer. Nick, the owner is a super host and takes all the time you want to discuss his products, and his home town. No food, but there is a steady supply of popcorn with various toppings See more..
    
17. 5.0 Things That Rock (31 reviews)
    - Beautiful items!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Things That Rock carries a wide variety of unique gemstone jewelry, crystals, beads and beading equipment, spiritual tools, herbal wellness and beauty products, and so much more! Our complete line of essential oils including aromatherapy jewelry makes this a shop with something for everyone! Stop in to our new store at 257 Main Street, between the Harley and Handbag stores, for friendly service and a singular shopping experience! See more..
    
18. 5.0 The Blood Run Nature Area (28 reviews)
    - Historical gem
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    Hidden and unknown to most residents in area until recently, this is an amazing historical site where thousands of indigenous people lived hundreds of years ago. It is in the process of development...I hope they keep the pristine beauty of this historical gem. See more..
    
19. 5.0 De Smet Cemetery (28 reviews)
    - Beautiful views and well kept
    Spent < 1 hour Cemeteries
    
    
    If you've read all the books, you will find it interesting to walk through this cemetery to find graves of those you've read about. Stop in at one of the visitor centers or Ingalls stops to get a map of the cemetery that tells you where certain people are buried from the books. We all found it very interesting. Lovely views. While we were there it was VERY windy, so just might want to be prepared just in case. See more..
    
20. 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..
    
21. 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..
    
22. 5.0 Black Hills Aerial Adventure (26 reviews)
    - Go!
    Air Tours
    
    
    Tim and Ben’s enthusiasm and professionalism are contagious! The views are amazing. Seeing the Badlands from the air is going to be a treasured memory. I highly recommend for all; especially those who can’t trek the park easily. See more..
    
23. 5.0 Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons (24 reviews)
    - Couples ballon trip
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Balloon Rides • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Air Tours
    
    
    My husband and I had the great pleasure of being flown by Petra Wilson and crew this morning as the sun rose in the distance. What an incredible intimate experience. I felt safe the entire flight and Petra was very knowledgeable and friendly. It was nice to have the basket to ourselves so we could truly share the incredible experience together. The scenery was beautiful and we saw wildlife. She took some great pictures of us in the air and shared them afterwards. The chase team worked together like synchronized swimmers, it was really cool watching them work. Afterwards there was a post flight celebration with libations/apple juice and goodies to be enjoyed while Petra explained the history of Ballooning. Fantastic! Absolutely worth the money and time. Highly recommend!! Keeping it on the bucket list because I want to do it again! See more..
    
24. 5.0 Lake Vermillion Recreation Area (24 reviews)
    - Lakefront Real Estate
    State Parks
    
    
    We stayed 3 nights at the Lake Vermillion Campground and loved it. What a pretty area and beautiful lake. There are campsites lakeside and also a loop. The sites are large and roomy. We loved all the "Christmas" tree type pines throughout the park. Very peaceful and quiet. You will find a few boats on the lake on weekends but no one infringes on your site. The campground had lots of rabbits so keep your dogs on a leash. We also encountered finding some ticks on our dog but we kept an eye out for them so wasn't a problem. We did some hiking trails within the park and saw the dam there also. Great place for fishing. We thoroughly enjoyed our lakefront real estate for our 3 days in the park. See more..
    
25. 5.0 Scott Jacobs Studio (21 reviews)
    - Wonderful contemporary pop art gallery
    Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries
    
    
    My sisters and I stopped in Scott Jacobs art gallery after admiring several art pieces visible from the street. Amazing collection of art interspersed with motorcycles and other pieces of automobilia. Even more interesting was Scott's story behind the restoration of the gallery building. Worth the visit! See more..
    
26. 5.0 Bum's Bike & Brew (20 reviews)
    - So much fun
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Bar, Club & Pub Tours • Bike Tours • Beer Tastings & Tours • Night Tours
    
    
    Had an absolute blast! Great activity for a 21st birthday that falls on a weekday! Party and exercise, it’s a win win! See more..
    
27. 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..
    
28. 4.5 Badlands Ranch Store (100 reviews)
    - Adorable Prairie Dogs
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Arrived in the late afternoon with wife and two daughters (who were 13 and 6 years). Location had a few other visitors at the time, but it was fairly quiet for the most part. Probably helpful to our experience, since there were a lot of prairie dogs out and active in the field. Bought a couple bags of peanuts to feed them, which met with some albeit limited luck... Being so late in the day, I'm guessing that the prairie dogs had been fed pretty well throughout the day. Highly recommend taking the time to make the stop, especially if you have kids who love animals. The prairie dogs, while still free to roam wild, are fairly tame and used to interacting with humans. There is no admission fee to visit the prairie dog area, and you can buy bags of unsalted peanuts in the shell for only $1 a piece. Prairie dogs might take peanuts from your hand if you're calm and quiet enough, but you can still get them to come close even if you can't hand-feed them. See more..
    
29. 4.5 Denny Sanford Premier Center (100 reviews)
    - Excellent Concert Venue
    Spent 2-3 hours Arenas & Stadiums
    
    
    We’ve been to several concerts and events at Denny Sanford and have always enjoyed the experience. Great concert seating - very close to the performers.... even in the nosebleed seats. Hockey is also great! Highly recommend this place! See more..
    
30. 4.5 Devil’s Bathtub (98 reviews)
    - Be prepared!
    Bodies of Water
    
    
    Imagine your wife seeing a sign on the side of the road pointing out parking for Devil's Bathtub. Of course, I said "Let's check it out!" The parking lot was packed with no one in sight. My husband, son, and I begin walking along the creek on a narrow path. We come across others returning from their trek, telling us it's well worth it. We keep going along, into the forest, up, down, and around trees, rocks, and cliff faces. Clouds loom over the canopy. We keep going without knowing what lies ahead. Soon lots of people are coming back in swimwear with towels and such. Thunder and sprinkles, but we have come a long way crossing the creek many times on rocks and trees. It has become a path to conquer. We take cover under trees here and there and finally an overhang in the cliff wall. When the rain stops, we find Devil's Bathtub empty of people. What a wonderful hike and a beautiful path. Take water shoes if you can and plan for several hours! See more..
    
31. 4.5 Main Street Square (98 reviews)
    - TOWN SQUARE SURROUNDED BY SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS
    Parks
    
    
    Located in the heart of Downtown Rapid City, Main Street Square is a fun-filled public space that features special events, arts and culture, live concerts, seasonal ice skating and interactive fountains. Surrounded by the City of Presidents, boutiques, eateries and galleries, Main Street Square is a destination the whole family can enjoy. See more..
    
32. 4.5 Castle Trail (97 reviews)
    - Took this from Northeast Rd
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    Hiking trail that leads through prairie and Badlands country, and takes about two hours. See more..
    
33. 4.5 Dakota Stone Rock Shop (95 reviews)
    - There are 13 or So Rock Shops. Choose This One.
    Mines
    
    
    I've been to the Hills many, many, many times. We love rock shops. There are a dozen or so in the Hills. This one perpetually takes the cake in terms of staff friendliness, location, and selection. They have an indoor and outdoor section. Indoor has the prettier and polished stones, outdoor has the bins where you can pick through and weigh what you want. See more..
    
34. 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..
    
35. 4.5 McCrory Gardens (92 reviews)
    - What a delight!
    Gardens
    
    
    We happened to stop in Brookings, South Dakota for the night while on a road trip. We were looking for a nice place to stretch our legs before we got back in the car. What an unexpected delight! The grounds were immaculate and lush and provided a relaxing respite. The small gift shop sold syrup made from trees on campus and other local craft items. A great place to breathe deep and be thankful for nature. Also a great place for kids to run around—definitely worth a stop! See more..
    
36. 4.5 Lewis and Clark Recreation Area (91 reviews)
    - Nice getaway in Camping Cabin
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    With a quick stop, it took us about 3 hours to get to our camping cabin location at L&C SRA from Omaha, NE. I had not seen many photos of the site where our cabin was located, which is why I decided to take photos to post here on TripAdvisor when we got back from our camping trip. We also rented a pontoon boat from the L&C Marina and had a wonderful time on the lake. We stayed 3 nights in Camping Cabin M in the East Midway section. We have two teens and they loved the time away from home. See more..
    
37. 4.5 Roughlock Falls Nature Area (87 reviews)
    - Beautiful falls and easy walk
    State Parks
    
    
    You can either drive on a dirt road or park on a paved road and hike a mile to the falls. Hubby and I hiked it. Easy hike and falls were amazing. Path was a bit muddy due to melting snow. There was a lot of damaged trees in this area from a tornado a while back. Also, you can either hike from here to Spearfish Falls 1.5 miles, or just drive back down the road a bit and park. See more..
    
38. 4.5 Lost Cabin Beer Co. (87 reviews)
    - Great variety of styles
    Saturday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries
    
    
    Brewery and taproom located in Rapid City, SD - specializing in small batch ales & lagers, barrel aging and seasonal beers. Energetic tap room with a rustic outdoor theme and active Food Truck scene - located across the street from Hiking, Mountain Biking, Fishing, and Golf. See more..
    
39. 4.5 South Dakota State Railroad Museum, Ltd. (85 reviews)
    - Small but packed full of fun
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM History Museums
    
    
    A gathering place for railfans, especially those with an interest in South Dakota railroads. Pictures, facts, and history! See more..
    
40. 4.5 Deadwood Model Train (85 reviews)
    - Amazing display
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    The craftsmanship in this display is fantastic. Very detailed scenery, buildings and accessories. It is an HO display that is much larger than many we have seen. There are numerous trains throughout the layout; For only $1 - you can activate the trains for ten minutes. See more..
    
41. 4.5 Oahe Dam (81 reviews)
    - big cool dam
    Dams
    
    
    Dam and power plant. See more..
    
42. 4.5 Termesphere Gallery (Call for Appointment) (80 reviews)
    - hidden gem
    Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Art Galleries
    
    
    Dick Termes is an internationally acclaimed artist whose work is recognized from New York to Tokyo. Termes spends several months painting spherical canvases know as Termespheres. These unique, mind-bending works of art are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. In the Black Hills, you have the opportunity to visit the largest collection of Termespheres in the world. The Termesphere Gallery can be found in one of four geodesic domes nestled in a valley just outside of Spearfish, South Dakota. Once inside, you can’t help but marvel as several dozen of his intricate worlds hang and rotate before your very eyes. “His art is magnificent and like nothing that I’ve ever seen before. We actually spent longer there than intended because it’s so interesting and beautiful.” See more..
    
43. 4.5 Terry Peak Ski Area (79 reviews)
    - A nice affordable gem
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Ski & Snowboard Areas
    
    
    One of South Dakota's largest ski areas featres trails for snowmobiles. See more..
    
44. 4.5 Belle Joli Winery Sparkling House (78 reviews)
    - Staycation
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    Local family-owned, Belle Joli’ offers still and sparkling wines of unparalleled quality. Arouse your senses and experience the exquisite flavors of our sparkling wine creations utilizing traditional champagne methods. Our state-of-the-art Sparkling House facility features an awe-inspiring outdoor patio that overlooks our 5 acre vineyard, bordering the majestic ponderosa pines of the rugged Black Hills of Sturgis. Visit us to experience the exquisite flavors and atmosphere. Platinum experience are available at 3pm daily with appointment. Your tour begins in our serene 5-acre vineyard of Frontenac vines. Your guide will share with you the history of the Belle Joli' Winery and the love and hard work that brought this local winery to fruition. Then, come inside to learn about how we produce high-quality sparkling wines using the Traditional Champagne Method while viewing the production room where it happens. Complete the tour with a wine tasting to truly ignite all of your senses. See more..
    
45. 4.5 Canyon Lake Park (76 reviews)
    - Absolutely Gorgeous Park!
    Canyons • Parks
    
    
    If you have not been to Canyon Lake Park - go! Now. Don't wait. Its just beautiful! Lakes, ducks, geese, beautiful big, old amazing trees and on a cold day or a hot one, its the place to be. If you like photography, its a great place for that. Nice walking trails and plenty of space to roam and pet friendly because I've seen many pet owners with their dogs there. Go see for yourself. See more..
    
46. 4.5 Angostura Recreation Area (75 reviews)
    - Beautiful!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    Great place to swim, camp, boat and fish! And one couldn't ask for better scenery....this place is beautiful and so clean. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the sun setting...breathtaking! Bathrooms were very clean, too. Even got a long, hot shower at the campground comfort station. Loved that there was a convenience store and someplace to eat on site, too. Had a great stay here! See more..
    
47. 4.5 Wooden Legs Brewing Company (67 reviews)
    - Great local brews
    Saturday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries
    
    
    Wooden Legs Brewing Company specializes in all things craft beer. Fresh beer is brewed on site and is complemented by a large guest tap selection. To go along with great beer, Wooden Legs Brewing provides a selection of hand made pizza, sandwiches, and hoagies. WLBC is a proper brew pub with a great atmosphere in Brookings, South Dakota. See more..
    
48. 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..
    
49. 4.5 Cliff Shelf Nature Trail (65 reviews)
    - Trees - A Badland rarity
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    This is a great trail that is easy for walking and provides some amazing views both of the Notch and from Cedar Pass overlooking the valley beyond. However, the best thing about this trail that are entire group noticed was the trees. The entire area you walk through is a cedar and Juniper forest where trees are encouraged to grow below the formation of the Notch and Cedar Pass. The trees provide an amazing contrast to the other things that are here, like badland formations. Again the combination of the views and the trees make this an great place to visit if you are in Badlands. See more..
    
50. 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..
    

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.