The best things to do in Black Hills

“Creek-side wildlife, elevated tees, and those Badlands-to-Black Hills views make Rapid City Elks Golf Course the kind of 18 that clears the head fast. Weather moody? Hit the golf simulators, grab a lesson or club fitting, then chase a personal best.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Chase that local golf itch this week at Golf Club at Red Rock, a 6,900-yard, par-72 course routed through ponderosa pines with dramatic elevation changes, links-style bunkers, and USGA-spec greens. Open to all with multiple tee boxes, then refuel at Rock Bar & Grill or keep the swing honest in the simulator.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Black Hills Escape Rooms throws you into homegrown adventures like Murder At Saloon #10, Haunted Deadwood B&B, or Zombie Prairie Dogs, where you’ll track clues, crack puzzles, and maybe panic-laugh a little as the clock ticks. Perfect excuse to rally friends this week and remind them who solves things first.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing the big new release or a throwback you forgot you love, Golden Ticket Cinemas Rushmore 7 makes movie night easy this week with online Quick TIX and reliable showtimes. Skip the endless scrolling, pick a seat, grab concessions, and remember why the big screen still hits different.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Reptile Gardens is that rare local standby where you can say hi to giant Aldabra tortoises, stare down Maniac the nearly 16-foot saltwater crocodile, and wander the tropical Sky Dome, then catch snake, gator, or seasonal bird shows... perfect for rainy afternoons or kid energy spikes.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 19, 2026

“In Rapid City, Art Alley is a living, breathing canvas where personal and political expressions stack in vivid layers and can change by the day. Stroll for fresh inspiration, or, if you’ve got a vision, grab a simple permit through the Rapid City Arts Council and add your own chapter.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Rapid City Executive Golf is the city-owned, no-drama nine that gets you from first tee to last putt before the group chat finishes arguing about dinner. Par 29 with 7 par 3s and 2 par 4s, it’s perfect for sharpening wedges or jumping into a league this week.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Dial in your swing at Rapid City Elks Golf Course, an 18 hole, 5,909 yard track with creek side holes, wildlife cameos, and wide open views of the Badlands and the Hills. Grab a bite at the Bar & Grill, snag a lesson or club fitting, and hit the golf simulators this week.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Whether you're dialing in your drive or need an after work nine, Hart Ranch Golf Club keeps conditions pristine and the layout scenic yet sneaky tough. Open to the public in the Rapid City area and named South Dakota's #1 public course by GolfWeek four straight years, with lessons and a simulator to boot.”

“Flags & Wheels Indoor Racing packs everything under one roof: go-karts and Extreme Race Karts, laser tag, paintball/reball, bumper cars, batting cages and a legit arcade. Locally family-run for over a decade in a 47,000-square-foot indoor playground, it's an easy pick for after-work or weekend fun.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 9, 2026

“From nationwide debuts like Forgotten Island and Heart of the Beast to one-off nights like the 2026 Hunting Film Tour, Elks Theatre keeps Black Hills movie nights feeling like an event. Old-school charm, new releases, and popcorn that mysteriously disappears before the previews end.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Meadowbrook Golf Course serves up an 18-hole championship layout where Rapid Creek sneaks into play and mature trees frame every shot, so you can actually justify that new wedge. Voted Black Hills Best by the Rapid City Journal Reader’s Choice, plus a solid practice range when the swing needs a quick tune-up.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Locals know WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort is the Dakotas’ largest indoor waterpark, with lazy-river laps, three big slides, lily-pad hoops, Koko’s Kingdom, a giant dumping bucket, and the Oasis hot tub, plus a massive arcade and on-site eats. When you book one of their connected hotels, waterpark access is included.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Arrowhead is a member community along the Black Hills that blends championship golf, world-class tennis, a pool, fitness, and genuinely good dining into one place, plus a Grand Ballroom for events open to members and guests. Local bonus, it’s the kind of spot where everyone knows your name.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, September 5, 2026

“With the dancing fountains on full splash and family-friendly vibes, Main Street Square turns errands into hangouts. Swing by for Movies on Main this week or just let the kids soak while you sample nearby eats and maybe catch a concert.”

From the Black Hills newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Pirate-themed mini-golf chain with 18-hole, landscaped courses set among waterfalls & caves.”