things to do in custer sd
Custer, South Dakota, is a charming town surrounded by the beautiful Black Hills. Here are some things to do in Custer, SD:
- Custer State Park: A must-visit attraction, this park is home to over 1,300 bison, as well as elk, deer, and mountain goats. Take a scenic drive through the park or hike one of the many trails.
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial: While not in Custer proper, Mount Rushmore is only a 30-minute drive away. This iconic monument features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
- Crazy Horse Memorial: Another nearby attraction, the Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive sculpture carved into a mountain to honor the Native American leader Crazy Horse.
- Jewel Cave National Monument: Explore the third-longest cave in the world, featuring stunning rock formations and underground pools.
- Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum: Learn about the history of Custer and the surrounding area at this museum, housed in a historic courthouse building.
- Four Mile Old West Town: Step back in time and experience the Old West at this historic town, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Black Hills Playhouse: Catch a show at this historic theater, which hosts a variety of productions throughout the summer.
- Custer Golf Course: Tee off at this 18-hole golf course, surrounded by the beautiful Black Hills.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the Black Hills on horseback with a guided tour or rent a horse for a self-guided ride.
- Fishing and Boating: Enjoy the many lakes and streams in the area, including Stockade Lake and Sylvan Lake, which offer fishing and boating opportunities.
- Hiking and Biking: Custer has numerous trails for hiking and biking, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the Black Hills.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for the area’s abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, and mountain goats.
- Custer Farmers’ Market: Visit the local farmers’ market on Saturdays during the summer to sample local produce and crafts.
- Gold Panning: Try your luck at gold panning in the nearby streams and creeks.
- Star Gazing: Due to the area’s dark skies, Custer is an ideal spot for stargazing and astronomy.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Custer, SD. The town and surrounding area offer a mix of outdoor adventure, history, and culture that’s sure to appeal to visitors of all ages.
