City of Presidents Walking Tour
Free
History & Culture
42 life-size bronze statues of every U.S. president stand on the street corners of downtown Rapid City in one of America's most unique free public art installations. A completely free self-guided walking tour takes you through the entire downtown, with a free audio tour available on your phone for each statue.
Address: Downtown Rapid City, SD (Main St & St. Joseph St area)
Tip: Download the free mobile tour app for audio narration at each statue. The full loop covers all 42 presidents and takes about 90 minutes at a leisurely pace. Great to combine with dinner or coffee in the walkable downtown.
🌐 Official Website
Dinosaur Park
Free
Parks & Nature
Seven large concrete dinosaur sculptures built in 1936 stand atop a pine-covered hill above Rapid City, offering sweeping panoramic views of the city and Black Hills beyond — all completely free. A quirky, beloved South Dakota landmark that's been delighting visitors for nearly 90 years.
Address: 940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701
Tip: Open daily 5am–10pm. The hilltop views of Rapid City and the surrounding Black Hills are worth the trip alone. Easy 5-minute walk from the parking area to the main sculptures.
🌐 Official Website
Storybook Island
Free (carousel & train rides $3 each)
Parks & Nature
A free 8.5-acre family theme park that has enchanted visitors since 1959, with large sculptures of beloved storybook and cartoon characters — from Wizard of Oz to Winnie-the-Pooh — set along Rapid Creek. Always free to enter, making it one of the best family-friendly free attractions in the Black Hills region.
Address: 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702
Tip: Open seasonally May 23 – September 7, 9am–7pm. The vintage carousel and miniature train rides are optional at $3 each. A great shaded stop on a hot summer afternoon.
🌐 Official Website