Head for the Hills Passport
Expiration: 365 days after purchase
Welcome! Let our Head for the Hills Passport expand your horizons in the most entertaining of ways! This free, mobile-exclusive passport will take you on a journey of dinosaurs, water parks, gold mines and other fun found only in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
No cost. No app to download. Just the family-friendliest adventures – and some sweet prizes – that all await your discovery.
Included Venues
See locations on an interactive map.
1880 Town
Embark on an adventure through time at South Dakota's Original 1880 Town. With more than 30 buildings from 1880 to 1920, authentically furnished with thousands of relics, historical accounts and photographs, a Casey Tibbs exhibit, “Dances with Wolves” movie props, and fun activities for kids, visitors of all ages will delight in this tapestry of history, nature and family fun.
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1880 Train - Hill City Depot
All aboard the 1880 Train, an enchanting vintage steam train that traverses the picturesque Black Hills. The rhythmic chug of the train echoes throughout a 20-mile roundtrip journey between Hill City and Keystone, offering a captivating two-hour ride narrated for enthusiasts of all ages.
1880 Train - Keystone Depot
The 1880 Train is a historic train depot. This charming depot serves as the starting point for scenic train rides through the stunning Black Hills countryside. Step back in time as you board vintage steam or diesel locomotives and embark on a journey through this picturesque landscape. The depot also features a gift shop and museum where visitors can learn more about the history of the railroad in the area. Don't miss this unique and memorable experience during your visit.
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Bear Country USA
Big Thunder Gold Mine
Discovered in 1892 by two German immigrant miners, Big Thunder Gold Mine contains the biggest variety of rocks, structures and minerals indigenous to the area. Engage in mine tours, explore the mining museum, and pan for gold. Complete the experience with a delightful meal at the full-service eatery and a visit to the gift shop.
What's Included
- 10% Off With Passport Check-In
Black Hills Caverns
Have some historical fun in caverns discovered by gold miners in 1882. Discover a glittering underground world where nature has sculpted fantastic formations in a beautiful Black Hills scenic setting. Hourly tours beckon you into a mesmerizing subterranean realm.
Black Hills Escape Rooms
Unleash your inner adventurer at Black Hills Escape Rooms, where real-life escape games transport you into the historical tapestry of the Black Hills. Four historically based scenarios promise heart-racing, addictive fun for players of all ages.
What's Included
- 15% Off
Black Hills Mining Museum
Take an engaging and fun journey through rich Black Hills mining heritage. The museum offers a simulated underground gold mine tour that takes you through the history of mining and shows 125 years of changes.
Black Hills Visitor Information Center
The Black Hills Visitor Information Center, located at 1851 Discovery Cir in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the beautiful Black Hills region. This modern and informative center offers a wealth of resources to help visitors make the most of their time in the area.
From maps and brochures to friendly staff members ready to provide insider tips and recommendations, the Visitor Information Center is dedicated to ensuring that all guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience while exploring the Black Hills. Whether you're interested in visiting Mount Rushmore, exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Custer State Park, or discovering the rich history of Deadwood, the staff at the center can provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect itinerary.
In addition to helpful resources, the center also features exhibits and displays that highlight the unique history, geology, and culture of the Black Hills region. Visitors can learn about the area's Native American heritage, the gold rush that brought settlers to the area in the 19th century, and the diverse wildlife that calls the Black Hills home.
The Black Hills Visitor Information Center is conveniently located just a short drive from some of the region's most popular attractions, making it the perfect starting point for your Black Hills adventure. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to discover something new, the center is a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of the Black Hills.
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Broken Boot Gold Mine
The story of one of America’s last great gold rushes comes to life at Deadwood’s Broken Boot Gold Mine, established in 1878. Experienced guides help you discover the mysteries and magic of old-time gold mining techniques. Try your luck at gold panning the same way countless prospectors did. Each guest goes home with a souvenir “share” of stock in this legendary mine.
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Buffalo Hunt Coaster
Get ready for a thrilling ride on the Buffalo Hunt Coaster! This exciting roller coaster takes your family on a high-speed adventure, twisting and turning like a real buffalo hunt in the Old West. With breathtaking views and adrenaline-pumping fun, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Cosmos Mystery Area
Come experience the strangest location in the entire Black Hills, a place where you can change heights on level platforms, stand on the wall, and much more. The Cosmos Mystery Area is an unforgettable experience where science, mystery and comedy all collide.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Marvel at the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving! Witness work on the mountain, enjoy American Indian museums, art galleries, the sculptor's home studio, American Indian artists & performers, and savor the restaurant & gift shop. You can even take home a piece of the mountain!
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
Welcome to where 1,300 bison roam the hills and prairies shared with pronghorn, big horn sheep, elk, and curious burros. Custer State Park’s Wildlife loop is the place for close encounters with these permanent residents along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road that winds around the southern edge of the park.
D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery
Get a fun and educational look at the fish production process at the lively U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service hatchery and museum. Once you’ve taken in the variety of fish, check out the gift shop, historic house and rail car staffed by volunteers and available for educational tours.
Dinosaur Park & Skyline Drive Wilderness Area
Rise above the ordinary at Rapid City’s Dinosaur Park, one of the area’s original tourist attractions. Sitting on a ridge of sandstone that encircles the Black Hills, the area is where dinosaurs of the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous have been found. View the seven life-sized, concrete replicas of monstrous prehistoric reptiles that inhabit the park as you take in a stunning view of Rapid City.
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Evans Plunge Mineral Springs
The oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills has been providing splash-tastic fun in Hot Springs since 1890. Swim, splash and soak in the 87-degree mineral water. A natural thermal spring provides the crystal-clear, scentless water for the pool. There also is a jet slide, a whale slide, two kids’ pools, a frog slide, two hot tubs, a sauna and a steam room, plus concessions and a gift shop.
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Fish N Fry Campground
Fish N Fry Campground is a family-friendly getaway in the Black Hills, where you can catch your own rainbow trout in the on-site fishing pond and enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked meal. Cozy cabins and spacious RV sites make it easy to relax after a day of exploring nearby trails and historic attractions. Families can enjoy a heated pool, game room, and camp store, ensuring fun for everyone. Whether you're fishing, dining, or unwinding by the fire, this charming campground is the perfect spot for your next adventure!
Flags & Wheels Indoor Racing
Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show
Step back in time at Fort Hays Old West Town Square, where 99-cent all-you-can-eat cowboy pancakes await. Explore the “Dances With Wolves” film set, shop for unique crafts, and return in the evening for the Chuckwagon Supper & Branson-style Music Variety Show in the heart of the Black Hills.
Fossil Exhibit Trail
Connect with a prehistoric past along the Fossil Exhibit Trail, a self-guided, fully accessible boardwalk featuring fossil replicas and exhibits of extinct creatures that once lived in the area. The exhibits are tactile, so please feel free to touch.
Four Mile Old West Town Museum
Four Mile Old West town is a place to experience family fun and Western history as you walk through the 50 open-door buildings at the historic site. Step back into yesterday and experience the Old West as it really was.
George S Mickelson Trail (Rochford to Mystic)
With its scenic routes and well-maintained paths, the Mickelson Trail in South Dakota offers an ideal family biking experience. Exploring the trailheads from Rochford to Mystic not only provides a diverse range of landscapes but also a glimpse into the historical charm of Rochford, a once-bustling town in 1878 with log cabins, saloons, stores, hotels, a drugstore, a butcher shop, and a barber shop.
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Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
Saddle up and explore the 71,000-acre wildlife preserve of Custer State Park on a peaceful guided horseback ride. Both beginners and experts are welcome to explore trails from one hour to full-day rides. Anyone 5 and above can participate, but don’t worry – there are pony rides for kids under 5.
Holy Terror Mini Golf
Putt your way through the Black Hills’ most thrilling mini golf course at Holy Terror Mini Golf. Nestled in the Black Hills, this gold mine-themed course offers 18 challenging holes filled with twists, turns, and stunning scenery. Perfect for families, friends, and adventure seekers, it’s a fun-filled experience just minutes from Mount Rushmore. Test your short game, strike gold, and make unforgettable memories at Holy Terror Mini Golf!
What's Included
- 10% Off A Round Of Golf For Each Person In Group.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center
Located in Philip, South Dakota, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center offers a captivating exploration of the Cold War-era Minuteman missile program. Visitors are welcomed by knowledgeable park rangers and can engage with interactive exhibits, audiovisual presentations, and displays detailing the missiles' role in national defense. The center also serves as a starting point for guided tours of missile silos and launch facilities, providing a rare opportunity to explore underground control centers and learn about the realities of the Cold War. With its educational exhibits, immersive tours, and a gift shop for souvenirs, this visitor center offers a thought-provoking experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
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Museum @ Black Hills Institute
The museum boasts a treasure trove of dinosaur displays, marine fossils, and region-specific paleontological exhibits. Dive into the mysteries of our planet and unearth the stories that lie beneath the surface.
What's Included
- 50% Off Admission With Passport Check-In
Old MacDonald's Farm
Your family can enjoy over 100 popular farm animals in a clean, relaxed, hands-on environment. This beautiful farm on the road to Mount Rushmore is a great place to play with many friendly animals.
Pioneer Auto Museum
With more than 300 vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles, the Pioneer Auto Show & Prairie Town just off Interstate 90 in Murdo is one of the largest, privately owned auto shows open to the public. With 42 buildings of exhibits, 60 tractors, 60 motorcycles, toys, animations and music machines, antiques, and an entire Prairie Town, there is something for everyone. The 1950s diner serves burgers, shakes and daily specials.
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Prairie Homestead
Prairie Homestead is an original sod dugout home and farmstead built in 1909 near the northeast entrance to Badlands National Park. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a visit lets you follow in the footsteps of pioneers, see farm animals and rare white prairie dogs, and dress in period clothing as you tour this history lesson about rural heritage. Enjoy our informative video, visitor center, snack bar and large restrooms. Visit our gift shop for real western gifts and souvenirs.
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Putz n Glo Indoor Black Light Miniature Golf
Black Light Mini Golf shines a new light on a timeless classic. Put your putting skills to the test for 18 holes while you enjoy awesome music and artwork in an 8,000-square-foot indoor facility. This mini golf will ROCK you! Putz N Glo also has a great arcade, snack bar, and gift shop.
Reptile Gardens
Home to a unique animal park set in beautiful botanical gardens, Reptile Gardens is a staple in the Black Hills for making family memories. The iconic Sky Dome houses rare and fascinating reptiles, including Komodo Dragons, Axolotls, and Maniac, the Giant Saltwater Crocodile. Immerse yourself in the Safari Room indoor jungle filled with a brilliant array of tropical flowers and plants, along with birds, and reptiles. The grounds are a colorful mosaic of flowerbeds planted each year with more than 40,000 flowers. Visiting with the award winning staff, having a conversation with a parrot, and getting up close and personal to take a selfie with 500-pound giant tortoise are experiences your family will never forget!
Rush Mountain Adventure Park
Rush Mountain Adventure Park & Rushmore Cave offers family adventure with five thrilling attractions in one location. Tour scenic Rushmore Cave, cruise down the mountain on the Rushmore Mountain Coaster, experience the Soaring Eagle Zipride, test your aim at the Gunslinger 7-D Ride, and find your inner daredevil at the Wingwalker Challenge Course.
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Rushmore Tramway Adventures
Climb, ride, stroll, slide or zip – choose your ideal form of adventure around Mount Rushmore’s closest and most exciting attraction. Challenge the treetop obstacle course of the Aerial Adventure Park, cruise down the exhilarating 2,000-foot Alpine Slide, thrill to a speedy flight on the 800-foot Zip Line, or just relax on the Scenic Chairlift ride up to the beautiful mountaintop Garden Café, all with special views of Mount Rushmore.
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Spearfish Welcome Center & Rest Area
Spearfish Welcome Center & Rest Area is a convenient and inviting stop for travelers along Interstate 90 in Spearfish, South Dakota. Situated at Mile Marker 1 on the westbound side of the highway, this facility provides a range of amenities to help visitors stretch their legs, use the restroom, grab a bite to eat, and gather information about the local area. The Welcome Center staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to assist with directions, recommendations, and any other inquiries. The restrooms are clean and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable pit stop for road-weary travelers. Additionally, there are ample parking spaces for cars, RVs, and trucks, making it a convenient spot for all types of vehicles. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, the Spearfish Welcome Center & Rest Area offers a warm welcome and a pleasant break from the journey.
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Sprockets Fun Foundry
Sprockets Fun Foundry is a family entertainment center featuring fully immersive virtual reality attractions, a new state-of-the-art arcade, a tap room showcasing the best regional brews, a restaurant with local flair, and even duckpin bowling!
Storybook Island
Storybook Island offers more than 100 storybook, nursery rhyme and fairytale settings where children can use their imaginations, see a live theatre production, and take a ride on Storybook Island Line through Middle Park.
Sylvan Lake (Watersports Rentals and Lake Loop)
Experience a day of clear waters, sandy beaches, and scenic trails at Custer State Park's picturesque lakes. Enjoy worry-free boat rentals, with beginner-friendly options and dockhands to assist, and return for post-trip snacks or shopping sprees.
Sylvan Rocks Climbing School and Guide Service
They’ve been making rock climbing fun for everyone since 1989. Climbing adventures are available for ages 5 & up, and beginners are welcome! Professional instruction & all equipment are provided for guests at Custer State Park, Palisades State Park, Mount Rushmore and Devil's Tower. Experience the beauty of a summit with friends & family.
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The Journey Museum
The Journey Museum & Learning Center in Rapid City brings together five major prehistoric and historic collections to tell the complete story of the Western Great Plains. Interactive learning experiences give visitors the chance to learn and play every day, and discover that arts, science and culture have no boundaries.
What's Included
- $1 Off All Admissions
The Mammoth Site
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs is an active paleontological dig site, boasting the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world! The current mammoth count is 61, with 58 Columbian and three woolly mammoths. Come and tour this unique National Natural Landmark.
What's Included
- Gift Vial Of Sinkhole Sediment With Passport Check-In
The National Presidential Wax Museum
Located only minutes from Mount Rushmore, the National Presidential Wax Museum is an exciting patriotic experience for the whole family! Meet over 100 lifelike wax figures including every US president, all depicted in stunning visual recreations of iconic moments from U.S. presidential history. Explore the stories behind the faces with a self-guided audio tour narrating the context and history of each scene. Witness the intricacies of the wax sculpture process with a video showcasing the museum’s ten artists as they create America’s leaders out of wax and bring a vision to reality. Give a speech from a teleprompter podium in a spot-on recreation of the White House Press Briefing Room!
What's Included
- 10% Off Admission For Each Person In Your Group.
Wall Drug Backyard
Since 1931, Wall Drug has evolved into a 76,000-square-foot wonderland of free attractions, including the Western Art Gallery Restaurant, which seats 520. Located in the city of Wall, just north of Badlands National Park, Wall Drug offers free attractions, entertainment, food, 5-cent coffee, shopping, the Big Back Yard, a unique mining experience, a Traveler's Chapel, and free ice water. It’s fun for the whole family.
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WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort
With over 30,000 square feet of swimming pools & water slides, WaTiki®️ Indoor Waterpark Resort is the largest indoor waterpark in the Dakotas. Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, the resort complex is more than just a waterpark! We are home to five hotels, several restaurants, and a huge arcade! Your next family adventure starts at our indoor water park in Rapid City.
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What's Included
- Buy One General Admission Pass, Get One General Admission Pass 50% Off