For most visitors Rapid City vacations are associated with family-fun attractions, yet the city provides a convenient base for the exploration of Black Hills' lesser communities and historic sites. Today Rapid City tourism experiences significant growth, with more and more tourists visiting the city to enjoy its plentiful and diverse attractions, notably Circle B Ranch, inviting guests to go on a trial ride, watch craftsmen work and participate in onsite games.
Visitors are also treated to authentic music, from period tunes from the 19th century to Western ballads. Another popular attraction that should be by all means included into your must-do list during Rapid City vacations, Cosmos Mystery Area is located south of Rapid City and packed with numerous attractions for the entire family. Available here are souvenirs and snacks. Families with children can take advantage of Ranch Amusement Park, featuring a 25-foot wall, two 18-hole miniature golf courses, go-kart tracks, bumper boats and a game arcade, providing exciting thrills and excitement for young travelers. Smaller kids will enjoy colorful bee ride, ice cream and snack foods.
Another kids-friendly attraction, Storybook Island is part fantasyland and part playground, featuring cottages that belong to nursery-rhyme characters of everyone, from Santa Claus to Cat in the Hat. Live animals contribute to the atmosphere of fun and excitement, as do playground equipment and children's theatre.
While enjoying your Rapid City vacation, don't miss the opportunity to experience some of the plentiful outdoor activities available in the area. Thus, visitors are offered excursions to Black Hills Caverns, discovered in the late 19th century opening the whole world of underground spectacle. While a half-tour offers the crystals and ways of their creation, an hour-long tour takes guests on all three levels of caverns and offers more detailed descriptions. Tours are available every 20 minutes.
Though known to Native Americans for many centuries, Crystal Cave Park, recognized as one of top Rapid City attractions, uncovered its amazing beauty in the last several decades. Crystal formations can be observed on the walls, while other mineral deposits are still being created. A recreated Native American village and picnic areas contribute to the popularity of Crystal Cave Park as well.
Discovered in the early 1900s, the Jewel Cave National Monument is a definite must for those enjoying Rapid City vacations and short stays, offering a wealth of beautifully colored calcite crystals along with other geological formations. Today 129 miles of the cave have been already mapped, which suggests that the Jewel Cave is one of the longest such formations in the world extending beyond these measurements. Visitors can take advantage of a lovely park above grounds.
Among other Rapid City sites and attractions are wonderful nature parks, including Badlands National Park, Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park, Dinosaur Park, Wind Cave National Park and Memorial Park offering a wide variety of sights and places of interest.