Rapid City Travel Attractions, Tourism

Rapid City is South Dakota's second largest city having a population of 93,000 individuals. In 2005, Forbe's Magazine listed Rapid City as number six (6) on the list of the best smaller metro area in which to jump start a business or a career.

This small metropolitan area lies among the state's and the country's oldest mountain range – the Black Hills. The history of this area has been shaped by the formation of this natural wonder, with its rugged terrain and abundant minerals. In the early days, Rapid City was best known for the gold that was found in the Black Hills.

Intent on seeking wealth, early prospectors defied government prohibitions against white settlements, which were enacted following hundreds of bloody conflicts with the indigenous Lakota. Although things have settled down in subsequent years, the area's natural beauty remains constant. More than 300 miles of streams (including Rapid Creek, which gave the town its name) thread through the Black Hills, making Rapid City a common jumping-off point for trout fishing. Hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing also contribute to the town's status as one of South Dakota's most vibrant, most visited cities. Rapid City is the place to start to see some of the most intriguing and beautiful attractions in America: the inspirational Mt. Rushmore National Memorial, the visionary Crazy Horse Memorial, and the tranquil Black Hills National Forest with its abundant wildlife. There are herds of buffalo roaming Custer State Park, the Badlands and Devils Tower. The City of Rapid City also hosts many fun and educational events and is the home to many great and entertaining attractions. Come and enjoy all that Rapid City and the surrounding area has to offer.