Keystone
Black Hills Playground
Keystone, South Dakota, offers more than just a breathtaking backdrop; it's a doorway to discovery, history, and boundless adventures.
As the closest town to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone is not just a stopover but a destination rich with attractions, events, and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a serene getaway or an action-packed holiday, Keystone accommodates every type of traveler.
The Keystone Chamber of Commerce
Committed to promoting community and business growth, offering members a range of benefits and opportunities for advertisement, while encouraging active participation in shaping the future of Keystone.

Uncover the Secrets of Keystone
What sets Keystone apart? Beyond its proximity to the iconic Mount Rushmore, this small town is steeped in history and surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Black Hills. Unique to Keystone is its past as a gold mining town, offering visitors a glimpse into the gold rush era. Moreover, the town's commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in its carefully maintained 19th-century architecture, providing an immersive historical experience.
Adventure-Fueled Expeditions
In Keystone, every meal is an adventure, and every adventure whets the appetite. Savor the local flavor at cozy diners and upscale eateries that dot the downtown area, offering everything from succulent bison steaks to sweet, homemade fudge that will delight your taste buds. Beyond dining, Keystone's array of activities—from serene hikes in the Black Hills to exhilarating zip-line tours—ensures every day is filled with excitement and discovery.

Explore Things To Do
The Iron Mountain Road Visitors Center & Store
- 24631 Iron Mountain Rd
The Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center & Store offers a unique shopping and educational experience…
Sprockets Fun Foundry
- 221 Swanzey St
Imagine a place where nostalgia and future tech blend to offer an unforgettable adventure for all…
Holy Terror Mini Golf
- 609 Hwy 16A
This unique mini-golf experience, named after the area's last active gold mine, promises to be an…
Spokane Creek Resort Fishing Pond
- 24631 Iron Mountain Rd
The highlight at Spokane Creek is the on-site fishing pond, open to the public and well-known for…
Black Hills Helicopters
- 24035 Hwy 16A
Take your Black Hills adventure to new heights with Black Hills Helicopters! Imagine soaring above…
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
- 203 Cemetery Rd
Rushmore Tramway Adventures offers an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and thrilling activities…
National Presidential Wax Museum
- 609 Hwy 16A
In the picturesque town of Keystone, in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills and a stone's throw…
Carvers’ Marketplace - Mount Rushmore Concessions
- 13000 Hwy 244 Bldg 81
As the only dining spot at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, we invite you to dine with the…
Rushmore Cave
- 13622 SD Hwy 40
Rushmore Cave is a prominent attraction at Rush Mountain Adventure Park, offering an exciting…
Black Hills Glass Blowers
- 909 Old Hill City Rd
Hot! Hot! Hot! Glass is created by Pete & Gail at this showroom/studio. You can choose from a large…
Black Hills Wilderness Edge Adventures
- 1315 Old Hill City Rd
Don’t just see the Black Hills, experience it. Black Hills Wilderness Edge Adventures gives you the…
Big Thunder Gold Mine
- 604 Blair St
Experience the excitement of the Black Hills gold rush at Big Thunder Gold Mine in Keystone! Take a…
Rush Mountain Adventure Park
- 13622 Hwy 40
Between Hermosa and Keystone on Highway 40, Rush Mountain Adventure Park offers an exhilarating…
Ruby House Restaurant
- 126 Winter St
Take a step back in time, come in and enjoy unbeatable western hospitality, and make the Ruby House…
Cosmos Mystery Area
- 24040 Cosmos Rd
Welcome to an adventure of a lifetime at Cosmos Mystery Area, where science, mystery, and fun merge…
Powder House Lodge Restaurant
- 24125 Hwy 16A
Offering a delightful menu that caters to all—from the meat lover’s prime rib to vibrant vegetarian…
GeoFunTrek Tours
- 24430 Nellie Lane
Looking to truly see the Black Hills and Badlands without missing a beat? GeoFunTrek Tours is here…
George's Grille at Rushmore Tramway Adventures
- 203 Cemetery Rd
George's Mountain-Top Grill offers an unparalleled dining experience that elevates outdoor dining to…
Grapes & Grinds
- 609 Hwy 16A
At Grapes & Grinds, we've turned a simple yet innovative idea into a captivating reality. Imagine a…
Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Tour & Bookstores
- 13000 Hwy 244
The Mount Rushmore Society offers a self-guided tour that enhances every visit to Mount Rushmore…
Rushmore Borglum Story
- 342 Winter St
Step into the world of Gutzon Borglum, the visionary sculptor behind Mount Rushmore. This…
Big Thunder Family Bar & Grill
- 308 1st St
Relax on the deck & enjoy a delicious meal or an adult beverage - pets are welcome on the deck…
Keystone Historical Museum
- 410 3rd St
TAKE A TRIP INTO YESTER-YEAR! Walk through the historic schoolhouse that is home to a great…
Celebrate With Keystone at Its Festive Best
Experience the heart and soul of this small town through its lively events and festivals that celebrate local culture and traditions. From the annual Independence Day celebrations to seasonal gatherings that bring the community and visitors together, Keystone's festive spirit is contagious and offers fun-filled experiences for all ages.
Parade of Trees
- The Box Elder Events Center
- Dec 15, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
Christmas Shopper's Village
- High Plains Western Heritage Center & Museum
- Dec 16, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
Ice Rink at Main Street Square
- Visit Rapid City
- Dec 16, 2025 - Feb 28, 2026
Inspecting Carol
- Dec 16, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
Lakota Nation Invitational
- The Monument
- Dec 16, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
Skating & Ice Bumper Cars at Outlaw Square
- Outlaw Square - Deadwood
- Dec 16, 2025 - Apr 30, 2026
Christmas Nights of Lights at Storybook Island
- Storybook Island
- Dec 18, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
Winter Wonderland
- Dec 19, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
1880 Train Holiday Express
- 1880 Train - Black Hills Central Railroad
- Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025
Rest Easy: Keystone's Welcoming Accommodations
After a day full of adventures, rest assured that Keystone has the perfect spot for you to recharge. The town boasts a variety of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts and rustic cabins to luxurious resorts. Each offers its charm and amenities, ensuring your stay in Keystone is as comfortable as it is memorable.

Explore Places To Stay
Bear Den Cabins & Camp
- 13795 Ghost Canyon Rd
Escape to the Black Hills at Bear Den Cabins & Camp where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Guests…
Yak Ridge Guest Cabins
- 24041 Cosmos Rd
Welcome to Yak Ridge Guest Cabins, where comfort meets adventure. This 5-star rated destination…
Hinterwood Inn & Cabins
- 24110 Leaky Valley Rd
Hinterwood is centrally located in the Black Hills a few minutes from Mt. Rushmore & other…
Roosevelt Inn
- 206 Cemetary Rd
The Roosevelt Inn offers a delightful retreat just minutes away from the iconic Mount Rushmore…
American Pines Cabins
- 1315 Old Hill City Rd
Battle Creek bubbles along behind our 6 cozy log cabins. Located on four beautiful acres of mountain…
Kemps Kamp
- 1022 Old Hill City Rd
Kemp’s Kamp blends the serenity of nature with the thrill of exploration, offering you the ultimate…
Comfort Inn & Suites - Mt Rushmore
- 321 Swanzy St
Open year-round, the Comfort Inn & Suites puts you right in the heart of Keystone, SD, just minutes…
Buffalo Rock Lodge & Cabins
- 24524 Playhouse Rd
Located just 3 ½ miles from Mount Rushmore, only 2 miles from the entrance to Custer State Park, and…
Powder House Lodge
- 24125 Hwy 16A
Powder House Lodge offers a unique retreat from the ordinary. Imagine waking up in a cozy log cabin…
Mt Rushmore Lodge at Palmer Gulch - Keystone
- 12620 Hwy 244
Mount Rushmore Lodge at Palmer Gulch offers an inviting retreat situated near iconic Mt. Rushmore…
Rushmore Express Inn & Family Suites
- 320 Cemetery Rd
In the heart of Keystone, SD, Rushmore Express Inn & Family Suites offers an unparalleled lodging…
Spokane Creek Resort Cabins & Campground
- 24631 Iron Mountain Rd
Tucked in the heart of the Black Hills on picturesque Iron Mountain Road, Spokane Creek Cabins &…
Battle Creek Lodge & Vacation Rentals
- 404 Reed St
Battle Creek Lodge & Vacation Rentals invites you to experience the heart of SoDak hospitality. With…
Mt Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
- 12620 Hwy 244
Welcome to a world of unparalleled natural beauty and adventure at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer…
Holy Smoke RV Camping Resort
- 24105 Hwy 16A
Holy Smoke Resort welcomes you to the Black Hills' stunning nature and peaceful surroundings…
Keystone Awaits: Your Next Unforgettable Journey
Keystone, South Dakota, is a destination that promises a rich blend of history, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're standing in awe before the grandeur of Mount Rushmore, exploring the verdant beauty of the Black Hills, or enjoying the warm hospitality of its local establishments, Keystone offers a slice of Americana that is sure to captivate your heart. Don't just pass through on your way to the famous monument; stay awhile, and let Keystone reveal its hidden wonders to you. Make this enchanting town a stop on your travel itinerary, and embark on an adventure that you'll cherish forever.
Up into the Tree Tops: Part 2
- 2 min read
Launching Our Adventure Our journey commenced with the meticulous…
Unearthing History: A Journey through the 1890s at Big Thunder Gold Mine in the Black Hills
- 3 min read
Image Tour the Mine: A Glimpse into the Past Initially named the Gold…
