Custer
Minutes, Not Miles, from Adventure!
The city of Custer stands as a captivating blend where history and nature converge. As one of the oldest towns in the Black Hills, Custer invites adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers to immerse themselves in its unique allure. Here’s why this historic gem should be your next travel destination.

A Leap into the Unique: Custer’s Charm
Custer stands out with its unique combination of geological marvels, historical narratives, and an inviting community spirit. The town’s vicinity to the striking granite spires and peaceful meadows gives it a distinct spot on the map for those seeking serenity and adventure. This blend of natural wonders and a storied past, dating back to the Wild West and gold rush eras, offers a travel experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
Maximize Your Custer Experience
Dive into the great outdoors by exploring the endless hiking and biking trails, such as the renowned 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail. The trails not only provide an exhilarating route through the heart of Black Hills but also offer encounters with wildlife and breathtaking vistas. For those drawn to history, Custer's museums and historic sites recount the area's vibrant past, offering a glimpse into the days of gold discovery and frontier life.

Explore Things to Do
Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company
- 140 Mt Rushmore Rd
Welcome to the Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company. Here, the spirit of America infuses every pint we pour…
The Custer Wolf Food & Drink
- 506 Mount Rushmore Rd
At Custer Wolf every bite captures the spirit of the Black Hills and Badlands. Our casual, yet…
Crazy Horse Memorial®
- 12151 Avenue of The Chiefs
Hidden within the heart of the Black Hills, the Crazy Horse Memorial® invites you to hear the story…
Black Hills National Forest
- 1019 N 5th St
Black Hills National Forest is a remarkable and diverse natural destination that draws visitors from…
Black Hills Balloons
- 747 Mt Rushmore Rd
Black Hills Balloons invites you to explore South Dakota's breathtaking scenery from above…
Blue Bell Chuckwagon Cookout
- 25453 US Hwy 87
Ever dreamt of stepping back into the wild, wild West? Blue Belle Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer State…
Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service
- 429 Mt Rushmore Rd
Sylvan Rocks Climbing School is dedicated to sharing the thrill of rock climbing while fostering a…
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
- 529 Mt Rushmore Rd
Located in the heart of Downtown Custer, South Dakota, Begging Burro Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar…
Four Mile Old West Town
- 11921 W Hwy 16
Experience yesterday in the old west at Four Mile where the outhouse talks. Step back for family fun…
Black Hills Nature Shop by Black Hills Parks & Forest Association
- 833 Mt Rushmore Road
The Black Hills Nature Shop offers a wide variety of unique, high-quality gifts and educational…
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar
- 511 Mt Rushmore Rd
Buglin' Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar offers a dining experience like no other. Whether you're…
1881 Courthouse Museum
- 411 Mt Rushmore Rd
The Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum is housed in the original Custer County Courthouse in…
Trail Rides at Blue Bell Stables
- 25453 US Hwy 87 at Blue Bell Lodge
Explore the 71,000-acre wildlife preserve of Custer State Park on a peaceful guided horseback ride…
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
- 13389 Hwy 16A
Exciting off-road adventure deep into the wildlife herds! Your guide takes you on an unforgettable…
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
- 429 Mt Rushmore Rd
Everything you could ever need for all of your outdoor adventures, under one roof! The South Dakota…
Black Hills Bronco Adventures
- 11388 Pass Creek Rd
Black Hills Bronco Adventures offers open-top Bronco tours that highlight the area's landscapes and…
Black Hills Playhouse - Theatre 605
- 24834 S Playhouse Rd
The Black Hills Playhouse, in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, is where theater lovers gather…
Jewel Cave National Monument
- 11149 US Hwy 16 Bldg B12
Jewel Cave National Monument, the third-longest cave in the world, protects a remarkable underground…
Festivities for Every Traveler
Embrace the festive spirit of Custer as the town comes alive with events and festivals throughout the year. These gatherings are a testament to the area’s rich culture and traditions, offering visitors an authentic slice of local life. From seasonal celebrations to commemorations of historical events, each festival provides unique entertainment, arts, crafts, and culinary delights, creating lasting memories for visitors of all ages.

Badlands National Park Ranger Programs
- Badlands National Park
- Jun 25, 2026 - Sep 7, 2026
Evening Lighting Ceremony at Mount Rushmore
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
- Jun 25, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Kadoka Buffalo Stampede
- Jun 25, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
Live on the Lawn
- Visit Rapid City
- Jun 25, 2026 - Jul 30, 2026
Native American Performers and Storytellers at Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Jun 25, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Pub Talks at Dakota Shivers Brewing
- Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center
- Jun 25, 2026 - Jul 16, 2026
Rapid City Summer Nights
- Jun 25, 2026 - Aug 20, 2026
Sunset Sessions at The Canyon Grille
- Canyon Grille
- Jun 25, 2026 - Jul 30, 2026
Black Hills Bluegrass & BBQ Festival
- Elk Creek Resort
- Jun 26, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
Downtown Friday Nights
- Visit Spearfish
- Jun 26, 2026 - Aug 28, 2026
Fine Arts In the Hills Show & Sale
- Jun 26, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
Main Street Arts & Crafts Festival
- Jun 26, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026

Rest Your Head with Ease: Accommodations in Custer
After a day of adventure and exploration, Custer offers a variety of accommodations to cater to your comfort and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a rustic cabin in the woods, or a convenient hotel in the heart of the town, Custer's array of lodging options ensures a restful stay. Each accommodation choice provides the perfect basecamp for your Black Hills adventure, blending convenience with the warm hospitality South Dakota is known for.
Explore Places to Stay
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort
- 35 South 4th St
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort sits at the heart of Custer, South Dakota, offering a one-of-a-kind…
Outlaw Ranch
- 12703 Outlaw Ranch Rd
Outlaw Ranch in South Dakota’s Black Hills offers a dynamic blend of faith-based programs, outdoor…
Calamity Peak Lodge
- 12557 US Hwy 16A
Calamity Peak Lodge & Cabins invites you to enjoy a welcoming stay. Located along French Creek, a…
State Game Lodge at Custer State Park
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
Nestled in the heart of Custer State Park, the State Game Lodge stands as the park's largest resort…
Creekside Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
This lodge is on the grounds of the State Game Lodge features 30 luxurious, over sized rooms with…
Custer/Crazy Horse/Black Hills KOA
- 12021 W US Hwy 16
Surrounded by beautiful ponderosa pines just three miles west of Custer, Custer/Crazy Horse/Black…
Blue Bell Lodge
- 25453 Hwy 87
Blue Bell Lodge invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the tranquility and…
Elk Haven Vacation Cabins
- 25050 Little Italy Rd
Elk Haven Cabins offers a unique retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Just minutes from…
Sunset RV Park
- 12246 Sunset Ln
A cozy, boutique‑style getaway designed especially for couples, adults, and seniors. Sunset RV Park…
Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins
- 15 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Within the serene settings of a 10-acre land that borders the National Forest, Rock Crest Lodge &…
Gold Valley Camp
- 12598 US Hwy 16A
Gold Valley Camp is a premier camping destination located just half a mile from the west entrance to…
Beaver Lake Campground
- 12005 W Hwy 16
Beaver Lake Campground is the perfect basecamp for exploring the Black Hills. Nestled in the pines…
Nomad Vancamp & RV Park
- 144 S 4th St
Nomad Vancamp & RV Park places you in the heart of Downtown Custer, South Dakota, for a true Black…
Frenchy's Hideaways
- 12251 Aviation Way
Welcome to the beautiful Black Hills—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always…
Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn
- 310 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Experience classic Black Hills hospitality at Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn in Custer. Surrounded…
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Cabins
- 12350 Moss Rock Ln
Experience fresh mountain air and quiet comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Cabins, your…
Needles Nook
Escape to a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Black Hills. Nestled on 10 private acres minutes…
Spokane Creek Resort Cabins & Campground
- 24631 Iron Mountain Rd
Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground is a welcoming getaway nestled along scenic Iron Mountain Road…
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Custer
- 433 W Mt Rushmore Rd
Get more out of your vacation at Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Here, everything is designed to keep…
Legion Lake Lodge
- 13389 US Hwy 16A
Perfect for young families! Private cabins with lake views. Dockside Grill features tableside…
Why Custer Should Be Your Next Destination
In conclusion, the City of Custer invites travelers to immerse themselves in a world where the grandeur of nature meets the rich tapestry of American history. It’s a destination that promises not only a retreat into the breathtaking landscapes of South Dakota but also an enriching journey through the cultural and historical essence of the Black Hills region.

