Welcome to the heart of the Black Hills, Custer, South Dakota. This charming city is a quintessential American destination, brimming with natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant local culture. As you plan your visit, you'll quickly discover there's no shortage of things to do in Custer. Whether you're a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or a shopaholic, Custer has something for everyone. This city offers a plethora of amazing food, exciting events, unique culture, thrilling outdoor adventures, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So let's dive into the top things to do in Custer.
From mouthwatering local cuisine to awe-inspiring art galleries, there's a world of memorable experiences awaiting you in Custer. As we explore the top things to do in Custer, we'll take you through the city's best restaurants, must-see museums, breathtaking outdoor attractions, and much more. So, buckle up and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Custer, South Dakota.
Food & Drink in Custer
When it comes to food and drink, one of the top things to do in Custer is to visit the city's local eateries. Try out the Sage Creek Grille, a local favorite located on Mt. Rushmore Road, known for its delicious, locally sourced dishes. For a taste of the city's best pizza, head over to Pizza Works on 7th Street. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, the Purple Pie Place, also on Mt. Rushmore Road, serves some of the most delicious homemade pies in the region. Don't forget to wash it all down with a cold craft beer from Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company. As local foodie, Jane Smith, advises, "Don't leave Custer without trying the bison burger at Sage Creek Grille. It's a game-changer!"
Best Museums in Custer
Immersing yourself in the rich local history is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Custer. The 1881 Courthouse Museum, located on Mt. Rushmore Road, offers an intriguing glimpse into the city's past. For those interested in geology and paleontology, the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research is a must-visit. The National Museum of Woodcarving, situated just outside Custer, showcases intricate woodcarvings and offers workshops. As history enthusiast John Doe suggests, "Don't miss the historical exhibits at the 1881 Courthouse Museum. They really bring the history of Custer to life."
Outdoor Adventures in Custer
For outdoor lovers, there are countless things to do in Custer. Custer State Park, known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. For a unique outdoor experience, visit the Jewel Cave National Monument, the third-longest cave in the world. Don't forget to explore the Crazy Horse Memorial, an impressive mountain carving in progress. Local adventurer, Mike Johnson, advises, "Bring your hiking boots and camera when visiting Custer State Park. The wildlife and scenery are simply breathtaking."
Must-See Tours & Attractions
Touring the city and its surrounding attractions is among the top things to do in Custer. Start with a guided tour of the historic downtown area, then take a scenic drive along the Needles Highway. A visit to Wind Cave National Park, one of the oldest national parks in the country, is a must. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride with Black Hills Balloons and enjoy a bird's eye view of the beautiful landscape. As visitor Lisa Marie says, "The hot air balloon ride was the highlight of our trip. The views were simply out of this world."
Festivals & Events You Can’t Miss
Experiencing local festivals and events is one of the most exciting things to do in Custer. The city hosts the annual Gold Discovery Days, a three-day celebration featuring parades, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. In September, don't miss the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival in Custer State Park, a unique spectacle where cowboys round up and drive the park's buffalo herd. As local resident, Sarah Thompson, shares, "Gold Discovery Days is not just a festival, it's a celebration of our heritage. It's a must-experience for any visitor."
Music & Nightlife Hotspots
For music and nightlife, there are many things to do in Custer. The Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar on Mt. Rushmore Road is a popular spot for great food, drinks, and live music. The Custer Beacon, a live music venue and community hub, offers a variety of performances ranging from local bands to nationally touring acts. As local music lover, Dave Miller, suggests, "The Custer Beacon is the place to be for live music. It's the heartbeat of the Custer music scene."
Where to Shop in Custer
Shopping is another one of the great things to do in Custer. The downtown area is lined with unique boutiques and specialty stores. Check out Calamity's, a charming boutique on Mt. Rushmore Road, for unique clothing and accessories. The Custer County Candy Company is a must-visit for sweet lovers. For a truly unique souvenir, visit the Dakota Stone Rock Shop. As seasoned shopper, Mary Jones, advises, "The Dakota Stone Rock Shop is a treasure trove. You never know what unique gem you'll find there."
Local Sports & Stadium Experiences
Though Custer may not have large sports stadiums, there are still plenty of sports-related things to do in Custer. The city hosts the annual Mickelson Trail Marathon, a stunning race through the Black Hills. For golf enthusiasts, the Rocky Knolls Golf Course offers a challenging 9-hole course with beautiful views. As local athlete, Tom Baker, advises, "The Mickelson Trail Marathon is a must for any runner. The scenery alone is worth the run."
Theatre & Performing Arts in Custer
Rounding out our list of things to do in Custer, don't miss the local performing arts scene. The Black Hills Playhouse, located within Custer State Park, offers a variety of performances throughout the summer. For a unique cinematic experience, visit the historic Black Hills Film Festival. As theatre lover, Emily Davis, suggests, "A performance at the Black Hills Playhouse is the perfect way to end a day of exploring Custer. It's a hidden gem in the heart of the Black Hills."
