South Dakota Archives - Oh My! Omaha

21 Awesome South Dakota Road Trip Stops

September 28, 2020 by Kim

Is your road trip passing through South Dakota? You’ll need a few pit stops to stretch your legs or grab some grub. I’ve traversed the state enough times to have some favorite stops to recommend.

Favorite road trip stops in South Dakota

1. Wall Drug

After a thousand signs along the interstate telling you to stop, how could you not? Don’t skip this kitschy, fun place. Take your requisite photo on the jackelope, wait in line for the divine doughnuts, and buy the bumper sticker.

Where: 510 Main St., Wall

2. Reptile Gardens

An epic roadside attraction if there ever was one, Reptile Gardens puts you up close to snakes, alligators, tortoises and many more. You’ll spend a few hours here, especially if you attend an animal show. Admission does apply.

Where: 8955 US-16, Rapid City

One of the most well-known free attractions in Rapid City, Dinosaur Park.

3. Dinosaur Park

This is more of a nostalgic pit stop than anything. The seven giant dinosaur sculptures have been towering over Rapid City since 1936. Snap your photos at this quick stop before moving on.

Where: 940 Skyline Drive, Rapid City

Related post: 17 Fun Things To Do In Rapid City

Kids in front of a mural in Art Alley, located in Rapid City, South Dakota.

4. Art Alley

If you want a quick stop to stretch our legs, Art Alley is a great option. Stroll this block-long alley to see the colorful murals and artful tags that are begging to be in your Instagram feed. It is free to visit.

If you want to make it a longer pit stop, stroll around downtown Rapid City looking for all of the statues of presidents.

Where: 599 Seventh St., Rapid City

Exterior of the Chapel of the Hills in Rapid City, South Dakota

5. Chapel of the Hills

It’s a bit of a drive through neighborhoods to find this hidden architectural gem, but it’s worth it. Chapel of the Hills is a wooden replica of Borgund stavkirke, which was built around 1150 in Laerdal, Norway.

There’s also a small museum and prayer trail. It’s free to visit, and donations are accepted.

Where: 3788 Chapel Lane, Rapid City

Inside one of the cabins at Cosmos Mystery Area in Rapid City

6. Cosmos Mystery Area

Wacky optical illusions mess with your sense of balance at Cosmos Mystery Area. This isn’t a quick stop since you have to take a guided tour (especially if you have to wait for the next one to start). It can be a little hokey with the stories about about hot spots causing the gravitational pull to change.

Where: 24040 Cosmos Road, Rapid City

Time a visit right to see the active dig site in action at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota.

7. Mammoth Site

This active dig site is fascinating to visit, even with older children. You’ll learn about the 60+ Columbian and woolly mammoths that have been found there, plus other interesting creatures.

You can roam around after the tour and visit the exhibit hall and gift shop.

Where: 1800 U.S. 18 Bypass, Hot Springs

A waterslide at Evans Plunge — Photo courtesy South Dakota Tourism

8. Evans Plunge Mineral Springs

This place has been around for ages and it still is a hit with kids. You may even feel a bit of nostalgia if you visited when you were young.

If you haven’t visited, Evans Plunge is an indoor/outdoor pool with waterslides. It’s naturally warm thanks to thermal mineral water spring.

Where: 1145 N. River St,, Hot Springs

The Avenue of Flags that lead up to a great spot to view Mount Rushmore.

9. Mount Rushmore National Monument

Possibly the most iconic monument in the Midwest, Mount Rushmore is totally worth a stop. If you have a few hours, there are informative museums and hiking trails…and if you ask my kids, ice cream to purchase.

If you’re short on time, you are able to spot the monument from pull-offs soon the road.

Where: 13000 SD-244, Keystone

10. Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

Located next to a former gold mine, the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center is part-history museum, part-geology, and apparently, part-putt putt. Just kidding. It’s not at all a putt-putt attraction, though I hear there’s a hole-in-one guaranteed there.

Where: 160 W. Main St., Lead

11. “Dignity of Earth and Sky”

This 50-foot-tall stainless steel statue of an indigenous woman is a sight to behold. She represents courage, preservation and wisdom among the Lakota and Dakota tribes. Plus, it’s FREE to visit.

Where: Near Chamberland off Interstate 90.

Parks in South Dakota that are worth the stop

12. Badlands National Park

Most national parks are worthy of at least a day, and I’ll venture to say Badlands National Park falls into that category.

And did we only stop momentarily to take in the sweeping view and then continue on our road trip? Yes.

If you’re short on time, too, drive the Badlands Loop Road along Highway 240 for spectacular views and possibly some wildlife spotting. Estimate about two hours or less for the drive and stopping.

Where: East of Rapid City

Hiking around Sylvan Lake I nCuster State Park in South Dakota

13. Custer State Park

There’s a lot to see here, but if you want just one place to go, make it Sylvan Lake. There’s a beautiful hike around the lake.

Not that you really want to drive even more, but Custer has a wonderful Wildlife Loop. You may be able to get out of the car to interact with the famous begging burros.

Where: 13400 US, US-16A, Custer

14. Falls Park

If you have time to do only one thing in Siooux Falls, stop at Falls Park to admire the waterfalls. If you have time to do two things, definitely add an ice cream pit stop in there at Falls Overlook Café.

Of course, there’s more to do there and Siouxland Families has the scoop.

Where: Sioux Falls, between North Phillips and North Weber and what would be about First through Fifth streets

A tour of Wind Cave, a national park located in South Dakota

15. Wind Cave National Park

Where: 10 miles north of Hot Springs

During non-COVID times, you can take guided cave tours. Short on time and/or have impatient young kids? Take the Natural Entrance Tour since it has the least amount of standing and listening. Also, layer up. It gets cold down there.

Besides the cave, you’ll spot wildlife there. We saw bison, prairie dogs and a coyote.

Storybook Island, a free park in Rapid City, South Dakota

16. Storybook Island

Call it a quirky, free attraction, call it a park. Storybook Island is a one-of-a-kind pit stop that allows families to stretch their weary legs. Inspired by fairytales and cartoons (many that are, ahem, trademarked), Storybook Island features playground structures and scenes that will keep kids busy for at least an hour.

Where: 1301 Sheridan Lake Road, Rapid City

Button for a South Dakota and Western Nebraska road trip itinerary.

Recommended South Dakota restaurants

17. Buffalo Burger and Bun Co. (Custer)

If you want a burger to tell your friends about, get in line at Buffalo Burger and Bun Co. I had the best hamburger in South Dakota there.

18. Firehouse Brewing Co. (locations in downtown Rapid City and in Hill City)

Firehouse Brewing Co. is an excellent combo of pub food and brewery, plus, it’s family-friendly. Both locations have great outdoor seating, but if I had to pick a location, it’s more scenic at Firehouse SmokeJumper Station in Hill City.

19. Purple Pie Place (Hill City)

I can’t say pie is something I often seek out, but the homemade goodness at Purple Pie Place is worth the side trip. And you can’t miss it, the building is literally all purple.

Interior of Harriet and Oak in Rapid City, complete with a VW van.

20. Harriet and Oak (Rapid City)

If your road trip stop is on the early side of noon, get your caffeine and pastry fix at this charming coffee shop in downtown Rapid City. Try the ham and cheese pasty (it’s like a very tasty Hot Pocket).

21. Armadillo’s Ice Cream Shop (Rapid City)

If you want ice cream, this is the place to go. You’ll likely find a line snaking around the block at this downtown Rapid City ice cream shop.

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Plan some memorable stops during your South Dakota road trip! Here are scenic stops, quirky roadside attractions, and historic monuments you will want to see. PLUS, tips on where to stop to eat in South Dakota!

17 Fun Things To Do In Rapid City

July 2, 2020July 2, 2020 by Kim

We’ve been to Rapid City, South Dakota, twice with the kids – once pre-COVID and then again this summer. If you’re thinking about planning a Mount Rushmore visit this summer, read on, since I’ve got a lot of additional activities to round out your trip – and most are outdoors.

Disclosure: We received complimentary passes to some of the attractions in this post so that I can review them. We paid admission to others.

Making Rapid City, South Dakota, your homemade for exploring Mount Rushmore and the nearby towns? Here are some fun things to do in Rapid City when you're not seeing the monuments!

COVID-19 Update

The COVID-19 has had a relatively small impact on South Dakota (or so it will feel when you visit), so many places are open with some modifications. Check out Rapid City’s visitor’s bureau’s website to see what is open and what has a modified schedule prior to your visit.

We drove through Rapid City in June 2020, stopping for two nights. I probably would’ve not stopped had I known how little concern people showed for the global pandemic, especially considering how many travelers pass through the area.

Please be aware that most people you will encounter in Rapid City will not be wearing face masks, even at popular tourist attractions. It was a bit unsettling.

There were some signs at places we stopped, like Cosmos Mystery Area, but no one was following the social distancing request nor was anyone wearing a (including staff).

Even restaurant staff was at about 50/50 with wearing face masks, and even then, a few had them on incorrectly.

If all that concerns you, plan a visit when there isn’t a pandemic.

Downtown Rapid City

Where: The area between Omaha Street and Columbus Street (park near Main Street to be right in the heart of it), and between East and West boulevards in Rapid City, SD.

Cost: FREE

I remember our first visit to Rapid City, and we spent just a short time in downtown Rapid City. And I remember regretting not having more time.

Our second visit fixed that. We allowed enough time for dinner, dessert, running around, and Art Alley.

Evening at Main Street Square in downtown Rapid City, SD

I think the focal point of downtown is Main Street Square, a community gathering space with a stage, sprayground, and nearby shops and restaurants. It’s a great place for kids to run around.

You’ll also find statues of the presidents in downtown Rapid City. It’s one of the more interesting and well-done public art trails I’ve encountered.

Art Alley

Where: 599 Seventh St., Rapid City, SD

Cost: FREE

Art Alley is another downtown attraction to see. It’s definitely worth the short walk if you already plan to visit the plaza area. Different artists and taggers have decorated this block-long alley.

Girl at Art Alley in Rapid City, South Dakota

There are some social messages, some crazy creatures, and a few pop culture references. It’s all amazing.

Side note: If you’ve been to the Art Alley in Lincoln, Neb., this is similar…and much better.

Storybook Island

Where: 1301 Sheridan Lake Road, Rapid City, SD

Cost: FREE

The fantastic free attraction is geared toward young kids. Picture a giant playground inspired by fairytales and cartoons, and then imagine amateur artists creating play areas about them, and you’ll get the sense of Storybook Land.

I thought it was well done, though my husband thought it was all a little creepy.

The kids, of course, loved it.

Reptile Gardens

Where: 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD

Cost: $15, adults (16+); $13, seniors; $12, youth (ages 11-15); $10, children (ages 4-10); FREE for children ages 3 and younger.** These rates apply during the summer and fall season.

** Rates reduced in 2020 because several animal shows are not offered at this time.

The king of roadside attractions, Reptile Gardens is well worth a stop. We visited this attraction pre-COVID, but I do know it is open now (with, hopefully, some safety measures in place).

It’s a fun place for families, with safe animal encounters. When we went, there were animal shows and demonstrations, but they temporarily eliminated some shows in 2020.

Chapel in the Hills

Where: 3788 Chapel Lane, Rapid City, SD

Cost: FREE

After seeing pictures of Chapel in the Hills, I was intrigued enough to insist we drive out of our way to find it. I’m glad we did, since it was beautiful.

Exterior of Chapel in the Hills in Rapid City, SD

This chapel is an exact replica of Borgund stavkirke, which was built around 1150 in Laerdal, Norway.

The structure itself and the nearby museum were closed due to the pandemic, but you can still get a pretty good view of the wooden chapel with all its intricate carvings and peek inside. Details from signs to statues hint at the Norwegian inspiration for the chapel.

There’s also a nearby prayer trail.

Dinosaur Park

Where: 940 Skyline Drive, Rapid City, SD

Cost: FREE

If your kids love dinosaurs or you just like fun photo opps, be sure to stop here. It’s free, so why not? The paved path takes you by the giant statues.

Indoor Water Park at Best Western Ramkota Hotel

Where: 2111 N. Lacrosse St., Rapid City, SD

Cost: 6 passes to the indoor waterpark included with each guest room.

While the hotel itself is nothing remarkable, its two pool areas put it above many other hotels in the area, especially if you’re traveling with kids. On one side are your typical pool (perhaps a little larger than the usual hotel pool), a hot tub, and a small kid pool.

The indoor water park at the Best Western in Rapid City, South Dakota

But the other side is the big draw for kids. It has a zero-entry pool with small slides, a pirate ship, and a few climbable water creatures. Oh, and then there are the two, 135-foot water slides, which my kids went down about a dozen times.

We stayed at the hotel, so a trip to the pool was included with our stay. Beware: There are no lifeguards on duty in either area, though there was technically an attendant by the slide. She was on her phone and didn’t acknowledge anyone who approached the slides, but you know, she was there. I guess.

Cosmos Mystery Area

Where: 24040 Cosmos Road, Rapid City, SD

Cost: $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-11, FREE for children 4 and younger

You know how you can just tell a place is a tourist trap? That’s Cosmos Mystery Area for you. But you go because you know your kids will love it. And guess what? They will.

Kids at Cosmos Mystery Area in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Cosmos relies on optical illusions and messing with your sense of balance, while telling you some silly stories about hot spots causing the gravitational pull to change.

My kids’ minds were blown, so I suppose it was a success.

I was less impressed and also concerned about the extreme lack of concern for the global pandemic occurring all around us. Our tour group was large, and while we were mostly outdoors, we did have to crowd into little shacks for some demonstrations. Our family was the only one in masks.

You can also spend a few additional bucks for the kids to crack a geode. I’d say it’s totally skippable but your kids will beg to differ.

Getting on my soapbox: People are dying. Put on a mask. Yes, we’re all tired of the pandemic. Yes, we all want life to just go back to normal. Wear a mask so we can speed recovery up!

Go to a great Rapid City restaurant

I love finding unique restaurants in a city I visit, and Rapid City did not disappoint. The bonus was that these restaurants were great food foodies and for families.

A few that I recommend:

Harriet and Oak – A charming restaurant for breakfast and coffee in downtown Rapid City. The coffee is fresh and the pastries are tasty. Try the ham and cheese pasty (it’s kinda like a very tasty Hot Pocket).

Firehouse Brewing Co. – Yes, it’s a brewery, and yes, you can bring your kids. Go to the downtown location if you want a kid’s menu. This is pure pub food at its finest.

We’ve been to the downtown Rapid City location of Firehouse Brewing Co. (which has an excellent outdoor seating area), as well as the Firehouse SmokeJumper Station in Hill City (which has an even better outdoor seating area).

Armadillo’s Ice Cream Shop – You’ll likely find a line snaking around the block at this downtown Rapid City ice cream shop. Our waitress at Firehouse SmokeJumper recommended it to us, and it didn’t disappoint.

When we went to Armadillo’s this summer, there was no indoor seating permitted. There were A LOT of people enjoying their ice cream in front of the restaurant. No masks, obviously, while they ate, and no masks while waiting in line, either. The restaurant did, at least, mark off social distancing spots for everyone in line.

Things to do near Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City is a great home base for exploring Mount Rushmore and the nearby touristy areas. A few of the stops you might want to include:

Mount Rushmore (about 25 miles away) – The monument itself is free to visit, but parking is not. We went on our first visit, getting ice cream and touring the visitor center in addition to walking a little closer to the monument. Given our luck at other national parks this summer (all visitor centers were closed), we decided to just drive by the monument instead of stopping.
Custer State Park (about 35 miles away) – I highly recommend visiting this park to see wildlife and to hike around the beautiful Sylvan Lake. There’s a gorgeous trail around the lake that’s pretty kid-friendly.
Crazy Horse Monument (about 40 miles away) – I just learned during our recent trip that there’s a free, nightly light show at Crazy Horse (weather permitting).
Wind Cave National Park (about 55 miles away) – My family took a guided tour of a cave pre-COVID. It gets pretty cold underground, so dress accordingly.
Badlands National Park (about 60 miles away) – Explore the other-worldly landscape of Badlands National Park.
Hot Springs (about 60 miles away) – A day trip to Hot Springs means some time to splash around Evans Plunge, a long-running indoor water park build around a hot spring, and Mammoth Site, an active dig site.

Plan a South Dakota trip

Planning a trip to South Dakota? I wrote a series of posts and reviews of kid-friendly attractions, lodging and a photo-heavy trip recap. Check them out:

South Dakota Bucket List (Badlands Edition)

Nebraska and South Dakota Adventure With Kids

Comfort Suites and Convention Center (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Dakotah Steakhouse (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Evans Plunge (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

The Hills Inn (Hot Spring, South Dakota)

Evans Plunge (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

Mammoth Site (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

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Road trip to Mount Rushmore? Stop in Rapid City for family-friendly restaurants, attractions, and sights. Rapid City, South Dakota, is our home base for exploring nearby national parks, state parks, and landmarks.

20+ Awesome Road Trips From Omaha

September 27, 2020May 9, 2020 by Kim

Who doesn’t love a good road trip? You don’t have to go too far from Omaha to have a fun getaway. I’ve collected some of my favorite Midwest destinations for this post to give you a variety of options near and far. All road trips from Omaha on this list are within a day’s drive, and most are much closer than that. Happy travels!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking the link, I receive a small referral stipend.

COVID-19 update: Please check current CDC guidelines prior to travel. Double-check your destination to make sure 1) you’re not traveling to a hot spot; 2) it’s even open and what the new hours may be; and 3) what the local mandates are.

Road Trips From Omaha

These getaways are just a car ride away. Read on for destinations to consider for your next overnight or weekend trip.

Honey Creek, Iowa

Home to one of my favorite places to hike in the Loess Hills of Iowa, Honey Creek is my go-to destination on a sunny weekend day. Hike at Hitchcock Nature Center, visit the goats and try goat yoga at Honey Creek Creamery, or try the zipline at Mount Crescent Ski Resort (or if it's winter, you know, go ski there).

Tip: Don't skip the visitor's center at Hitchcock Nature Center. It's full of interactive exhibits for kids. In the winter, you can rent snowshoes there. It's next to the lookout tower.

Distance from Omaha: 17 miles

Springfield, Neb.

Home to the Sarpy County Fair in the summer and just south of Omaha, Springfield is an easy day trip for Omaha families. I usually pair a visit to Springfield with a trip to a nearby state park. You could visit Louisville SRA for water time at the beach and inflatable obstacle course and end the day at the old-fashioned soda fountain at Springfield Drug for ice cream. Or, hike Schramm Park and then sip the afternoon away at Soaring Wings Vineyard & Brewery.

Tip: Soaring Wings often has live music, especially on the weekend. Pack a picnic and lawn chairs, and then buy a bottle of wine to enjoy an evening overlooking the vineyard.

Distance from Omaha: 20 miles

Ashland, Neb.

Enjoy a mix of history and nature on a visit to Ashland, Neb. Exit 420 off Interstate 80 will take you to three of the state's big attractions: Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, Wildlife Safari Park, and Mahoney State Park. Just beyond those attractions, you'll find Platte River State Park (look for the waterfall!).

If you're visiting in the summer, Mahoney State Park offers a full day of activities, including horseback trail rides, an aquatic center with a wave pool and water slides, and putt-putt golf.

Tip: Ashland is home to two great wineries. My favorite, Glacial Till, has a tasting room on the main street of town. Try the cider.

Distance from Omaha: 30 miles

Nebraska City, Neb.

It doesn't matter the season, Nebraska City is a favorite day trip for my family. We'll spend a few hours at an apple orchard like Kimmel, and a few more hours at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure. You can also tack on a visit to Arbor Lodge to explore the historic mansion.

Tip: Have a blast exploring the Treetop Village treehouses tucked inside the Tree Adventure.

Distance from Omaha: 45 miles

Lincoln, Neb.

Most Nebraskans make the trek to Lincoln at least once, if only to attend a University of Nebraska-Lincoln Huskers football game. The city has a college town feel to it, with affordable local restaurants, charming shops, and plenty of museums.

Learn about Nebraska's unique history and see giant Mammoth fossils at Morril Hall. If traveling young kids, a stop at the Lincoln Children's Zoo and Lincoln Children's Museum is a must.

Tip: Don't skip the charming Haymarket district!

Distance from Omaha: 60 miles

Branched Oak SRA, Neb.

There aren't too many lakes in Nebraska with sandy beaches, but this is one of them. Bring your RV or tent for a low-key, beachy-y getaway.

Tip: Branched Oak is a large enough lake for boating.

Distance from Omaha: 75 miles

Brownville, Neb.

For such a small town, Brownville packs in a lot of history and arts. Bookstores, galleries, and one excellent winery can found in the town of a population just over 100, as well as a vibrant seasonal music and theater scene.

Tip: Brownville is pretty close to Indian Cave State Park, which has horseback riding, great hiking trails, and an interesting little living history area.

Distance from Omaha: 75 miles

Lake Icaria, Iowa

For a relaxing lake getaway, Lake Icaria near Corning, Iowa, is a well-known secret to Omaha families. This is the place for fishing and water fun in the summer. The cabins are affordable, but RV and tent camping is also available.

Tip: Food trucks stop by on the weekends, seasonally. We lucked out and found a barbecue truck on the Saturday we were there.

Distance from Omaha: 85 miles

Sioux City, Iowa

Sioux City has two of my favorite things: A gorgeous state park in town, and museums. Stone State Park has wonderful trails and is near the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, which has a great nature playscape. For museums, families with young kids will want to go to LaunchPAD Children’s Museum. Art lovers should check out the Grant Wood corn room at Sioux City Art Center. And music lovers should check out the memorabilia scattered throughout the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Tip: Don't leave without a visit to Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe, home to the Twin Bing.

Distance from Omaha: 95 miles

Des Moines, Iowa

Indoors or outdoors, Des Moines has a lot for young (and young at heart) to enjoy. Favorites of my family include the Science Center of Iowa, Adventureland, and Living History Farms.

Tip: One location of my favorite Des Moines restaurant, Fong's Pizza, is within walking distance of the science center. If you time it right, the large Des Moines farmer's market takes place in front of Fong's too in the summer.

Distance from Omaha: 135 miles

Boone and Perry, Iowa

Boone is your winter and summer destination for activities, and the Hotel Pattee in Perry is where you'll want to stay. We've been to Boone in the summer to wander around the beautiful Ledges State Park and ride on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. In the winter, we had a blast skiing and tubing at Seven Oaks Recreation.

Tip: Hotel Pattee's rooms are all themed, and you can request specific family suites with fun themes.

Distance from Omaha: 155 miles

Kansas City, Mo.

My family has had many great adventures to Kansas City, from wild rides at Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun, to hours on end spent at Science City and Nelson-Atkins Art Museum. Oh, and the barbecue is pretty tasty too!

Tip: The City Market is a lively year-round farmer's market that's free to explore. While there, stop at the Steamboat Arabia Museum, another free attraction.

Distance from Omaha: 185 miles

Excelsior Springs, Mo.

I found Excelsior Springs more of a couples or friends getaway than a family destination. Why? The gorgeous Elms Hotel has a fantastic spa with a grotto where you'll just want to relax the hours away.

The hotel is within walking distance of two great stops: A great barbecue joint that offers live music on some summer evenings and the excellent microbrewery, Dubious Claims Brewing Co.

Tip: There are a couple of wineries near Excelsior Springs, including Van Till Family Farm Winery. Order one of their artisan pizzas and a bottle of wine and grab a table on their covered patio for a low-key date.

Distance from Omaha: 195 miles

Niobrara River, Neb.

I have so many childhood memories of canoeing the Niobrara River in north-central Nebraska. This calm river flows through some scenic cliffs that will surprise you, plus the state's famous Smith Falls. I dare you to stick your head in the falls!

This is a popular river for tubers and can take on a bit of a rowdy, party atmosphere on some weekends. Which may or may not appeal to you.

Tip: Valentine is one of the closest cites to use as a homebase. Alternatively, outfitters often offer campsites along the river.

Distance from Omaha: 200 miles

Okoboji, Iowa

A collection of interconnected lakes, you can have as relaxing or active of a getaway as you want. You want to waterslide into the lake at a waterfront bar? You can find it there. Want to sit on a beach by a firepit watching the sunset? There's a place for it.

Our favorite activities we did at Okoboji included a trip to historic Arnolds Park Amusement Park, a bike ride, kayaking, and playing at Dickinson Country Nature Center.

Tip: The Arnolds Park Funhouse Museum is home to the large wooden slide that used to be in the amusement park. You can take all the rides down you want if you have the day pass or just pay per ride.

Distance from Omaha: 210 miles

Clear Lake, Iowa

Clear Lake is best known for the Surf Ballroom, the last place Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens performed. Once you explore the music history of the ballroom, now a museum, you've got to hit the lake and one of several sandy beaches around it.

Time your visit for the Fourth of July for a small-town celebration you won't forget.

Tip: Want a lakeside dining option? Try PM Park. We had a delicious breakfast indoors and then returned later during our trip to have lunch at the outdoor tiki bar. Yes, tiki bar.

Distance from Omaha: 250 miles

Wichita, Kan.

This large city in Kansas is full of surprises, from the exciting children's garden at Botanica Wichita to the amazing animal encounters at Tanganyika Wildlife Park.

Tip: Make plans to watch the lighting of the Keeper of the Plains. This nightly program is awe-inspiring and free.

Distance from Omaha: 300 miles

Quad Cities (Iowa & Illinois)

Located along the Mississippi River and split between Iowa and Illinois, the Quad Cities are a getaway for families. We visited on a particularly rainy weekend, so we spent a fun weekend indoors at Putnam Museum and Science Center, the Family Museum, the John Deere Pavilion, and Figge Art Museum, which has a wonderful space for hands-on art activities for kids.

Tip: There’s a surprising amount of hands-on opportunities at the hidden gem, Fryxell Geology Museum, in Rock Island, Ill. And, bonus, it's free.

Distance from Omaha: 300 miles

Decorah, Iowa

As much as I want to tell you all to go to Decorah for the outdoor experiences, the awesome dining there almost trumps the outdoors. I know!

OK, first the outdoors. Bike, climb a little waterfall, or kayak down one of the most scenic rivers in the Midwest. For food, get a taste of the Norwegian cuisine the city is known for at Ruby's or have delicious wood-fired pizza on a farm where the ingredients were grown and raised (experience it at called Luna Valley Farm).

Tip: Decorah is home to microbreweries that bring in beer aficionados from around the Midwest, including Toppling Goliath. I particularly enjoyed having a beer after a long bike ride at Pulpit Rock Brewing Co.

Distance from Omaha: 335 miles

Minneapolis & St. Paul, Minn.

If all my destinations could be as bike-friendly as the Twin Cities, I'd be a happy mama. One memorable place to bike around the park at Minnehaha Falls. Indoor fun includes Can Can Wonderland, Science Museum of Minnesota, and the hidden gem, the Bakken Museum.

Oh, and there's a little place called Mall of America. Perhaps you've heard of it.

Tip: One of my all-time favorite brewery experiences was at Surly Brewing Co, where we had dinner and beer with friends. The large brewery is surprisingly family-friendly and if the weather is nice, you can enjoy the immense patio and green space.

Distance from Omaha: 375 miles

Fort Robinson State Park, Neb.

A fun place to experience the west without leaving Nebraska, Fort Robinson has trail rides, jeep rides, and stagecoach rides, plus a chance to do a chuckwagon dinner or watch a rodeo.

Tip: Plan ahead if you want to stay at the state park. Their lodging fills up fairly quickly so you'll want to reserve your accommodations early.

Distance from Omaha: 460 miles

Hot Springs, S.D.

Perhaps you remember old family trips to Mount Rushmore, with a stop at Evans Plunge, the indoor water park that uses mineral water from nearby thermal springs. It's still open after all those years (with several updates) in Hot Springs!

Hot Springs is a less touristy stop in the southern Black Hills. Nearby, visit Mammoth Site is a must-visit.

Tip: Hot Springs is a short drive from two beautiful parks, Wind Cave National Park (10 miles away) and Custer State Park (20 miles away). Don't skip Sylvan Lake and the begging burros at Custer!

Distance from Omaha: 490 miles

Mount Rushmore Road Trip

It's the quintessential summer experience: Road trip to Mount Rushmore. Head straight there or make stops along the way, as we did on our exciting western Nebraska and South Dakota road trip.

We explored everything from the fascinating Toadstool Geological Park in Nebraska to Reptile Gardens in Rapid City. Other stops on this road trip included Wall Drug, Badlands National Park, Mammoth Site, Chadron State Park, and Fort Robinson. It's a long trip and the distance below doesn't factor in the extra stops.

Tip: Everyone has to stop at Wall Drug, if only for the photo ops, right? While you're there, don't forget to order one of their fresh donuts.

Distance: 545 miles to Mount Rushmore

Find more inspiration for road trips

Sky’s the limit on these bucket list for Midwest destinations:

Nebraska Bucket List

Iowa Bucket List

Missouri Bucket List

South Dakota Bucket List

Kansas Bucket List

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Inspiration for day trip and weekend getaways in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Missouri, Minnesota and Kansas! All trips are less than a day's drive from Omaha. Summer vacation is just a car ride away. #Midwest #FamilyTravel #RoadTrip

Visiting Mammoth Site With Kids

September 28, 2020July 27, 2015 by Kim

I’ve never had more than a passing interest in dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. But ever since I read about Hudson-Meng Bison Kill site in Nebraska, my interest was piqued on major archeological digs in the Midwest. What would it be like to see a massive dig site in person?

Disclosure: The Hot Springs tourism office provided complimentary admission to Mammoth Site of Hot Springs for me and my family. All opinions and thoughts expressed here are my own.

The question leads to why I wanted to include a stop at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs during our South Dakota road trip. The answer: You’ll be impressed by the experience.

The number of bones uncovered at Mammoth Site is impressive.

More than 60 Columbian and woolly mammoths have been identified there, as well as a number surprising (to me) fossils of camels, llamas and giant short-faced bears, to name just a couple here.

What to expect

Let’s all breathe a sigh of relief: It’s in a climate-controlled building (AKA air-conditioned).

A partial view of the excavation area at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota.

You’ll want to take a tour, which includes a short film in the beginning and a guided walk around the “in-situ” exhibit (fancy talk for bones being on display as they were discovered).

You get headphones to wear so you can hear your guide. My 3-year-old hated them with a passion.

Photography is allowed, but you’re encouraged to wait until after the tour so that you don’t miss whatever the guide is showing next. It’s so tempting, though, to want to snap photos in the moment.

Tools used at Mammoth Site to uncover bones.

After the tour, you’re free to roam, then proceed to the next door. It’s full of interesting replicas, including a mammoth model and a walk-in mammoth bone hut. There’s a gift shop full of books, stuffed animals and apparel.

A replica of a hut made out of mammoth bones in Muller Exhibit Hall.

Tips

We lucked out and saw Mammoth Site Excavation Committee members at work during our visit. However, the people who timed their visit about 30 minutes after us missed them during their lunch break. Time your visit around the noon hour.

It's pretty fascinating to watch the work being done at Mammoth Site. — It’s pretty fascinating to watch the work being done at Mammoth Site.

There picnic tables for lunch time, if you packed accordingly. The tables aren’t far from an outdoor work site.

Near the picnic tables is a work space for the volunteers to sift through dirt to find tiny fossils. You might luck out and catch someone at work.

Near Mammoth Site is the restaurant Woolly’s Western Grill. It’s a kid-friendly place to get a bite to eat.

Bringing little ones here

How did these two do at an active dig site?

My kids are 3 and 5, so not exactly at the grade levels that have been studying any of this in school. That said, they’ve at least read “Magic Treehouse” books and know a thing or two about woolly Mammoths and other prehistoric creatures, so they’ve got that going.

There are items on display at Mammoth Site that encourage visitors to touch, which appeals to kids.

My 3-year-old daughter, Mooch, lost interest early on in the tour; our 5-year-old fared better. The tour guide provides a lot of facts, but there’s very little hands-on things to keep the truly young interested.

I think one of the best options for families with little kids is to register them in one of the kids activities offered there – in the summer, there are two types of junior paleontologist classes, which sound like the perfect hands-on learning my kids would like; unfortunately, it didn’t fit with our travel schedule. There’s also an Atlatl Throwing Experience that sounded intriguing.

Mammoth Site is one of those must-see road trip stops in South Dakota. Get details on taking kids to this active dig site in Hot Springs, South Dakota, USA.

If you go

Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

Where: 1800 US 18 Bypass, Hot Springs, South Dakota

Hours: Open year-round, hours vary depending on the time of year. Details

Cost: Adults (13+), $10.14; seniors (60+), $8.29; kids (4-12), $7.37; kids 3 and younger, FREE. Summer classes are $10-$20.

Website

* * * * *

Planning a trip to South Dakota and Western Nebraska? I wrote a series of posts and reviews of kid-friendly attractions, lodging and a photo-heavy trip recap. Check them out:

Nebraska and South Dakota Adventure With Kids

Canoeing the Niobrara River with Kids

Comfort Suites and Convention Center (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Firehouse Brewing Company (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Reptile Gardens (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Dakotah Steakhouse (Rapid City, South Dakota)

The Hills Inn (Hot Spring, South Dakota)

Evans Plunge (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

Chadron State Park (Chadron, Nebraska)

Fort Robinson State Park (Harrison, Nebraska)

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Hot Springs Hills Inn In The Southern Black Hills

April 5, 2019July 22, 2015 by Kim

Hot Springs, South Dakota, is one of the southernmost cities of the Black Hills, and one that attracts tourists for a couple reasons. The big draws are Mammoth Site and Evans Plunge.

It’s a small town that feels less touristy than many others in the region. Mr. Wonderful and I marveled at the castle-like appearance of some buildings, thanks to the interesting sandstone architecture throughout the town.

There’s also a neat waterfall along a trail that passes through town.

Hot Springs has a waterfall in the middle of town.

So if you have a budding paleontologist in the family or just want to cool off in a big pool, you may find yourself in Hot Springs.

Disclaimer: My family was provided a complimentary stay at Hills Inn in order for me to write this review. All opinions are my own.

Where to stay

Hot Springs Hills Inn invited my family to stay two nights while we explored the area. Hot Springs was a town I had on my itinerary on because I wanted to take the kids to Mammoth Site, and because it was close enough to Wind Cave National Park and Custer State Park. It was a nice homebase for exploring the southern region of the Black Hills.

About Hills Inn

The Hills Inn in Hot Springs, South Dakota

If you search customer-rated sites on attractions or lodging, you’ll find The Hills Inn as one of the top ranked options in Hot Springs, if not the top one. The Hills Inn is a family-run motel with a small outdoor pool and a putt putt golf course connected on site (which is FREE to motel guests). Wally greets the guests at the front desk, he’s a friendly guy.

A view of the putt-putt golf course next to Hills Inn. Guests at the motel can play for free.

As far as motels go, this is as clean as I’ve ever seen them, with a few extra amenities I don’t expect from a motel, like the FREE breakfast. Running from 6:30 to 9 a.m., there is a small assortment of items from fresh fruit and cereal, to bagels and toast…and my kids’ favorite, chocolate donuts.

We took advantage of the breakfast during our stay, bringing our plates, orange juice and coffee to a table poolside. There’s a small dining room off the lobby, as well.

Breakfast poolside at The Hills Inn, located in Hot Springs, South Dakota.

The other amenities I thought were nice touches: A 40-inch TV, a refrigerator and microwave. Plus FREE putt-putt which I mentioned earlier. Nice, huh?

The location

It’s super near Mammoth Site and Evans Plunge. Further afield is Wind Cave National Park (I’d guess about 10 minutes away) and Custer State Park (30 minutes).

Hot Springs’ Freedom Trail is near the motel, and if you walk it, you’re about a mile or so from that waterfall I mentioned earlier.

If you go

Hot Springs Hills Inn

Where: 640 S. Sixth St., Hot Springs, South Dakota

Website

More about Hot Springs

There is a coffee maker in the room at The Hills Inn and there’s some included with breakfast, but you may want to venture out for a cup of joe. Hot Springs Coffee Kiosk was a pleasant surprise for me – good stuff.

As far as dining goes in town, you don’t have a lot of choices, but we were happy with what we did pick. All places were pretty close to The Hills Inn. We had dinner at Woolly’s Western Grill (located near Mammoth Site) and a post-Evans Plunge breakfast at Dale’s Family Restaurant (right across the street from it).

* * * * *

Planning a trip to South Dakota and Western Nebraska? I wrote a series of posts and reviews of kid-friendly attractions, lodging and a photo-heavy trip recap. Check them out:

Nebraska and South Dakota Adventure With Kids

Canoeing the Niobrara River with Kids

Comfort Suites and Convention Center (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Firehouse Brewing Company (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Reptile Gardens (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Dakotah Steakhouse (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Evans Plunge (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

The Hills Inn (Hot Spring, South Dakota)

Mammoth Site (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

Chadron State Park (Chadron, Nebraska)

Fort Robinson State Park (Harrison, Nebraska)

Evans Plunge In Hot Springs, South Dakota

July 22, 2019July 21, 2015 by Kim

Updated: March 22, 2019

Evans Plunge is one of those attractions in the Black Hills that everyone seems to have been to as a kid. I mention it to several friends, and they each recalled a story from their childhood. Some remember the rocky bottom (the rocks are still there). Some mention how cool the waterslides were.

Disclosure: Evans Plunge provided a complimentary family pass for my family to visit. All opinions, thoughts and typos are my own.

My first visit was as a mom, so I don’t have that nostalgic recollection. My kids will someday.

I was invited to visit Evans Plunge on my recent family road trip through the Badlands and Black Hills. It’s located in Hot Springs, a small town in southern South Dakota known for nearby hot springs.

This location isn’t in a natural setting of a hot spring, just so you know.

The waterpark in Evans Plunge in Hot Springs, South Dakota. — The water park in Evans Plunge in Hot Springs, South Dakota.

We went early one weekday morning, so we didn’t contend with other tourists save for one other family. Everyone at the pool at that time was local – kids in swim lessons or adults in exercise classes. It meant no lines for the slides.

Evans Plunge is a spring-fed water park of sorts – it’s mostly a large swimming pool with some fun features like kid-friendly water slide, three larger slides and Tarzan swings. The water is warmer than most pools because of the spring water – 87 degrees.

OK, I did not capture this photo. I didn't dare bring my camera in with me to a pool. I know myself! Photo provided by South Dakota Tourism — OK, I did not capture this photo. I didn’t dare bring my camera in with me to a pool. I know myself! Photo provided by South Dakota Tourism

We got lifejackets at the check in for our beginner swimmers. They weren’t needed in the kid pool, which was 3 feet deep with a small frog slide. They were handy in the larger pool. There are also a couple tubes on deck to use.

The waterslides are definitely for big kids (and parents). I only went down one, and while it wasn’t scary fast or anything, I knew better than to ask my kids if they were interested in trying it out.

Since we were there early, I had to ask for the slides to be turned on. And because of the timing of our visit, the outdoor pool wasn’t open yet (it opens at 11 a.m.). But we enjoyed an uncrowded pool and no lines for anything.

You could easily spend an hour here, and likely more when you’re with kids. If you’re feeling the need for some strength training, there is a fitness center upstairs that’s included with admission. Need a snack or lunch? There is a small concession stand there, as well.

The great thing, I learned from one helpful lady at the pool, is that our wristbands are good for the whole day. You could leave to eat lunch, nap, whatever, and then return in the evening.

If you go

Evans Plunge

Where: 1145 N. River St., Hot Springs, South Dakota

Hours: Mondays through Fridays, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 10 to 9 p.m.

Cost: $14 (ages 16+), $10 (ages 3-15), FREE (ages 2 and under). The 16+ price includes access to hot tubs, sauna and steam room.

Tips: Admission is 50% off if you visit within the last two hours of the day. You can get 10% off your admission if you bring a receipt showing that you’re staying at a hotel, motel or campground in Hot Springs.

Website

Evans Plunge has been a South Dakota attraction for decades. We stopped there on a Badlands road trip to see what it was all about. Read on to find out why it's still popular and what to expect if you take your family there. #USA #familtravel

* * * * *

Planning a trip to South Dakota and Western Nebraska? I wrote a series of posts and reviews of kid-friendly attractions, lodging and a photo-heavy trip recap. Check them out:

Nebraska and South Dakota Adventure With Kids

Canoeing the Niobrara River with Kids

Comfort Suites and Convention Center (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Firehouse Brewing Company (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Reptile Gardens (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Dakotah Steakhouse (Rapid City, South Dakota)

The Hills Inn (Hot Spring, South Dakota)

Mammoth Site (Hot Springs, South Dakota)

Chadron State Park (Chadron, Nebraska)

Fort Robinson State Park (Harrison, Nebraska)

Get Travel Inspiration Directly In Your Inbox

Subscribe to the FREE twice a month(ish) e-newsletter sharing what’s new in Omaha, giveaways, family travel ideas, and more! Subscribe here.