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4 Available Tour Excursions in Custer
Drive the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, where bison roam freely and sweeping landscapes stretch before you. At the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, explore the park’s history and wildlife. The Needles Highway offers a winding route through jagged granite spires, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Black Hills. Mount Coolidge provides panoramic views of the entire park, revealing the diverse terrain that defines this stunning natural haven. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price: $16.99
Duration: 2-3 hours
Celebrating 40+ years in business! Fly in a hot air balloon and soar over the beautiful Black Hills. Make memories that will last forever. Your Adventure Awaits! Black Hills Balloons flies in the southern Black Hills, making the Custer area, including the world-renowned Custer State Park the heart of our flying area. Your flight will vary over mountains, valleys, lakes and prairies - it's one of the best ways to view the Black Hills; home to elk, antelope, whitetail deer, buffalo and mule deer. If you're lucky, you might even see a mountain lion from our secure gondola! The Black Hills are the only place in the world where you can witness such historic, wild landscape and abundant wildlife from a hot air balloon. Phone hours are 8am - 8pm daily.
Price: $375.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
TWO NEW LOCATIONS - Safe parking. Custer - 615 Washington St. 8:00am Depart Keystone - 519 1st St. 8:30am Depart Custer State Park in the one of the largest State Parks in the nation. Encompassing 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, home to abundant wildlife and adventures. Open-Top-Tours is the only company to offer 6 hour Jeep Bison Safaris to ALL of the Park. Including - seldom toured Mt Coolidge Fire Lookout - spectacular views of the Southern Hills from 6,020 ft. We tour in our unique modified Jeep Gladiators and Wranglers, with seating from 2 to 14 with great panoramic viewing. Perfect vehicles to travel the back country roads searching for roaming bison and wildlife. Our guides are professional, well informed and a 'hoot' to tour with. They will explain local history, wildlife and answer your questions. included: fees, bottled water and snacks. Tours depart Rapid City 8am - Custer 8am - Keystone 8:30am. Lots of restroom stops and extra wildlife/landscape photo ops.
Price: $379.00
Duration: 6 hours
Discover the wonders of Wind Cave National Park with our immersive self-guided audio tour! Wander through one of the world's longest and most intricate cave systems and explore the park’s unique prairie and forest landscapes—all at your own pace. With GPS-triggered narration, our expert guides bring the park’s geology and rich cultural history to life, sharing intriguing stories about the cave’s discovery, the lives of native people, and the scientific marvels hidden beneath your feet. Skip the crowds and rigid schedules—enjoy total freedom, offline maps, and compelling insights without the cost of traditional guided tours. Join thousands who’ve enriched their park adventures with our audio guides—download now and let the magic of Wind Cave unfold! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*
Price: $7.99
Duration: 6-7 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: America/Denver
- Population: 2,000 (approximate, latest available data)
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Custer is from late spring to early fall.
- Visa Requirements US visa policy applies. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries (including EU, UK, Australia, Japan, and others) can enter for up to 90 days without a visa if they have an approved ESTA. Most other travelers require a visa. No special visa requirements for Custer specifically.
About Custer
Custer, South Dakota, is a charming gateway to the Black Hills, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Named after General George Armstrong Custer, the town is surrounded by rugged landscapes, dense forests, and iconic monuments. Its main appeal lies in its proximity to world-famous attractions such as Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Visitors are drawn to Custer for its scenic drives, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The town itself exudes a friendly, small-town atmosphere with local shops, galleries, and restaurants serving hearty American fare. Custer is also a prime spot for stargazing and experiencing the region’s Native American heritage. With its combination of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and welcoming community, Custer is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Custer Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of South Dakota
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Custer is from late spring to early fall. Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a camera for wildlife and scenery. Respect local customs and wildlife, and always carry cash for small businesses. Safety is generally good, but be cautious on hiking trails and around wildlife. Most places accept credit cards, but some smaller shops may prefer cash.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial: A colossal sculpture of four US presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore, symbolizing American history and ingenuity. 2. Crazy Horse Memorial: The world’s largest mountain carving in progress, honoring Native American heritage and culture. 3. Custer State Park: A sprawling park known for its scenic drives, wildlife (including bison herds), and outdoor recreation. 4. Needles Highway: A breathtaking drive through granite spires and tunnels, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. 5. Jewel Cave National Monument: One of the longest caves in the world, featuring intricate calcite formations and guided tours.
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking on scenic trails, wildlife safaris in Custer State Park, rock climbing and exploring unique granite formations, scenic drives along Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road, visiting historic sites and museums, stargazing in the clear night skies, and attending local festivals and cultural events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Custer’s food scene is rooted in hearty American cuisine, with a focus on comfort foods like bison burgers, steaks, and wild game. Local specialties include homemade pies, craft beers, and South Dakota wines. Dining is casual and welcoming, with many restaurants featuring rustic decor and friendly service. Notable eateries include the Sage Creek Grille for its bison dishes and the Black Hills Burger & Bun Co. for award-winning burgers.
Getting Around
Custer is accessible by car via major highways, with the nearest major airport in Rapid City, about an hour away. Local transportation options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended. The town is small and walkable, but attractions are spread out. Taxis and rideshares are available but not as common as in larger cities. Driving is straightforward, with well-maintained roads and ample parking at most attractions.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Custer is from late spring to early fall. Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a camera for wildlife and scenery. Respect local customs and wildlife, and always carry cash for small businesses. Safety is generally good, but be cautious on hiking trails and around wildlife. Most places accept credit cards, but some smaller shops may prefer cash.
Culture & Customs
Custer’s culture is shaped by its frontier history and Native American heritage. The community is friendly and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation and local traditions. Annual events include the Gold Discovery Days festival and the Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, support small businesses, and learn about the region’s history and culture.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..