Find the best South Dakota Hotels

Top reasons to visit South Dakota

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Explore the breathtaking Badlands and Black Hills, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover charming towns and vibrant cities, where local culture thrives.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of recreational options suitable for all ages.
• Excellent Accommodations: Find diverse lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to quaint inns.
• Thrilling Adventures: Engage in exciting activities that promise an adrenaline rush amidst scenic beauty.

Find great hotels in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a diverse selection of accommodations to cater to every traveller's needs, from family vacations to business trips. With options ranging from pet-friendly hotels to accessible lodgings, you’ll find comfort and convenience in places like Aberdeen's Fairfield Inn or Custer's charming inns. Whether you seek a restful retreat or a central location, South Dakota’s hotels provide a welcoming experience for all visitors.

• My Place Hotel - Rapid City, SD: Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, My Place Hotel - Rapid City offers a modern and comfortable retreat for business travellers and pet owners alike. This hotel features a convenient location that allows easy access to local attractions. With a focus on practicality, it offers amenities such as a well-equipped kitchenette in every room, making it ideal for extended stays. The property is pet-friendly, allowing dogs and cats with certain restrictions, ensuring that your furry companions can join you on your adventure.
• Sonesta Essential Rapid City: Sonesta Essential Rapid City stands out as a perfect blend of comfort and simplicity, catering to both business travellers and pet owners. Situated in a prime location, this hotel provides easy access to the bustling local scene. The rooms are designed with the modern traveller in mind, offering a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation. The property allows pets with specific restrictions, ensuring a hassle-free stay for you and your four-legged friends. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and other essential amenities that enhance your overall experience.
• Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton: A historic gem in Rapid City, the Hotel Alex Johnson is a luxurious 4-star hotel that immerses guests in a rich cultural experience. Located in a national historic building, it combines vintage charm with contemporary comforts. The hotel features refined rooms, exquisite dining options, and a pet-friendly policy that welcomes dogs. With its unique theme and upscale amenities, including food and water bowls for pets, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay, perfect for those who appreciate history and luxury.

Where to stay in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and rich history, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation. Explore charming towns and vibrant cities, where friendly locals welcome you with open arms. Enjoy family-friendly activities, stunning natural scenery, and authentic experiences in areas like the Badlands and Black Hills. With excellent accommodations near downtown, your adventure awaits in this remarkable state, promising unforgettable memories amidst alluring landscapes.

• Rapid City: Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, Rapid City is a gateway to adventure and stunning natural scenery. This vibrant city experiences seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers, with June to August being peak months. Visitors flock here for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and exploring national parks and monuments. Highlights include the nearby Badlands National Park and the iconic Mount Rushmore, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and awe-inspiring views. In addition, families can enjoy recreational areas and water parks for a fun-filled day.
• Sioux Falls: As the largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls offers a delightful blend of urban charm and outdoor experiences. The city sees a steady influx of visitors year-round, with a slight increase during the summer months. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Sioux Falls boasts an array of attractions, including a vibrant shopping district and an entertainment arena. The picturesque Falls Park, with its stunning waterfalls, is a must-visit. Furthermore, the historic college and sports facilities add to the city’s appeal, making it ideal for both cultural and recreational activities.
• Deadwood: Rich in history and character, Deadwood is a renowned destination for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city experiences moderate seasonal visitor patterns, peaking in the summer months. Known for its thrilling ski resorts and stunning landscapes, Deadwood is perfect for those looking to embrace the great outdoors. The nearby Black Hills National Forest offers a wealth of hiking and exploration opportunities, while the town itself is dotted with historic landmarks that tell the tale of the Wild West, providing a unique blend of adventure and history.

Things to do in South Dakota

South Dakota offers an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, boasting stunning scenery and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can explore accessible boardwalks, stay at campgrounds or resorts, and engage in thrilling adventures that promise an adrenaline rush. With numerous options available, adventure awaits those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and excitement of this remarkable state.

Shopping

In South Dakota, you can enjoy shopping at Watertown Mall, which offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. For sports gear, visit Granite Sports, and explore Stone Ridge Commons for a variety of shops in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Explore Dinosaur Park, where you can unwind amidst unique dinosaur sculptures and enjoy tranquil walking trails surrounded by nature. For an energetic day, visit the DakotaDome, where you can engage in various sports activities, or challenge your family at Putz n Glo - Black Light Mini Golf for a fun adventure.

Adventure

Experience Watiki Water Park, an exhilarating waterpark featuring thrilling slides and relaxation areas perfect for families. At Great Bear Recreation Park, embrace the excitement of skiing and snowboarding amidst beautiful landscapes. Wild Water West offers a fantastic blend of water fun and family entertainment for an action-packed day.

Nightlife

In South Dakota, immerse yourself in the adventure vibes at Rushmore Tramway Adventures for some arcade fun. For a touch of romance and culture, catch a show at the Black Hills Playhouse, or enjoy a family-friendly film at Cinemark Century East at Dawley Farm.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Dakota

To save money during your visit to South Dakota, consider travelling in April or December to January when accommodation prices are lower. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, as they tend to be more expensive; opt for a Tuesday stay instead. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly hotels, and arrange your search from lowest to highest price for the best deals. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into one Expedia package can lead to significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in South Dakota are April and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in South Dakota is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in South Dakota is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in South Dakota with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a splendid array of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Key attractions include urban parks, picturesque lakes, and stunning state and national parks, perfect for families and those seeking adventure. Whether you're exploring the breathtaking landscapes or engaging in local culture, South Dakota promises a memorable vacation experience.

• Mount Rushmore: This iconic landmark features the colossal faces of four American presidents carved into granite. Visitors can immerse themselves in American history while enjoying stunning views of the Black Hills, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: As a significant memorial dedicated to presidential greatness, it offers insightful exhibits and a visitor centre. The evening lighting ceremony enhances the awe-inspiring atmosphere, allowing guests to appreciate the artistry against the backdrop of a starry sky.
• Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road: This scenic drive offers an exceptional opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife, including bison and deer. The picturesque landscapes and adventurous trails provide an eco-friendly experience, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Best time to go to South Dakota

The best time to visit South Dakota can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in South Dakota falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in South Dakota falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	13.3°F (-10.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	20.7°F (-6.300000000000001°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	35.6°F (2.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	64.2°F (17.900000000000002°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	36.0°F (2.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	19.9°F (-6.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Dakota

When visiting South Dakota, you can choose from three major airports: BISmarck Municipal Airport (BIS), Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), and Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). Bismarck Airport is 318.6km away, with nearby hotels like Comfort Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites, both offering free airport transportation. Sioux Falls Airport, located 257.5km away, features hotels such as Motel 6 and Sheraton Sioux Falls Hotel, which provide various transport services. Rapid City Airport is 252.7km away, with options like Hotel Alex Johnson and My Place Hotel, offering scheduled airport shuttles. Each airport provides convenient access to nearby accommodations for a comfortable stay.