Families, couples, and groups searching for things to do in Hot Springs (SD) have absolutely nothing to worry about and can bring their search to an end because, in this article, we will list the most amazing things to do in Hot Springs (SD).
This is a city and County Seat of Fall River County, South Dakota, United States. The city has a population of 3,395 based on the census carried out in 2020. The city has been known for its warm spring for thousands of years.
The city is also famous for its healing spring and used to be a health spa following its warm mineral springs. And the warm spring was considered consecrated by the Natives of Sioux and Cheyenne.
Hot Spring (SD) is filled with numerous attractions, from prairies, sparkling springs, and red rock canyons to national landmarks, hiking trails, woolly mammoths, and cultural sites. You can’t be in search of what to do here.
Make no more hesitations and begin planning your trip to this wonderful, beautiful, and breathtaking scenery.
Take a look at some of the exciting attractions in Hot Springs (SD):
Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD)
1. Go on an adventure along the Minnekahta Trailhead
The best location for hiking, biking, and geocaching in the Black Hills’ forests and mountains is the Minnekahta Trailhead on the George S. Mickelson Trail rail trail. Off US Highway 18, you can find it between Edgemont and Hot Springs.
Give Sunrise Ranch a shot if you’re looking for hotels near Hot Springs. From the Minnekahta Trailhead, it takes about 12 minutes to drive there. Situated at the foot of the Dark Slopes, you can partake in the unwinding, isolation, and diversion of farm life.
Take trail rides, go climbing, go hunting, or partake in farm tasks. There are six RV hookups outside the lodge, which can hold 16 guests.
Address: US-18, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Go on a trip to Mount Rushmore National Monument
Situated in Cornerstone, Mount Rushmore National Park is about an hour’s drive from Underground aquifers. If you’re this close, you can’t pass up this chance to check it off your bucket list. The faces of Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Theodore Roosevelt can be seen on the granite sculpture, which is 60 feet tall. Take a directed visit or investigate at your own speed.
While you’re there, and after taking a few selfies with the previous presidents, look at the Lincoln Borglum Guest Center and the Stone Carver’s Studio. Look at exhibits, and listen to the ranger talk about the monument. Maps of trails and sites can be found at visitor centers.
The Presidential Trail brings you closer to the monument while you observe the natural environment and wildlife in the area. Appreciate frozen yogurt or lunch at the Carver’s Bistro subsequently.
In the Black Elk Wilderness, the one-mile gravel Blackberry Trail connects with the Centennial Trail for additional hiking opportunities. There are picnic tables, small water crossings, wooden bridges, and stunning views along the trail.
Address: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, United States
3. Go on a trail ride at the Sage Meadow Ranch
On a vast acre of pines, rolling hills, and grassland is the Sage Meadow Ranch.
It is close to the historic and picturesque Red Canyon. The grassland is home to antelopes, deer, elk, and other animals. You may be fortunate to consider a mountain lion to be well.
Bring the kids along so they can enjoy saddling their beautiful horses. Follow the rules to have a great time riding horses because Holly, the ranch’s owner, is very concerned about people’s safety.
After a strenuous hike, Sage Meadow Ranch is close to the Minnekahta Trailhead, so you could plan a trail ride there.
Address: 26840 Iron Shoe Trail, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Spearfish (SD)
Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD) At Night
1. Get pampered at the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa
Moccasin Springs is a natural mineral spa in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota where tired bodies can find rest and healing.
While the spa, initially considered the Dark Slopes Spa, found its starting points in 1881, the waters at this normal spring are said to have been utilized for more than a hundred years by native individuals.
In this slipper-molded pool, the mineral waters of the red stone are said to carry recuperation and rejuvenation to everyone who visits. Today, this hillside resort offers its guests the opportunity to relax and take in the view of pine trees while they soak in the water.
Moccasin Springs has four outdoor natural spring pools combining the best rustic and modern design. The pools typically have temperatures between 88 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit (31 and 39 degrees Celsius).
Address: 1829 Minnekahta Ave, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Spend some time at Wooly’s Grill and Cellar
The Wooly’s Grill and Cellar started as a drive-through spot furnishing its benefactors with Newly made smoothies and espresso in Southern Dark Slopes in Natural Aquifers, SD. It has evolved into a well-known farmhouse-style restaurant in recent years.
It is a wealthy café with an agreeable, warm inside, many wonderfully outfitted feasting spaces, a great Basement, and unimaginable dishes ready by an expert gourmet specialist.
Wolly’s Grill and Cellar is a most loved spot for local people, particularly for festivities and exceptional events. The café is committed to preparing charbroiled steaks and barbecued food varieties served, heated potato, Texas toast, green beans, rice pilaf, buttered corn, and prepared beans.
It has a salad bar with the best local, fresh, seasonal goods. The café additionally furnishes guests with connoisseur espresso and smoothie bars during standard business periods.
Address: 1648 US Highway 18 (Truck Bypass), 1648 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Get fabulous fabrics at the Heartsong Quilts
Ann and Brian Powers started Heartsong Quilts in 2008 to bring their love of quilting and crafting to the Black Hills community.
The nation is familiar with this quilt shop. It furnishes guests with superb textures like Marcia Derse, Australian Aboriginals, Kaffe Fassett, Frond, and crude moderns.
They are concentrating on making quilting kits, patterns by Jen Kingwell, and the materials needed to make them. They also sell books, local fabrics, quilt kits, and other items.
Be sure to visit this location to see all the amazing things it has installed for you, whether you are just starting out in quilting or an expert already.
Address: 345 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD) For Couples
1. Relax at the Angostura Recreation Area
One of the best places to visit in Hot Springs, South Dakota, is the Angostura Recreation Area, one of the vast reservoirs in western South Dakota. The Lake is a great place for water sports like boating, swimming, and fishing due to its crystal-clear waters and aquatic life.
The Agency of Recovery built the Dam in 1949 over the Cheyenne Waterway. The dam likewise prompted the fruitful foundation of an entertainment region. The Spanish word for “narrows” is “angostura.”
The Augusta Reservoir is a haven for water enthusiasts with breathtaking views. Guests who couldn’t want anything more than to go fishing could possibly get different sorts of fish, like crappie, smallmouth bass, and walleye. The reservoir is also home to largemouth bass, perch, bluegill, and northern pike.
Boat ramps, campgrounds, cabins for campgrounds, concession stands, picnic tables, and other amenities are also available in the Recreational Area.
Address: 13157 N Angostura Rd, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Get a feel of nature at the Custer State Park
In honor of Lt. Colonel George Armstrong, Custer’s Custer State Park in the Black Hills has 71,000 acres of trees, plants, and clever wildlife in a balanced ecosystem.
This Hot Springs park is famous for boating, biking, bird watching, and fishing.
Custer State Park Resort has modern cabins and hotel rooms, four private lodges with restaurants, and guided activities within the park.
The retreat is 21 miles south of Quick City along the Peter Norbeck Picturesque Turnpike. The herd of 1,300 free-ranging buffalo should not be missed.
Address: South Dakota, United States
3. Get comfortable at the Red Rock River Resort
The Red Rock River Resort can be found in the center of the famous Hot Spring district. One of the magnificent sandstone structures built by local artisans serves as the basis for the Resort.
The building has been around since 1891 when many tourists came to see the healing waters and warm, dry climate.
The Resort has comfortable rooms and complete spa services. A lot of people from all over the world visit the place.
Visit their Spa Minnekahta because they have everything you need to unwind, refuel, and unwind. Minnesota means “warm water” in the Lakota Sioux language.
Additionally, the Resort is ideal for hosting weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. The Fall River and the stunning Minnekahta Valley can be seen from this location.
Address: 603 N River St US-385, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD) For Kids
1. Take the kids to Evans Plunge Mineral Springs
Evans Plunge Mineral Springs is a tomfoolery and reviving indoor water park with all year 87-degree climate. At this fun location, you can unwind, re-energize, and exercise.
At Evans Plunge, you can have fun with slides, two hot tubs, water volleyball and basketball, two pools for kids, a steam room, and more. A thermal spring at the end of the pool keeps the water at this local swimming hole with thermal springs toasty warm. It permits the pool to receive 5,000 gallons of water per minute.
Because Native Americans used it for drinking and bathing, the largest spring at the park’s north end is called the “original Indian spring.”
Address: 1145 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Have fun with the kids at the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs is one of the best things to do in Hot Springs, South Dakota. It is a museum and working paleontological site near Hot Spring, South Dakota.
The site is settled inside an ancient sinkhole framed and consequently loaded up with flotsam and jetsam at the hour of the Pleistocene. The trash filling the sinkholes contains fauna and vegetation that were monitored by covering them in the sinkhole.
The remains of 61 Mammoths, three woolly mammoths, and 58 North American Columbians can be found at the Mammoth Site. The most mammoth remains in the world can be found at this location.
The bones that were discovered at the time now make up a substantial collection of mammoth remains, and the museum that surrounds the site of the mammoth was established in 1974. Visitors can take guided tours, enroll in summer classes, and play games through this website.
Address: 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Learn history at the Pioneer Museum
The Pioneer Museum is housed in the former elementary school, a four-story sandstone structure on a hill in the town’s center.
The Fall River County Historical Society controls the Pioneer Museum. It comprises a few credible relics from early times. The exhibits here tell Fall River County’s story.
Local artisans’ works, such as marble, sandstone, and alabaster paintings and sculptures, are displayed in the exhibits.
In addition, it contains several significant photographs of Hot Springs and the Black Hills, as well as well-known prints and early luxury tapestries and quilts.
The Museum also features kerosene lamps, locally made tools, old washing machines, wood cook stoves, and other tools that early farmers and ranchers used daily. This should be on your bucket list of things to do in Hot Springs, SD, especially if you are a historian.
Address: 300 N Chicago St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Indoor Activities To Do In Hot Springs (SD) For Adults
1. Start your day with a refreshing cup of coffee at Mornin’ Sunshine Coffee House
Mornin’ Sunshine Coffee House is a charming boutique and café in a small town where you can start your day with a delicious breakfast and a cup of coffee.
While the Mornin’ Sunshine Coffee House, as its name would propose, is famous for the morning meal swarm, it additionally serves fabulous snacks and suppers while giving supporters other privately made shop products to bring back home.
The seasonal breakfast menu at the coffee shop includes all of the best and most traditional breakfast options. However, first-timers will surely enjoy the Mornin’ Sunshine Platter, Classic Reuben, Hot American, and other options.
Address: 509 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Get something new at the Fall River Fibers
There are a lot of natural fibers and yarns for weaving and spinning in the shop. Hand-spun yards used looms, and brand-name looms, supplies, wheels, and dye are also available.
The Fall Rivers Fibers offer modified programs for individuals and little gatherings. Additionally, there is a room where Terry Slagel creates handcrafted home accessories. If you love fiber things, there ought to be an unquestionable requirement when you visit.
Their employees are always available to assist you with a beautiful fiber experience and are excellent at their jobs. They are available for your assistance, and you can even ask them questions.
Address: 631 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Shop at the Lucy and the Green Wolf
You can shop for all of your eco-friendly needs at Lucy and the Green Wolf, an organic store. Because many of their products are good for the environment, Lucy and the Green Wolf greatly advocate for a sustainable environment.
The store has a small library. Make a point not to be in a flurry to leave as there is loads of entrancing stuff to do in this little shop.
Their items range from gems to fancy produced using sustainable materials, reused and redid things, tree paper products, and reused paper.
Anyone who favors zero-waste, sustainable products should go to Lucy and the Green Wolf.
Address: 740 Jennings Ave, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Romantic Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD)
1. Have a nice meal at the Earth Goods Natural Foods
Shopping for groceries at the stunning Earth Goods Natural Foods in the Southern Black Hills is fun in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
The best fresh, natural foods, free of preservatives, artificial ingredients, and GMOs, are offered at the grocery store, which opened in 1996.
In addition, it offered guests a wide variety of herbal and vitamin supplements, gluten-free bread, pasta, cookies, organic goods, natural body care products, baking mixes, and household goods.
Occasionally, the store does workshops on Naturopathic medication. So, when you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop by and take advantage of the many opportunities.
Address: 738 Jennings Ave, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Go on a day trip in the Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons
The Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience and the opportunity to view the stunning Southern Black Hills panorama from a hot air balloon.
You might get to see waterfowl, wild turkeys, deer, and other animals while flying. Upon landing on the ground, your trip will be celebrated with a bottle of local champagne, a non-alcoholic alternative, and an after-flight dish. The pilot tells you a few stories about ballooning at the same time.
Private flight tours, party flights, rides with other tourists, or no mixed group flights are also available to guests at this location. The entire flight, from pre-flight preparation to post-flight experience, takes approximately two to three hours on a typical flight.
Participate in this activity because it promises to be exciting and fun. Make sure to add a trip with Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons to your itinerary when looking for things to do in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Address: Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Relax at the Cascade Falls Mineral Springs
Cascade Falls Mineral Springs is fed by six springs that flow into a natural “pool” in the Black Hills National Forest. Cascade Springs is a nice place to visit on a hot summer day, even though it is not a hot spring like other warm water springs, where the mineral water is naturally warm (about 67 degrees).
Cascade Falls are not your typical waterfall because the water behaves more like a cascading spring as it cascades over the rocks into a swimming hole.
J.H. Keith Park and Whitney Protect, situated at Outpouring Springs, offer cookout regions close to the warm waters of the springs at Fountain Falls.
Address: Northeast Fall River, SD 57747, United States
Free Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD)
1. Roam the scenery of Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Go setting up camp, climbing, horseback riding, and hunting at Buffalo Gap National Grassland in Underground Aquifers South. This 322,689-acre park is divided into two sections.
One is south and west of Wall, and the other is northeast of the Hot Springs town center.
Prairie dogs, jackrabbits, coyotes, bison, bighorn sheep, and many other species naturally inhabit this second-largest grassland in the nation.
Address\; Northeast Fall River, SD 57766, USA
2. Go hiking at the Cold Brook Canyon Trail
One of the fun things to do in Hot Springs, South Dakota, is to hike along the Cold Brook Canyon Trail, especially if you want to get close to nature.
The Cold Brook Canyon Trail is a popular destination for families. Along the trail, you can observe wildlife, birds, a river and creek, beautiful views, and more.
As you walk along the path, you can anticipate seeing a thriving prairie dog colony and an active bird population. In addition, bison occasionally appear in this region.
Since there is no water on the trail, visitors are advised to bring their water. The natural life here is fabulous; You can purchase a camera to capture stunning images of this region.
Address: Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Go on a day tour at the Bison Express Tours
The Bison Express Tour, an 8- to 9-hour Black Hills tour in Crazy Horse Wind Cave National Park, Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, Iron Mountain Road, and the State Game Lodge, is one you absolutely cannot miss.
The Bison Express offers day tours to visitors that begin with a visit to Wind Cave National Park, where antelopes, deer, bison, prairie dogs, and other animals can be found. Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse are the following attractions.
Anyone who wants to see wildlife and appreciate nature’s beauty will enjoy this exciting excursion.
Address: 309 Canton Ave. Hot Springs, SD 57747
Cheap Things To Do In Hot Springs (SD)
1. Visit the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary
Dayton O. Hyde laid out the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary in 1988. In the nation, it is a well-known private wilderness area.
The Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary occupies eleven thousand acres of private land. The Institute of Range and American Mustang are in charge of it. The Asylum is committed to monitoring the natural local area of the Southern Dark Slopes.
The primary goals of this destination are to prevent the destruction of this historic land that was home to amazing Native Americans and early settlers, to preserve the natural habitat for the remaining local wildlife, and to create a home for undesirable American Mustangs.
In addition, the Sanctuary is a research site dedicated to assisting in managing wild horse herds and the home of unwanted wild horses. Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary is among the ideal getaway spots in Natural Aquifers, SD.
Address: 12165 Highland Rd, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. Explore the World Fossil Finder Museum
The World Fossil Finder Museum is another important place to see, especially for historians. The Exhibition Hall is a family that teaches youngsters and grown-ups about the world’s regular marvels.
Throughout the year, the Museum also provides individuals with hands-on learning opportunities. Kids can learn about Black Hills paleontology, the geological formations of these hills, and more in a 10-week program.
Numerous local and international fossils are housed in the World Fossil Finder Museum. Make a point to visit, and look at the leftover American Mastodon, the phenomenal White Waterway Gathering animals, and the greatest Tylosaurus in South Dakota called “Debby Sue.”
Address: 719 Jensen Hwy, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Learn about American History at Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is yet another must-see location close to Hot Springs. It is named after the Oglala Lakota warrior Tasunke Witko and is in Custer County.
The monument, built on sacred land in 1948 and still unfinished, is about 31.5 miles from Hot Springs.
However, there is a finished 87-foot-tall head of the legendary warrior at the site and numerous other exhibits and cultural attractions like history museums, a cultural center, a sculptor studio, and cultural program opportunities.
The South Dakota Memorial’s goal is to preserve Native American culture and history as well as their daily lives.
Laser light shows, summer educational programs, tours, musical performances, Navajo flutists, art sessions, and other special events are among them.
Address: Crazy Horse, SD 57730, United States
Cool Places To Visit In Hot Springs (SD)
1. Southern Hills Golf Course
If you want to improve your shooting and swinging skills, this is the ideal location.
Golf players here are encouraged to play from appropriate tees to have the best hitting the fairway experience. Make a point to accompany your companions, as playing golf is generally delighted collectively.
Throughout the season, the Southern Hills Golf Course offers leagues to guests of all ages and skill levels.
There is a Clubhouse at the Southern Slopes Green, which gives a delightful setting to various types of occasions, for example, weddings, Single guy and lone lady parties, family get-togethers, class reunions, occasion and Christmas celebrations, Birthday celebrations, and Graduation celebrations.
Address: 1130 Club House Rd, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
2. The Battle Mountain Sanitarium
Laid out by Congress in 1902, the Battle Mountain Sanitarium was one of the Public Homes for Handicapped Volunteer Troopers in unique areas.
It is one of the large numbers of notable properties overseen by the Division of Veterans Undertakings and is a noteworthy public milestone.
Visitors are more than welcome to drop by and admire the building’s architecture and learn about its history. This prized sandstone building still serves as a general-purpose medical facility to this day.
The Battle Mountain Sanitarium is the focal point of the Black Hills Health Care facility and was constructed in a distinct Romanesque and Mission Revival style.
Address: Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
3. Go on outdoor recreation at the Parks in Hot Springs
Because it has the state’s mildest temperatures, Hot Springs is the ideal location for outdoor recreation in South Dakota.
Nevertheless, it takes pleasure in the distinctive beauty of each season, which is best appreciated in the numerous parks that Hot Springs has to offer its visitors.
A trip to the Angostura Recreation Center, which has 36 miles of shoreline and awe-inspiring views of stunning waters, is a must for water enthusiasts.
Butler Park, Hot Springs’ largest park and a local favorite, is not to be missed.
Cascade Falls are just a few miles away from the falls and have a natural hot spring, and Centennial Park, which is Hot Springs’ de facto town square, has two more parks to check out.
Address: 13157 N Angostura Rd, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Brookings (SD)
Conclusion
As you plan your trip to this amazing town, prepare to have the time of your life because they are loads of attractions in Hot Springs (SD).
It is one of the choicest family destinations that offer the best experience and helps creates unforgettable memories.
However, just so you don’t miss all the city offers, we put together this list of the most exciting things to do in Hot Springs (SD) just for you to make sure your vacation here is everything you ever wanted.
With so many beautiful attractions, from museums, parks, springs, hiking trails, and more, tell us what intrigues you the most via the comments.
Happy vacations!
