Mt. Rushmore & The Badlands

Day 1: Sioux Falls

Your adventure begins as you board the motorcoach for the journey west, ready to follow in the trails of the Old West. Stop for lunch on your own at Culver’s in Tomah, WI.Continue your travels with a mid-afternoon break at the Blue Earth Rest Area, stretching your legs and taking in the wide-open skies of southern Minnesota, just like the pioneers did. By evening, arrive in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and check into the Holiday Inn Express. Unwind with a relaxed dinner on your own or at the hotel, and prepare to saddle up for the scenic and historic experiences that lie ahead.

Day 2: Deadwood

After an included breakfast at the Holiday Inn Express, depart Sioux Falls and make your way to the striking Dignity of Earth and Sky Monument, where the towering sculpture honors the heritage and spirit of the Lakota and Dakota people. Continue west with a lunch stop at Al’s Oasis, a local favorite known for hearty meals and a fun, nostalgic atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park, where jagged peaks, deep canyons, and sweeping prairies create an unforgettable backdrop for photos and gentle walks. After your scenic adventure, arrive in Deadwood, South Dakota, and check into the Four Points by Sheraton, located right on Main Street, for a four-night stay. Evening is at leisure with dinner on your own, giving you the chance to explore Deadwood’s historic streets, visit a local saloon, or simply relax at your hotel after a day filled with iconic sights and natural beauty.

Day 3: Deadwood

After an included breakfast at the Four Points by Sheraton, set out on a journey through the fascinating history of Deadwood. Begin with a one-hour narrated tram tour of Mount Moriah Cemetery, Boot Hill, and other historic landmarks. From the crest of Brown Rocks, take in views of Deadwood below while visiting the graves of legendary figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, connecting with the stories and legends of the Old West. Next, explore the Days of ’76 Museum, home to one of the most complete collections of historic wagons, antiques, and Native American artifacts in the Black Hills. The museum also celebrates Deadwood’s rodeo heritage and its enduring connection with Buffalo Bill Cody, providing a rich glimpse into the region’s history and culture. Following the museum, visit Tatanka: Story of the Bison, inspired by the movie Dances with Wolves. This life-sized sculpture and exhibit highlight the importance of the bison in the culture, ecology, and history of the plains, offering an engaging and educational experience for all visitors. In the evening, gather for a hearty dinner at the Silverado Buffet, included for your group. After dinner, enjoy the evening performance of The Trial of Jack McCall, bringing the dramatic stories of Deadwood to life and rounding out a day full of history, culture, and the spirit of the Black Hills.

Day 4: Deadwood

The day begins with an early departure from your lodging to enter Custer State Park. The motorcoach will travel along the Wildlife Loop Road, providing opportunities to observe bison and other wildlife from the comfort of your seats. Mid-morning, the coach continues along the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road, stopping briefly at scenic overlooks. Around midday, the group will enjoy a lunch buffet inside the Custer State Park Gaming Lodge. The buffet features a variety of options suitable for all tastes, including garden vegetables, fresh fruit, chef-prepared salads, hot bar selections, soup, stew, desserts, and more. This provides a relaxing, comforting meal in the incredible state park.
. After lunch, the group proceeds to the Buffalo Jeep Safari Tour. Participants will board the safari jeeps with a professional guide. To enhance the experience, the group will be divided into smaller groups of seven for better interaction and easier viewing. The jeep tour lasts approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, taking participants through the park’s buffalo ranges while the guide shares information about the wildlife and park history.
Following the jeep tour, we head over to Bear Country USA for a drive-through wildlife experience, allowing the group to see bears and other animals safely from the bus. The day concludes with a return to the hotel in Deadwood, evening to enjoy the sites on our own.

Day 5: Deadwood

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your lodging before boarding the motorcoach for a short drive to the Crazy Horse Memorial, a stunning tribute to Native American heritage. Here, you will have time to explore the museum and grounds, learn about the history of the sculpture, and see the incredible progress on this monumental work. Following the visit, enjoy a relaxing lunch nearby before heading to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. In the afternoon, take in the accessible viewpoints and visitor center, where you can learn more about the history of this iconic site and its significance. The highlight of the day is the Mount Rushmore Illumination Ceremony, a memorable evening experience when the faces of the Presidents are beautifully lit against the night sky. After the ceremony, the motorcoach returns you to your lodging or onward destination, completing a day of history, culture, and awe-inspiring sights. Return to hotel approx. 10:15 PM.

Day 6: Fairmont, MN

After a hot breakfast, depart Deadwood in the morning and begin your journey eastward. Your first stop is the famous Wall Drug, where you will have approximately 1.5 hours of free time to explore the eclectic shops and attractions and enjoy lunch on your own.
Next, continue to the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota, where you will spend about an hour admiring the unique murals and architecture made entirely from corn and other grains.
In the late afternoon, the motorcoach will take you to your overnight accommodations at the Hampton Inn in Fairmont, Minnesota. Take time to relax and prepare for the next day of travel. Dinner is on your own tonight, with Perkin’s just 500 steps away and other nearby eateries to choose from.

Day 7: Wisconsin

After an included breakfast, we begin our journey home. Along the way, we make a fun and unexpected stop at the SPAM Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits, browse the gift shop, and take advantage of clean restroom facilities. It’s a unique and memorable stop.
Later, we pause for lunch in Tomah, WI, before continuing home.
With fond memories of the Black Hills, Deadwood, and the road adventures along the way, it’s time to say, "Until next time, partner!"

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner