Explore the Wonders of the South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Discover the rich history of aviation and space exploration at the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, featuring iconic aircraft and engaging exhibits for all ages.

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South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Delve into the fascinating world of aviation and space exploration at the South Dakota Air and Space Museum. This captivating museum, located near Ellsworth AFB, offers an enriching experience for tourists of all ages, showcasing an impressive collection of aircraft, exhibits, and historical artifacts that tell the story of American aviation history. With free admission, it's a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

A brief summary to South Dakota Air and Space Museum

2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, 57706, US
+1605-385-5189

Local tips

Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and have a more intimate experience.
Take advantage of the guided tours available to get in-depth information about the exhibits.
Don't forget your camera; the outdoor exhibits provide great photo opportunities.
Check the museum's schedule for special events or presentations that could enhance your visit.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving from Badlands National Park, take SD-240 W (Badlands Loop Road) to I-90 W. Continue on I-90 W for approximately 20 miles. Take exit 67 for SD-34 W towards Box Elder. After about 4 miles, take the exit for Ellsworth AFB, and turn right onto Davis Dr. The South Dakota Air and Space Museum will be on your right at 2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706.
Public Transportation

Unfortunately, public transportation options are very limited in the Badlands region. The best option is to take a Greyhound bus from Rapid City to Box Elder, which is the closest town to Ellsworth AFB. From Box Elder, you can either take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the museum. Note that you should check Greyhound's schedule in advance and be prepared for potential waiting times.
Taxi or Rideshare

If you are in the surrounding area or have arrived via public transport, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from Rapid City or Box Elder to reach the museum. This could cost approximately $30-$50 depending on the distance and time of day.

Discover more about South Dakota Air and Space Museum

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is a remarkable destination for anyone interested in the history and technology of aviation and space exploration. Nestled adjacent to Ellsworth Air Force Base, this museum features an impressive array of aircraft, including military jets and historic planes, that span decades of aviation history. Visitors can stroll through outdoor exhibits showcasing iconic aircraft like the B-1B Lancer and the B-17 Flying Fortress, providing a tangible connection to the heroic efforts of pilots and crew members throughout history. Inside the museum, numerous displays and multimedia presentations offer insights into the evolution of flight, the significance of air power, and the contributions of South Dakota to aerospace advancements. The museum is particularly notable for its extensive collection of artifacts from the Cold War era, making it a significant stop for history buffs and military enthusiasts. In addition to the impressive aircraft and engaging exhibits, the South Dakota Air and Space Museum also hosts various events and educational programs throughout the year, making it an interactive experience for families and school groups. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers enhance the visit by sharing fascinating stories and insights about the exhibits, encouraging visitors to delve deeper into the subject matter. With its commitment to education and preservation, the museum serves as a vital resource for understanding the historical impact of aviation and the future of space exploration. A visit to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum is both informative and enjoyable, offering free admission to all guests. This makes it an accessible destination for tourists seeking to expand their knowledge while enjoying a unique slice of American history. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through South Dakota, this museum promises a memorable experience that highlights the ingenuity and courage of those who have taken to the skies.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rapid City Regional Airport

10.5 km

Discover the beauty of South Dakota from Rapid City Regional Airport, your gateway to the Black Hills and iconic American landmarks.

Buffalo Express & Tours

13.4 km

Experience seamless travel in Rapid City with Buffalo Express & Tours, the go-to transportation service for airport shuttles and local adventures.

Visit Rapid City

13.5 km

Explore Rapid City, the vibrant gateway to the Black Hills, rich in culture, history, and stunning natural beauty.

Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton

13.7 km

Discover the historic Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City, SD—a perfect blend of charm, comfort, and convenience near the Black Hills attractions.

Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton

Rapid Creek

14.8 km

Discover the breathtaking serenity of Rapid Creek in South Dakota, where nature meets adventure amidst stunning landscapes and tranquil waters.

West Boulevard Historical District

15.0 km

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the West Boulevard Historical District in Rapid City, South Dakota, a must-visit for history lovers.

South Dakota.

15.6 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of South Dakota, where adventure and history await every traveler.

My XO Adventures

17.5 km

Discover the beauty of South Dakota with My XO Adventures, your gateway to unforgettable experiences in the heart of the American West.

Mount Rushmore Tours

20.6 km

Discover the rich history and artistry of Mount Rushmore with guided tours that enhance your visit to this iconic American landmark.

Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show

20.7 km

Delve into the Wild West experience with hearty meals and captivating entertainment at Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show in Rapid City.

Reptile Gardens

22.4 km

Explore the enchanting Reptile Gardens in Rapid City, where exotic reptiles meet lush botanical beauty for an unforgettable family adventure.

Black Hills Caverns

24.1 km

Discover the enchanting beauty of Black Hills Caverns, where stunning underground formations and rich geological history await your exploration.

Bear Country USA

25.1 km

Experience the thrill of Bear Country USA, a premier wildlife park in Rapid City, South Dakota, showcasing North American wildlife in a stunning natural setting.

Black Hills National Forest sign

25.1 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Black Hills National Forest, a natural gem in South Dakota, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Black Hills Petrified Forest

25.1 km

Explore the fascinating Black Hills Petrified Forest in South Dakota, where ancient nature meets stunning landscapes for an unforgettable adventure.

Experience the charm of Elks Theatre in Rapid City, a historic venue blending classic cinema and live performances in an Art Deco setting.

Essential places to dine

Dakotah Steakhouse

7.5 km

Experience the finest steaks at Dakotah Steakhouse in Rapid City – where flavor meets hospitality.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

7.8 km

Discover the ultimate burger haven at Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews in Rapid City - where great taste meets American spirit.

Storming Crab - Rapid City, SD

9.6 km

Experience the best of seafood dining at Storming Crab - where flavor meets fun in Rapid City.

HuHot Mongolian Grill

9.7 km

Experience the thrill of creating your own stir-fry at HuHot Mongolian Grill in Rapid City – where flavor meets fun in every bite.

The Gyro Hub

9.7 km

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at The Gyro Hub in Rapid City - where every bite tells a story.

MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub

10.1 km

Experience delicious American cuisine at MacKenzie River Pizza in Rapid City - perfect for pizza lovers seeking quality dining.

Outback Steakhouse

10.7 km

Discover authentic Australian flavors at Outback Steakhouse in Rapid City - where every meal is an adventure!

El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant

10.9 km

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant in Rapid City - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.

Minervas Restaurant & Bar

11.0 km

Experience exquisite flavors and warm hospitality at Minervas Restaurant & Bar in Rapid City—perfect for families and special occasions.

Bengal Kitchen

11.0 km

Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors at Bengal Kitchen in Rapid City - A culinary delight for every food lover.

Mongolian Grill

11.0 km

Discover an interactive dining adventure at Mongolian Grill in Rapid City—customize your meal with fresh ingredients and delightful Asian flavors.

Pacific Rim Cafe

11.0 km

Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Pacific Rim Cafe in Rapid City - where flavor meets culture in every dish.

Morningside Café

11.3 km

Discover delicious breakfasts and lunches at Morningside Café in Rapid City – where fresh ingredients meet friendly service!

A&D Jamaican Restaurant

11.3 km

Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine at A&D Jamaican Restaurant in Rapid City—where every dish tells a story of flavor and culture.

Texas Roadhouse

11.5 km

Experience the authentic flavors of America at Texas Roadhouse in Rapid City - where every steak is grilled to perfection.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Hemporium Boutique

10.4 km

Explore Hemporium Boutique in Rapid City for a unique blend of cannabis products and accessories that embrace local culture and quality.

Spotted Tails Siouxper Store

10.9 km

Explore Native American culture through exquisite craftsmanship at Spotted Tails Siouxper Store in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Headquarters

10.9 km

Discover the unique blend of tobacco and fashion at Headquarters in Rapid City, your one-stop shop for local culture and stylish souvenirs.

Happy Days

11.4 km

Discover the charm of the 1950s at Happy Days, a vibrant gift shop in Rapid City filled with games, toys, and nostalgic T-shirts for all ages.

francesca's

11.5 km

Discover Francesca's in Rapid City: your go-to boutique for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and fashionable accessories.

This & That Shopathy

11.5 km

Explore the charm of This & That Shopathy, your go-to gift shop in Rapid City for unique souvenirs, custom apparel, and local cosmetics.

Doc & Alice, Inc.

11.5 km

Explore unique fashion at Doc & Alice, Inc., a charming women's clothing store in Rapid City, SD, offering stylish apparel for every occasion.

Li'l Gails

11.6 km

Discover authentic Native American crafts and culture at Li'l Gails in Rapid City, the perfect spot for unique souvenirs and local artistry.

Bizzy Boutique

12.1 km

Explore Bizzy Boutique in Rapid City for a unique shopping experience filled with trendy apparel and local artisan gifts.

Rocker Shop

12.6 km

Discover the charm of Rocker Shop, Rapid City's beloved bookstore, featuring a diverse selection of literature and unique gifts for all ages.

The Shops at Rapid City

12.7 km

Explore The Shops at Rapid City, where retail therapy, dining, and a vibrant atmosphere come together in the heart of South Dakota.

Mustard Seed Catholic Store

13.2 km

Explore the Mustard Seed Catholic Store in Rapid City for a unique selection of religious books, gifts, and cards that inspire spiritual reflection.

Kicks and Giggles Baby And Children Boutique

13.4 km

Explore Kicks and Giggles in Rapid City: A charming boutique offering unique clothing, toys, and books for your little ones in a delightful shopping experience.

Kicks and Giggles Baby And Children Boutique

Roam'n Around

13.5 km

Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear from Roam'n Around, Rapid City's ultimate destination for camping, climbing, and travel essentials.

The Shops at Main Street Square

13.5 km

Explore a vibrant shopping experience at The Shops at Main Street Square in Rapid City, where unique boutiques and delightful dining await.

Experience the art of mixology at The Blind Lion, Rapid City's premier cocktail bar with a unique ambiance and creative drinks.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Explore the Wonders of the South Dakota Air and Space Museum

A brief summary to South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Taxi or Rideshare

Unlock the Best of South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rapid City Regional Airport

Buffalo Express & Tours

Visit Rapid City

Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton

Rapid Creek

West Boulevard Historical District

South Dakota.

My XO Adventures

Mount Rushmore Tours

Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show

Reptile Gardens

Black Hills Caverns

Bear Country USA

Black Hills National Forest sign

Black Hills Petrified Forest

Unmissable attractions to see

WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort

Black Hills Visitor Information Center

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Black Hills Open-Top-Tours

Museum of Geology

The Journey Museum

Berlin Wall

President Barack Obama Statue

Memorial Park

President Herbert Hoover Statue

President George W. Bush Statue

Richard M. Nixon Statue

President George H. W. Bush Statue

Prairie Edge Trading Co & Galleries

Elks Theatre

Essential places to dine

Dakotah Steakhouse

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

Storming Crab - Rapid City, SD

HuHot Mongolian Grill

The Gyro Hub

MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub

Outback Steakhouse

El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant

Minervas Restaurant & Bar

Bengal Kitchen

Mongolian Grill

Pacific Rim Cafe

Morningside Café

A&D Jamaican Restaurant

Texas Roadhouse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Hemporium Boutique

Spotted Tails Siouxper Store

Headquarters

Happy Days

francesca's

This & That Shopathy

Doc & Alice, Inc.

Li'l Gails

Bizzy Boutique

Rocker Shop

The Shops at Rapid City

Mustard Seed Catholic Store

Kicks and Giggles Baby And Children Boutique

Roam'n Around

The Shops at Main Street Square

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Sliders Bar & Grill

Sally O'Malley's Pub & Casino

Valley Sports Bar & Grill