Discover the Wonders of the Black Hills Institute Museum
Explore the fascinating world of fossils and geology at the Black Hills Institute Museum in Hill City, South Dakota - a must-see for all ages.
Located in the heart of Hill City, South Dakota, the Black Hills Institute Museum is a captivating destination for tourists seeking to explore the region's rich paleontological history and unique exhibits. This museum features fascinating displays of fossils, minerals, and geological specimens, making it a must-visit for science enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Museum @ Black Hills Institute
- 117 Main St, Hill City, South Dakota, 57745, US
- +1605-574-3919
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personal interactions with the staff.
- Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the museum and enjoy all exhibits.
- Check the museum’s website for any special events or workshops that may be happening during your visit.
- Don’t forget to explore the gift shop for unique souvenirs and educational materials related to paleontology.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Mount Rushmore National Memorial, walk to the nearest bus stop located on US-16. Board the Black Hills Central Railroad bus heading towards Hill City. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Disembark at the Hill City stop, which is near the town center. From there, walk south on Main Street for about 0.3 miles until you reach 117 Main St, where the Museum @ Black Hills Institute is located.
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Bicycle
If you're biking from Mount Rushmore, exit the memorial and head south on SD-244. Continue until you reach the junction with US-16. Turn left onto US-16 and follow the road. The distance is about 10 miles. Once you arrive in Hill City, turn right onto Main Street and continue for about 0.3 miles. The Museum @ Black Hills Institute will be on your left at 117 Main St.
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Walking
For those adventurous walkers, it is possible to walk from Mount Rushmore to the Museum @ Black Hills Institute. Start by heading south on SD-244 until you reach the junction with US-16. Turn left and continue walking along the highway. It's about a 10-mile trek, so be prepared for a lengthy journey. Once you reach Hill City, turn right onto Main Street and walk for approximately 0.3 miles. The museum will be located on your left at 117 Main St.
Discover more about Museum @ Black Hills Institute
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
4.7 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
Gold Mountain Mine Interpretive Site
6.3 km
Explore the Gold Mountain Mine Interpretive Site, a historical landmark in South Dakota, where the gold rush history meets stunning natural beauty.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
8.3 km
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Horse Thief Lake
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Hood Tunnel
9.6 km
Explore the Hood Tunnel, a stunning architectural marvel nestled in South Dakota's Black Hills, offering breathtaking views and a touch of history.
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
10.7 km
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Mt Rushmore
11.1 km
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Mount Rushmore Profile View
11.2 km
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Crazy Horse Memorial
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Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center
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Sculptor's Studio
11.5 km
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Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
11.5 km
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Mt Rushmore Information
11.6 km
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Cosmos Mystery Area
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Crazy Horse Tourist Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Black Hills Institute Of Geological Research
0.0 km
Explore geological wonders and fascinating history at the Black Hills Institute in Hill City, South Dakota—a must-visit museum for every traveler.
Hill City
0.1 km
Explore Hill City, a picturesque gem in South Dakota’s Black Hills offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
1880 Train - Hill City Depot
0.2 km
Embark on a nostalgic journey through the Black Hills aboard the 1880 Train, a captivating experience blending history and breathtaking scenery.
South Dakota State Railroad Museum, Ltd.
0.2 km
Discover the legacy of railroads at the South Dakota State Railroad Museum, a historical gem in Hill City showcasing captivating exhibits and artifacts.
CCC Museum of South Dakota
1.3 km
Discover the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps at the CCC Museum of South Dakota, where history and nature intertwine in the beautiful Black Hills.
Creekside Mountain Resort
3.6 km
Discover the beauty of the Black Hills at Creekside Mountain Resort, your ideal campground for relaxation and adventure in South Dakota.
Firehouse SmokeJumper Station
3.8 km
Discover the taste of South Dakota at Firehouse SmokeJumper Station, a unique winery and brewery in Hill City, offering local brews and wines in a cozy setting.
Miner Brewing Company
4.6 km
Discover the best of South Dakota's craft beer scene at Miner Brewing Company in Hill City, where exceptional brews meet stunning views.
Prairie Berry Winery
4.6 km
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Needles Highway
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and unique rock formations along Needles Highway, a scenic drive in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Palmer Creek Trailhead
5.5 km
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Black Elk Peak
8.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and remarkable hiking at Black Elk Peak, South Dakota's highest point in the stunning Black Hills.
Black Elk Wilderness
8.7 km
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Horsethief Lake Loop Trailhead
8.8 km
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Black Elk Peak Trail
9.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail, the highest point in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills region.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Inn
0.1 km
Experience culinary delights at Alpine Inn in Hill City, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Downtown Deli & Bakery
0.1 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Hill City at Downtown Deli & Bakery—where delicious food meets friendly service in South Dakota.
Hill City Café
0.1 km
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LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience the flavors of Hill City at LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza
0.2 km
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Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill
0.2 km
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Tin City Saloon
0.2 km
Discover Tin City Saloon in Hill City: A cozy bar & grill offering delicious food and drinks amidst South Dakota's breathtaking landscapes.
1885 Steakhouse & Saloon
0.3 km
Discover Hill City's premier destination for mouthwatering steaks at 1885 Steakhouse & Saloon - where quality meets comfort.
Subway
0.4 km
Discover fresh and customizable meals at Subway in Hill City – the perfect pit stop during your Black Hills adventure!
R Victor Alexander Enterprises
0.5 km
Experience the best of Hill City's culinary scene at R Victor Alexander Enterprises with locally sourced dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Chute Rooster
1.0 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Chute Rooster – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in Hill City.
The Prairie Dog Food Truck
4.6 km
Experience the best of South Dakota's comfort food at The Prairie Dog Food Truck—delicious hamburgers, hoagies & hot dogs in a scenic setting.
Black Hills Coffee Cabin
5.0 km
Experience the warmth and flavors at Black Hills Coffee Cabin – your cozy retreat in Hill City, South Dakota.
Dairy Twist
5.1 km
Experience sweet indulgence at Dairy Twist – Hill City's favorite spot for fast food and creamy ice cream treats amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Powder House
11.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Everything Prehistoric
0.0 km
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Alpaca Store
0.1 km
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Dahl's Chainsaw Art
0.1 km
Explore the creative magic of Dahl's Chainsaw Art in Hill City, SD, where unique sculptures and local artistry come to life.
Teddy Bear Town
0.1 km
Experience the magic of nostalgia at Teddy Bear Town in Hill City, South Dakota - a teddy bear lover's paradise filled with charm and delightful memories.
The Farmer's Daughter
0.1 km
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TurtleTown
0.1 km
Discover TurtleTown in Hill City, South Dakota – a delightful candy store filled with sweets, chocolates, and gourmet treats for every palate.
Stage Stop Leather
0.1 km
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Beef jerky Experience
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Jewel of the West
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Wild West Gifts
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Mountain Souvenirs
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Hilltop Souvenirs
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The Handbag Store
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Things That Rock
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The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
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Silver Dollar Saloon
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Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
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Three Forks Bar & Grill
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Needles
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Cabin 13 Coffee
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Old Pine Social
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
K Bar S Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
12.0 km
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Magnuson Grand Rushmore View
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The Hills Finest
18.6 km
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Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
18.7 km
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Custer's Last Stop
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Experience the best of South Dakota at Custer's Last Stop—your one-stop shop for souvenirs, delicious pizza, and local brews in a vibrant setting.
Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill
18.7 km
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Gold Pan Saloon Custer
18.7 km
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The Custer Wolf - Food & Drink
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The Custer Beacon
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Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company & Pounding Fathers Restaurant
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The Frontier Bar & Grill
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Sun Inn Lounge
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445 Martini Lounge
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Oasis Lounge
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Brass Rail Lounge
32.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Brass Rail Lounge, the premier bar in Rapid City, South Dakota.
