Unraveling Mysteries at Cosmos Mystery Area
Explore the fascinating Cosmos Mystery Area in South Dakota, where gravity bends and reality twists, offering a unique experience for curious travelers.
Nestled in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, the Cosmos Mystery Area is a must-visit tourist attraction that delights and intrigues visitors with its unique gravitational anomalies and whimsical illusions. Step into a world where the laws of physics seem to bend and reality becomes a playful enigma.
A brief summary to Cosmos Mystery Area
- 24040 Cosmos Rd, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57702, US
- +1605-343-9802
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy shorter wait times for tours, especially during peak season.
- Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the unforgettable optical illusions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the exploration may involve walking on uneven terrain.
- Check the website for any special events or seasonal activities during your visit.
- Plan to spend at least two hours to fully enjoy the tour and explore the gift shop.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Rapid City, head to the Rapid City Transit Center located at 333 6th St. Catch the Route 1 bus heading towards the east. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the stop at the intersection of South Dakota Highway 44 and Cosmos Rd. From there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the Cosmos Mystery Area. Walk west on Cosmos Rd until you reach the destination at 24040 Cosmos Rd.
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Bicycle
If you are comfortable biking, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Rapid City. Start your journey from downtown Rapid City and head west on 6th St, which turns into SD-44. Follow SD-44 for about 8 miles, enjoying the scenic views. When you reach the intersection with Cosmos Rd, turn left and continue for another 1.5 miles until you see the Cosmos Mystery Area on your left at 24040 Cosmos Rd.
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Walking
If you are feeling adventurous and up for a long walk, start from downtown Rapid City. Head west on 6th St, which will turn into SD-44. Keep walking along SD-44 for about 8 miles. After you pass the intersection with Cosmos Rd, continue walking for another 1.5 miles until you find the Cosmos Mystery Area on your left at 24040 Cosmos Rd. This walk will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, so be prepared with water and comfortable shoes.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more convenient option, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in Rapid City to the Cosmos Mystery Area at 24040 Cosmos Rd. The ride will typically take around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Make sure to check the estimated fare before confirming your ride.
Discover more about Cosmos Mystery Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines
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Rushmore Helicopters Inc
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Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
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Mt Rushmore
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Horse Thief Lake
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Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
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Mt Rushmore Information
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Mount Rushmore Profile View
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The Pig Tails
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CC Gideon Tunnel
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Turtle Rock
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Scovel Johnson Tunnel
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Norbeck Overlook
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Iron Mountain Picnic Area
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Rushmore Cave
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Unmissable attractions to see
Keystone Museum
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Keystone
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Big Thunder Gold Mine
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1880 Train - Keystone Depot
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Black Hills Carved Signs
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Maverick Trading Post
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Borglum Story
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The National Presidential Wax Museum
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Holy Terror Mini Golf
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Rushmore Tramway Adventures
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aerial adventure park
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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Hippie Hole
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Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
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Sculptor's Studio
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Essential places to dine
Powder House
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Big Thunder Family Bar & Grill
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Baymont by Wyndham Keystone Near Mt. Rushmore
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The Front Porch Restaurant and Bar
3.5 km
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Keystone Pub Grub
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone, an IHG Hotel
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Ramada by Wyndham Keystone Near Mt Rushmore
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Cruizzers
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Red Garter Saloon
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Ruby House Restaurant
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Jane's Boardwalk Pizza
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Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
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Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
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Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
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Sirloin Steak Tips
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rock Shed
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Deb’s Rugs
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Halleys Store
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Vintage Exchange
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Keystone Country Store
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Earth Treasures
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Holy Terror Antiques
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Black Hills Glass Blowers
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Gold Diggers - Black Hills Gold Retail Outlet
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The Indians
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Iron Creek Leather & Gifts
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Emporium
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Keystone Custom T-Shirts
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Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts
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AURA Gallery and Hold
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
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HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
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Silver Dollar Saloon
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Needles Eye Tunnel
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Needles Highway
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Needles
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BIN 605 Wine Beer & Tapas Bar
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Rimrock Happy Tavern
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Canyon Lake Pub & Casino
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79 Lounge & Casino
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