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6-Day Scenic Road Trip from Minneapolis Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 27

Journey to the Badlands

Morning

Begin your road trip early in the morning from Minneapolis. Enjoy the scenic drive through Minnesota and South Dakota, taking in the changing landscapes. Stop for breakfast at The Original Pancake House in Sioux Falls to fuel up for the journey ahead.

Afternoon

Arrive at Badlands National Park by early afternoon. Start your adventure with a visit to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to get an overview of the park's history and geology. Take a short hike on the Door Trail, which offers stunning views of the unique rock formations and vast prairie landscape.

Evening

As evening approaches, embark on Badlands Sunset and Night Sky Tour. This tour will provide you with breathtaking views of the sunset over the rugged terrain, followed by stargazing under one of the darkest skies in North America. End your day with dinner at Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant, known for its local cuisine.

Bedtime

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Exploring Badlands National Park

Morning

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Wall Drug Store, a famous roadside attraction near Badlands. Afterward, head back into the park for a hike on the Notch Trail, which offers panoramic views of the White River Valley and dramatic cliffs.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240). This route provides numerous overlooks where you can stop and take photos of the striking landscape. Don't miss Pinnacles Overlook for one of the best views in the park.

Evening

For dinner, enjoy a meal at Badlands Saloon & Grille in Wall. Afterward, participate in Badlands Night Hike Adventure, where you'll explore some lesser-known trails under moonlight with an experienced guide.

Bedtime

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Transition to Black Hills

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at Prairie Edge Trading Co & Galleries before departing from Badlands National Park. Drive towards Black Hills, taking time to stop at scenic viewpoints along Interstate 90.

Afternoon

Arrive in Black Hills by early afternoon and check into your accommodation. Head out to explore Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Use Mount Rushmore: Self-Guided Tour with Smartphone App to learn about this iconic monument's history and significance while exploring at your own pace.

Evening

Have dinner at The Alpine Inn in Hill City, known for its delicious German cuisine. Afterward, relax and unwind with a drink at The Red Garter Saloon, enjoying live music and local atmosphere.

Bedtime

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Mount Rushmore: Self-Guided Tour with Smartphone App
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Adventures in Custer State Park

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer. Afterward, head to Custer State Park for a morning hike on the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail. This easy trail offers beautiful views of Sylvan Lake and the surrounding granite formations.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park. Keep an eye out for bison, pronghorns, and other wildlife that roam freely in the park. Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas along the loop.

Evening

For dinner, enjoy a meal at Black Hills Burger and Bun Co in Custer. Afterward, experience Custer: Black Hills Hot Air Balloon Flight at Sunrise. This tour will provide you with breathtaking aerial views of the Black Hills as you float peacefully above the landscape.

Bedtime

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Custer: Black Hills Hot Air Balloon Flight at Sunrise
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Exploring Crazy Horse Memorial

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at The Purple Pie Place in Custer. Then, head to Crazy Horse Memorial to learn about this monumental sculpture dedicated to Native American history and culture. Take your time exploring the visitor center and museum.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along Needles Highway (SD-87). This winding road offers stunning views of towering granite spires and narrow tunnels carved through solid rock. Stop at Needle's Eye Tunnel for a photo opportunity.

Evening

For dinner, enjoy a meal at Skogen Kitchen in Custer. Afterward, relax with a drink at The Frontier Bar, known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly locals.

Bedtime

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Final Day in Black Hills

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at Hill City Cafe before heading out for your final day of exploration. Visit Wind Cave National Park for a guided tour of one of the world's longest caves. Learn about its unique boxwork formations and rich history.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a leisurely drive through Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway (US-14A). This picturesque route offers stunning views of waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and lush forests. Stop for lunch at Latchstring Inn Restaurant, located within Spearfish Canyon Lodge.

Evening

End your trip with dinner at Alpine Inn in Hill City once more before heading back to Minneapolis or continuing your journey elsewhere.

Bedtime

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