Experience Black Hills region of South Dakota
May 31 – June 3, 2025
4 days / 3 nights
Overall Trip Highlights
- Mount Rushmore Private Tour: Explore the iconic monument with a knowledgeable guide, delving into it’s history and the stories behind the four presidents carved into the granite.
- Crazy Horse Memorial: Visit this massive monument in progress, learning about it’s significance to Native American culture and history.
- Buffalo Photo Safari: Experience a close encounter with one of America’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Historic Deadwood: Explore the storied town known for it’s Wild West history, including the legendary tales of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.
- Black Hills National Forest Guided Tours: Discover the natural beauty and geological wonders of the Black Hills, guided by experts who share insights into the region’s flora and fauna.
- Alex Johnson Hotel Stay: Enjoy accommodations at the historic hotel known for it’s charm and connection to the early days of Rapid City.
- Custer State Park: Explore one of the largest state parks in the U.S., known for it’s scenic drives, wildlife and outdoor adventure opportunities.
- Badlands National Park: Witness the dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations that make this park a geological treasure.
- Native American Cultural Experiences: Engage with local Native American communities to learn about their history, traditions and contemporary life.
- All-Inclusive Meals and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of included gourmet meals and transportation, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable adventure.
May 31 – June 3, 2025
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size: 14 Guests and 2 Hosts
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
| Single Occupancy | Double Occupancy |
| $3,090 | $2,590 |
| Private Room with Private Bath | Shared Room, Separate Beds, Shared Bath |
| Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
| Single Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist |
Double Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist |
Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?
- Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
- Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable.
- Full Dining: Enjoy 2-3 daily meals carefully selected to reflect the local cuisine, inclusive of all tips. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a sumptuous dinner, we’ve got it all covered.
- Unique Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
- Curated Activities: We find the BEST of the best tours. Making the absolute most out of our time.
- Included Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of. We ensure that those who make your trip special are rewarded, without you needing to worry about the details.
- Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
- You won’t see “Free Days” on our itineraries: Our trips are made for a balanced experience. We carve out time to bond, laugh, shop and explore but we will never just send you out on your own and say “good luck” we do everything together or smaller group breakouts.
With Beatrice Bradley, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure you have a memorable and carefree travel experience. Join us and discover the joy of true hassle-free travel!
We Offer Flex-Pay! What is that?
Flexible Payments at Your Fingertips: You can use your invoice to pay any amount you choose, as frequently as you wish, until the full payment deadline.
Want to make a payment? Click “Review and Pay” on your invoice whenever you’re ready.
Pay Your Way: You can adjust the payment amount by selecting “Edit Amount,” allowing you to manage your budget flexibly.
Final Countdown: Ensure everything is paid up 60 days prior to your trip for domestic and 90 days prior for international. Don’t worry, we’ll send you reminders! If there’s any remaining balance, we’ll automatically process it, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!
| Arrival Information | Departing Information |
| Rapid City, SD (RAP) *if you are doing back-to-back trip with the Badlands trip, fly into Sioux Falls (FSD) | Rapid City, SD (RAP) Back-to-Back with Badlands, fly into Sioux Falls and out of Rapid City |
| May 31, 2025 | June 3, 2025 |
| Must arrive before 3PM | Earliest departure – times will vary |
The “Mount Rushmore” trip by BBGage is designed to be moderately active, suitable for women aged 55+ who are in good health and enjoy walking and outdoor activities. The itinerary includes guided tours, short hikes, and exploration of historic and natural sites, requiring comfortable footwear and a moderate level of physical fitness. Activities such as the buffalo photo safari and visits to various monuments involve some walking and standing. The trip balances adventure with relaxation, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
As your hostesses, we understand that traveling solo can be intimidating, but rest assured, making you feel welcomed and comfortable is our top priority. Our experiences are designed for building new and lasting friendships in a warm and welcoming environment.
From the moment you arrive until we bid you farewell, we’ll be right by your side. We meticulously handle all the details and manage the logistics seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring your journey is truly unique and worry-free. While we aren’t local experts or tour guides, we work with a network of local professionals carefully selected for each location to enrich your experience.
Read more about our Hostesses Here
Thinking about joining us?
If you’re on the fence or have any questions, we’re here to help. Simply fill out this form to get in touch. We can’t wait to assist you in planning an unforgettable adventure!
If you have any immediate questions, please feel free to get in touch: 763-864-8291 | Lindsay@bbgage.com
Ready to book? We’re happy to have you!
Don’t just tour South Dakota, Experience South Dakota
Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’.
This is a Back-to-Back Experience
Join is in The Badlands for $200 off! Transportation and Meals included!
Day One: Arrive in Rapid City, SD – Historic Hotel and Small-Town Charm
For those continuing from the Thunderstik Lodge adventure, you’ll depart in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive through the breathtaking Badlands, arriving in Rapid City by 4 PM. If you’re starting your trip here, fly into Rapid City (RAP) Airport and you will take a shuttle to the hotel.
Check in to the Historic Alex Johnson Hotel, a stunning landmark dating back to 1928, famous for its unique architecture and storied past. After settling in, enjoy dinner at the Vertex Rooftop Restaurant, where you’ll be treated to a delicious meal with panoramic views of the city skyline.
End the evening with a peaceful dusk stroll along Main Street, where you can soak in the small-town charm, explore local shops, and feel the rich history of Rapid City.
Highlights
- Arrival by Air or Drive: Start your trip by flying into RAP Airport or arriving by car after a scenic drive from Thunderstik Lodge through the Badlands.
- Stay at the Historic Alex Johnson Hotel: Check into one of Rapid City’s most iconic hotels, a landmark since 1928.
- Dinner at Vertex Rooftop Restaurant: Enjoy an evening meal with panoramic views of Rapid City.
- Dusk Walk on Main Street: Explore the historic Main Street of Rapid City, with it’s local shops and small-town charm.
Fun Fact: The Alex Johnson Hotel is known for it’s ghostly past and is said to be one of the most haunted hotels in South Dakota!
Day Two: Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Private Tour in the Black Hills National Forest
Day two is a captivating blend of history and adventure as we explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the Black Hills. Begin with a private guided tour of Mount Rushmore, where you’ll learn about the creation of the legendary carvings of four U.S. presidents, symbolizing American heritage. Next, we visit the impressive Crazy Horse Memorial, an unfinished tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, standing as a testament to Native American history.
Afterward, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch and a short hike at Roughlock Falls in Spearfish Canyon, surrounded by lush landscapes. From there, we journey to the historic town of Deadwood, a place steeped in the excitement of the Black Hills Gold Rush. Explore Deadwood’s colorful past, famous for legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, and witness reenactment shootouts on Main Street, including the thrilling recreation of Wild Bill’s infamous shooting inside Saloon No. 10.
End this action-packed day with a delicious dinner where you’ll savor local flavors and experience the historic charm of Rapid City.
Highlights
- Private Guided Tour of Mount Rushmore: Discover the fascinating history behind the iconic presidential carvings completed in 1941.
- Visit Crazy Horse Memorial: Explore the ongoing tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, an awe-inspiring work in progress.
- Picnic Lunch and Hike at Roughlock Falls: Enjoy a scenic picnic and hike surrounded by the beauty of Spearfish Canyon.
- Explore Historic Deadwood: Step back in time to the Black Hills Gold Rush era and learn about legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok.
- Reenactment Shootouts on Main Street: Watch exciting Wild West shootouts, including the recreation of Wild Bill’s death at Saloon No. 10.
- Dinner in Rapid City: Cap off the day with a delightful meal at an iconic local restaurant, known for its history and great cuisine.
Fun Fact: The Crazy Horse Memorial, when completed, will be the largest mountain carving in the world, standing at 563 feet high!
Day Three: Black Hills Bison and the Wildlife Loop
On day three, immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and wildlife of the Black Hills. Start with a hearty breakfast at the Historic Alex Johnson Hotel, fueling up for a day filled with adventure. The morning begins with a quick stop at Mount Rushmore for one last photo opportunity, followed by a visit to the fascinating Presidential Wax Museum, where lifelike wax figures of U.S. presidents bring history to life.
Next, embark on a scenic drive along Iron Mountain Road, with a stop at Norbeck Lookout for panoramic views and stunning photo ops. From there, we continue along the breathtaking Needles Highway, marveling at the impressive Cathedral Spires and the famous Eye of the Needle rock formation.
A serene hike and picnic at Sylvan Lake offers a peaceful break amid the beautiful granite peaks. Afterward, we drive through the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, where you’ll have the chance to spot majestic bison, deer, and other wildlife.
The day ends with a visit to the historic State Game Lodge, where you will have a farewell South Dakota steak dinner, celebrating the unforgettable experiences shared on this journey. After dinner, choose between a relaxing nightcap at the hotel or a fun ice cream run to close out the day.
Highlights
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Historic Alex Johnson Hotel.
- Mount Rushmore Stop: A final opportunity to take photos and reflect on this iconic monument.
- Presidential Wax Museum: Explore detailed wax figures of all U.S. presidents and relive history.
- Iron Mountain Road: Enjoy scenic stops, including Norbeck Lookout, for breathtaking views.
- Needles Highway: Marvel at the unique rock formations of the Cathedral Spires and the Eye of the Needle.
- Sylvan Lake: Relax with a hike and picnic at this serene and picturesque lake.
- Wildlife Loop: Drive through Custer State Park to spot bison, deer, and other native wildlife.
- State Game Lodge: Learn more about local history and wildlife before your farewell dinner at the Lodge.
- Nightcap or Ice Cream Run: End the day with either a relaxing nightcap or a fun ice cream run.
Fun Fact: The Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park is home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the world, with nearly 1,500 bison roaming the area!
Day Four: Departure Day – Exploring Rapid City’s Main Street
As your adventure comes to an end, enjoy a relaxing morning exploring Rapid City’s charming Main Street. Savor tasty pastries and breakfast dishes, while capturing a few fun photos to remember the trip.
After breakfast, take some time to explore Main Street, wandering through local shops and soaking in the small-town charm of Rapid City. It’s the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the journey before heading to the airport.
Depart for Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) as your trip comes to a close. If you’ve added this adventure to the Thunderstik/Badlands trip, remember you’ll be flying out of a different airport than you arrived at.
Highlights
- Breakfast: Savor a delicious breakfast while reminiscing the fun times together on the trip!
- Explore Main Street: Stroll through the shops and enjoy the local atmosphere of Rapid City’s historic downtown.
- Departure: Head to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) for your flight home.
Fun Fact: Check out Harritt and Oak’s unique interior, featuring a vintage VW van, makes it one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Rapid City!
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
***The itinerary is subject to change
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