Dinosaur Park

Perched on Skyline Drive overlooking Rapid City, Dinosaur Park is one of South Dakota's most iconic and beloved free attractions. Dedicated on May 22, 1936, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park was built by Rapid City and the Works Progress Administration to draw visitors heading to nearby Mount Rushmore, and is credited with beginning Rapid City's transformation into a major tourist destination. Seven life-sized concrete dinosaur sculptures — including a T. rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Apatosaurus, Edmontosaurus, Protoceratops, and Dimetrodon — stand on a hilltop ridge overlooking the city. On a clear day, visitors can see Badlands formations to the east and sweeping views of the Black Hills to the west. As of summer 2024, the park was fully updated with rebuilt steps, new ramps, informative displays, a picnic area, and improved accessibility. Admission is free, making it a perfect stop for families, history buffs, and Black Hills road trippers.