Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in South Dakota (Currently Open)
If you’re planning a getaway in South Dakota and want to stay somewhere truly memorable, you’ve come to the right place. South Dakota is home to hotels and resorts that combine sweeping landscapes, rich history and modern comfort. From the Black Hills to the rolling plains, here are fifteen standout hotels and getaways across the state—each currently open, each offering something special. This will help you pick the best places for accommodations in South Dakota that match your travel style, whether you’re after luxury, adventure or heritage.
1. Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton (Rapid City)
Opened in 1928, this historic hotel has become a hallmark of Rapid City lodging and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. travel.usnews.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3hilton.com+3
Why stay here: The architecture blends Tudor-Revival style with Native American inspired details, and the hotel sits in downtown Rapid City—close to the Black Hills and major attractions.
What makes it iconic: Its long heritage, the rooftop bar with views, and staying here feels like stepping into a chapter of South Dakota’s travel story.
Best for: Travelers who want historic ambiance, easy access to excursions and a blend of comfort + character.
2. Under Canvas Mount Rushmore (Keystone / Black Hills)
If you’re looking for a getaway that merges nature with upscale lodging, this luxury glamping experience near Mount Rushmore does exactly that. Under Canvas®+2Travel South Dakota+2
Why it stands out: Canvas tents with king-size beds, private bathrooms, wood-burning stoves, and a setting among ponderosa pines with views of the monument.
Unique appeal: “Glamping” done exceptionally—ideal for families, couples and groups who want comfort without sacrificing the outdoor feel.
Best for: Those seeking a getaway that’s adventurous yet refined—think “best places for luxury nature stay in South Dakota”.
3. The Lodge at Deadwood (Deadwood / Black Hills)
A full-service resort in historic Deadwood, with lodging, dining, casino and views of the surrounding hills. The Lodge at Deadwood+2Deadwood+2
Why it matters: Deadwood is steeped in Old-West heritage, and staying at a modern resort there gives you indulgence plus history.
Highlights: Suites with hillside views, indoor water-play for families, gaming for adults, and a strong base to explore the Black Hills.
Best for: Families, couples, or friends looking for a complete getaway with a variety of amenities.
4. Hotel On Phillips (Sioux Falls)
In eastern South Dakota’s largest city, this stylish boutique hotel provides a city-side refuge with upscale flair. hotelonphillips.com
Why stay here: The building dates back to 1918 and has been transformed into a luxury hotel with 90 unique rooms and suites.
Best for: Urban visitors or those transitioning between nature-centric adventures—this gives the “city stay” balance to a South Dakota trip.
5. Holiday Inn Resort Deadwood Mountain Grand (Deadwood)
A resort choice in the same historic town, with family-friendly amenities and full-service offerings. IHG+1
Why consider it: It combines resort comforts (pool, amenities) with access to Deadwood’s attractions and the Black Hills.
Best for: Families or groups wanting resort ease and plenty of things to do on-site.
6. Spearfish Canyon Lodge (Spearfish Canyon / Black Hills)
Nestled in a canyon, this lodge offers a scenic escape in northern Black Hills terrain. Booking.com+1
Why it’s charming: Rustic ambience, high elevation views, and easy access to nature trails, waterfalls and canyon drives.
Best for: Couples seeking romantic getaways or nature lovers wanting a quiet, scenic base.
7. Eagle’s Landing Lodge (Spearfish)
Another upscale choice in the Spearfish area, focused on elevated comfort. Booking.com
Why it works: Boutique size, scenic surroundings, and a high-end feel without big resort crowd.
Best for: Travelers wanting tranquility and elegant lodging in a less-traveled part of South Dakota.
8. Rimrock Lodge (Spearfish / Black Hills)
A hillside lodge with forest vibe, another excellent Black Hills lodging choice. AllTrips – Black Hills South Dakota
Why choose it: Rustic-lodge aesthetic combined with comfort and Black Hills access, ideal for hiking, driving scenic routes, or relaxing.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who still want comfortable lodging.
9. Big Timber Lodge (Deadwood Area)
Perfect for groups or large families, this lodge offers lodging near Deadwood with plenty of space. AllTrips – Black Hills South Dakota
Why it appeals: Log-cabin feel, large bedrooms, hot tub options, and proximity to both nature and the town’s entertainment.
Best for: Extended stays, family reunions, groups of friends.
10. 1899 Inn (Deadwood)
For a smaller, intimate historic inn experience in the heart of Deadwood. AllTrips – Black Hills South Dakota
Why it stands out: Boutique scale, historic character, and location that immerses you in town life while staying comfortable.
Best for: Couples seeking historic charm and easy walkability.
11. Blackstone Lodge and Suites (Lead / Black Hills)
Located just a short drive from Deadwood in Lead, offering a stylish lodge near mining-town roots and hills vistas. AllTrips – Black Hills South Dakota
Why it works: Good alternative to busier Deadwood lodging, modern suites, good location for Black Hills adventures.
Best for: Visitors who want base near but slightly apart from the tour-bus crowd.
12. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Custer (Custer / Black Hills)
For folks exploring Black Hills, Custer offers very convenient lodging. According to hotel brand listings, the property is active and accessible. IHG
Why it’s useful: Central Black Hills location, brand-level comfort, good for families or multi-destination trips (Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Badlands).
Best for: Base camp style stays when you plan to explore wide region.
13. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sioux Falls‑Brandon (Brandon / Sioux Falls Area)
For eastern side access, near South Dakota’s largest metropolitan area. IHG
Why include it: Balanced getaway when you want city conveniences and regional travel—easy access to Sioux Falls and wider surround.
Best for: Families who may want both nature and urban amenities within a trip.
14. Staybridge Suites Rapid City – Rushmore (Rapid City)
A more extended-stay style, comfortable lodging in Rapid City with access to the region. IHG
Why it’s helpful: Larger rooms, family-friendly, good for multi-night stays while exploring Black Hills and monuments.
Best for: Families or groups looking for space and convenience.
15. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sioux Falls–Airport (Sioux Falls)
A solid choice for those landing in or leaving from Sioux Falls and wanting a comfortable stay near arrival/departure. IHG
Why include it: While not “rustic lodge”, it gives practical, comfortable getaway lodging at the eastern gateway of South Dakota travels.
Best for: Short stays, arrival/departure nights, blending city access with travel flexibility.
Why These 15 Stays Rise to the Top
They are currently operational and accessible for booking (to our latest checks).
They cover diverse regions of South Dakota: from the Black Hills (west) to Sioux Falls and plains (east). This ensures geographic balance for travelers.
They span lodging styles: historic hotels, modern lodges, glamping / luxury tents, resort casinos, boutique urban stays.
Each offers unique story or signature experience—heritage architecture (Hotel Alex Johnson), luxury nature immersion (Under Canvas), full-service resort entertainment (Lodge at Deadwood).
They are searchable and relevant for keywords like “iconic hotels in South Dakota,” “best places to stay in Black Hills,” “luxury lodges South Dakota getaway,” etc.
How to Choose the Right Stay for Your Trip
When deciding among these options, consider these factors:
Destination focus: Are you heading to the Black Hills/Monument area? Or are you exploring the eastern plains/Sioux Falls region?
Travel style: Do you want luxury glamping, historic character, resort amenities, or a straightforward comfortable hotel?
Group type: Families may prioritize space and amenities (pool, suites); couples may lean toward boutique charm; outdoor adventurers may want proximity to trails.
Budget & length: Some stays (luxury resorts) cost more but offer full-service experience; others are more modest but well-located.
Season & availability: Particularly for nature-centric stays (glamping or hillside lodges), bookings fill up fast and seasons matter—peak summer in the Black Hills is busy.
Location logistics: Think about travel time from arrival airport, proximity to major attractions, and whether you want to base in a town vs. remote lodge.
Tips for Booking Your South Dakota Getaway
Book early for peak seasons: Summer in the Black Hills, and weekends in places like Deadwood, fill up quickly.
Check lodging packages: Some resorts (like Lodge at Deadwood) offer packages with dining credit, kids play land, or extra perks. The Lodge at Deadwood
Look for cancellation flexibility: Weather, driving conditions or access may impact travel in South Dakota—flexible bookings help.
Layer your stays: You might spend part of your trip in a nature-lodge in the Black Hills, then transition to a city stay in Sioux Falls—this gives variety and geographic balance.
Read recent reviews: Even iconic hotels evolve—recent guest experiences allow you to pick the most up-to-date stay quality.
Match lodging to activity plan: If you’re hiking, driving scenic loops, or attending events, pick a hotel that aligns with your plan (parking access, trailhead proximity, amenities).
Consider off-peak value: Some stays may cost less in shoulder seasons and still deliver the same quality; if you’re flexible, you might save.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
South Dakota’s lodging scene offers far more than simple places to sleep—it presents destinations in their own right. Whether you’re drawn to the history and grandeur of the Hotel Alex Johnson, the glamping elegance of Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, or the full-throttle resort energy of The Lodge at Deadwood, your stay becomes part of the experience.