South Dakota: Your Winter Getaway is Calling!

Escape the winter chill and dive into fun at WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark, where it’s always 84 degrees and sunny! But the fun doesn’t stop there. The Black Hills region offers a wide array of winter activities to make your vacation unforgettable. Here’s a guide to some of the coolest things to do this winter, all while having WaTiki® as your warm and welcoming home base:

– Ice Skating at Main Street Square (November-February):

Glide into the holiday spirit at Main Street Square in downtown Rapid City! Ice skating is a classic winter pastime, and the rink is open from November to February. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the crisp winter air and create magical memories.

– Mount Rushmore National Park:

Witness the awe-inspiring Mount Rushmore National Park blanketed in snow. The park is open year-round, providing a unique winter perspective on this iconic landmark. A quick 20-minute drive leads you to an experience like no other where you can witness the incredible creations of history in the Black Hills.

– Terry Peak Ski Area (December – April):

Only a 54-mile drive from Rapid City puts you in prime ski territory, where fresh powder always awaits. Hit the slopes at Terry Peak Ski Area, which generally operates from the first weekend in December through the first Sunday in April. With a summit of 7,100 feet, Terry Peak offers the highest lift service between the Rocky Mountains and the Alps, ensuring plenty of snow and thrilling runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

– Black Hills Snowmobile Rentals (December 15 – March 31):

Explore 350 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the Black Hills National Forest. Trails are generally open from December 15 to March 31, offering an exhilarating way to experience the winter wonderland. Several local retailers offer snowmobile rentals, making it easy to embark on your snowy adventure.

– The Mammoth Site Museum:

Discover a unique paleontological treasure at The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, a short hour drive away. This active indoor dig site boasts the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world, providing an engaging and educational experience for all ages. It’s a perfect indoor activity for a change of pace from the outdoor attractions. Your children will be talking about it for decades!

– WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort:

After a day of winter adventures, return to the warmth and excitement of WaTiki®! With over 30,000 square feet of aquatic fun, WaTiki® features thrilling waterslides, a relaxing lazy river, Koko’s Kingdom for the little ones, and an arcade with over 30 games. Plus, with convenient access to La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Residence Inn by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, Home2 Suites by Hilton, and Courtyard by Marriott, WaTiki® is the perfect home base for your Black Hills winter escape.

Don’t miss the chance to make this winter unforgettable with a blend of outdoor adventures and indoor waterpark fun at WaTiki®!