Children’s Museum of South Dakota
521 4th St, Brookings, SD 57006
What to Expect
Spark your child’s imagination and curiosity with a day of play and discovery! The Children’s Museum of South Dakota offers a world of hands-on exhibits, including the chance to meet a life-sized animatronic T. Rex named Mama. It’s an unforgettable and engaging experience where learning and fun go hand-in-hand for the whole family.
The Prehistoric Experience
Features a full-size permanent animatronic T. Rex, as well as an interactive outdoor Dino Dig exhibit where children can unearth fossils like a paleontologist.
Hours: Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Wednesday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Members only 9-10 AM on Saturdays); Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Dinosaur Park
940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701
What to Expect
Step back in time and stand in the shadows of giants at this iconic Rapid City attraction! Perched high on a ridge with stunning panoramic views, Dinosaur Park invites you to climb and explore seven massive, vintage concrete dinosaurs. It’s a nostalgic and picture-perfect adventure for the whole family, offering a unique glimpse into the prehistoric past and the history of the Black Hills.
The Prehistoric Experience
Features seven large, concrete dinosaur sculptures from the 1930s, including an Apatosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus. These are based on fossils found in South Dakota and the Western United States.
Hours: Park: Daily, 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Visitor Center & Gift Shop (May-September): Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fall Rock and Fossil ID Day
501 E Saint Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701
Dates: October 04, 2025 to October 04, 2025
What to Expect
Unleash your inner paleontologist at the Museum of Geology’s Fall Rock and Fossil ID Day! Bring in your mysterious rocks and fossils to have them identified by experts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the ancient world and the incredible geological treasures of South Dakota.
The Prehistoric Experience
An event focused on identifying fossils, which often includes dinosaur-related specimens brought in by the public, and access to the museum’s paleontological exhibits.
Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Museum of Geology at South Dakota Mines
501 E Saint Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701
What to Expect
Unearth the ancient secrets of the Earth at the Museum of Geology, a treasure trove of fossils and minerals! Marvel at mounted skeletons of dinosaurs, massive marine reptiles, and prehistoric mammals that once dominated the Great Plains. With captivating displays and a kids’ zone for hands-on fun, this museum offers a fascinating and educational experience for all ages.
The Prehistoric Experience
Displays a significant collection of fossils, including mounted skeletons of dinosaurs and other prehistoric reptiles. The exhibits showcase the rich paleontological history of South Dakota and the Northern Great Plains.
Hours: Winter Hours (Labor Day to Memorial Day): Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Summer Hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Night at the Museum
501 E Saint Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701
Dates: October 18, 2025 to October 18, 2025
What to Expect
Experience the Museum of Geology like never before at the annual Night at the Museum! This family-friendly Halloween event offers a unique opportunity to explore the exhibits after hours. Enjoy themed activities and get hands-on with South Dakota’s geological wonders in a festive atmosphere.
The Prehistoric Experience
A special event held within the Museum of Geology, providing after-hours access to all exhibits, including the impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons and fossils.
Hours: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Pioneer Auto Show
503 5th St, Murdo, SD 57559
What to Expect
Take a nostalgic journey through American history at the Pioneer Auto Show, a classic roadside attraction! While famous for its vast collection of vintage cars, tractors, and motorcycles, a prehistoric surprise awaits. Come for the cars, and stay for the dinosaurs at this unique and eclectic museum.
The Prehistoric Experience
Features a collection of dinosaur statues as part of its varied exhibits.
Hours: Seasonal hours, typically open daily from May to October. Check website for specific hours.
The Journey Museum and Learning Center
222 New York St, Rapid City, SD 57701
What to Expect
Embark on an epic adventure through 2.5 billion years of Black Hills history, all under one roof! The Journey Museum and Learning Center offers an immersive experience for all ages, from captivating geology and paleontology exhibits to rich Lakota culture and pioneer history. Dig for dinosaur bones in the Paleontology Tent and let your curiosity run wild in this must-visit Rapid City destination.
The Prehistoric Experience
The paleontology exhibit features fossils and skeletons of dinosaurs that roamed South Dakota. Visitors can engage in a hands-on experience by digging for dinosaur bones in an interactive field tent.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM; Monday: Closed
Wall Drug Store
510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790
What to Expect
Experience the phenomenon that is Wall Drug, a world-famous roadside oasis that has been delighting travelers for generations! Lured by the promise of free ice water, you’ll discover a sprawling complex of shops, restaurants, and quirky attractions. Don’t miss the chance to roar back in time with their giant animated T-Rex!
The Prehistoric Experience
An 80-foot brontosaurus sculpture is a prominent feature, and there is also a life-size animatronic Tyrannosaurus Rex that comes to life periodically.
Hours: Daily, hours vary by season. Typically 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM in the summer.
Event and attraction details are provided for informational purposes only. Please verify dates, hours, locations, and availability directly with the hosting venue or official event organizer. Listings may change or be canceled without notice. We are not responsible for outdated or incorrect information, as all events are managed by independent third parties.