Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in South Dakota

For much of my life, summers were spent out west. Whether I was a tiny kid running around the campgrounds or a young adult working at a local resort, South Dakota has always been a part of my story. With so much of my life spent in the Black Hills, I quickly found a second home in a particular small historic town in South Dakota. Between Old West bison roundups, incredible hikes in Custer State Park, and the famous Crazy Horse Volksmarch, it's easy to see why folks fall in love with Custer, South Dakota.

Best Things To Do in This Historic Gem

The star of this small historic town in South Dakota is Custer State Park. I’ve been in love with this 71,000-acre expanse for decades. The park is home to elk, bison, prairie dogs, mountain lions, and more. One of my favorite things to do is drive the Wildlife Loop and see the famous “begging burros”—wild donkeys that greet visitors and try to steal their snacks.

​For something a bit more educational, swing by the 1881 Courthouse Museum. The museum covers the important role of Custer and other historic towns in South Dakota. Founded officially in 1875, Custer has played a major role in the area’s expansion. Additionally, you’ll find insights into the history of the area's Native American tribes and more information about the local wildlife.  

Seasonal Events or Festivals in Custer

There are two seasonal events in Custer that I absolutely recommend planning your trip around. The first is the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival. The festival is held annually at the end of September. Visitors have the opportunity to watch cowboys and cowgirls round up a herd of about 1,300 bison in Custer State Park. This event is an important part of managing the herd in the state park to keep the bison population healthy. I recommend getting to the event extremely early, setting up a chair, and soaking in the sounds of thousands of hooves coming over the rolling hills. You’ll truly feel transported to a bygone era (or maybe an episode of Yellowstone). Plus, vendors sell pancakes before the roundup begins, so you can enjoy breakfast with a beautiful view. In addition to the roundup, there are opportunities to check out the work of local artists.

Second, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch is a unique annual 10k hike. Participating in the 10k is one of the only opportunities hikers have to trek all the way to the face of the Crazy Horse Memorial. It can be an intense hike, but you’re rewarded with a medal and a true sense of accomplishment. The event typically occurs in June and September. Participants are encouraged to bring canned food to donate to local food banks.

Custer Is a Must-Visit Small Historic Town in South Dakota

As you can see, Custer is one of the most special historic towns in South Dakota. With its unique connection to the Old West and endless opportunities to get outside, it remains one of the most beloved places in my heart. Start planning your Black Hills adventure today and discover all there is to see in Custer. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own South Dakota trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.