Powered by 107.1 KSLT — Encouraging family fun, faith, and exploration across our five-state region
This summer, we’re helping you create meaningful memories with your family—right in your own backyard. Whether you’re in South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, or Montana, we’ve curated some of the best wholesome, budget-friendly, and faith-aligned adventures for families like yours.
Explore below by state, and fuel your Summer of Adventure with fun that inspires, encourages, and connects.
If you try any of these activities, we want to hear about it! Enter to win a $250 gift card each week during the 2025 Summer of Adventure!
South Dakota
Northern Hills (Spearfish, Deadwood, Belle Fourche)
- Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Enjoy a picturesque drive through limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls, both accessible via short hikes. - D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery (Spearfish)
Established in 1896, this hatchery offers self-guided tours, a museum, and fish-feeding opportunities. It’s a fun and educational stop for families. - Termesphere Gallery (Spearfish)
Discover unique spherical paintings by artist Dick Termes. The gallery showcases a blend of art and science that’s intriguing for all ages. - Adams Museum (Deadwood)
Explore the rich history of Deadwood through exhibits on Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and the Gold Rush era. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. - Tri-State Museum & Visitor Center (Belle Fourche)
Learn about the history of the tri-state area through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also features a children’s activity area.
Central Hills / Rapid City
- Storybook Island
A beloved 8-acre park featuring storybook-themed playsets and characters. It’s a magical experience for younger children. - Dinosaur Park
Climb life-sized dinosaur sculptures atop a hill offering panoramic views of Rapid City. It’s a nostalgic and fun stop for all ages. - Chapel in the Hills
Visit a replica of Norway’s Borgund Stave Church nestled in a serene setting. The chapel offers a peaceful retreat and insight into Norwegian architecture. - Museum of Geology
Located at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, this museum features fossils, minerals, and exhibits on geology and paleontology. - Main Street Square
A vibrant public space hosting free events, concerts, and a splash pad for kids during summer months. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy community activities.
Southern Hills (Custer, Hot Springs, Keystone)
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
While parking requires a fee, walking around the monument and visiting the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center is free. Experience the iconic sculptures up close. - Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
Drive through this scenic loop to see bison, pronghorns, and other wildlife. While there’s an entrance fee for the park, the wildlife viewing experience is priceless. - Wind Cave National Park
Explore above-ground hiking trails and picnic areas in one of the oldest national parks. Cave tours have a fee, but surface activities are free. - Jewel Cave National Monument
Discover one of the longest caves in the world. Surface trails and the visitor center are free to access; cave tours require a fee. - Keystone Historical Museum
Learn about the history of Keystone through exhibits housed in a historic school building. Admission is free, making it a great educational stop.
North Dakota
- Dickinson Museum Center: Explore a 12-acre campus featuring the Badlands Dinosaur Museum, Joachim Regional History Museum, Pioneer Machinery Hall, and Prairie Outpost Park.
- Ukrainian Cultural Institute: Learn about Ukrainian heritage through exhibits and cultural events.
- Crooked Crane Trail: Enjoy a family bike ride or nature hike on this scenic trail.
- Dickinson Parks & Recreation: Discover numerous parks and trails offering endless fun for the family.
- North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum (Bismarck): Explore the state’s history through engaging exhibits.
- Double Ditch Indian Village State Historic Site (Bismarck): Visit this significant archaeological site with interpretive trails.
Nebraska
- Dawes County Historical Museum (Chadron): Explore artifacts dating back to the early 1800s, including household goods, farm and ranch items, and military memorabilia.
- Five Rocks Amphitheater (Gering): Enjoy free community events and concerts in this natural amphitheater setting.
- High Plains Homestead: Experience an old-west frontier village offering bird watching, geocaching, mountain biking, and hiking.
- Sunken Gardens (Lincoln): A beautifully maintained garden offering a peaceful retreat.
- Pioneers Park Nature Center (Lincoln): Explore trails and observe native wildlife in this expansive park.
- Pioneer Courage Park (Omaha): Features impressive bronze sculptures depicting pioneer life.
Wyoming
- Campbell County Rockpile Museum: Discover local history through exhibits on paleontology, Native American artifacts, and early settlers.
- Dalbey Memorial Park (Fishing Lake Park): Enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas in this scenic park.
- McManamen Park: A family-friendly park featuring trails, playgrounds, and open spaces for recreation.
- Wyoming State Museum (Cheyenne): Discover Wyoming’s cultural heritage through diverse exhibits.
- Occidental Hotel (Buffalo): Step back in time by visiting this historic hotel with Wild West artifacts.
- Sheridan Pathways: Enjoy walking or biking along scenic trails connecting parks and open spaces.
Montana
- Flathead Lake: The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, ideal for various water activities.
- Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site (Deer Lodge): Step back in time at this working cattle ranch, offering free tours and demonstrations.
- Bannack State Park: Explore Montana’s first territorial capital and preserved ghost town. Admission is included with Montana’s annual state parks fee for residents.
- The Science Mine (Butte): Engage in hands-on science exhibits designed for kids of all ages.
- Foy’s Lake (Kalispell): A beautiful lake offering swimming, boating, and picnic areas.
- Shelby Carousel (Shelby): Ride a fully restored 1936 carousel, a delightful experience for all ages.
Other resources
- 33 fun free things to do in Rapid City and the Black Hills
- 15 unforgettable things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota
- 6 ways to entertain the family in Rapid City
- Best free things to do in Rapid City
- Top things to do when traveling to the Black Hills with kids
- Educational stops for all ages in Rapid City
- Kids activities in Dickinson
- Dickinson parks
- Free family friendly things to do in Wyoming
- Family fun in western Nebraska
- Attractions in northwest Nebraska
- Free things to do in Nebraska
- Free things to do in Gillette, Wyoming
- 12 free things to do with kids in Wyoming
- 6 free or low-cost fun places to take your family this summer in Montana
- 8 options for free family fun in Kalispell
- Kids and family activities in Central Montana
- Best things to do near Glacier National Park
- 20 free things to do in South Dakota
