Keystone vacation rentals

Keystone – a gateway to the Black Hills

Brimming with pancake houses, fudge stores and Old West outfitters, Keystone lives up to its reputation as South Dakota's self-confessed capital of fun. For most travelers, Keystone is a gateway to Mount Rushmore, one of America's most iconic national monuments. It's also a hub for outdoor adventures in the rugged Black Hills region. Spend a few days exploring Keystone and you'll quickly appreciate why it continues to reign as one of America's top destinations for families, adventure seekers and patriots alike.

Activities and attractions in Keystone

Are you looking for attractions to visit during your stay? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable vacation rental, you'll want to experience everything that Keystone has to offer. Here are some of the most popular attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Rushmore Tramway Adventures (0.4 mi / 0.6 km)
• Sylvan Lake (7.6 mi / 12.2 km)
• Needles Highway (8.2 mi / 13.2 km)
• Reptile Gardens (10.2 mi / 16.4 km)
• Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show (11.3 mi / 18.1 km)
• Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road (14.5 mi / 23.4 km)

Soar over Keystone by hot air balloon

Nothing captures the heart of the Black Hills quite like Keystone. The main strip is lined with a mix of steak houses, candy stores and pizzerias. You'll also find tour operators to boot. You can cruise past bison herds in Custer State Park, hike in Black Hills National Forest and make a champagne toast as you soar over rolling farmland in a hot air balloon. Whether you're traveling as a family, a couple or flying solo, Keystone vacation rentals provide an ideal setting for South Dakota adventures.

Gear up for Keystone's Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

With over 60 year-round attractions to explore, Black Hills is a true 4-season destination. Keystone crowds peak in summer, when vacationers flock to check out big-ticket attractions such as Mount Rushmore. Every year the monument attracts almost 3 million visitors. The Memorial Day to Labor Day stretch is especially busy with families. If you want to beat the summer rush, consider visiting in spring or fall. It's worth noting that, during the last week of August, Keystone fills up with Sturgis Motorcycle Rally pilgrims. Expect long beards, patched leathers and polished Harley Davidsons.

Discover Keystone's Great Spirit landscape

Set in the heart of Pennington County, Keystone is part of an isolated mountain range known as the Black Hills. The region gets its name from the spruce and ponderosa pine forests that blanket the hillsides. From afar they look jet- black. The range is considered sacred by the Native American Sioux tribes, who believe it to be home to Wakan Tanka, aka the Great Spirit. If you love nature, Keystone vacation rentals put you within striking distance of iconic Midwest nature reserves, including Custer State Park, Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park.

Transportation to and around Keystone

The nearest airport is in Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located 21 mi (33.8 km) from the city center.