Needles Highway Tours and Activities

Things to do near Needles Highway

A journey along Needles Highway in Custer, South Dakota, is a must for any tourist, offering one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the USA. This breathtaking route features incredible views of granite spires, lush forests, and unique rock formations. Whether you're driving or stopping to take photos, you’ll be captivated by the amazing scenery that unfolds along this remarkable scenic road, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Black Hills.

Shopping

Your shopping experience near Needles Highway includes Teddy Bear Town and Things That Rock, both located 4.8km away, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Rushmore Mall, 38.6km away, features a variety of family-friendly stores and entertainment options.

Recreation

At Rocky Knolls Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst scenic landscapes, perfect for relaxation and recreation. Nearby, Holy Terror Mini Golf offers a fun-filled adventure for the whole family. For a serene experience, visit Dinosaur Park, where you can unwind and reconnect with nature.

Adventure

Embark on the Presidential Trail, a stunning 9.7km hike showcasing breathtaking scenery and a true sense of adventure. For family-friendly fun, visit the Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground, located 12.9km away, offering outdoor activities and bonding experiences. Don’t miss the excitement at Watiki Water Park, 41.8km away, perfect for entertainment and adventure.

Nightlife

At Needles Highway, experience the thrill of Rushmore Tramway Adventures, an arcade and adventure zone with a lively family atmosphere. For a dose of culture and romance, catch a performance at the Black Hills Playhouse or the Grand Magic Show, both offering enchanting entertainment just minutes away.

Find the best attractions near Needles Highway

Visitors to Needles Highway in Custer, South Dakota, can explore a variety of attractions, including symbolic landmarks, memorials, and stunning rock formations. Ideal for those seeking a blend of culture and outdoor adventure, the scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the famous Needles formations and the surrounding Custer State Park. Whether you're interested in photography, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery, there's something for everyone along this iconic highway.

• Mount Rushmore: Located 11.3km from Needles Highway, this iconic landmark features the colossal carvings of four U.S. presidents. The site offers a rich cultural experience, with stunning views and historical context that highlight American heritage.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Also 11.3km away, this memorial showcases the same impressive sculptures as Mount Rushmore, but with additional educational exhibits. Visitors can learn about the artistry and significance of this monumental tribute to democracy.
• Sylvan Lake: Just 4.8km from Needles Highway, this picturesque lake offers a romantic setting surrounded by the Black Hills. Ideal for outdoor activities, you can enjoy scenic hikes, relaxing beach spots, and breathtaking views.

Best time to go to Needles Highway

The best time to visit Needles Highway can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Needles Highway falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Needles Highway falls in February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	23.9°F (-4.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	22.5°F (-5.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	33.6°F (0.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
July	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	34.0°F (1.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
December	24.3°F (-4.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Needles Highway

To save money on your trip to Needles Highway, plan your visit during the off-peak months of January, April, or November for lower hotel rates. Avoid weekends, as Wednesday typically offers the best prices. Take advantage of free activities like Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak, and Horse Thief Lake. For accommodation, use Expedia to compare prices and consider booking a package deal that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore the area on foot to cut down on transportation costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Needles Highway is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Needles Highway are January, April and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Needles Highway is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Needles Highway is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Needles Highway hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.