Quick Summary: The town of Custer, South Dakota is an excellent base for anyone who want to explore the Black Hills National Forest of the United States and the surrounding region. The area is also home to some of the best things to do and attractions in the state, such as the Jewel Cave National Monument, Custer State Park, the Needles, the 1881 Courthouse Museum, and most famous, Mount Rushmore, only around a thirty-minute drive outside of town.


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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Custer State Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Custer State Park | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© Matt/stock.adobe.com

2. Iron Mountain Road ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Iron Mountain Road | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© johnsroad7/stock.adobe.com

3. Black Hills National Forest

Category: Activities
Black Hills National Forest | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© Anatolii/stock.adobe.com

4. Jewel Cave National Monument

Category: Activities
Jewel Cave National Monument | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© National Parked/stock.adobe.com

5. Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© Matt/stock.adobe.com

6. Black Hills Playhouse

Category: Entertainment
Black Hills Playhouse | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© Black Hills Playhouse

7. 1881 Courthouse Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
1881 Courthouse Museum | What to See in Custer, South Dakota
© 1881 Courthouse Museum

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