Spearfish Travel Guide

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Nestled in the picturesque Black Hills region of South Dakota, Spearfish is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Known for its stunning landscapes and friendly atmosphere, Spearfish is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

One of the highlights of Spearfish is its proximity to the iconic Spearfish Canyon. With its towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, the canyon is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the many scenic trails, or challenge yourself with a more rigorous hike to witness breathtaking views from the canyon rim.

For those seeking adventure on the water, Spearfish Creek offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with trout, providing a thrilling experience for anglers of all levels. If you prefer a more relaxing experience, simply dip your toes in the refreshing water or have a picnic by its banks.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Spearfish. The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery is a fascinating place to learn about the conservation efforts and the role of fish hatcheries in the region. Take a guided tour to see the historic buildings, ponds filled with fish, and even feed the fish yourself. Don't forget to visit the museum, which showcases the rich history of the hatchery and its impact on the local ecosystem.

For a taste of the local culture, head to Spearfish's Main Street, where you'll find a vibrant downtown area filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and charming eateries. Browse through unique boutiques for handcrafted souvenirs or sample local delicacies at one of the many restaurants that offer farm-to-table cuisine.

Spearfish is also home to a thriving arts scene, with various galleries and theaters showcasing the works of local artists and performers. Catch a live music performance or enjoy a theatrical production at the Matthews Opera House & Arts Center, a historic venue that has been entertaining audiences for over a century.

Alternative names: Founded: 1876 (148 years ago)Population: 11.3 thous.Area: 16.46 mi²Elevation: 3655 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°29'23"N, 103°51'32"W

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South DakotaUnited States

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Spearfish Top Attractions

Spearfish Attractions - What to See and Explore

Spearfish offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery, High Plains Western Heritage Center, James A. Corbin House, Webb S. Knight House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Aquarium • Museum
D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery
The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives, also known as the Spearfish Fisheries Center or Spearfish Fisheries Complex and formerly known as the Spearfish National Fish Hatchery, is one of 70 fish hatcheries that were opened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the National Fish Hatchery System.
44°28'4"N • 103°48'47"W
High Plains Western Heritage Center
History museum • Museum
44°29'11"N • 103°51'28"W
James A. Corbin House
The James A. Corbin House, at 345 Main St. in Spearfish, South Dakota, was built in 1918. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. It is a two-story vernacular-style house.

44°29'19"N • 103°51'22"W
Webb S. Knight House
The Webb S. Knight House, at 514 7th St. in Spearfish, South Dakota, is a "a very simple version of Queen Anne" style house built in 1892. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
Church
Episcopal Church of All Angels
The Episcopal Church of All Angels is a historic church at 129 W. Michigan in Spearfish, South Dakota. It was built in 1895 and was added to the National Register in 1976. Before the building of the only Episcopal church in Spearfish, Episcopalian worshippers practiced in their homes.
44°29'22"N • 103°51'40"W
Grace Balloch Memorial Library
Library

Day trips

Spearfish – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Spearfish, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Lincoln Borglum Museum (Keystone), Reptile Gardens (Rapid City), Dinosaur Park (Rapid City).

47 milesSE
History museum, Museum, Art museum
Lincoln Borglum Museum, Keystone
The Lincoln Borglum Museum is located in the Mount Rushmore National Memorial near Keystone, South Dakota. It features two 125-seat theaters that show a 13-minute movie about Mount Rushmore. A view thought by many to be one of the best is located at Grandview Terrace, above the Museum.
45 milesSE
Sanctuary for slithery creatures
Reptile Gardens, Rapid City
Reptile Gardens is an animal park located south of Rapid City, South Dakota, on the road to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The park is open the first Saturday in March through November 30 each year.
42 milesSE
Park, View point, Monuments and statues
Dinosaur Park, Rapid City
Dinosaur Park is a tourist attraction in Rapid City, South Dakota, United States. Dedicated on May 22, 1936, it contains seven dinosaur sculptures on a hill overlooking the city, created to capitalize on the tourists coming to the Black Hills to see Mount Rushmore.
46 milesSE
Museum, Military museum, History museum
South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Box Elder
The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is an aviation museum located in Box Elder, South Dakota, just outside the main gate of Ellsworth AFB. It is dedicated to the history of the United States Air Force and aviation in South Dakota. During the summer months, visitors can take a base bus tour for a nominal fee.
42 milesSE
Arenas and stadiums, Convention center, Sport venue
The Monument, Rapid City
The Monument, formerly known as Rushmore Plaza Civic Center and Rushmore Plaza, is a 500,000-square-foot exhibition center, in Rapid City, South Dakota.