Sturgis Travel Guide

Today in the United States: General Election Day (5 Nov)

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, the small city of Sturgis may be best known for one thing: the world-famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Every year, in the first week of August, hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world descend upon this charming town for a week of roaring engines, live music, and unforgettable experiences.

But beyond the rally, Sturgis has much more to offer. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Bear Butte State Park is a sacred site for Native Americans and offers hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas. Visitors can also explore the pristine waters of the nearby Belle Fourche Reservoir, where fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities abound.

For those seeking a taste of history, Sturgis does not disappoint. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame is a must-visit, showcasing the rich history and culture of motorcycles, and the role the rally has played in shaping the city. The Sturgis Historical Society Museum provides a glimpse into the city's past, with exhibits that highlight the region's pioneer heritage and the stories of those who settled here.

Art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Sturgis as well. The Sturgis Center for the Arts hosts regular exhibitions and performances, showcasing the talents of local and regional artists. The annual Sturgis Art Festival is a highlight on the city's cultural calendar, attracting artists from across the country to display their works.

Food lovers will also find their fair share of culinary delights in Sturgis. From classic American diners serving up hearty breakfasts to gourmet restaurants offering a fusion of flavors, there is something to satisfy every palate. And of course, no visit to Sturgis is complete without indulging in the local favorite: buffalo burgers.

Alternative names: Founded: 1878 (146 years ago)Population: 6.7 thous.Area: 5.83 mi²Elevation: 3399 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°24'53"N, 103°30'36"W

Location

South DakotaUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Sturgis Top Attractions

Sturgis Attractions - What to See and Explore

Sturgis offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, Black Hills National Cemetery, Williams Middle School. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • Museum
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of motorcycling while honoring the heritage of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. The museum's doors officially opened in June 2001.
Cemetery
Black Hills National Cemetery
Black Hills National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery in South Dakota, located three miles southeast of Sturgis in Meade County. It encompasses 105.9 acres, and as 2021, had over 30,000 interments. Located at exit 34 of Interstate 90, it is administered by the U.S.
Universities and schools • Gothic Revival architecture
Williams Middle School
Sturgis Williams Middle School is a middle school located at 1425 Cedar Street in Sturgis, South Dakota, United States, and is part of the Meade School District. The school draws students from all over the city.

Day trips

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

In the vicinity of Sturgis, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Sylvan Lake (Custer State Park), Lincoln Borglum Museum (Keystone).

40 milesS
Mountain carving in progress since 1948
Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer
The Crazy Horse Memorial, located in the Black Hills near Custer, South Dakota, is a monument of profound historical and cultural significance. This colossal mountain carving, dedicated to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, stands as a testament to the spirit and endurance...
39 milesS
Natural attraction, Body of water, Park
Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park
Sylvan Lake is a lake located in Custer State Park, in the Black Hills of South Dakota, United States. It was created in 1891 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch Creek.
37 milesS
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.
32 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.
27 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.