Top 10 Museums Near Custer

Custer, South Dakota, has a rich history, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences, making it a fantastic destination for museum enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in stepping back in time at an Old West town, exploring prehistoric fossils, or learning about Native American heritage, the region offers a diverse array of museums to suit every interest. 

In this guide, we’ve highlighted the top 10 museums near Custer, SD, offering a blend of history, science, and art that will captivate visitors of all ages.

1. Four Mile Old West Town Museum

Step back in time at Four Mile Old West Town Museum, where you can explore an authentic 1800s town filled with historic buildings, exhibits, and artifacts. This family-friendly museum offers visitors a chance to experience the Old West through interactive displays, self-guided tours, and hands-on activities. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in South Dakota’s rich pioneer history.

Address: 11921 US-16, Custer, SD 57730
Phone: (605) 673-3905
Website: Four Mile Old West Town

2. Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum

Discover the fascinating history of Custer County at the 1881 Courthouse Museum, where you’ll find exhibits detailing the early days of South Dakota, from Native American heritage to the Gold Rush. The museum, housed in the historic courthouse, offers a glimpse into the lives of the area's settlers and pioneers.

Address: 411 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730
Phone: (605) 673-2443
Website: Custer County 1881 Courthouse Museum

3. South Dakota Air & Space Museum

A must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, the South Dakota Air & Space Museum showcases the history of flight and space exploration. With a collection of aircraft, missiles, and exhibits detailing the contributions of Ellsworth Air Force Base, the museum offers an engaging experience for all ages.

Address: 2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706
Phone: (605) 385-5189
Website: South Dakota Air & Space Museum

4. The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

Explore one of the world’s largest mammoth research sites at The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs. Visitors can tour the active dig site where fossils of Columbian and woolly mammoths have been discovered. The museum offers interactive exhibits and guided tours that bring prehistoric history to life.

Address: 1800 US-18 Bypass, Hot Springs, SD 57747
Phone: (605) 745-6017
Website: The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

5. National Presidential Wax Museum

The National Presidential Wax Museum offers a unique way to experience U.S. history, featuring lifelike wax figures of every American president in realistic settings. This immersive museum brings important moments from American history to life, making it a great stop for families and history buffs.

Address: 609 US-16A, Keystone, SD 57751
Phone: (605) 666-4455
Website: National Presidential Wax Museum


6. Black Hills Central Railroad Museum

The Black Hills Central Railroad Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of railroads in the Black Hills and their significance in the American West. Located near the historic 1880 Train, the museum showcases restored locomotives, railroad artifacts, and interactive exhibits that immerse visitors in the era of steam engines. It’s an engaging stop for families and history enthusiasts who want to learn more about the critical role railroads played in connecting the region to the rest of the country.


Address: 222 Railroad Ave, Hill City, SD 57745
Phone: (605) 574-2222
Website: 1880 Train Museum

7. The Journey Museum

The Journey Museum in Rapid City connects visitors with the history, culture, and geography of the Black Hills region. Through engaging exhibits and artifacts, the museum explores Native American history, the geology of the Black Hills, and the region's settler history.

Address: 222 New York St, Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 394-6923
Website: The Journey Museum

8. Museum of Geology

Located on the South Dakota Mines campus, the Museum of Geology features extensive exhibits on paleontology and mineralogy. From dinosaur fossils to stunning mineral specimens, this museum is perfect for science lovers and families interested in the region's geological history.

Address: 501 E St Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 394-2467
Website: Museum of Geology

9. Crazy Horse Memorial Museum

The Crazy Horse Memorial Museum, located at the base of the famous Crazy Horse Monument, offers a rich exploration of Native American history and culture. Alongside exhibits about the ongoing construction of the world’s largest mountain carving, the museum features artifacts, artwork, and educational programs highlighting the diverse heritage of the indigenous people of North America. Visitors can also watch live demonstrations by Native artists and craftspeople.

Address: 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730
Phone: (605) 673-4681
Website: Crazy Horse Memorial

10. Black Hills Institute of Geological Research

Renowned for its work in paleontology, the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research is where visitors can see world-class fossil exhibits, including T. rex specimens and other prehistoric creatures. The museum is a leader in fossil research and offers a thrilling journey through ancient life.

Address: 117 Main St, Hill City, SD 57745
Phone: (605) 574-4289
Website: Black Hills Institute