Roller Coaster Tickets with Dinner and Show in Rapid City

If you’re looking for a lively, family-friendly way to spend an evening in Rapid City, this three-in-one experience offers a bit of everything—thrilling rides, hearty food, and spirited entertainment. We’ve looked into this tour, and it seems like a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable mix of adventure and Americana, especially if you’re traveling with kids over 40 inches tall who enjoy a bit of action.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the buffalo hunt roller coaster is definitely not your average amusement park ride. It combines the thrill of a roller coaster with the fun of a shooting game, offering a unique twist that’s great for kids and adults alike. Second, the dinner is described as a traditional chuckwagon meal served efficiently, paired with a lively, Branson-style show filled with great music and humor.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the experience—the roller coaster’s operation depends on safe conditions, so it might be canceled or rescheduled due to heat or other weather issues. If your main goal is the coaster ride, it’s worth planning a day with flexible scheduling or checking the forecast in advance.

This tour truly suits those who enjoy an active, entertaining evening—families with adventurous kids, groups looking for a fun night out, or anyone interested in experiencing a taste of the Old West with a modern twist.

Key Points

• Unique Buffalo Hunt Roller Coaster blends thrills with interactive target shooting.
• Includes a hearty chuckwagon dinner with all the classic fixings.
• Enjoy a live Americana-style music show that’s lively and engaging.
• Weather-dependent: coaster operation can be canceled in extreme heat or bad weather.
• Great for families with kids over 40 inches tall who want a mix of excitement and entertainment.
• Good value for the entertainment package, especially considering the variety of activities included.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Fort Hays Old West Town and Dinner Show

Your adventure begins at the historic Fort Hays Old West Town where you’ll pick up your tickets and wristbands. This initial stop sets the scene for the evening, with the added bonus of exploring a charming Old West atmosphere before diving into the main events.

The wristband you receive grants access to three main parts: the Buffalo Hunt roller coaster, dinner, and the show. The check-in window for dinner is typically between 4:30 and 5 pm, giving you a comfortable window to settle in.

The Buffalo Hunt Coaster

This is the highlight for many guests—and for good reason. You’ll sit in a roller coaster cart designed to simulate a buffalo herd, zipping along a zig-zagging course that’s both fast and fun. Attached to the moving herd are over 40 targets, and your goal is to shoot as many as possible with a six-shooter. It’s a playful mix of a traditional wild west shootout and a modern roller coaster experience.

Reviews describe it as “a hoot” and “a ride you won’t forget,” with some guests going multiple times to improve their scores. Even those with height or heat concerns found it to be a fun challenge, with some saying it’s especially perfect for kids and families.

Chuckwagon Dinner

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll settle in for a traditional Chuckwagon-style dinner. Based on reviews, the food is good, served quickly, and more than enough to satisfy hungry guests. It’s the kind of hearty, no-fuss meal you’d expect from an authentic ranch or western setting—think meat, cornbread, baked beans, and all the classic fixings.

Guests often mention the food as a highlight, with some describing it as “fantastic” or “more than enough.” The dinner atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for unwinding after the ride.

The Live Show

Post-dinner, you’re treated to a Branson-style variety show performed by talented musicians, often with a humorous or lively western theme. Guests rave about the band, praising their talent and the diversity of music—from classic country to Elvis hits.

According to comments, the show is “campy but super talented,” with some reviewers calling it “spectacular” and “the best show we’ve seen in years.” The performers seem to have a knack for engaging the crowd and creating an entertaining, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

Strengths

• Unique experience for thrill-seekers and families: The buffalo hunt roller coaster is unlike anything else you’ll find locally. Its interactive shooting element adds a fun, competitive edge.
• Good value for the price: At around $70 per person, you get the roller coaster, a full meal, and a live show—all in a three-hour package. Guests consistently mention the good balance of activities and the entertainment value.
• Family-friendly with some caveats: Kids over 40 inches tall can safely ride, and many reviews highlight how enjoyable and fun it is for children and parents alike.
• Excellent entertainment and food quality: The talented band, lively show, and hearty meal get multiple thumbs up. Guests say the food is “more than enough,” and the entertainment keeps everyone engaged.
• Flexible cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

Considerations

• Weather dependency: The roller coaster’s safety systems are sensitive to heat and weather conditions, leading to possible cancellations or reschedules on hot days. If the coaster is the main draw, check the forecast or be prepared for a backup plan.
• Additional charges: Some guests have mentioned being charged extra for the coaster despite the ticket description. It’s worth confirming your price and what’s included beforehand.
• Not necessarily for thrill junkies: While the coaster is fun, some guests felt it wasn’t worth the extra charge or that it was more suitable for kids than adults. If pure adrenaline is your goal, other thrill rides might be more intense.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits best for travelers who want a well-rounded, entertaining evening with a bit of adventure. It’s ideal for families with kids over 40 inches tall, couples looking for a lively night out, or groups wanting to combine a fun ride with hearty food and music.

If you’re traveling with kids who love shooting games or enjoy rides that aren’t overly intense, this could be a highlight of your trip. But if you’re a serious thrill-seeker craving high-speed roller coasters or extreme rides, this might not hit that mark.

For those interested in experiencing a slice of Western Americana—complete with music, dancing, and hearty food—this tour offers a friendly, lively atmosphere that’s likely to leave a smile on your face.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is the roller coaster suitable for all ages?
Not quite. You need to be over 40 inches tall to ride, so younger children or very petite visitors might not be able to participate.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the buffalo hunt roller coaster, a traditional chuckwagon dinner, and a live music show. There’s mention of an extra $15 charge for the roller coaster in some cases, so double-check your booking details.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the coaster, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour is about 3 hours, from check-in to the end of the show. It’s a good length for an evening outing without feeling rushed.

Is the food buffet-style or plated?
Guests mention a hearty, served meal that is efficient and satisfying—probably served in a casual, buffet-style manner typical of a chuckwagon setting.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The reviews don’t specify dietary options, but since it’s a traditional chuckwagon dinner, it’s best to contact the provider directly to inquire about special requests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, lively, and uniquely Western experience, this tour in Rapid City offers a solid package. The buffalo hunt coaster delivers a memorable rush, complemented by hearty food and spirited live entertainment. It’s a good pick for families or groups seeking a casual yet engaging night out, especially if your main goal is some memorable adventure paired with local flavor.

While the weather and extra charges are worth noting, many guests find the overall experience to be a rewarding way to spend an evening. It’s not a high-intensity thrill ride, but it’s packed with personality, humor, and fun—perfect for making your trip to the Black Hills a little more special.

Whether you’re celebrating a family vacation, a group adventure, or just want a fun night that captures the spirit of the Old West with a modern twist, this experience is worth considering. Just remember to check the weather forecast and confirm what’s included before you go, so you’re all set for a memorable night.