From Rapid City: 1880 Train Guided Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Rapid City that combines scenic views, charming towns, and a touch of history, the 1880 Train Guided Tour might be just what you’re after. While I haven’t done this trip myself, I’ve looked into it thoroughly to give you an honest, detailed picture of what to expect.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the way it blends a relaxing train ride with plenty of time to explore some authentic small towns. Plus, the fact that it includes hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics a breeze. That said, the tour is priced at $291 per person, which isn’t cheap, but it includes the train ride and guides, so you’re paying for a well-organized day out.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll want to be comfortable on your feet during town visits and optional winery stops. Overall, it seems best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, small-town charm, and a flexible, guided experience that takes care of the details.

Key Points

• Scenic train ride through the Black Hills offers great vistas and a taste of local history.
• Visit Keystone and Hill City, two of South Dakota’s most picturesque towns.
• Includes optional wine tastings outside Hill City for those interested.
• Comfortable transportation and guides help make the day smooth and informative.
• Price reflects the train, guide, and pick-up service—worth considering if you value convenience.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users and requires comfortable walking shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the 1880 Train Guided Tour?

This tour is designed to give you a taste of South Dakota’s rugged beauty and small-town vibe, all without the hassle of planning. Starting from Rapid City, the day begins with a hotel pick-up, so no worries about drives or parking. It’s a good choice if you prefer a guided experience that includes transportation and narration.

The main attraction is the scenic train ride on the 1880 Train, which travels between Keystone and Hill City. The ride covers about 10 miles and is narrated, giving you insights into the landscape, including views of Harney Peak and remnants of old mining camps. The train’s vintage charm and the chance to see the Black Hills from a different perspective make it a highlight.

After the train, you’ll have some “free time” in Hill City—about enough for lunch, shopping, or visiting the local museums. The tour also offers an optional stop at three winery tasting rooms, which some might find a lovely way to wind down the day.

The Towns: Keystone and Hill City

Keystone’s appeal lies in its historical roots and its proximity to Mount Rushmore, although this tour doesn’t include the monument itself. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, enough to browse shops, visit local attractions like the Big Thunder Gold Mine or the Rushmore Borglum Story, or just soak in the small-town atmosphere.

Hill City, on the other hand, is a bit larger and livelier. It’s known for its artsy vibe and outdoor activities, but for this tour, it’s mainly about enjoying lunch and exploring the shops or museums like the Black Hills Natural History Museum and the South Dakota Train Museum. The town’s friendly, welcoming feel makes it a pleasant stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s price includes the train ride, guided commentary, and hotel pickup/drop-off—that’s a solid deal for the convenience and the experience. Plus, bottled water is provided, which is a thoughtful touch.

However, beyond the train and water, lunch and any additional refreshments are up to you. While the tour suggests several local restaurants, you’ll want to budget for your meal. The optional winery stops are outside Hill City, and if you choose to visit them, they’re a bonus but not included in the price.

What’s the Experience Like?

Based on reviews and the description, the train ride is generally described as comfortable and scenic. Passengers appreciate the narration that adds context to the views and history. The vintage train cars evoke a sense of stepping back in time, and the scenery—mountains, forests, old mining sites—is quite picturesque.

The stops in Keystone and Hill City are relaxed, giving travelers time to explore without feeling rushed. Many visitors enjoy browsing shops, visiting museums, or just soaking in the small-town charm. The optional winery tastings are often praised for their selection and the chance to sample local wines.

As one reviewer put it, “The train ride was a relaxing way to see the Black Hills, and I loved having time to explore Hill City afterward.” Another mentioned that the “guided narration made the scenery even more meaningful.”

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Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day but manageable for most travelers. Wear comfortable shoes since there’s some walking involved, especially if you plan to explore towns or visit museums. Bring a camera, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing—South Dakota’s weather can be unpredictable.

Since the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges should consider other options. Also, keep in mind that the group size is limited to 12, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Price and Value

At $291 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it bundles transportation, guiding, the train ride, and bottled water—all key components for a hassle-free experience. For travelers who value comfort and organization, it’s probably worth the cost. Plus, the inclusion of a narrated train ride and the chance to explore historic towns makes it a nice blend of sightseeing and leisure.

If you’re just after the train ride alone, you might find cheaper alternatives, but they’ll likely lack the guided commentary and convenience of hotel pickup.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience suits those who enjoy scenic train journeys and small-town exploration. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a guided day out, without the stress of planning every detail. History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in South Dakota’s mountain scenery will find plenty to enjoy.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a completely independent experience or need accessibility accommodations. Families with older children might find it relaxing, but those with very young kids or mobility issues should consider other options.

The 1880 Train Guided Tour provides a relaxing, scenic way to experience the Black Hills. The combination of vintage train travel, charming towns, and optional wine tastings creates a well-rounded day that balances sightseeing with leisure.

While the price may be on the higher side, the convenience and guided narration add value, especially if you want a stress-free way to soak in the scenery and history. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort and an organized itinerary—those who want to see a lot without the hassle of logistics.

If you’re craving a taste of South Dakota’s small-town spirit, combined with a scenic train ride and some optional local wine, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a good choice for a laid-back, engaging day out that leaves you with lasting memories of the Black Hills.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb in Rapid City.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, eating, and optional winery visits.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the train ride, guided narration, transportation, and bottled water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children, but note that the tour isn’t designed specifically for families or very young kids.

Are dietary needs accommodated?
Food isn’t included, so you can choose where to eat in Hill City based on your preferences.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Most reviews indicate the vintage train cars are comfortable, with good views and narration.

Are the winery stops included?
No, winery tastings are optional and outside Hill City, not part of the main tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

If you’re looking for a scenic, well-organized way to explore South Dakota’s Black Hills, this guided train tour offers a good balance of relaxation and adventure. Just weigh the cost against what you’ll get in comfort, scenery, and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: