KS Buffalo Roundup and South Dakota 2026

5 Days | September 23 - 27, 2026


Experience the untamed spirit of the West at Custer State Park’s Buffalo Roundup, where thundering hooves and real cowboys create one of America’s most unique and thrilling spectacles. Watch as a massive herd of bison is driven across the hills in a display of raw power and tradition. Explore the Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival, then journey through the stunning Badlands, visit iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, and ride the nostalgic 1880 Train through the scenic Black Hills. With comfortable accommodations in downtown Rapid City, you'll enjoy easy access to local restaurants, shops, and South Dakota hospitality. This tour blends adventure, history, and rugged beauty for a truly unforgettable experience.

 

 

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8 meals

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Group size: 15 - 45

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South Dakota

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Level 2 - This tour features light to moderate activity with periods of walking and standing at outdoor attractions, plus ample opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery.


Tour Itinerary

Day 1 -  Dignity Sculpture and Welcome Dinner

South Dakota is our close neighbor to the north but there is so much to explore! The Buffalo Roundup is the pinnacle of everything you will discover. Drive across the northern Plains into cowboy country. You will visit the gorgeous Dignity Sculpture after lunch. Take in the spectacular views of the Missouri River valley under the shadow of this giant piece of art! Tonight, enjoy a fabulous welcome dinner with the group before heading back to your hotel for a night of rest before embarking on your Rushmore adventure tomorrow!  (D)


Day 2 - Crazy Horse, Keystone, Mt. Rushmore, and the 1880 Train Ride

It wouldn’t be a trip if we didn’t take some time to admire the amazing artistry and history of Crazy Horse where you’ll have a private tour! Enjoy lunch in Keystone where you can explore chainsaw art, museums, and more. You’ll even have the chance to take a ride on the classic 1880 Train. This evening, spend time at Mt. Rushmore, a modern marvel, with dinner included at the park!  (B, D)


Day 3 - Buffalo Round Up and The Cowboy Dinner & Show

In the morning you’ll witness an unforgettable Wild West spectacle as the cowboys and cowgirls saddle up to drive a herd of more than 1,300 buffalo across the open prairie. From your hillside viewing area you can feel the ground tremble and hear the thunder of hooves as the massive animals surge past, a once‑in‑a‑lifetime sight set against the rolling hills and pine‑covered ridges of the Black Hills. After the roundup, join your fellow travellers for a festive farewell dinner and an entertaining show that celebrates the spirit of the West, the perfect conclusion to your journey before we head home tomorrow. (B, D)


Day 4 - Badlands National Park Tour

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Badlands National Park, winding along scenic roads to admire rugged buttes, colorful spires, and expansive prairie while keeping an eye out for wildlife like bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Once you’ve had your fill of this otherworldly terrain, travel east and stop in the Chamberlain area for a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely lunch—perhaps taking in a view of the Missouri River or browsing a local museum. By mid‑afternoon you’ll arrive in Sioux Falls, where you’ll visit the city’s namesake cascade at Falls Park, watching the Big Sioux River tumble over slabs of pink quartzite and taking plenty of photos at the observation tower. Cap the day with a festive farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant and a bit of free time to explore the town’s charming downtown shops and sculptures before turning in for a restful night. (B, D)


Day 5 - Trinity Heights, Palmers Old Time Candy

Today, enjoy a big breakfast before heading out. Your first stop is Trinity Heights, offering more than two dozen shrines, memorial garden spots and quiet corners for reflection amidst 16 acres of spacious walkways and soft green spaces.  Next, its Palmers Old Time Candy, a fun stop to find some of your favorite sweets from a time gone by!  Finally, you’ll arrive back home having experienced the majesty of the Great American Buffalo Roundup and South Dakota! It is a memory you won’t soon forget!  (B)

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Group of people posing in front of Mount Rushmore on a sunny day.
Riders on horseback silhouetted against a cloudy sky, atop a grassy hill.
Bison grazing in a grassy field with a herd of bison in the background.

Hotel Accommodations:


Nights 1-3 - Holiday Inn, Rapid City, SD

Night 4 - Hilton Garden Inn Sioux Falls, SD

*Subject to change


What's Included:

Elevated Accommodations

Delicious Original Meals

Motorcoach Transportation

Professional Tour Director

Home Made Chocolate Chip Cookie

Bottled Water (land based tours)


What's Not Included:

Gratuities

Insurance



Don’t let your dream tour wait.

We’ll take care of the details, you just come along for the ride.

Call us at 402-293-9282 for any questions that you may have!

 

 


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