Some time ago, I received an invitation to attend three conferences in Spearfish, South Dakota. Surprisingly, I found myself with free time both before and after the events. So, I made a spontaneous decision to explore the city, and it turned out to be one of my best impromptu choices. And now, I have decided to share some of my experiences with you. In case you ever find yourself in Spearfish, SD, you’ll know the must-visit places and fun activities that I’ve listed below!
Best Things to Do in Spearfish SD
For some exciting and enjoyable activities in Spearfish, we’ve picked out a selection of places, such as Spearfish Canyon, D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery, Devil’s Bathtub, Crow Peak Brewing Company, Devils Tower, High Plains Western Heritage Center Museum, Bridal Veil Falls, and Dolls at Home. When choosing where to go, make sure to read all the info to have the best experience.
Enjoy at Spearfish Parks & Recreation
Heading to Spearfish Parks & Recreation was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure for someone like me who craves the perfect blend of outdoor adventures and serene landscapes.
Tucked away in the heart of Spearfish, this recreational haven promises a diverse range of experiences, catering to nature enthusiasts, families, and thrill-seekers like myself. What struck me was the seamless integration of well-maintained parks, dynamic recreational facilities, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
Spearfish Parks & Recreation turned out to be a hub of excitement for adventure enthusiasts like me. I challenged my friends to a game of disc golf at the scenic Evans Park Disc Golf Course and showcased my skateboarding skills at the well-designed skate park. The abundance of tennis and basketball courts in various parks meant there was always a spot for me to indulge in my favorite sports.
My journey into the natural beauty of Spearfish began with a visit to maintained parks. City Park and Lookout Park quickly became my go-to spots for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The well-marked trails invited me to immerse myself in the lush surroundings, providing a much-needed connection with nature.
Operating Hours
Spearfish Parks & Recreation is generally open all the time. However, extra activities like Rec & Aquatics Center are open Monday through Friday from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm, on Saturday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, and on Sunday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Spearfish Parks & Recreation welcomes visitors year-round, providing a continuous source of outdoor enjoyment. Stay informed about any seasonal adjustments in operating hours or potential closures due to weather conditions.
Price
For the indoor facility only, water park day passes vary with adult (18+) passes priced at $6, youth (4-17) passes at $4, and a walking pass available for $4; additionally, monthly, quarterly, and annual memberships are offered as well.
Location
US-14A, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Editor’s Pick: TOP 9 Reasons Why Travelling is Actually Important
Head on to Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Canyon acts as a magnet for those who have a deep appreciation for both nature and photography. It’s akin to a stunning canvas that beautifully displays the rich variety of the Black Hills. This 22-mile-long gorge is full of stunning rock shapes, green forests, lovely waterfalls, and various animals to see. What I love the most is that it’s not as busy as other national parks, so you can have peaceful hikes without constant interruptions.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
Spearfish Canyon provides a range of exciting experiences for visitors. You can take in the breathtaking views of the canyon from various overlooks and pullouts along the scenic byway. For those seeking adventure, hiking to the spectacular Roughlock Falls, or Spearfish Falls is a must-do, which allows you to feel the refreshing mist on your face.
At the Spearfish Canyon Lodge, you have the opportunity to rent a snowmobile, ATV, or bicycle to further explore the canyon and its diverse terrain. If fishing is your passion, Spearfish Creek is home to a variety of trout, including Brook, brown, and rainbow trout, providing anglers with ample opportunities.
Operating Hours
Spearfish Canyon is open all year, but in winter, some roads and trails close due to snow and ice. As an example, FS Road 222, which runs from Savoy to Roughlock Falls, is typically shut down for snowmobiling between December 15 and March 31.
Price
There is no cost for entry, but there are charges for rentals. For instance, I rented a fat bike for an entire day, and it cost me $35.
Location
North Lawrence, SD 57754, United States
Visit the High Plains Western Heritage Center Museum
Honestly speaking, museums usually don’t excite me because I’m not a big fan of history, but oh boy! High Plains Western Heritage Center Museum completely changed my mind. It’s where the vibrant heritage and cowboy life of the High Plains come to life. Also, it shares stories from South Dakota, Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
Here, you can visit five rooms sharing information about farming, mining, art, Native American culture, travel, and entertainment. Also, you’ll find real artifacts like an earthen house, a wooden cabin, a stagecoach, a cooking wagon, a school, and a metalworking workshop.
The museum houses a remarkable art collection that showcases works by skilled local and regional artists, encompassing paintings, sculptures, quilts, and pottery. And if you’re looking for something special, don’t miss the gift shop where you can purchase items like books, jewelry, clothing, and toys.
Operating Hours
The museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM from Monday to Saturday and from 1 to 4 PM on Sundays.
Price
Adults can gain entry for $10, youth for $3, and there’s a family rate of $22. Young explorers under 6 can join in the excitement for free.
Location
825 Heritage Dr, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Hike at the Devil’s Bathtub
My top pick for a hiking adventure! Devil’s Bathtub is a hiker’s paradise, which promises excitement and refreshment. This incredible spot is a gift from Mother Nature herself. It’s a pool of crystal-clear water sculpted over millions of years by the gentle caress of Spearfish Creek. The pool is bordered by steep cliffs, and there’s a smooth rock that allows you to slide into the water for some aquatic fun.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
Indeed, hikers don’t need advice from us because they know what to do in the great outdoors. But I’ll share my hiking adventure here, especially for people who are visiting for the first time. First, I explore the Devil’s Bathtub Trail, which is about 1.5 miles long one way and follows Spearfish Creek. I climb over rocks and logs, cross bridges and streams.
However, beginners should be careful because some parts can be slippery. After that, I take a break and relax in the water, even go for a swim. I haven’t tried it, but some brave people jump off the cliffs into the pool. It sounds scary, doesn’t it?
Operating Hours
The Devil’s Bathtub Trail is accessible throughout the year. If you’re looking for the best time to visit, weekdays are recommended, as it’s less crowded due to its popularity.
Price
No need to worry about any admission fees; you can hike the Devil’s Bathtub Trail and enjoy a swim for free.
Location
1917 Spearfish Canyon Hwy, Lead, SD 57754, United States
Explore D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery
The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery or should we say a Time Machine takes you back to the roots of fish culture and conservation in the U.S. This place was born in 1896, establishing itself as one of the earliest federal fish hatcheries in the country. We must say it’s not just a museum; it’s a living piece of history and a working fish hatchery.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
At this museum, you can have a great time! First, you can take a tour of the historic hatchery buildings, like the Booth House, Ice House, Railcar, and the Museum. Then, you get to see different types of trout in the ponds and raceways, and you’ll see them at various stages of growing up.
If you’re feeling generous, you can feed the fish with special fish food. Further, if you’re up for a picnic, there are well-appointed shaded tables and benches where you can relax and enjoy your food on the museum grounds. And for some learning and entertainment, you can watch a film or attend a program at the Von Bayer Education Center.
Operating Hours
The hatchery grounds are open all day, every day. The historic buildings and exhibits are available for exploration during the summer months, from 9 am to 6 pm.
Price
There is no entrance fee, but if you want something from the Pond Gift Shop, you’ll need to pay. When I was there, I bought a pretty Hand-Painted Glass Ornament for $19.99.
Location
423 Hatchery Cir, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Read: Why Do My Feet Swell When I Travel?
Sip Some at Crow Peak Brewing Company
Crow Peak Brewing Company is a must-visit local brewery. With a commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, they create a wide variety of brews to various palates. When you visit their taproom, you can choose to sit inside or outside. You’ll also enjoy live music, delicious food from trucks, and fun games.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
At Crow Peak Brewing Company, you can savor delightful beers fresh from the tap, with options like IPA, lager, stout, porter, pale ale, and even special seasonal brews. You can also bring the beer home with you in cans or growlers to enjoy later. If you visit on a Friday or Saturday night, or a Sunday afternoon, you’ll be treated to the sweet sounds of local bands and artists playing live music.
And when you’re feeling hungry, head to the food trucks stationed just outside; I’ve personally experienced Bunky’s BBQ, which is available specifically on Thursdays and Fridays. Plus, the fun continues with games such as foosball, cornhole, darts, and board games – perfect for a great time with friends and family.
Operating Hours
The taproom offers a variety of hours to suit your schedule. It’s open from 11 am to 9 pm on Sundays and from 12 pm to 10 pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the good times roll from 12 pm to 12 am.
Price
While there’s no entry fee for the taproom, you need to pay for the beers you consume.
Location
125 US-14, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Visit Dolls at Home
Dolls at Home is a museum in Spearfish, where you can explore dollhouses and miniatures collected by a famous opera singer and artist named Johanna Meier Dellavecchia. Inside, there’s a village of dollhouses with dolls from all around the world, colorful scenes, miniature room boxes, and a mix of old and new collectibles.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
You can explore five special rooms, each with its own style of dollhouses and miniatures at the museum. They will also show you how Johanna’s first dollhouse has changed over the years with additions and updates. It’s a great way to learn about the history and different cultures of dollhouses and miniatures worldwide.
And the cherry on top is; you have the opportunity to peruse the gift shop, where you can find collector’s miniatures, lovely handmade dolls, and cute furniture in the gift shop.
Operating Hours
The place is open from 1 pm to 4 pm on Thursdays through Sundays but closed on major holidays.
Price
For adults, the cost of admission is $5 whereas it’s $3 for children aged 12 and under it. Kids under the age of 3 can enter at no charge.
Location
435 Meier Ave, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Suggested Reading: Why Should You Travel with a Scarf? 14 Reasons Why
Experience Nature at Bridal Veil Falls
If you’re in search of a scenic waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls is a gem to consider. This majestic 60-foot-high waterfall graces the scenery along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. You can savor the beauty of these falls from the convenience of a parking lot or an observation platform.
Handy Tip: Just remember, while you can admire it from afar, hiking around the area is not allowed.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
Bridal Veil Falls offers a wonderful opportunity for nature enthusiasts and those who appreciate scenic beauty. The falls display their full glory during spring, with a powerful rush of water that gradually tapers off in late summer and fall. As you stand before this natural spectacle, you’ll be captivated by the grace and elegance of the cascading water.
For those who want to up their social media game, this spot is a must-visit. Take pictures of yourself with the falls and the beautiful canyon surroundings, which are filled with mosses, wildflowers, ferns, and mushrooms.
Operating Hours
The park is open from 8 AM until it gets dark. But remember, the gate is closed every year from November 1 to March 31. If you want the best experience, try to visit during late spring to early fall when the weather is pleasant and water is at a comfortable level.
Price
You don’t need to purchase a ticket to visit this waterfall.
Location
Spearfish Canyon Hwy, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States
Visit Devils Tower
Just one hour’s drive from Spearfish, SD, Devils Tower is another haven for hiking lovers! Devil’s Tower is a fantastic natural sight in the northeastern part of Wyoming. It’s a huge rock about a mile wide at the bottom and stands a remarkable 867 feet above the ground. Lots of Native American tribes view it as a special and sacred place. It even earned the title of being the very first national monument in the United States back in 1906, all thanks to President Theodore Roosevelt.
Fun and Cool Things to Do
As I mentioned earlier, it’s a place for hikers, so you can head out on various trails that circle or approach the tower. These include the Tower Trail (1.3 miles), the Red Beds Trail (2.8 miles), or the Joyner Ridge Trail (1.5 miles).
If you’re an experienced rock climber with the necessary permit and gear, you also have the option to climb the tower. Additionally, there’s an amphitheater where you can catch a movie or attend programs.
Operating Hours
Devils Tower National Monument remains accessible throughout the year, although certain facilities and services have limited availability during the winter due to weather conditions.
Price
As for the pricing, the entrance fee is $25 for vehicles, $20 for motorcycles, and $15 for individuals traveling on foot or bicycle. This entrance fee grants you access for a period of seven days.
Location
WY-110, Devils Tower, WY 82714, United States
Related Read: Worst Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park: Avoid These Months
Conclusion
Hopefully, you’ll have a great time at these places based on my own experiences. When you come to Spearfish, be sure to include Crow Peak Brewing Company, D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery, Devil’s Bathtub, and the High Plains Western Heritage Center Museum at the top of your list. If you have extra time to visit the city, consider checking out Dolls at Home, Bridal Veil Falls, and Devils Tower. It’s important to note that the operating hours of these places can change, so it’s a good idea to call the venue before planning your visit.
Top Things to do in Spearfish SD - FAQs
There are two popular breweries, namely Sawyer Brewing Co. and Spearfish Brewing Company. Customers have given them outstanding ratings and have a lot of love for these establishments.
Among the top cultural spots are the High Plains Western Heritage Center, the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery, and the Matthews Opera House and Arts Center.
In Spearfish, there’s a wealth of outdoor excitement to explore. You can ride mountain bikes near Spearfish Creek, be amazed by the stunning Roughlock Falls, and go on hikes to explore Spearfish Canyon’s beauty.
