Hotels in Keystone

Whispers of the Hills: Unveiling Keystone's Majestic Monuments and Nature

Nestled in the breathtaking Black Hills, Keystone, South Dakota, is a charming gateway to adventure and natural beauty. This quaint town is renowned for its proximity to iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore and the stunning Needles Highway. Explore scenic hiking trails, marvel at the rugged landscapes, or immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. With its vibrant arts scene and welcoming atmosphere, Keystone offers a unique blend of nature and culture, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Discover the heart of the Black Hills in this enchanting haven! For great hotel rates in Keystone, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Keystone

Some of the best places to stay in Keystone are Custer, Hill City and Hermosa. Custer, Hill City, and Hermosa each offer unique experiences for travellers exploring Keystone, South Dakota. Custer is known for its stunning Black Hills scenery and proximity to Custer State Park, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts. Hill City boasts charming shops and galleries, ideal for a quaint getaway. Hermosa, while quieter, offers a peaceful retreat. Accommodation options in all three areas range from cozy inns to comfortable hotels, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Custer is the best choice, providing easy access to major attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Keystone:

1. CusterOpens in a new window: Custer is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and adventure in places like Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial. With its picturesque lakes and breathtaking landscapes, it's a perfect spot for both families and nature lovers. For accommodations, consider Bavarian Inn Black HillsOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star family-friendly hotel that provides amenities for children and allows pets. Another option is EO Bungalows – Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel ideal for those looking to enjoy natural hot springs nearby. For adventure seekers, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Custer by IHGOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that not only offers hot spring access but also features business amenities and various outdoor activities.
2. Hill CityOpens in a new window: Hill City is a charming area known for its proximity to cultural landmarks like Mount Rushmore. This quaint town offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and rich history, making it a great base for exploring the Black Hills. Black Forest Inn Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star bed and breakfast with a restaurant and entertaining options like billiards. Alternatively, Black Hills Luxury SuitesOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, offers free breakfast and fitness facilities for active travelers. For a more upscale experience, Summer Creek InnOpens in a new window, a 4-star bed and breakfast, features a bar and lounge, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
3. HermosaOpens in a new window: Hermosa is a wonderful place for those wanting to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Black Hills and experience cultural sites like Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. This area provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to major attractions. Consider staying at Comfort Inn And SuitesOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star family-friendly hotel that offers amenities for children. Another option is Quality Inn near Monument Health Rapid City HospitalOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, which accommodates pets and provides a welcoming atmosphere for animal lovers.

Things to do in Keystone for first times

A three-day visit to Keystone offers an enchanting blend of hilly landscapes and majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore lush forests, serene lakes, and winding trails for hiking and biking, or enjoy leisurely activities like boating and art tours, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Keystone:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Keystone with a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore, where you can marvel at the monumental sculptures of four U.S. presidents. After soaking in the breathtaking views, head over to the Gutzon Borglum Historical Center to learn about the life of the sculptor and the fascinating history behind this national treasure. Conclude your day at the National Presidential Wax Museum, where you'll encounter lifelike figures of past presidents and gain insights into their legacies, making for an engaging and educational experience.
• Day 2: Start your day by exploring the mysterious depths of Rushmore Cave, an enchanting limestone cave filled with stunning formations. Next, visit the Cosmos Mystery Area, where the laws of physics seem to be defied, creating a fun and baffling experience for visitors of all ages. Wrap up your day at Big Thunder Gold Mine, where you can learn about the gold rush era and even try your hand at panning for gold, bringing a touch of adventure to your trip.
• Day 3: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Black Hills by visiting Sylvan Lake, a picturesque spot ideal for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Next, head to Sheridan Lake, which offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and hiking, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Finish your day at Horse Thief Lake, where you can unwind by the water's edge, enjoy the serene surroundings, and reflect on your exciting journey through Keystone.

4 tips to find a great Keystone hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Keystone are January, April, and November, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. For international travellers, it's advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure more affordable fares. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least one month ahead to find better deals. To fully appreciate the area's remarkable sights, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. In Keystone, you can explore stunning monuments and breathtaking mountain landscapes, making it a great value for money destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Keystone, Hotels.com can be a great resource. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website, where you might uncover discounted rates for hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you stay in the loop for potential bargains.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Keystone.
4. Consider your location: When making reservations on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or in city centres usually tends to offer convenience but often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you wish to explore.

Best time to go to Keystone

Keystone experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 22.5°F (-5.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.6°F (20.9°C). May is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Keystone, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.