Sturgis

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Sturgis's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Orientation
morning
:

Arrive in Sturgis, where the aroma of breakfast at a local café invites you to start your adventure. Grab a hearty meal to fuel your first day of exploration. Take some time to unpack and settle into your accommodation.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame to learn about the rich history of motorcycling in the area. Browse through the fascinating exhibits and memorabilia from past motorcycle rallies. Connect with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts and share stories and experiences.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that offers classic American favorites infused with a biker's twist. As the sun sets, wander through the vibrant downtown area where you can hear live music emanating from various venues. Cap the night off with a nightcap at a biker-friendly bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

day 2
Exploring the Black Hills
morning
:

Rise early and embark on a scenic ride through the picturesque Black Hills. The morning sun casts a golden hue over the landscape, enhancing the beauty of the pine forests and granite peaks. Stop for a photo op at iconic locations en route to Mount Rushmore.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour of Mount Rushmore, head over to nearby Crazy Horse Memorial for an added slice of history. Explore the visitor center and gain insight into the significance of the monument and its cultural roots. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the surrounding views.

evening
:

Return to Sturgis and enjoy a BBQ dinner at one of the popular joints, savoring the flavors of the region. Join a guided night ride to experience the thrill of riding under the stars. The camaraderie of fellow bikers creates an exhilarating atmosphere.

day 3
Sturgis Rally Day
morning
:

Engage in the buzz of the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally; the excitement in the air is palpable as motorcycle enthusiasts flood into town. Enjoy a hearty breakfast and prepare for a day filled with activities, parades, and exhibitions. Check out various vendor booths showcasing the latest motorcycle gear.

afternoon
:

Experience the thrill of live motorcycle stunt shows and live music performances throughout the day. Take a break to explore the cool custom bikes and meet the builders who crafted them. The festival atmosphere makes for an unforgettable day of fellowship and fun.

evening
:

Feast on food truck delicacies while enjoying a lively outdoor concert featuring renowned bands. Revel in the energy of the crowd, making memories with fellow bikers. As night falls, join the after-party at one of the popular local bars to celebrate the festival vibes.

day 4
Custer State Park Adventure
morning
:

Set off early for Custer State Park, undeterred by the early hours, knowing a wealth of natural beauty awaits. As you ride through the park, keep an eye out for wildlife, including buffalo, deer, and coyotes against the stunning backdrop. A picnic breakfast at one of the viewpoints enhances the experience.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon hiking one of the many scenic trails or enjoying motorcycle cruises through the twists and turns of the park. Capture breathtaking panoramas and share tales with fellow outdoor enthusiasts as you explore. Delve into the natural landmarks, stopping by the iconic Needles Highway.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, head to a local eatery for a taste of regional specialties, perhaps buffalo burgers. Join fellow riders for a classic bonfire and storytelling session, sharing experiences from the past days. Reflect on the stunning sights while enjoying the warmth of camaraderie.

day 5
Custom Bike Show
morning
:

Awake to a new day filled with anticipation for the annual custom bike show; breakfast brings the aroma of rich coffee and hot-off-the-griddle pancakes. Take your time, savoring the last moments of calm before a day of impressive machines takes over Sturgis. Arrive early to secure a good spot and get a close-up view of the show.

afternoon
:

Wander through the rows of eye-catching custom bikes, chatting with builders and fellow spectators. Participate in judging or simply appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each creation displayed. Grab a bite at one of the food stalls, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy an awards ceremony recognizing the best in custom design, with thrill and cheers all around. Join in the celebrations with live entertainment and delicious food options from nearby vendors. Conclude the evening with a spirited ride around town, feeling the sense of community and passion for biking.

day 6
A Day of Rest
morning
:

Take a well-deserved breather, allowing your body to recover from the electrifying events of the week. Enjoy a lazy morning at the hotel, sipping coffee and indulging in a leisurely brunch at your convenience. Perhaps stroll through downtown for some souvenir shopping.

afternoon
:

Engage with the local culture by visiting small artisan shops or relaxing at local parks. Take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the laid-back rhythm of Sturgis on a quieter day. Meet up with new friends from your travels for a casual afternoon and a bite to eat.

evening
:

Wind down with an easy-going dinner, sharing experiences from the rally and planning future motorcycle road trips. Enjoy a quiet night watching the sunset, followed by some stargazing in the clear night sky. Reflect on the exhilarating week you've experienced and the connections you've made.

day 7
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Jumpstart your day with a hearty breakfast before venturing out for a day of white-water rafting or rock climbing in the Black Hills. The thrill of adventure awaits as you gear up with trained guides ready to lead you through unforgettable landscapes. Nature’s beauty and the adrenaline rush set the tone for an exciting day.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, settle into a cool river location for a leisurely afternoon of fishing or relaxation. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Engage with locals at a nearby park, sharing in the joys of the great outdoors.

evening
:

Celebrate the day with a casual BBQ or picnic dinner featuring freshly caught fish. As evening descends, gather around a fire pit for s'mores and storytelling, forging memories with fellow adventure seekers. The camaraderie of nature enthusiasts enriches the experience.

day 8
Departure Day
morning
:

As your Sturgis adventure comes to a close, start the day with a final breakfast at your favorite spot in town. Take in the familiar views one more time as you prepare to hit the road. Pack up and ensure your bike is ready for the long ride home.

afternoon
:

Before leaving, take a moment for last-minute sightseeing or a stroll through any spots you may have missed. Maybe snap some pictures at iconic locations as a memento of your trip. Tie up any loose ends and say goodbye to the friends and locals you’ve bonded with.

evening
:

As you embark on your journey home, carry with you the memories and camaraderie from Sturgis. Reflect on the people you've met and the experiences you've shared as you ride into the sunset. The adventure may be over, but the spirit of Sturgis will live on in your travels.

Discover Sturgis

Read more in our Sturgis 2025 Travel Guide.

Sturgis Travel Guide