Rapid City, South Dakota, is a world-renowned destination, from the shrine of democracy—Mount Rushmore—to the continuing work at Crazy Horse Memorial, and endless outdoor activities for all ages. Meeting groups traveling to this iconic South Dakota location will also find teambuilding experiences their attendees never expected and will never forget.
“What truly sets us apart, outside the halls and walls of our fabulous conference and meeting rooms, are the experiences you get in the beauty of the Black Hills region,” said Tyson Steiger, director of sales, Visit Rapid City. “When you’re here, you’re remiss if you don’t bear witness to our natural splendor and marvelous landmarks. This area has such a power to delight your senses and bring out a sensation of peace and tranquility within a person. It truly speaks to one’s soul.”
[Related: Discover the Many Lures for Meetings in Rapid City, South Dakota]
Of course, an obvious choice is to incorporate the region’s marquee attraction, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, into a meeting agenda.
“For sure, tour Mount Rushmore, but doing this as a teambuilding component is a double win for meeting groups to bond as a team and take in a national treasure,” Steiger advised. “And it only takes 30 to 40 minutes to get anywhere within the destination.”
Following are six great teambuilding ideas, courtesy of Visit Rapid City, to create lasting connections between your attendees as they experience activities that will make a lasting impression.
6 Fun Teambuilding Opportunities in Rapid City
City of Presidents
Located along the streets of downtown, the City of Presidents walking tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace, and with the added fun of a scavenger hunt, groups will be entertained and engaged. This free walking tour is centered around the 44 life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents and is accompanied by audio providing historical tales relating to the highest office in the land.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Ride
Drive deep into the heart of Custer State Park with the Buffalo Safari Jeep Ride, a thrilling and educational team-bonding experience. Open jeeps take groups off the beaten path and into the midst of herds of bison, burros, prairie dog towns and other wildlife.
Reptile Gardens
Experience the wild side of Rapid City with a visit to Reptile Gardens. Boasting the largest collection of reptile species in the world, Reptile Gardens houses a stunning variety of reptiles, including snakes, gators and tortoises, allowing groups to engage directly with the animals.
Hike From Downtown Rapid City
Immerse your team in nature’s splendor with a hike on Rapid City’s in-city trail systems: Skyline Wilderness Area or Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park. Skyline offers 150 acres of urban wilderness, with trails that wind through serene forests and up to stunning overlooks. Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park is home to over 20 miles of trails that will make you feel like you’re out in the forest.
Outdoor Campus West
From canoeing to archery and much more, Outdoor Campus-West instructors are well versed and ready to help your group expand their outdoor skills. The campus also offers 1.5 miles of nature trails and indoor exhibits showcasing the wildlife and habitats of western South Dakota.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
Rushmore Tramway Adventures will test your group’s agility and create lifelong memories as they walk across suspended bridges, climb log ladders and balance on cables. Offering eight different courses that vary in difficulty, there is something for all skill levels. Other activities include a zipline course, tubing hill, scenic chairlift and Alpine Slide.
Rapid City Airport Information
Rapid City, South Dakota, is served by Rapid City Regional Airport, which offers year-round nonstop service from major hubs in Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Dallas, Orlando, Las Vegas and Mesa, and Phoenix, Arizona. Seasonal service is offered from Houston, Atlanta and Charlotte, North Carolina. The airport is about 25 minutes from downtown.
Connection
Sponsored by Visit Rapid City
