WinterOff season ~46°F highs

Things to do in Rapid City in December

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Rapid City, with average highs around 46°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

Plan a December weekend Where else in December

Best picks for December

What's famous here, weighted toward what shines in December.

Mount Rushmore

mountain in South Dakota featuring a sculpture of four US presidents

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

mountain in South Dakota featuring a sculpture of four US presidents

Badlands National Park

national park in South Dakota, United States

Holidays in December 2026

Christmas Day · Fri, Dec 25

Expect busier roads and pricier stays around these dates. See long weekends.

What’s on in Rapid City in December

Concerts, games and shows in the next few weeks. Tickets open on Ticketmaster.

Tue, Dec 1 · 7:00 PMNUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas BalletFine Arts Theatre at The Monument Plan a weekend around it

Rapid City in December: quick answers

Is December a good time to visit Rapid City?

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Rapid City, with average highs around 46°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

What is the weather like in Rapid City in December?

Average daytime highs are around 46°F, compared with 84°F in the warmest month. Check the forecast a week out; our planner favors indoor stops on rainy days.

What are the best things to do in Rapid City in December?

Top picks for December: Mount Rushmore, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Wind Cave National Park.