Plan Your Visit
Sturgis is known around the world for our motorcycle heritage, but there is so much more to explore! Set at the edge of the Black Hills National Forest, we have a walkable Main Street, three unique museums, and the historic grounds of Old Fort Meade. Bear Butte, a sacred mountain with sweeping views across the plains, is just a short drive away. Our outdoor recreation is second to none, drawing mountain bikers, hikers, and adventurers from around the world.
Check out these recommended itineraries for your visit, and don't forget to stop by the Sturgis Welcome Center for customized recommendations anytime:
Option 1: Sturgis Snapshot
Start the Day: Breakfast and coffee at BrewBerry Bistro, followed by a morning hike. Try the Bear Butte Summit Trail, or a more leisurely span of the Sturgis Trail System or Centennial Trail. Explore Bear Butte State Park and Education Center to learn about the region's Native American culture.
Midday Exploring: Lunch downtown, followed by souvenirs and shopping along Main Street. Don't make the mistake of returning home empty-handed! There will be multiple photo-ops on this "Legendary" street, the epicenter of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Afternoon History: Afternoon wandering one (or more!) of our three exceptional museums. Check out the Sturgis Car Museum, Old Fort Meade Museum, or the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. Afterwards, walk the historic grounds of Fort Meade, including original buildings, barracks, stables, and the Old Fort Meade Cemetery.
Relaxing Evening: Evening at Belle Joli Winery or Sturgis Brewing Company enjoying a locally-produced glass of wine or pint of beer.
Option 2: Looking for Adventure?
Sturgis is well-known for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, but we are also a mecca for outdoor recreation. Our town boasts over 50 miles of non-motorized trail system with trailheads directly in city limits. How to spend your weekend:
Day 1: Scenic Drives and Rides
Arrive at your lodging of choice - for adventure enthusiasts, why not book a cabin at one of our many excellent campgrounds?
After settling in, take a drive or ride down scenic Boulder Canyon or Vanocker Canyon to acquaint yourself with the outdoor beauty that Sturgis has to offer. If you're into golf, Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a great way to spend an evening.
That night, grab some s'mores supplies from Dakotamart or Grocery Mart and have a cookout under the stars at your campsite firepit.
Day 2: Hiking, Motorcycles, and Music
Now that you've got your bearings, start the day early with a sunrise hike to the summit of Bear Butte. The hike itself is 1.85 miles with a hearty 1,000 foot elevation gain. A sacred Native American site, this is a hike you won't forget - experience a deep sense of spirituality with panoramic views of the grasslands to the north, and the Black Hills to the south. We recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at the summit, or at Bear Butte Lake below.
For the afternoon, make a stop at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum to experience the history and culture surrounding the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally phenomenon. The museum includes a Hall of Fame, telling the stories of motorcycle daredevils and adventure junkies from far and wide. If your timing is right, check out the Jackpine Gypsies Track for motorcycle racing and hill climbs!
Dinner at the Loud American, a local hangout that often features talented local country and rock bands.
Day 3: Mountain Bike Mecca
Time to explore our trails by mountain bike! Take your pick from over 50 miles of non-motorized Sturgis Trail System south of town, or explore the historic grounds around Fort Meade in the 7th Cavalry Trail System. Maps are available from SturgisTrails.org, the Sturgis Welcome Center, or on apps like Trailforks. Discover ancient cemeteries, secluded dams, stunning overlooks, and varied terrain. East of Fort Meade, check out the Kevin Forrester Downhill Bike Park flow trails in honor of late mayor and recreation advocate, Kevin Forrester.
If you're visiting on a Wednesday during summer months, sign up for the Sturgis Music on Main Race & Concert Series. A new race route takes place each week, and all are invited free of charge!
Lunch and dinner recommendations include Sturgis Brewing Company for a pint and a pizza (our favorite appetizer is the "BFP", a Big F'in Pretzel!), Milton's Seasonings for homestyle take-and-go food that will haunt you, or a daily special at The Knuckle or Sidehack Saloon for that "Sturgis" vibe.
Day 4: Adventure Complete
If you have the luxury of staying for a 4th day, squeeze in one last ride or hike! Alternatively, check out the Sturgis Harley-Davidson store, the Indian Motorcycle Sturgis experience, or Hot Leathers to replenish your adventure gear. We won't complain if you ride home on a new motorcycle! Grab a cup of coffee at The Coffee Shop at the Hotel Sturgis or BrewBerry Bistro, take one last picture on legendary Main Street, and roll out.
Option 3: The Finer Things
Sturgis isn't just for adrenaline junkies and history buffs - bring the gals and enjoy a day or weekend exploring the finer things in life!
Morning: Coffee & Shopping
The Coffee Shop at The Hotel Sturgis is located in a beautiful historic boutique hotel in the center of town. Grab an espresso and a homemade pastry and enjoy views of our town square, Harley-Davidson Rally Point.
Afterwards, explore local boutiques throughout downtown. Just For Looks Boutique specializes in women’s fashion, shoes and accessories, with a large selection of authentic sterling and turquoise jewelry. Black Hills Rally & Gold is just down the street - check them out for home goods, childrens' gifts, and more. Sturgis Photo & Gifts is another must-stop location for local souvenirs and gifts - bring home the perfect cozy Black Hills sweatshirt, framed artwork, or unique decor. Lastly, we recommend swinging into HillTop Blooms, our newest boutique and flower shop.
Midday: Lunch & Art
BrewBerry Bistro sits inside the MassaBerry building in downtown Sturgis and serves delicious breakfast items like homemade quiche and acai bowls, as well as healthy lunch options such as sandwiches, soups, pasties (like a calzone, but with different savory fillings!) and of course a full selection of locally-blended teas and coffees. Make sure to check ahead for open days and times.
While you're there, BrewBerry is located adjacent to one of the sculptures on the Sturgis ArtWalk! Walk around downtown and beyond to view over 30 striking pieces of art, from modern and whimsical to historic and thoughtful. ArtWalk maps are available at the Sturgis Welcome Center and here.
Afternoon: Wine on the Patio
Belle Joli’ Winery has a patio and vineyard view you can't miss. Its outdoor space overlooks the 5-acre vineyard and is bordered by ponderosa pines. It’s an easy spot to settle in for a glass, a bottle, or a flight. The wines include still and sparkling varieties made locally with the traditional champagne method. On the weekend, try a mimosa flight!
Evening: Dinner in Scenic Boulder Canyon
The Canyon Grille at Boulder Canyon is located in Boulder Canyon between Sturgis and Deadwood, connected to Boulder Canyon Golf Club. The menu features hand-cut steaks, smoked BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, and daily specials, plus a full bar and live music through the season. The setting is part of the appeal, with a 15,000-square-foot canyon lawn and covered patio with a breathtaking forest and golf course view. Reservations are recommended via Rezzy or by calling ahead. View more dining options, here.
