Best Fall Activities, Events & Festivals in the Black Hills
As summer fades and crisp autumn air settles over western South Dakota, the Black Hills transform into one of the region’s most beautiful fall destinations. From colorful scenic drives and pumpkin patches to iconic events like the Buffalo Roundup and Deadwood Oktoberfest, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the season.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a fall weekend escape, these Black Hills favorites belong on your autumn bucket list.
When you’re ready to relax after a day of adventure, LIV Hospitality offers comfortable accommodations in both Rapid City and Deadwood, putting you close to the area’s top attractions and seasonal events.
Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival
Celebrate the season at one of Rapid City’s favorite fall traditions. The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival features giant pumpkin weigh-offs, local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, family activities, and the crowd-favorite Pumpkin Chunkin’ competition.
With free admission and activities for all ages, it’s the perfect way to kick off a fall getaway in the Black Hills.
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup & Arts Festival
One of South Dakota’s most iconic events, the Buffalo Roundup draws thousands of visitors each fall to watch cowboys and cowgirls guide approximately 1,300 bison across the prairie at Custer State Park. The accompanying Arts Festival features local artists, handmade crafts, western-inspired food, and live entertainment.
For many visitors, the Buffalo Roundup is the highlight of a Black Hills fall vacation.
Ride the Historic 1880 Train
Few experiences showcase Black Hills fall colors quite like a ride on the 1880 Train. As the train travels between Hill City and Keystone, passengers can enjoy views of forests and rolling hills painted in shades of gold and orange.
Be sure to check the train’s schedule for seasonal and specialty excursions during the fall months.
Deadwood Oktoberfest
Historic Deadwood puts its own spin on Oktoberfest with live music, German-inspired food and beverages, games, dancing, and the beloved Wiener Dog Races. It’s a fun-filled fall weekend that combines German traditions with Deadwood’s unique western charm.
Black Hills Powwow
Held annually in Rapid City, the Black Hills Powwow celebrates the traditions of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota people through dance, music, art, food, and cultural exhibitions. Visitors from across North America gather to experience one of the region’s most significant cultural events.
Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch
Looking for family-friendly fall fun? Make time for a visit to Lil’ Harvester’s Pumpkin Patch in Rapid City or the Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Spearfish. Pumpkin picking, corn mazes, seasonal treats, and family activities make these destinations a favorite fall tradition.
Take a Scenic Fall Drive
Autumn is also the perfect time to explore the Black Hills by car. Some of the area’s most scenic routes include:
Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway
Each offers stunning views of fall foliage and some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes.
Plan Your Fall Getaway With LIV Hospitality
From the Buffalo Roundup and Oktoberfest celebrations to pumpkin patches and scenic drives, fall is one of the most memorable times to visit the Black Hills.
Whether you’re staying in Rapid City or Deadwood, LIV Hospitality puts you close to the season’s best events and attractions while providing a comfortable place to relax after a day of exploring.