All Aboard the 1880 Train

Planning a day in the Black Hills and want to combine scenic views, a touch of history, and some local flavor? The All Aboard the 1880 Train tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience that’s both fun and informative. While it’s not a full-day, all-inclusive tour, it’s packed with enough variety to make your time in Rapid City memorable.

What we love about this experience are two key points: first, the delightful one-hour narrated train ride that follows the original route of late 19th-century railroads, offering views of Harney Peak and historic mining sites. Second, the flexibility to explore charming towns like Keystone and Hill City at your own pace, with options for shopping, museums, or even a wine tasting. One factor to consider is that the tour’s price—around $290—might seem steep for some, but the inclusion of transportation, the train ride, and personalized choices make for good value if you appreciate a blend of comfort and local flavor.

This tour is ideal for those who want a laid-back, culturally enriching day that mixes scenic travel with free time in small-town settings. It’s perfect for couples, history buffs, or anyone who prefers experiencing a destination at a relaxed pace rather than rushing from sight to sight.

Key Points

• Scenic Train Ride: The highlight, offering breathtaking views and a narrated journey along historic tracks.
• Flexible Exploration: Free time in Keystone and Hill City allows for personalized activities.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and included snacks and bottled water.
• Authentic Black Hills Atmosphere: Small-town charm, local shops, and optional visits to museums and wineries.
• Good Value: Includes tickets, guide, and transport, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Limited Capacity: Small group size (max 12), ensuring personalized attention but requiring early booking.

Experience Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting the Day in Rapid City

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 AM. This means you avoid the hassle of figuring out transport yourself, and it sets a comfortable pace for the day. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, and the small group size—no more than 12 travelers—keeps things cozy. You’ll be driven to the charming town of Keystone, a hub for Black Hills visitors.

The 1880 Train: Keystone to Hill City

Arriving at Keystone Depot before 10 AM, you’ll get your tickets and settle in for the highlight: the narrated, one-hour train ride. The train departs at 10:15 AM, following the route of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad from the 1880s. Expect to see stunning vistas of Harney Peak, old mining encampments, and rolling hills that capture the rugged essence of the Black Hills.

Reviewers praise the conductors’ friendliness and knowledge, noting that “the conductors were very friendly and answered questions.” The train’s nostalgic charm, combined with the scenic landscape, makes it a perfect way to step back in time while enjoying the outside views.

Keystone and Hill City Exploration

After arriving in Hill City around 11:15 AM, you have at least 1½ hours to explore at your leisure. Options include wandering the local shops, visiting the Black Hills Natural History Museum with its impressive dinosaur fossils, or learning more about the area’s railway history at the South Dakota Train Museum. The flexibility here allows you to tailor the experience to your interests.

For lunch, numerous restaurants are available, and the tour offers the chance to sample some of the local cuisine. One of the more appealing options is the possibility of stopping at up to three winery tasting rooms on the way back, should you be interested in enjoying some local wines—a highlight noted positively by previous travelers.

Return to Rapid City

Post-lunch, the group departs for Rapid City, traveling along scenic routes past Pactola Lake and Highway 44. This relaxed return journey provides an opportunity to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, completing a leisurely, well-paced adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At around $290 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest option available, but it packs in a lot. The included train ticket, transportation, guide, and snacks and bottled water contribute to its convenience and comfort. The small group format enhances the personal touch, and the flexibility of free time in two charming towns allows you to craft your own experience.

The train ride itself is the cornerstone—viewing the Black Hills from a vintage locomotive allows you to relax and soak in the scenery without the fatigue of walking or driving. Since the narrated journey also offers historical insights, it’s educational without feeling like a lecture.

The optional stops—museums, shops, wineries—are real highlights for those wanting more than just scenery. Reviewers mention enjoying “the stores near the depot at both towns” and the “cool” historic and fossil displays. The flexibility to choose your own adventure makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed, authentic feel.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

We loved the way this tour combines scenic beauty with personal choice. The train ride, with its friendly conductors and beautiful vistas, is what sets this outing apart. It’s a nostalgic step back in time, yet with all the comforts of modern transportation—air conditioning, bottled water, snacks—making it a comfortable journey.

The free time in Keystone and Hill City feels just right—enough to browse shops, visit museums, or enjoy a quick meal without feeling rushed. The optional winery stops add a finishing touch, especially if you’re a fan of local wines and a relaxed tasting experience. One review captures this well: “Very enjoyable experience! The conductors were very friendly and answered questions as they moved through the train cars,” indicating that the staff genuinely enhances the overall experience.

The tour’s timing is well thought out; starting early and allowing ample exploration time ensures you won’t feel hurried. The return route through scenic areas like Pactola Lake offers a gentle, picturesque end to the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic train rides, and flexible sightseeing. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Black Hills culture without a strenuous schedule. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic day will appreciate the intimate group size and personalized pace.

It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in local wine tastings—the possibility of stopping at multiple wineries adds another layer of enjoyment for wine lovers. If you’re looking for a quick, memorable, and scenic slice of Black Hills life, this tour hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up: Who Is It Best For?

The All Aboard the 1880 Train tour offers a charming, well-rounded way to experience the Black Hills. The scenic train ride, combined with free time in quaint towns and optional wine tastings, provides a good balance of relaxation and activity. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable, scenic day that doesn’t feel hurried.

While the cost is on the higher side, the inclusions—train ticket, transportation, snacks, and small-group attention—make this a practical choice for travelers who value comfort and authenticity. If you’re seeking a laid-back yet engaging way to explore this remarkable region, this tour delivers both scenic views and the chance to enjoy local culture in a friendly, personal setting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Rapid City hotel, making it easy to start your day without additional planning.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride from Keystone to Hill City lasts about one hour and follows an historic route, offering scenic vistas and narration.

What can I do during my free time in Hill City?
You can explore shops, visit the Black Hills Natural History Museum, or the South Dakota Train Museum. There’s also the option to enjoy local restaurants or wineries nearby.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, bottled water and snacks are provided on the bus and during the train ride, ensuring you stay refreshed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, creating a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

The All Aboard the 1880 Train tour provides a delightful window into Black Hills history and scenery, wrapped in a comfortable, flexible package perfect for those wanting to enjoy the region without rushing.