Roller Coaster Tickets with Dinner and Show in Rapid City

Introduction

Looking for a lively, family-friendly excursion that adds a dash of Old West charm to your Black Hills visit? This Roller Coaster Tickets with Dinner and Show in Rapid City offers a lively mix of thrills, delicious food, and toe-tapping entertainment—all packed into about three hours. It’s designed for those who enjoy a dash of adventure paired with authentic Western flair.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the way it combines an adrenaline-pumping buffalo hunt on a roller coaster with the comfort of a hearty chuckwagon dinner and a spirited live show. It’s also quite flexible: families with kids over 40 inches tall will find it perfectly suited, and the overall vibe is inclusive and fun.

However, it’s worth noting that weather can influence the coaster’s operation—unlike many sit-down shows, outdoor attractions here are weather-dependent, which can lead to cancellations or delays. Travelers should plan accordingly, especially in hot or unpredictable weather.

This experience truly shines for those who want a lighthearted, engaging evening in the Black Hills—perfect for families, groups, or anyone looking to add some Western entertainment with a bit of adventure to their trip.

Key Points

• Combines a unique roller coaster buffalo hunt with a hearty chuckwagon dinner and live entertainment.
• Suitable for kids over 40 inches tall; fun for families and groups.
• Weather can impact coaster operations, so check conditions beforehand.
• Excellent value for the money, with included dinner and multiple activities.
• Engaging, campy show with talented performers that appeals to a wide audience.
• The experience is well-paced, lasting around three hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your evening begins at Fort Hays Old West Town, a charming spot that sets the stage for everything to come. Upon check-in, you’ll receive a wristband that grants access to the buffalo hunt coaster, dinner, and show. This wristband system is convenient, especially since you can check in for your dinner between 4:30 and 5 pm, giving you some flexibility in arrival time.

The Buffalo Hunt Coaster: A Thrilling Twist on Old West

The highlight for many might be the buffalo-themed roller coaster—a ride that isn’t just about speed but about a fun, interactive target challenge. You’ll sit in a coaster car, holding a six-shooter, aiming at targets attached to over 20 moving buffalo. The goal? Hit as many as possible and try to beat the high score of the day.

Reviews highlight that this ride is a hoot. Betty_K calls it “the coaster was a hoot,” and others praise it as a memorable thrill. It’s suitable for kids over 40 inches tall, though the weight per coaster car is capped at 375 lbs for safety. Not everyone loved the coaster—some found it not worth the cost, especially if they’re not fans of heights or thrill rides—but overall, the feedback is positive and enthusiastic.

Weather can be a challenge here. Several reviews mention cancellations or delays due to heat or safety sensors. If the coaster isn’t running, expect to enjoy the other parts of the experience without the thrill of the buffalo hunt.

The Chuckwagon Dinner: Comfort Food in True Western Style

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll settle down for a traditional Chuckwagon dinner. The food is described as all the fixings’, generous, and served efficiently, with many guests noting they left full and satisfied. Many reviewers mention how the meal is more than enough and of good quality, making it a value-packed part of the evening.

The setting is informal and lively, perfect for families and groups seeking comfort food in a Western-themed atmosphere. The dinner isn’t gourmet, but it hits the spot, especially after a day of sightseeing.

The Live Show: Americana and Country Classics

Post-dinner, the entertainment kicks in with a Branson-style variety show. The performers, called The Rockin’ Wranglers, are talented musicians and entertainers who belt out a mix of classic country, rock, and fun covers—think Eagles, Elvis, and more.

Reviewers repeatedly rave about the high energy, engaging personalities, and talented musicianship. Betty_K describes the show as “fabulous,” and many guests mention how much fun they had singing along or just watching the lively performance. Kids and adults alike enjoy the humor and the down-to-earth vibe.

Additional Activities at Fort Hays

While the main event is the buffalo coaster and dinner show, the Old West Town also offers demonstrations like rope making and blacksmith work, providing extra entertainment and a glimpse of frontier crafts. These are great for those who enjoy hands-on culture and want a more rounded experience.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Schedule

The entire experience lasts about three hours, making it a manageable evening outing. Check-in begins around 4:30 pm, with dinner served between 4:30 and 5 pm. The coaster ride, weather permitting, takes place around 5 pm. The show usually follows dinner, wrapping up around 8 pm.

Price and Value

At $69.88 per person, this package offers solid value. The price includes the coaster, dinner, and entertainment, which would be costly to replicate separately. Guests consistently comment on how the food and entertainment are well worth the price, especially considering the fun atmosphere and variety.

Accessibility and Group Size

Most travelers can participate, but children must be over 40 inches tall to ride the coaster. The activity is suitable for families and groups looking for a lively, interactive experience. The experience is near public transportation, making it accessible for those relying on local transit.

Weather and Cancellations

Weather can impact the coaster’s operation. Extreme heat or safety concerns may lead to cancellations or delays. If the coaster is canceled, you’ll still enjoy the dinner and show, which are indoors or sheltered. Refunds are available if the experience is canceled due to weather.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility. No worries if plans shift unexpectedly, but note that last-minute cancellations won’t be refunded.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

The reviews paint a lively picture. Many guests rave about the fun-loving atmosphere and great entertainment. Betty_K says, “The dinner show was fabulous,” and others mention how the band and performers are talented and engaging.

Some guests felt the coaster wasn’t worth the extra cost, especially if they’re not thrill-seekers. Dee_I mentions, “The rollercoaster wasn’t worth the money to us but the young kids probably would like it much better.” Meanwhile, Rodger_S highlights the spectacular dinner and family-friendly vibe, and Amanda_D loved that her family could try the coaster multiple times, emphasizing the value of unlimited rides.

A noteworthy comment from Sandra_C points out that weather impacted the coaster—a helpful reminder for travelers to monitor forecast conditions.

The Sum Up

This buffalo-themed adventure in Rapid City blends thrilling outdoor fun, hearty Western cuisine, and lively entertainment into a memorable evening. It’s especially well-suited for families with kids over 40 inches tall, groups seeking a relaxed yet active night, or anyone wanting to add a dose of Old West flavor to their Black Hills itinerary.

The value is hard to beat when you consider the inclusions of a unique roller coaster experience, a generous dinner, and talented live entertainment. While weather can occasionally interfere with the coaster, the dinner and show remain enjoyable options, ensuring you’ll still leave with a smile.

All in all, this experience offers a great balance of excitement and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Rapid City adventure—if you’re looking for something spirited, fun, and authentically Western.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 40 inches tall can ride the buffalo coaster, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does the entire experience last?
It’s approximately three hours, starting in the late afternoon and ending around 8 pm.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the buffalo hunt roller coaster, a chuckwagon dinner, and a lively live show.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather prevents the coaster from operating, you’ll still enjoy the dinner and show. Refunds are available if the experience is canceled due to weather.

Are there any safety restrictions for the coaster?
Yes, participants must be over 40 inches tall, and the coaster has a weight limit of 375 lbs per cart.

Is the dinner considered good value?
Most reviews agree the dinner is hearty and efficiently served, making it a good value relative to the overall experience.

What kind of music is played during the show?
The show features Americana-style music, including hits from artists like the Eagles and Elvis.

Is the experience accessible by public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers.

Where can I book tickets?
Tickets are available through Viator and can be booked in advance, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours prior.