Hotels in Keystone

Keystone: Where Majestic Mountains Meet Timeless Wonders

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Keystone, South Dakota, is a charming mountain town renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and iconic monuments, including the majestic Mount Rushmore just minutes away. This picturesque destination invites adventurers to explore its scenic trails and rich history at the Keystone Museum. With a vibrant local atmosphere, unique shops, and welcoming hospitality from the Keystone Chamber of Commerce, visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether hiking through the hills or soaking in the stunning views, Keystone is a hidden gem for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. For great hotel rates in Keystone, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Keystone

Keystone, South Dakota offers a range of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to comfortable suites, catering to various budgets. Many hotels provide easy access to local attractions like Mount Rushmore, and amenities often include complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Keystone:

1. Battle Creek LodgeOpens in a new window: This cozy 4.0-star lodge is perfectly situated in the heart of Keystone, providing easy access to nearby attractions and adventure sports. The property boasts a range of recreational activities, making it ideal for travelers looking for an adventurous city vacation experience. The inviting atmosphere and exceptional service create a welcoming environment, with a focus on comfort and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the cozy accommodations that allow for a relaxing stay, ensuring that every moment is enjoyable.
2. Black Hills Luxury SuitesOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star hotel offers a delightful base for exploring the Black Hills area, featuring spacious accommodations with a full-size kitchen. Guests can indulge in complimentary breakfast options daily, enhancing the overall experience. The hotel's proximity to attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse makes it a perfect choice for leisure travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable stay. The inviting atmosphere and quality amenities create a memorable experience, ensuring that visitors feel right at home.
3. Powder House LodgeOpens in a new window: Embracing a natural accommodation experience, this 3.5-star lodge features individual cabins and a breathtaking wooded view, catering to leisure travelers seeking tranquility and adventure. The property offers a variety of outdoor amenities, including a picnic area and fire pit, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. The exceptional dining options coupled with a peaceful atmosphere elevate the experience, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to relax and recharge amidst stunning surroundings.

Top locations to stay in Keystone

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Keystone, South Dakota, are Custer, Hill City, and Hermosa. Custer offers stunning natural parks and monuments, while Hill City boasts museums and outdoor adventures. Hermosa provides a scenic, hilly atmosphere with great nightlife. For first-time visitors, Custer is best suited due to its proximity to major attractions like Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial.

1. CusterOpens in a new window: Custer is a fantastic base for exploring the Black Hills, especially with its stunning natural parks and unique monuments. The area is home to Custer State Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and wildlife sightings. Don't miss the Crazy Horse Memorial, a monumental tribute that’s still being carved into the mountain, and Sylvan Lake, perfect for a scenic picnic or a leisurely stroll. With its charming atmosphere and proximity to these iconic sites, Custer provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
2. Hill CityOpens in a new window: Hill City is a delightful spot for travelers seeking a mix of history and nature. Nestled among hilly terrain, it boasts the famous Crazy Horse Memorial and the picturesque Sylvan Lake, both offering stunning views and outdoor activities. The George S. Mickelson Trail is a great option for hiking and biking enthusiasts, while the local museums provide a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage. Hill City’s inviting small-town feel makes it a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the beautiful Black Hills.
3. HermosaOpens in a new window: Hermosa offers a charming escape into nature with its hilly landscapes and lush forests. It’s a great launching point for outdoor adventures, like the Presidential Trail and the Black Hills Maze. The nearby Rushmore Cave provides a fascinating underground experience, while Custer State Park is just a short drive away for those looking to immerse themselves in wildlife and scenic beauty. With its tranquil surroundings, Hermosa is perfect for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the natural wonders of South Dakota.

Things to do in Keystone

Keystone enchants visitors with its stunning mountainous terrain and lush forests, ideal for hiking, biking, and boating in tranquil lakes. Explore vibrant local shops, indulge in artistic creations, and take guided tours to discover the area's rich heritage. It's a delightful destination for nature lovers and explorers alike!

• Mount RushmoreOpens in a new window – Stand in awe of this iconic landmark, where the faces of four U.S. presidents are carved into the granite. Marvel at the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills and capture breathtaking photos, especially during golden hour.
• Rushmore CaveOpens in a new window – Venture into the depths of this fascinating cave, where you can explore intricate formations and learn about its geological history. Guided tours will take you through the stunning underground landscape, providing a unique perspective on nature’s artistry.
• Sylvan LakeOpens in a new window – Spend a day at this picturesque lake surrounded by towering granite cliffs and lush forests. Enjoy activities like kayaking, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water while taking in the serene views.
• Big Thunder Gold MineOpens in a new window – Discover the history of gold mining in the area by taking a tour of this historic site. Walk through the original tunnels and learn how miners worked in the late 1800s, complete with fascinating stories and demonstrations.
• Horse Thief LakeOpens in a new window – Escape to this tranquil lake, perfect for a peaceful day of fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying a scenic picnic. The surrounding trails offer great opportunities for exploration amidst the natural beauty of the Black Hills.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Keystone

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Keystone on a budget is during January, April, and November, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those looking to experience the area's key landmarks and cultural sites, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to explore important monuments, hilly landscapes, and mountain attractions, all of which offer great value for money. Keep in mind that prices may drop during these months, making it an even more affordable option for travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Keystone, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and unique promotions, so you’re more likely to see opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you can find the best hotel deal. With these features, you’ll be the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available, making it easier to book your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in Keystone. For those seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, increasing your chances of getting a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Keystone's excellent public transportation system, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that remains well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often great value to be found. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Keystone. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Keystone

Keystone experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 22.5°F (-5.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.6°F (20.9°C). May is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Keystone, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.