2-star hotel

Big Sky Lodge

4.4 · 225 reviews 4080 Tower Rd, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States

Comfortable 2-star lodge near Rapid City with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and hilltop views. Ideal for exploring Mount Rushmore and nearby attractions.

Cozy Rooms Hilltop Views Pet-Friendly Hot Tub Quiet Location
At a glance

Quick stay signals

Six signals to read the stay at a glance.

Free Wi-Fi Available
Accessible Yes
Property Type Low-rise Motel
Check-in / Out 15:00 / 12:00
Location Near Hwy 16
Editorial

Hotel overview

Located just a short drive from downtown Rapid City, this modest two-star lodge offers a comfortable, no-frills stay for travelers looking for convenient access to Mount Rushmore and local attractions. The low-rise property provides free Wi-Fi and a seasonal breakfast, helping guests start the day right.

Rooms are simple and usually described as cozy but may show some age, fitting for a budget-friendly option. Travelers appreciate the quiet hilltop setting, delivering views over the city that add a peaceful backdrop to the experience. The property's pet-friendly policy and accessible design broaden its appeal for diverse guests.

Though lacking a fitness center, restaurant, or airport shuttle, amenities such as free parking and a relaxing hot tub enhance the stay without inflating costs. Nearby attractions include Reptile Gardens, Dinosaur Park, and Bear Country USA, all easily reached from this convenient base.

Stand-out signals

What makes this stay stand out

Three signals that shape how this stay actually feels.

Hilltop Location

Enjoy sweeping city views from a peaceful elevated spot just outside downtown.

Friendly Service

Noted for welcoming, helpful staff who enhance the straightforward guest experience.

Relaxing Hot Tub

An on-site hot tub offers a soothing spot after a day visiting nearby landmarks.

Hotel album

A closer look at the resort

Rooms, common spaces and the small details that shape the stay. Click any photo to view larger.

7 photos
Guest reviews

What travelers say

A snapshot of guest ratings and stories behind the stay.

4.4 / 5

225 verified guest reviews

  • 5 69%
  • 4 16%
  • 3 8%
  • 2 1%
  • 1 6%
Cozy Rooms Comfortable Beds Quiet Ambiance Outdated Decor City Views Free Breakfast

Wayne Meek.

Stayed 4 month ago

“Nice place, clean, quiet and affordable, stayed three nights here. It's on a hilltop with fabulous views, I was lucky enough to see a spectacular lighting storm. Easy 10 minute drive/ride into downtown Rapid City. Definitely recommend it if your happy to be just a little out of town, and why wouldn't you.”

Charlotte Dimitri.

Stayed 5 month ago

“My sister and I were having difficulty booking other hotels, and not only was this place easy to book, but it had great service, amazing location/view, and very clean! We only stayed here for one night as we are doing a little road trip, but we were pleasantly surprised about how well the service was. The lady at the front desk was probably the nicest customer service I’ve ever had. She was so kind and even asked if we wanted free breakfast in the morning. The breakfast was also very versatile and so yummy! In the rooms as well, there’s a list of activities to do such as hiking, swimming, etc.! I recommend that if people want to stay in Rapid City, to choose this place.”

Andie B.

Stayed 6 month ago

“We spent a couple of nights here when visiting Mount Rushmore and the Badlands in June. The lodge is conveniently located atop a hill in Rapid City, offering sprawling views. Our room was small but fairly clean. They also had a daily complimentary breakfast buffet, which was quite decent. Overall, this lodge was rather satisfactory for a 2-star hotel and gave us a good bang for the buck.”

Tom Torode.

Stayed 6 month ago

“Nice, Quiet, Clean, Affordable place. Owner was nice and professional. He allowed us to see the room before we stayed. We did not have any reservations or plans and were looking for a decent place to stay that didn't cost a few hundred bucks a night. Will definitely stay again if we are in the area! Very enjoyable experience.”

Danny Peterson.

Stayed 7 month ago

“Willie is great (maintenance man)! Owners are friendly, motel is older but neat as a pin! Almost needed sunglasses in bathroom, tub was that clean! Nice quilts on Bed. Great evening view over the city. Would definitely stay again. Only downer was the TV. Not good and poor service.”

Based on verified guest reviews
What’s on site

Amenities and services

Everything available — and what isn’t — across the property.

10included 4not available

Most loved

Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Free parking Accessible Air-conditioned Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free breakfast
  • Free parking
  • Accessible
  • Air-conditioned
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kid-friendly
  • Hot tub
  • Golf course
  • Smoke-free
  • Pool
  • Restaurant
  • Airport shuttle
  • Fitness center
Place & surroundings

Location and nearby

Where the hotel sits — and what travelers can reach nearby.

Getting around

  • Rapid City Regional Airport Accessible within a 21-minute drive or just under an hour by transit.
    21 min Car
  • Reptile Gardens Well-established zoo with numerous reptile displays and exotic birds.
    4 mi
  • Dinosaur Park Historic outdoor attraction featuring large cement dinosaur sculptures and views.
    3.2 mi
  • Bear Country USA Drive-through wildlife park showcasing bears, wolves, and other native animals.
    Nearby area
Practical guide

Stay essentials

Practical details to know before you check in.

Check-in / Out

Check-in from 15:00, check-out by 12:00

Parking

Free parking available on-site

Family & Pets

Pet-friendly and kid-friendly environment

Climate Comfort

Air-conditioned rooms

Service

Complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi included

Pool & Fitness

No pool or fitness center onsite

Accessibility

Accessible rooms and facilities

Questions travelers ask

FAQ

A free seasonal breakfast buffet is offered to guests.

Yes, the property welcomes pets with a pet-friendly policy.

Reception service hours vary; contacting the front desk ahead by phone is recommended.

Free parking is provided for guests at the lodge premises.

No airport shuttle service is available; Rapid City Regional Airport is accessible by car.

Reptile Gardens, Dinosaur Park, and Bear Country USA are all close and easy to visit.
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