Easy riders have an easy time in Sturgis "Bikertown," U.S.A.
For a South Dakota city backed by the Black Hills Mountain Range, Sturgis has more neon than you might expect. Site of a loud, proud biker rally every August, the city is a beacon for anyone who wants to see the great American landscape while riding into the wind. You might come for the bikes, but you'll stay for the great outdoors. Sturgis is close to great parks, gorgeous vistas, enough fishing to keep you loaded with Omega-3s, and enough buffalo to make you feel at home on the range.
All-American sights _ vintage Harleys and a Gold Rush army
Even if you've never touched a motorcycle, you'll get a kick out of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. Set in a historic building that used to be Sturgis's post office, the museum's exhibits showcase nearly 100 unique and historic motorcycles that date back to 1905 and pay tribute to individuals who have exemplified the biker lifestyle. If you like your history more militant, however, you can visit the 19th-century military outpost at Fort Meade. The adjacent museum tells the story of the fort's history from the Gold Rush to the present.
Beat the crowds in winter or bike your brains out in summer
Whenever you decide to come to Sturgis, you can rest assured the scenery will be splendid. Spring is brisk and sunny with occasional showers. Fall is cool at first, colder in October and November. It's a great time to fish, hike, and ride your motorcycle on less crowded streets. Winters are snowy, and you'll likely find a place to stay at a bargain price. Summers are lovely in the mornings and evenings, with afternoon temps climbing to the high 80s. The annual Motorcycle Rally is in August, so expect higher prices for your Sturgis vacation rental, and plan ahead!
Beauty, a bear, and a herd of buffalo at your doorstep
Whether you're on a Harley or cruising in the family minivan, you'll have the opportunity to see amazing natural beauty in the vicinity of your Sturgis vacation rental. Bear Butte State Park is just 8 miles away. Its Lakota name is "Bear Mountain," and the geological formation the name describes is a igneous rock formation millions of years old. A sacred place to many American Indians, it's also home to much of the region's wildlife. Bird watchers can spot eagles, falcons, owls, and bluebirds, and a herd of buffalo roam around the mountain's base.
Traveling to and around Sturgis
The nearest airport is in Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located 34.4 mi (55.3 km) from the city center.