The Historic Train Ride In South Dakota Will Take You Back In Time

Experience South Dakota's history and scenic beauty aboard the fully restored 1880 Train through the Black Hills.

Finding interesting things to do in South Dakota isn't very hard, but train rides in South Dakota are a bit harder to come by. That's what makes today's feature destination so special! Hop upon this original steam train and take a trip through South Dakota's past. This trip doesn't just feature the beautiful landscapes of our state, but you'll learn a lot about the train itself and the areas you'll ride through. All aboard, the 1880 Train is leaving the station!

South Dakota's 1880 Train shines a light on Black Hill's mining history.

The first narrow-gauge railroad was built in 1879 to transport cargo, and now the 1880 Train has been fully restored so we can experience the history first hand.

This excursion travels between Keystone and Hill City. One-way trips are available, but round-trip is the most popular.

These trips allow you to explore each city when you arrive as well!

During your ride, a narrator will inform you all about South Dakota's railroad history, steam trains, and the Black Hills.

These fully restored trains will truly transport you to the past, as the boxcars and conductors are all decorated in 1800s fashion.

In just a few hours you'll travel through the scenic Black Hills and see amazing meadows, prairies, and even wildlife! You'll ride through areas of the Black Hills that most have never seen before.

Book your trip today for a once in a lifetime experience on this historic train ride through the Black Hills!

The 1880 Train's main station is located at 222 Railroad Ave., Hill City, SD, though there is a depot in Keystone as well.

Have you taken a trip on this historic train? How was it? Are there other South Dakota train rides you'd recommend? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to tag us in your photos from your South Dakota adventures on Instagram by using the hashtag #onlyinsouthdakota — you might even have your photo featured!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories