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Big Thunder Gold Mine

604 Blair Street · Keystone, SD

Why you should go…

Big Thunder Gold Mine is a former working gold mine near Keystone, South Dakota, discovered by German immigrant miners in 1892. Guided 45 to 55 minute tours take visitors through the historic mine and its collection of mining equipment while explaining the history of the Black Hills gold rush. Visitors can also try their luck gold panning on site.

  • #mining
  • #history
  • #tour
  • #family

Good to know

General attractions guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Book the time slot, not just the ticket

    Timed entry is now the norm at big-draw attractions, and online tickets are often cheaper than the gate.

  • Grab the daily schedule on arrival

    Feeding times, keeper talks, and shows run on a posted timetable that changes day to day.

  • The first hour is the quietest

    Queues build through late morning and peak after lunch, so an early start buys you the shortest waits.

  • Budget past the ticket price

    Parking, lockers, strollers, and food inside the gates are common extras worth planning for.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Big Thunder Gold Mine, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Tours
    History Buff

    Keystone Historical Walking Tour

    Free

    A free self-guided walking tour through historic sites in downtown Keystone.

    Steps awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Shopping
    History Buff

    Mount Rushmore Bookstores

    Free

    Nonprofit-run bookstores inside Mount Rushmore National Memorial selling books, apparel and gifts about the monument.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Black Hills Helicopters

    $50+

    Veteran-owned helicopter sightseeing tours over Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak, and the Black Hills.

    0.5 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Rush Mountain Adventure Park

    $50+

    A Black Hills adventure park built around a 90-year-old show cave, with a mountain coaster, zipline and 7-D ride.

    4.5 mi awayMore like this

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Putz n Glo

    Under $25

    An indoor black light mini golf course in Rapid City themed around decades of rock and roll.

    6.7 mi awayMore like this

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Old MacDonald's Farm

    Under $25

    A hands-on petting farm near Mount Rushmore with over 100 animals, pony rides and daily pig races.

    6.9 mi awayMore like this