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Storybook Island

1301 Sheridan Lake Rd · Rapid City, SD

Why you should go…

Storybook Island is an 8.5-acre, admission-free children's theme park in Rapid City founded in 1959 by Merle Gunderson in partnership with the Rapid City Rotary Club. Large sculptures depict characters from classic children's books and cartoons, including Yogi Bear, The Cat in the Hat and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, alongside more than 50 play sets. Visitors can ride the Storybook Island Train and a classic carousel. The park operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

  • #family
  • #free
  • #kids
  • #playground
  • #amusement park

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 Storybook Island, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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