Searching for outdoor fun surrounded by some of the best dining, shopping and entertainment that the Black Hills has to offer? Look no further than Main Street Square in downtown Rapid City! Main Street Square features a large grassy outdoor area sprinkled with tables and chairs where visitors can socialize and partake in the many delicious food options in the area. The Square is also home to many other family-friendly activities and events all year long, making it a great stop no matter the season.
During the winter months, the site becomes home to an outdoor ice-skating rink, where all ages are invited to strap on some skates, with affordable rentals available. To join in on such unique events such as yoga on ice and ugly sweater skate parties, keep up-to-date on the rink’s event schedule. And if you’re paying a visit to the area during the holidays, Main Street Square is a festive sight to behold, with people twirling on the ice among the sparkles from the snow and Christmas lights.
However, Main Street Square really shines during the warmer months. As the area comes out of hibernation following the frigid winter months, the Square also begins to brim with life. An interactive water fountain operates throughout the day, offering relief from the heat. Movies under the Stars takes place at Main Street Square every Monday during the summer, a free event where family-friendly movies begin at dusk. Be sure to bring a blanket to relax on the grass!
Thursdays in downtown Rapid City have turned into a city-wide celebration in recent years, with Downtown Rapid City’s Summer Nights being held in conjunction with Main Street Square’s Thursdays on the Square. Thursdays on the Square is a weekly summer entertainment series with live music and plenty of activities, food and cold drink for the while family. This is a bash that should not be missed, so venture to Main Street Square on a Thursday during your vacation!
Stay up-to-date on all of Main Street Square’s events on their website.
Even when there isn’t a concert or festival taking place, Main Street Square is still the place to be. Those that appreciate art are sure to be inspired by the sculptures dotting the Square, which were made by stone sculptor Masayuki Nagase. Nagase captured the spirit of the region through the use of wind and water themes to represent the Badlands and Black Hills through his sculptures, creating an interesting way visitors can learn more about the history and transformation of the area.
The Shops at Main Street Square provide a variety of boutiques to browse, including Mitzi’s Books, Who’s Toys and Roam’n Around, a locally-owned outdoor outfitter. The Silver Lining Creamery is one of the many eateries available where you can stop and enjoy a treat, with their ice cream being made in small batches and with only the finest ingredients. You won’t have to leave the Square to join in on the area’s premier shopping and dining!
Add a visit to Main Street Square to your itinerary if you’re looking for a one-stop destination where you can enjoy all of the things that make the Black Hills great!