Hill City Vacations, Hill City Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Hill City Vacation Guide

Hill City began life as a small mining town during the Black Hills gold rush. A relatively small amount of gold was ever found near the community, but tin mining supported the town economically for many years. Timber also became an important commodity, and sustainable lumber milling is still one of the tiny town's main industries.

The completion of nearby Mount Rushmore in the 1940s, however, helped turn Hill City into a vacation destination. Its Main Street is lined with restaurants, shops and museums, and many are located in early 20th century buildings that date back to its mining heyday. However, Hill City is perhaps best known as a regional center for arts and culture. A number of small galleries are based here, showcasing work from artists throughout the Dakotas, Wyoming, Montana and Nebraska. A winery and a bronze foundry are located on the edges of town.

The city also is known for its historic railroad line. Pulled by steam and early diesel locomotives, the train runs daily round-trips between Hill City and nearby Keystone, just a few miles away, during summer. The tracks originally were built to service mines along the route, and a number of old mining locations are still visible.