The campus of South Dakota Mines is centrally located in Rapid City, situated on the northern slope of the small foothills of the Black Hills. The APEX Gallery, located in Classroom Building 211, hosts a new exhibit every four to six weeks, offering visitors a chance to explore a variety of displays.
The Museum of Geology, which opened the same year as the school, is a significant attraction on the campus. It collects, conserves, curates, interprets, and exhibits objects of paleontological, mineralogical, and geological significance. The museum serves as a repository for such objects from South Dakota and the Northern Great Plains.
Nature & Natural History Geology
Monday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Friday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Saturday | 9:00 – 16:30 |
Sunday | Closed |
Summer Hours
(beginning Memorial Day)
Monday-Saturday: 9 AM - 6 PM
Closed: Sundays and Independence Day
Winter Hours
(beginning Labor Day)
Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Closed: Sundays and Federal Holidays
Adults (16+) $10.00
Children (6-15) $5.00
Seniors (60+) $8.00
Veterans/Mikitary $8.00
Tours have a fee of:
School Tours: $3.00 per student, teachers and chaperones are free
Private Tours: $6 per person
Tours must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Tours larger than 25 people must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance.
501 E St Joseph St, Rapid City
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The Museum of Geology at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City offers visitors an educational experience focused on paleontology and mineralogy. The museum houses an extensive collection of fossils, rocks, and minerals from the Black Hills region and beyond. Visitors appreciate the well-organized displays and the opportunity to see rare specimens, including dinosaur fossils and fluorescent minerals. The museum's compact size allows for a comprehensive visit within a couple of hours, making it suitable for families and geology enthusiasts alike. While some reviewers note that the exhibits could benefit from updates or expansion, most find the museum informative and worth visiting. The free admission is often cited as a positive aspect, though donations are encouraged. Staff members are generally described as knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. However, some visitors mention that more interactive elements or guided tours could improve engagement, especially for younger visitors.
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