Welcome to Fort Hays Old West Town
A must-see stop near Mount Rushmore with food, fun, history, and family-friendly attractions.
Located just minutes from Rapid City, Fort Hays Old West Town brings the Wild West to life with hands-on experiences, historic film sets, and unforgettable dining and entertainment.
Plan your day around four distinct experiences — all in one location.
Home of the Dances with Wolves Film Set in Rapid City, South Dakota
Where the West Comes Alive – And Film History Was Made
Experience the iconic Dances with Wolves set, browse hand-crafted Western shops, and explore one of South Dakota’s most unique roadside attractions.

About Fort Hays
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Fort Hays Old West Town brings frontier history to life with hands-on experiences and cinematic charm. Known as the filming location for Kevin Costner’s Dances with Wolves, Fort Hays now welcomes thousands of visitors each season to explore, eat, and enjoy Western-style entertainment.
What began as a movie set has grown into a one-of-a-kind roadside destination — where guests can walk through an 1800s-era town, watch artisans at work, and even ride a Wild West–themed coaster. Whether you’re planning a family day trip, a group outing, or just a quick stop on your way to Mount Rushmore, Fort Hays is a fun and immersive experience for all ages.
Welcome to Fort Hays Old West Town
A must-see stop near Mount Rushmore with food, fun, history, and family-friendly attractions.
Located just minutes from Rapid City, Fort Hays Old West Town brings the Wild West to life with hands-on experiences, historic film sets, and unforgettable dining and entertainment.
Plan your day around four distinct experiences — all in one location.
About Fort Hays
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Fort Hays Old West Town brings frontier history to life with hands-on experiences and cinematic charm. Known as the filming location for Kevin Costner’s Dances with Wolves, Fort Hays now welcomes thousands of visitors each season to explore, eat, and enjoy Western-style entertainment.
What began as a movie set has grown into a one-of-a-kind roadside destination — where guests can walk through an 1800s-era town, watch artisans at work, and even ride a Wild West–themed coaster. Whether you’re planning a family day trip, a group outing, or just a quick stop on your way to Mount Rushmore, Fort Hays is a fun and immersive experience for all ages.
Featured Attractions at Fort Hays
The Dances with Wolves Movie Set
Walk the same grounds where Kevin Costner filmed Dances with Wolves, right here in the heart of the Black Hills. Original buildings, reconstructed props, and interpretive signs bring the 1860s frontier to life.
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See the Blacksmith Shop, Storefronts, and Film Equipment
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Snap photos at authentic movie backdrops
OPEN DAILY 7:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.
(MID-MAY TO MID-OCTOBER)

Featured Attractions at Fort Hays

Dances with Wolves Film Set
Walk the same grounds where Kevin Costner filmed Dances with Wolves, right here in the heart of the Black Hills. Original buildings, reconstructed props, and interpretive signs bring the 1860s frontier to life.
-
See the Blacksmith Shop, Storefronts, and Film Equipment
-
Snap photos at authentic movie backdrops
OPEN DAILY 7:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.
(MID-MAY TO MID-OCTOBER)
Explore Fort Hays Old West Town Experience
From sunrise pancakes to sunset shows, Fort Hays delivers a full day of Western fun. Stroll through our boardwalk and discover:
- Tin shop
- Post office
- Rope shop
- Blacksmith shop
- Sawmill
- Old-fashioned penny press
🪵 Every building is filled with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations by skilled artisans.


Explore the Old West Town Experience
From sunrise pancakes to sunset shows, Fort Hays delivers a full day of Western fun. Stroll through our boardwalk and discover:
- Tin shop
- Post office
- Rope shop
- Blacksmith shop
- Sawmill
- Old-fashioned penny press
🪵 Every building is filled with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations by skilled artisans.
🥞 All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast
Start your day with a classic Western breakfast, served hot every morning.
🎶 Chuckwagon Supper & Music Show
Enjoy a hearty meal and live music in true cowboy style. A crowd favorite every summer night.
🎢 Buffalo Hunt Coaster
Ride the Black Hills’ most thrilling Western-themed coaster — perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Plan Your Visit
Fort Hays Old West Town is open daily, and general admission to the town and movie set is free! Some attractions require ticket purchase.
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🕒 Hours: 8 AM – 6:30 PM (May through October)
- 🎟️ Admission: FREE entry to the town and film set; tickets required for supper show and coaster ride
- 📞 Contact: (605) 343-3113
Make Fort Hays Part of Your Black Hills Adventure
Located just off Highway 16, Fort Hays is the perfect start to your day of exploring Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and more.
Come hungry, stay curious, and leave with memories.
- Location: Fort Hays Old West Town
- 2255 Fort Hayes Dr, Rapid City, SD 57702
- Availability
- May 18th thru Sept 30th
- Hours of Operation
- 8AM - 6:30 PM Sun-Sat
- For holiday hours and special event times, please contact us.
- Contact Information
- Phone: (605) 343-3113
- Email: office@mountrushmoretours.com
Visitor Highlights & Reviews
Fort Hays is the perfect destination for special events and group visits. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a school trip, or a corporate event, we offer unique experiences and packages tailored to your needs. Book a group tour and make your visit unforgettable.
Fort Hays is the perfect destination for special events and group visits. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a school trip, or a corporate event, we offer unique experiences and packages tailored to your needs. Book a group tour and make your visit unforgettable.
FORT HAYS SD FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I wear?
Answer: Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended. Don’t forget your cowboy hat for a true Wild West look!
Is the attraction family-friendly?
Answer: Absolutely! Fort Hays Old West Town offers activities and attractions suitable for all ages.
Do you offer group rates?
Answer: Yes, we offer special rates for groups. Please contact us for more details.