South Dakota Car Rental Deals Save Big on Your Great Plains Adventure

Introduction: Welcome to South Dakota, the “Mount Rushmore State” known for its iconic granite monument, otherworldly Badlands, and vast open prairies. Having a rental car in South Dakota is the key to experiencing this sprawling state on your own terms. AirportVanRental has you covered with great deals and local expertise so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in South Dakota. We’ve combined unbeatable rental offers with insider tips so you can explore every corner from the Sioux Falls metro to the Black Hills quickly, easily, and affordably. Whether you’re flying into Sioux Falls, planning a cross-state road trip to Mount Rushmore, or visiting for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle without breaking the bank. Get ready to discover South Dakota on your schedule, with extra savings in your pocket!

South Dakota may not have big metro areas, but its attractions are widespread and often remote. Renting a car gives you total freedom to discover every part of the state at your own pace. Here’s why having your own set of wheels is a smart move in South Dakota:

• Freedom in a Vast State: South Dakota is expansive roughly 380 miles wide with incredible sights dotted across the plains and mountains. Public transportation between cities is scarce (no statewide rail service and very limited intercity buses). With a car, you can easily travel from Sioux Falls in the east to Rapid City in the west (or anywhere in between) on your own schedule. No waiting for infrequent buses or tours you decide when and where to stop, whether it’s a roadside attraction like Wall Drug or a scenic overlook on a whim.
• Reach Natural Wonders: Many of South Dakota’s star attractions aren’t in city centers. Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the Black Hills National Forest these iconic spots are only accessible by road. With a rental car, you can drive right up to trailheads, viewpoints, and park entrances. Want to catch sunrise over the Badlands or stay late at a star-gazing program? With your own car, it’s easy no need to arrange tours or worry about missing the only bus back.
• Access Small Towns & Hidden Gems: From historic frontier towns like Deadwood to the peaceful prairies of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Homestead in De Smet, many South Dakota gems lie off the beaten path. A car lets you venture into charming small towns, attend local festivals or rodeos, and visit out-of-the-way spots (ever see the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell?). These authentic experiences are virtually impossible without driving. Your rental car opens up the real South Dakota beyond the typical tourist stops.
• Save Time on Multi-Stop Trips: If your visit involves multiple stops say you want to tour the Badlands, then swing by the Black Hills, and later head to the Missouri River a car is by far the fastest way to connect the dots. In one day you could hike the Badlands in the morning, visit a pioneer museum in the afternoon, and make it to Rapid City by evening. That itinerary would be unthinkable using any other transport. In South Dakota, a car isn’t just a convenience, it’s a time-saver that lets you see more in a single trip.
• Comfort & All-Weather Control: South Dakota’s weather ranges from hot summers to brutally cold winters. A rental car means comfort and safety in all seasons. In summer, enjoy air conditioning as you drive to see buffalo herds in Custer State Park (no sweating on a tour bus!). In winter, having your own heated vehicle is a must you won’t have to stand outside waiting for a ride in subzero windchill. You can also pack your vehicle with all the gear you need (winter coats, ski equipment for Terry Peak, or camping gear for the state parks). Simply put, a car lets you travel on your own terms, no matter what the South Dakota weather or terrain throws at you.

Our South Dakota Car Rental Advantages

Why book your South Dakota ride with AirportVanRental? We specialize in rental vehicles and partner with all major brands in the region to deliver an easy, affordable experience. Here are some of the benefits and guarantees we offer for South Dakota car rentals:

• Huge Statewide Selection: From economy cars for cruising Sioux Falls’ city streets to rugged SUVs for exploring the Black Hills, we’ve got it all. Thanks to our network of multiple suppliers, you’ll find thousands of vehicles available across South Dakota. Need a comfy sedan for a drive across the prairie? A 4x4 pickup for a hunting trip? An 8-passenger van for that Mount Rushmore family reunion? No problem browse and choose the exact type of car that fits your plans.
• Best Rate Guarantee: We continuously scan rates from across South Dakota to ensure you get the lowest price. Because we aggregate deals from so many providers, you’ll see special offers here that you won’t find on single-brand sites. If there’s a weekend sale at Sioux Falls Airport or a long-term discount at a Rapid City agency, we highlight it so you never miss a bargain. Found a better rate for the same vehicle and terms? Let us know we’ll match it. Saving you money is our mission.
• No Pre-Payment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change, especially with South Dakota’s fickle weather (surprise snowstorm, anyone?). Most of our rentals do NOT require upfront payment reserve now and pay at pick-up. Cancel anytime up to 48 hours before pick-up with zero fees. This flexibility means you can book early to grab a great deal and adjust later if needed, without stress. (We think flexibility is a must why should you be locked in if your itinerary shifts?)
• Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay. South Dakota rentals will include required taxes (state rental car tax ~6.5% plus any local tourism taxes) and any mandatory airport surcharges, but we display all of that upfront. No last-minute surprises at the counter. Planning to use your rental to drive to other states? We explain any additional fees (like one-way drop charges) beforehand too. We hate hidden fees as much as you do with AirportVanRental, everything’s clear for peace of mind.
• Unlimited Mileage on Virtually All Rentals: Worried about mileage caps on those long drives? Relax nearly all rentals we offer in South Dakota come with unlimited miles. Whether you’re driving 50 miles or 500 miles, you won’t pay extra for distance. Want to do a round-trip from Sioux Falls to the Badlands and back, or even a cross-country adventure? Go for it no mileage fees. (If a rare exception applies, we’ll flag it clearly before you book.)
• Local Expertise & Support: We’re not just a booking site; we’re your travel ally. Our team knows South Dakota, and we infuse local knowledge into this page from driving law tips to road trip ideas below. Need advice on the best scenic route to Rapid City or how to avoid summer road construction? We have the answers. And if you have questions during your rental, our customer support is just a quick call or chat away. We can help clarify insurance options, contact the rental office if your plans change, or provide driving guidance if you hit unexpected weather. With AirportVanRental, you’ve got homegrown support at every step of your South Dakota journey.

Top South Dakota Car Rental Deals

• Economy Car from $18/day.Example: Kia Rio, Chevy Spark or similar. A small, fuel-efficient car that’s perfect for solo travelers or couples. Great for zipping around Sioux Falls or Rapid City, and sipping gas on long highway stretches (important when towns are far apart!). Why so affordable? In off-peak months, competition and lower demand in South Dakota keep economy prices low. These cars make exploring the state budget-friendly think high MPG for those scenic drives between attractions.
• Full-Size Sedan from $21/day.Example: Toyota Camry or Nissan Altima. A roomy 4-door car ideal for families or anyone craving a bit more space and comfort. With a larger trunk for luggage and a smooth ride, full-size sedans are nice for longer drives (like that 5-hour trek from east to west South Dakota). At around $15/day off-season, it’s a fantastic value for the extra comfort perfect if you’re visiting multiple cities or have a few passengers along for the ride.
• Compact SUV (AWD) from $28/day.Example: Ford Escape, Subaru Forester or similar. A versatile choice that balances fuel economy with capability. Compact SUVs seat 5 and offer higher ground clearance great for gravel roads in the Badlands or when winter snow hits. Many models come with all-wheel drive (AWD), giving you extra confidence on South Dakota’s dirt roads or icy highways. For around $18/day, you get cargo room for gear and a vehicle ready for both city and country adventures.
• Minivan from $41/day.Example: Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Pacifica (7-passenger). Ideal for larger families or groups exploring South Dakota together. Load up the kids (and grandparents!) for a journey on the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway or a drive out to see the buffalo at Custer State Park. Sliding doors and ample seating make pit stops easy. Pro tip: Splitting the cost among 6 or 7 people often makes minivans one of the cheapest per-person options. At ~$20/day in low season, it’s a steal for the space and convenience.
• Pickup Truck (4x4) from $44/day.Example: Ford F-150 or similar. Planning some off-the-beaten-path exploring, hunting, or have gear to haul? A 4x4 pickup is up to the task. Many rentals come with crew cabs (room for 5-6) and short beds perfect for tossing in camping equipment, bikes, or fishing gear. South Dakota’s back roads and recreation areas are easier with a truck, and in winter a pickup’s higher clearance and optional four-wheel drive can be reassuring. At around $21/day, a truck rental can turn your trip into a true Great Plains adventure.

Note: “From” rates above are estimates for base rentals in major hubs like Sioux Falls or Rapid City during the low season (e.g. winter or late fall). Prices can be higher in smaller towns or peak travel times (summer months, especially around events like the Sturgis Rally in August). Always search with your exact pick-up location and dates to see up-to-date rates. We update this list frequently to reflect current deals and seasonal specials. And remember, booking early for summer travel is wise South Dakota’s peak season is short but busy!

Driving in South Dakota: What to Know

Driving in South Dakota can be very rewarding you’ll experience everything from straight, infinite highways across prairie to winding scenic roads in the Black Hills. To help you stay safe and stress-free, here are key South Dakota driving tips, rules, and quirks to be aware of:

• Traffic & Road Conditions: For the most part, driving in South Dakota is laid-back. Outside of the Sioux Falls and Rapid City metro areas, traffic is light to nearly nonexistent. Even in the cities, “rush hour” is mild you might encounter brief congestion on weekday mornings (7–9 AM) and late afternoons (4–6 PM) on main routes like I-229 or I-90 near Sioux Falls, but nothing like big urban gridlock. Road quality is generally good on interstates and state highways. In rural areas, some smaller roads are gravel or dirt drive slowly on these to avoid kicking up dust or stones. Always keep an eye out for farm equipment using the roads in planting or harvest season; it’s common to briefly slow down behind a tractor on a rural highway.
• City Driving & Parking: Sioux Falls and Rapid City are relatively easy to navigate. Sioux Falls’ downtown is a simple grid, with only a few one-way streets. Parking in cities is plentiful and cheap. In downtown Sioux Falls, metered street parking costs about $1.50/hour (enforced Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, free evenings and Sundays), and there are several public ramps where parking is often free or just a couple dollars on weekends. You’ll rarely struggle to find a spot within a short walk of your destination. Rapid City also offers abundant parking (and downtown there is free 2-hour parking in many areas). Bottom line: you won’t face big-city parking headaches here. Just be mindful during major events (like a big concert at Sioux Falls’ Denny Sanford Premier Center or a festival downtown) event traffic can cause short-term delays and fill up lots, so arrive a bit early.
• Rules of the Road: In South Dakota, as in all U.S. states, you drive on the right-hand side. Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers. Right turns on red are allowed (after a complete stop) unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red.” Speed limits are clearly posted 80 mph on rural interstates (I-90, I-29) dropping to 65 or 70 near cities, and typically 55–65 mph on rural highways unless otherwise marked. Stick to the limit; state troopers do patrol the interstates (especially during Sturgis Rally week or holiday weekends) and speeding tickets are not how you want to spend your travel budget. Also, it’s illegal to text and drive (and frankly, cell signal can be spotty in very remote patches, so it’s best to focus on the road!). If you need to use your phone for GPS, consider using a hands-free mount.
• Winter Driving: South Dakota winters (late November through March) can be harsh. Snow, ice, and strong winds (ground blizzards) can create challenging conditions. The good news: main roads and interstates are usually plowed and treated quickly after storms. However, if you’re not accustomed to winter driving, take it slow and increase your following distance. Black ice (invisible slick spots) can occur when temperatures hover around freezing. Rental cars in SD come with all-season tires (true winter snow tires are not commonly provided), which generally suffice for moderate snow. If you visit in deep winter and plan to roam beyond city limits, consider renting an SUV for better traction, and always keep some emergency items in the car (a blanket, flashlight, some snacks) when driving long stretches in very cold weather just in case. It’s also wise to check the SDDOT road conditions if a storm is forecast; occasionally, parts of I-90 or I-29 will be temporarily closed during blizzards for safety. If you see electronic signs or barricades indicating road closures, do not attempt to bypass them. Wait it out the roads usually reopen in a matter of hours once conditions improve.
• Summer Weather & Tornado Season: Summers are generally sunny and warm, but be aware of thunderstorms. South Dakota is in the Great Plains, which means sudden summer storms can roll in, sometimes with hail or, rarely, tornado warnings. If you’re driving and a severe storm hits, it’s best to pull over in a safe place (never under an overpass contrary to myth, that’s not safe) or seek shelter at the next town. Keep an eye on weather alerts. Hail can damage cars, so if large hail is in the forecast, consider parking under cover if possible. These storms are usually short-lived. After they pass, you can resume your road trip under big blue skies.
• Wildlife & Livestock on Roads: One of the joys of driving in South Dakota is spotting wildlife but hopefully not with your bumper. Deer are abundant and tend to be most active around dawn and dusk. In heavily wooded areas or near rivers, assume a deer could dart out, and stay vigilant (if you see one deer cross, slow down more may follow). Hitting a deer can cause significant damage, so use high-beam headlights at night on quiet roads to improve your chances of spotting the reflection of animal eyes (just remember to dim them for oncoming cars). In the Black Hills and Custer State Park, bison (buffalo) sometimes roam across the road give them the right of way and plenty of space; they will move when they’re ready, and honking can agitate these 2,000-pound animals. Also, in ranching country, you might encounter open-range cattle or sheep on lesser-traveled roads. It’s all part of the South Dakota experience! Drive attentively, especially in wildlife-rich areas, and you’ll be fine.
• Fuel Up & Facilities: Distances between towns can be long, especially in western South Dakota. It’s good practice to refill your gas tank when it dips below half, because the next gas station could be 60 miles down the road. Major highways have rest areas (I-90 has several nice ones with picnic spots and information boards), but services on smaller highways might be limited. Use the restroom and grab snacks whenever you stop, as opportunities might be spaced out. On the flip side, don’t worry too much even remote areas usually have tiny towns every so often. For example, driving I-90 west from Sioux Falls, you’ll hit Mitchell, then Chamberlain, then Murdo, then Wall… each at least has fuel and basic amenities. Just plan ahead and enjoy the wide-open drive.

By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find that driving in South Dakota is very manageable and often the best way to discover all the state’s great faces and great places. Always keep an updated road map or GPS handy (cell coverage is generally good along interstates, but can be spotty in the deepest rural spots) and enjoy the journey!

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in early August and plan to drive in western South Dakota, be aware of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This world-famous event draws hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists, primarily to the Black Hills region, during the first half of August. Highways like I-90 and routes throughout the Black Hills (Spearfish Canyon, Iron Mountain Road, etc.) get very congested with bikes and RVs. Gas stations and hotels can be extremely busy or sold out. Either book your accommodations extra early or consider scheduling around the rally dates if you prefer quieter roads. If you do travel during Sturgis week, exercise additional caution when driving you'll be sharing the road with many motorcycles (and watch your mirrors, as bikes can approach quickly). The rally brings a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, but it definitely changes normal traffic patterns!

Road Trip Ideas from South Dakota

One of the greatest perks of renting a car in South Dakota is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. From prairie landscapes to pine-covered mountains, the state offers diverse scenery and history at every turn. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as starting points and customize as you like):

• Badlands & Black Hills Adventure (Sioux Falls to Mount Rushmore)Route: Sioux Falls ➔ Mitchell ➔ Badlands National Park ➔ Rapid City/Keystone (Mount Rushmore). ~370 miles one-way (Sioux Falls to Mt. Rushmore).

Highlights: Start your journey in Sioux Falls and head west on I-90. After about an hour, make a stop in Mitchell (73 miles from Sioux Falls) to see the famous Corn Palace, a quirky multi-purpose auditorium decorated each year with thousands of bushels of corn in themed murals it’s a fun, only-in-South-Dakota roadside attraction (and admission is free). Continue west and experience the dramatic transition from flat farmland to the otherworldly terrain of Badlands National Park (exit I-90 at Cactus Flat for SD-240, the Badlands Loop). The Badlands’ sharply eroded buttes, colorful spires, and prairie dog towns are a must-see drive the 30-mile Badlands Loop Road, stopping at overlooks like Big Badlands Overlook and Yellow Mounds for breathtaking views (and keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep and bison). Rejoin I-90 at Wall, where you can pop into the legendary Wall Drug Store a sprawling tourist emporium known for its free ice water, 5¢ coffee, and jackalope statues (it’s a retro kitsch paradise and a great pit stop for pie or souvenirs after exploring the Badlands).

Next, continue west toward Rapid City, the gateway to the Black Hills. From Rapid City, it’s a short hop (about 30 miles) to Keystone, home of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The drive into the Black Hills is gorgeous pine forests and granite cliffs a big change from the open plains. At Mount Rushmore, marvel at the 60-foot faces of Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the mountain. The sight is especially striking in late afternoon light or you can catch the evening lighting ceremony in summer. If you have time, drive the nearby Iron Mountain Road (US-16A) on your way in or out this winding route features tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore in the distance and fun “pigtail” bridges. You can end your road trip here in the Black Hills (perhaps staying overnight in Keystone or Rapid City), or continue on to more sights (see the next road trip idea!).

Pro Tip: This east-to-west trip shows you South Dakota’s big highlights, but it’s a long haul in one day. Consider breaking it into a 2-3 day journey. For instance, stay overnight near the Badlands (there are cabins and campgrounds, or lodging in Wall) so you can enjoy sunset and sunrise in the park the colors are amazing. Then continue to the Black Hills the next day. Also, be prepared for changing weather; it can be hot and sunny in the Badlands and much cooler in the higher elevations of the Black Hills on the same day. Pack layers and don’t forget sunscreen the prairie sun is strong.

• Black Hills Loop (History & Scenery)Route: Rapid City ➔ Custer State Park ➔ Crazy Horse Memorial ➔ Deadwood ➔ Rapid City (circular route through the Black Hills). ~180 miles round-trip.

Highlights: If you find yourself based in the western part of the state (or after completing Road Trip #1), a loop around the Black Hills is a fantastic way to spend a day (or two). Start in Rapid City, then drive south on US-16 to Custer State Park, a 71,000-acre haven known for its wildlife and scenic drives. Enter via the Iron Mountain Road or Needles Highway (SD-87) for a truly spectacular drive on the Needles Hwy you’ll thread through granite spires and tunnels (some only 8-9 feet wide, so drive carefully!), passing the famous Needles Eye formation. In Custer State Park, cruise the Wildlife Loop Road where buffalo (bison) roam freely it’s common to encounter a whole herd on the road. You’ll likely see pronghorn (antelope), prairie dogs, wild burros (donkeys) that might even beg for snacks, and other wildlife. There are picnic areas and lakes (like Sylvan Lake) if you want a break to stretch your legs Sylvan Lake’s short trail is a gem.

Next, head north toward Crazy Horse Memorial, a massive mountain carving in progress. The memorial depicts the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and, when finished, will be the world’s largest sculpture. Even though it’s unfinished, the site is open and worth visiting to see the progress and learn about Native American culture in the visitor center and museum. Continue north to the historic town of Deadwood, via the scenic US-385 route or by detouring through Spearfish Canyon (an amazing side trip with lush pine forests and waterfalls Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is just west of Deadwood and adds a bit of mileage but is highly recommended for nature lovers). Deadwood itself is a Wild West throwback the entire town is a National Historic Landmark. Walk Main Street where legendary gunslingers like Wild Bill Hickok once roamed, visit the saloons or try your luck at a casino (gambling is legal here), and swing by Mount Moriah Cemetery to pay respects to Calamity Jane and Wild Bill. From Deadwood, it’s an easy 40-mile drive on I-90 or US-14A back to Rapid City to complete the loop. Along the way, you might stop in Sturgis (if it’s not rally time, the town is quiet but you can check out the Motorcycle Museum to understand the rally’s legacy). This loop gives you a perfect mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and Wild West history all in one relatively compact area.

Pro Tip: The Black Hills have many narrow, winding roads that’s part of their charm! But if you’re driving a larger vehicle (like a 12-passenger van or towing a camper), be aware that some routes like Needles Highway have tight tunnels that might be impassable for big rigs. Always check tunnel sizes on a map or ask a ranger. For most car renters, it’s fine just take it slow and use pullouts to let faster cars pass if you’re enjoying the scenery. Also, cell service can be hit-or-miss in the hills. Download offline maps or pick up a free map at a visitor center. Don’t rush this trip; a lot of the joy is in the journey. Allow extra time to stop for a short hike or to watch bighorn sheep clamber on a cliffside.

• Prairie & Bad River Road (Eastern Heritage Tour)Route: Sioux Falls ➔ De Smet ➔ Pierre (via I-90 and US-14) ➔ Sioux Falls (return via alternate route). ~450 miles round-trip.

Highlights: This road trip explores the quieter side of South Dakota the rolling prairies, small towns, and historical sites that tell the story of the state’s frontier and pioneer heritage. From Sioux Falls, head 90 miles northwest on Highway 14 to De Smet, known as the “Little Town on the Prairie.” De Smet is home to several Laura Ingalls Wilder sites you can visit the Ingalls Homestead, a living history farm where Laura’s family settled (kids and adults can try activities like driving a covered wagon or making corncob dolls) and see the surveyor’s house and schoolhouse that Laura wrote about in her books. It’s a charming step back into 1880s prairie life. Continue west through serene farm country you’ll cross the Missouri River at the town of Pierre, South Dakota’s state capital (pronounced “Peer”). Pierre is one of the nation’s smallest state capitals, but it’s rich in history. Tour the beautiful South Dakota State Capitol building (take a peek at the picturesque marble rotunda and the painted scenes of SD history) and stroll the Capitol Lake area. Nearby, the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center offers fantastic exhibits on the state’s Native American tribes, pioneer era, and development a great indoor stop to beat the heat or cold depending on the season. If you have time, drive a few miles north of Pierre to the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River it forms Lake Oahe, a massive reservoir popular for fishing and boating. The dam is impressive, and there’s a viewing area where you might spot eagles.

For your return trip to Sioux Falls, you can loop south on SD-34/SD-44 toward Mitchell to rejoin I-90 (this makes a circuit). On the way, consider stopping in Chamberlain at the Missouri River crossing. There’s a breathtaking overlook just off I-90: the Dignity Statue rest area (at Chamberlain exit) featuring a 50-foot tall sculpture of a Native American woman overlooking the river it’s a stunning tribute and photo op. In Mitchell, if you didn’t see it earlier, you can visit the Corn Palace here as well before heading the final 1.5 hours east to Sioux Falls on I-90. This prairie loop lets you experience the gentle landscapes and cultural history of eastern South Dakota that many travelers bypass you’ll gain a new appreciation for the wide-open spaces and the hearty communities that call them home.

Pro Tip: Eastern South Dakota’s roads are long and straight it’s easy to set the cruise control and go, but stay alert. On sunny summer days, heat shimmer can create optical illusions on the horizon, and at night distances can be deceiving due to sparse lights. Small-town diners and drive-ins are a treat on this route (try a slice of pie or a hot beef sandwich at a local café; you’ll find one in almost every county seat town). If you’re a fan of fishing or wildlife, consider bringing a rod or binoculars. The Missouri River lakes and prairie potholes along the way are teeming with waterfowl, and you might discover a peaceful fishing spot to break up the drive. And don’t underestimate the weather summer storms or winter winds can be stronger on the open plains, so check forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions.

Quick Reference South Dakota Car Rental Info

• Available Vehicle Types: Economy cars, compact & full-size sedans, SUVs (including 4x4/AWD models), minivans, and even passenger vans. Whatever your plans city touring in Sioux Falls, cruising the Badlands Loop, or hauling the crew to Mount Rushmore there’s a vehicle to match.
• Average Daily Rates: Approximately $12–$21 per day for standard vehicles (economy through SUV) in off-peak seasons. Expect higher rates for premium classes or during peak summer months. Larger vehicles (like 12-passenger vans) might be a bit above this range. Tip: Always search with your exact dates booking early can secure lower prices before seasonal demand kicks in.
• Major Rental Hubs:Sioux Falls (including FSD Airport and downtown locations) and Rapid City (for Black Hills/Mount Rushmore access) are the primary hubs with multiple rental companies. You’ll also find rental services in other cities like Pierre, Aberdeen, and near tourist areas (e.g. Badlands via Rapid City providers). AirportVanRental’s network lets you rent in one city and drop off in another if needed (one-way fees may apply).
• Local Driving Tips: South Dakota has no toll roads enjoy toll-free driving statewide. Rural interstates (I-90, I-29) have a speed limit of 80 mph (130 km/h) outside urban areas, so you can cover long distances quickly (just drive alert and at a safe speed for conditions). In towns and cities, limits are typically 25-35 mph. Watch for wildlife: deer are common, especially near dawn/dusk stay vigilant on country roads. In winter, snow and ice are a factor; highways are plowed promptly after storms, but if you’re not used to winter driving, take it slow and consider renting an AWD vehicle. Keep your tank filled on remote stretches (it’s not unusual to go 50+ miles between gas stations in parts of SD). South Dakota’s wide-open roads are generally quiet and well-maintained road trips here are a joy!