Rapid City, SD, was founded by a group of despondent prospectors who were in a desperate search for gold. Two men, namely John Brennan and Samuel Scott with other men, are credited with setting the foundations of modern-day Rapid City, SD. The men, eleven in number, had moved into the area after hearing that it was rich in gold and were hoping to mine the valuable mineral. They named the area after the limestone stream that cuts through the city. Six blocks that were at the center were given the business district designation. Members of a committee charged with the responsibility of convincing merchants and their families to settle in the area were appointed. The committee did a good job of getting people to inhabit the area, leading to the establishment of settlements, businesses, and schools to serve the growing local community. The prospectors were driven by a clear vision; to turn Rapid City into a bustling area where business ventures could thrive, and people could lead a decent life. At the time, the area's population was just over 100 people. Given its prime location, the city easily rose to become a transportation hub following the completion of the Fremont, Elkhorn, and Missouri Valley Railroad in 1886. The main industries that powered the local economy were livestock and other agricultural activities. Even so, the city did not avoid the fluctuation in fortunes that face a city that is in its formative stages of development. The men who founded the city waxed lyrical about it, advertising their community as “The Gateway To The Black Hills” in a bid to attract people to settle there. For the purposes of providing training in mining and metallurgical engineering, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology was established in 1885. As time went by, it broadened the scope of its focus to include additional degrees in sciences and engineering. The institution would grow to become one of the most acclaimed science institutions in th area. A new development that saw the invention of the automobile had a profound impact on the fortunes of the city. It was a game-changer. Automobile tourism, vigorously promoted by the local leaders, added more fuel to the city’s fire of growth. Roads were built to coincide with the massive popularity of the automobile. A renowned sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, worked on a monument of American presidents that saw the number of visitors to the area go up massively. In 1841, the memorial was opened to the American public. However, the promising tourism industry experienced a massive decline in fortunes during World War II and the Great Depression, which took a toll on the people’s economic well-being, greatly reducing their disposable income. The establishment of the Rapid City Army Air Base in 1942 helped head off the catastrophe that lay ahead. The population, which in 1940 stood at 14, 000 rose to 27, 000 in 1948. The 1950s saw the acceleration of construction that positioned Rapid City as an economic hub where regional retail and wholesale trade could happen. Visionary city officials developed an economic blueprint that prioritized the construction of schools, pavement of streets, and expansion of parking spaces in downtown Rapid City. Despite the challenges that buffeted it, Rapid City went on to become a great town, attending to the needs of its population.

Explore The Reptiles Garden
The Reptiles Garden is an exciting place to be. It is a family-friendly place with something for everyone. Here you will get to marvel at reptiles like snakes slithering nonchalantly in enclosed areas. You will also be given the opportunity to hold a python around your neck if you are not scared of the slithering critters.

Reptiles Garden is home to the Aldabra Tortoises christened the Gentle Giants. There is also the Sky Dome, a two-level structure that will afford you the thrills of Safari.

Soak In The Joys Of The Dark Arts Center
This is South Dakota’s largest art center, boasting five art galleries sure to excite you. It also features a children’s gallery so that you don’t have to leave your kids behind. Local and regional artists have their work exhibited at the center.

Be Amazed By The South Dakota Air & Space Museum
The museum features beguiling exhibits and galleries that afford visitors the ability to go back in time. It traces the compelling aviation history. Some of the aircraft that were deployed in World War II are domiciled there.