South Dakota Honeymoon Road Trip: The Best Stops for a Romantic Adventure Out West
From “I Do” at Adler Ranch in Minnesota to the Open Roads of South Dakota: Your Honeymoon Starts Here
So, you pulled off the ultimate western-themed wedding at Adler Ranch—cowhide rugs, wildflowers, vintage neon signs glowing in the background, and the sound of boots two-stepping under the stars. You said “I do” with serious style. And now? It’s time to roll down the windows, crank the playlist, and ride straight into married life with a honeymoon road trip that keeps the Western vibes going strong.
If the thought of a crowded airport or overpriced resort makes you want to gallop in the opposite direction, we’ve got your solution: a South Dakota honeymoon road trip. From the prairies of the Badlands to the winding roads of the Black Hills, this is where adventure meets romance—just a day’s drive from your wedding venue in Minnesota. Whether you're glamping, exploring, or antique-hunting along the way, this itinerary is packed with memorable stops, scenic views, and plenty of chances to pull over and say, “Can you believe this is our life now?”
Why a Western Road Trip Is the Ultimate Cowboy Chic Honeymoon
Let’s be real: If you got married at Adler Ranch, you’re not basic. You didn’t want a cookie-cutter ballroom wedding and you sure don’t want a honeymoon that feels like a package deal at a chain hotel with towel origami. You want adventure. Stories. Dust on your boots and antique signs in your trunk.
A road trip honeymoon lets you savor the post-wedding glow without rushing. It’s affordable, flexible, and full of scenic wonder. Plus, it keeps the western elegance energy going. You already nailed the theme—might as well lean all the way in.
Black Hills Bliss – A Wild West Getaway in South Dakota
Driving Distance: 8 hours from Adler Ranch
This route is perfect for couples who love roadside Americana, big skies, and places with stories carved into the rocks.
🔹 Deadwood, SD
A must-stop for any western-themed honeymoon. Wander the same streets where Wild Bill Hickok met his end. Tour the saloons, historic hotels, and antique stores that make Deadwood feel like a movie set. You’ll feel like you stepped straight into a cowboy romance novel—minus the shootouts.
🔹 Mount Rushmore
Touristy? Absolutely. Worth it? Also yes. Roll your windows down and take the scenic route as those granite giants peek out from between the pines—it’s one of those “we’re really doing this” honeymoon moments.
The massive faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln aren’t just impressive—they’re a reminder of the country’s roots, struggles, and triumphs. The monument honors the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States, all framed by the beauty of the Black Hills.
While you're soaking in the views nearby—especially in places like Custer State Park—just a friendly reminder: the buffalo are not pets. No selfies. No snacks. No petting. Admire their fluffy, powerful glory from a safe distance and keep your honeymoon ER-free.
Needles Highway
This drive isn’t about speed—it’s about savoring every bend, every overlook, and every “how is this real?” moment. You’ll pass towering rock formations, ancient pines, and panoramic views that beg for pulled-over kisses and spontaneous photo ops.
🔹 Custer State Park
Prairie dogs popping up like whack-a-moles, granite peaks towering over winding roads, and bison crossing like they own the place (because, yeah—they absolutely do). Custer State Park is a love letter to the American West, wrapped in pine trees and punctuated by wild encounters.
Take the Wildlife Loop Road for a jaw-dropping drive through rolling hills and open range—just remember to yield to the bison. Seriously. They stop traffic like celebrities and don’t care about your itinerary.
Beyond the drive, this park is a choose-your-own-adventure dream: hike scenic trails, fish in alpine lakes, paddleboard at Sylvan Lake, or set up camp and stargaze like the old-school romantics you are. Got an ATV? Bring it. The trail system is made for it. And don’t forget to pack a picnic (and a zoom lens—you’ll want one).
Whether you’re glamping or roughing it, this stop on your honeymoon road trip hits that sweet spot between rugged and romantic. Check out other scenic drives through Custer State Park.
Bold, Untamed, and Unapologetically Western
A nod to the bold and untamed spirit that defines Adler Ranch. With our vintage gas pumps, Americana backdrop, and wide-open prairie skies, this is the place where Western-themed weddings come to life. If you're dreaming of a day that’s anything but ordinary—go ahead, picture yourself here… wedding dress and all.
🔹 Needles Highway
If your honeymoon needs a little adrenaline with its romance, buckle up—Needles Highway delivers. This winding stretch of Highway 87 snakes through Custer State Park with hairpin turns, narrow tunnels, and granite spires that look like something out of a fantasy novel. The famous Needles Eye Tunnel? It’s barely wide enough for your car, and somehow even more photogenic than it is nerve-wracking.
This drive isn’t about speed—it’s about savoring every bend, every overlook, and every “how is this real?” moment. You’ll pass towering rock formations, ancient pines, and panoramic views that beg for pulled-over kisses and spontaneous photo ops.
Tip: hit it early in the day or just before sunset for the best light and fewer RVs. And keep snacks and water handy—you’ll want time to linger, hike a bit, and take it all in. Bonus points if you coordinate the playlist to peak with the views.
Honeymooning in the Black Hills?
Add the Crazy Horse Memorial to your must-see list—and check out Beyond the Bucketlist’s itinerary for more hidden gems and scenic routes.
📸: Beyond the Bucketlist
Crazy Horse Memorial
Just a short drive from Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial is jaw-dropping in both scale and spirit. Still in progress after decades of work, this mountain carving honors the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and serves as a powerful tribute to Native American culture and resilience.
The visitor center, museum, and cultural programs are more than worth your time. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the region’s history—and probably more than a few goosebumps. It’s humbling, inspiring, and a must-stop for couples who want more than just pretty pictures on their honeymoon.
Keep your camera out—especially in golden hour—and don’t skip the storytelling videos inside the center. They’ll stick with you longer than the souvenirs.
Wild, rugged, and weird in the best possible way. The Badlands feel like another planet—jagged cliffs, layered rock formations, and golden prairie grass as far as the eye can see. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pull over every five minutes and say, “Babe, LOOK at that.”
Hike the short (but epic) Notch Trail for panoramic views, or drive the Badlands Loop for a slow cruise through otherworldly terrain. Sunrise and sunset? Absolute magic. If you're into stargazing or dramatic elopement-style honeymoon photos, this place delivers.
Pro tip: pack extra water, wear sunscreen, and keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. And no, the buffalo still aren’t for petting. We feel like that should go without saying by now... but here we are.
🎶 Your South Dakota Honeymoon Road Trip Playlist
Because nothing says “just married” like windows down and music blasting across the prairie.
“Life is a Highway” – Tom Cochrane
“Wide Open Spaces” – The Chicks
“American Honey” – Lady A
“Cover Me Up” – Jason Isbell
“Girl From the North Country” – Bob Dylan & Johnny Cash
“Ride” – ZZ Ward
“Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman
“You’re My Home” – Billy Joel
“The Bones” – Maren Morris
“Golden Hour” – Kacey Musgraves
“Better Together” – Jack Johnson
Mix the sentimental with the road-tested and keep it playing while you drive Needles Highway or sip coffee outside your cabin. Bonus points if you make a playlist together ahead of time—because that’s honeymoon-level bonding.
Planning Tips for the Western-Chic Couple
Okay, so you’ve picked your direction. Now let’s make sure you roll in style.
🚙 Leave space in your vehicle
Trust us—you’re gonna want to bring back a couple antique signs, some cowboy art, maybe a vintage suitcase or five. Don’t pack the truck too tight.
👢 Pack your wedding boots
They're already broken in and look great in photos.
📸 Document the adventure
You paid good money for those wedding pics—don’t let your honeymoon go un-photographed. This is the sequel to your love story. Make it count.
🏕️ Mix it up
Try a little glamping, a night in a quirky roadside motel, and one romantic splurge stay in a historic hotel. Variety is half the fun.
🗺️ Use your Google Maps like a treasure map
Flag antique stores, old diners, weird roadside attractions (giant jackalopes? Yes, please), and hot springs.
Adler Ranch Wedding Venue: Private, Scenic, and Anything but Basic
Located just two hours from both Minneapolis–St. Paul and Fargo, and only five miles from Alexandria, MN, Adler Ranch offers wide-open space, unforgettable views, and a setting that’s miles away from ordinary.
South Dakota Honeymoon Road Trip: The Best Stops for a Romantic Adventure Out West
Cowboy Boots, Open Roads & Forever
Whether you're cruising Needles Highway with a thermos of coffee or watching the sunset paint the Badlands gold, a South Dakota road trip is the perfect way to start your next chapter together—with boots dusty, hearts full, and a few antiques in the trunk. At Adler Ranch, we believe your wedding should feel as unforgettable as the road that follows it. So if you're still dreaming up the big day, come see where it all begins. We’ll save you a seat under the string lights.
Marlys & Kurt, the friendly faces you’ll meet at Adler Ranch
At Adler Ranch, we’re proud to be an independently owned and operated wedding venue tucked in the scenic lakes region just outside Alexandria, MN. When you celebrate with us, you’ll experience the kind of care, hospitality, and attention to detail that only a family-run venue can deliver. We host a limited number of weddings each season so every couple receives our full focus—and every moment feels intentional, not rushed.
If your heart’s torn between rustic charm and timeless style, you don’t have to choose. Adler Ranch makes it easy to have both. From boots and brands to elegance and ease, your western themed wedding dreams can come to life here! Schedule a tour at www.adlerranch.com and start planning your western themed wedding in Minnesota.
At Adler Ranch, we’re proud to be an independently owned and operated wedding venue tucked in the scenic lakes region just outside Alexandria, MN. When you celebrate with us, you’ll experience the kind of care, hospitality, and attention to detail that only a family-run venue can deliver. We host a limited number of weddings each season so every couple receives our full focus—and every moment feels intentional, not rushed.
What truly sets Adler Ranch apart is our unmatched collection of original vintage signs—treasures we’ve been collecting for over 35 years. These authentic pieces add history, personality, and a glow you simply won’t find anywhere else. The result? A backdrop that elevates your entire wedding day and turns your photos into timeless keepsakes.
For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Adler Ranch on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. Let’s make your dream day a reality! 💕Thanks for stopping by! ~Marlys
Vintage Neon Wedding Backdrop: Adler Ranch’s Lighted Sign Collection After Dark
Adler Ranch’s vintage lighted sign collection transforms the property after dark—glowing neon, gas & oil relics, and rare originals light up the night with pure Americana magic. It’s more than a backdrop—it’s an experience. For couples who want their wedding to feel unforgettable, this is where the evening begins.
Adler Ranch is a locally owned wedding venue. When searching for wedding receptions near me, we hope you’ll check out Adler Ranch! We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations.
We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout-out in our blog: Wedding Venue Owners , Within Sodo Blog, Valley Mills Farm Blog, Legacy Lakes Blog, Laurel Haven Estate Blog, New Park Event Venue Blog, Barn at Bradstreet Blog, Evermore Ridge Blog Black River Lodge Blog, Legacy at Serinity Farm Blog, Hidden Gem of Gruene Blog
South Dakota Honeymoon Road Trip: The Best Stops for a Romantic Adventure Out West
