Tag Archive: rapid city

1. November 14, 2024 11:57 am Comments Off on

   STRATOBOWL 2025 launch dates:  September 5th, 6th & 7th

   South Dakota is rich in aviation history.  From Aerostar inventing the modern hot air balloon, to high altitude research, the Mount Rushmore State is the proud location for many ground-breaking projects.  One such location is located right here in the Black Hills; the Stratobowl.

   Located between Rapid City and Hill City / Keystone, near Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens, The Stratobowl was first made famous in the 1930’s when manned high altitude gas balloons launched from the site, visited the stratosphere and made history. It was the first time humans reached the stratosphere and saw the curvature of the earth.  Pre-NASA; the project was organized by the Army Air Corps and National Geographic Society. This beautiful, natural box canyon has long been acknowledged as an important part of aviation history and, although not officially a National or State site, it’s well kept by private landowners who truly love the history and have dedicated their lives to preserving it’s importance.

   In honor of this special place, once a year pilots and their hot air balloons flock to the site; for those that came before us, to bring awareness to this beautiful historic site, and to help maintain it’s importance. Annually, the event hosts approximately 10 balloons during a weather permitting ‘sunrise only’ three day organized balloon launch.

   Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch details:

   Spectators are welcome!  Because the launch location is PRIVATE PROPERTY, spectators are asked to view the launch from the Stratobowl Rim Trail. Parking is limited. Balloon launch is scheduled for sunrise. Bring a flashlight, chair and your camera. Click below for Google Map location of the trail head.  And FYI, there are no facilities or vendors at this launch, so please plan accordingly.

   Would you rather FLY? Spots are limited and reservations are required.  Call 605-673-2520 or click here to book your Stratobowl flight. Cost is $375 per adult. Flight is approximately one hour and weather permitting (but it’s so worth it!). For more information on flying with Black Hills Balloons, check out our FAQs.

   And for more information on this event and to stay up to date on weather and launch updates, please ‘like’ the Stratobowl Facebook page.

   Side Note:

   Some of our favorite vacation rentals are located in the stratobowl. Click the link and visit their webpage for details. They aren’t typically available during the launch weekend BUT, any other time of year would be a gorgeous time to visit.

   PLUS, it’s just a very special place for us here at Black Hills Balloons because we were married there. It’s true! It was a beautiful Spring day, with huge snowflakes falling from the sky. Read more about our beautiful Stratobowl wedding here:  It was a pretty great day.

2. Top 10 reasons to stay in Custer SD

   January 4, 2024 3:03 pm Comments Off on Top 10 reasons to stay in Custer SD

   While there are several locations to choose from in the Black Hills, staying in Custer ensures not only a diverse range of accommodation options but also the unique advantage of being at the heart of it all. With a blend of cozy bed and breakfasts, comfortable hotels, and rustic cabins, Custer stands out as the best choice for a memorable stay, providing easy access to the region’s wonders and a charming atmosphere that makes your experience truly special.

   Staying in Custer, South Dakota, offers a unique and enriching experience, making it an excellent choice for various types of travelers. Here are the TOP 10 reasons why someone should consider staying in Custer:

   1. Gateway to Natural Wonders: Custer is strategically located near some of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the Black Hills. From the iconic Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park, to Jewel Cave National Monument, and the scenic Needles Highway, the town serves as a central hub for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
   2. Proximity to Custer State Park: Custer State Park is a wildlife lover’s paradise, and staying in Custer provides convenient access to this expansive park. Visitors can embark on the Wildlife Loop Road for a chance to see bison herds, pronghorn, elk, and other wildlife roaming in their natural habitat.
   3. Outdoor Adventures: The surrounding Black Hills National Forest offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, or hot air ballooning, Custer provides easy access to a variety of trails and adventure opportunities suitable for all skill levels.
   4. Historical Significance: Immerse yourself in the history of the area by exploring Custer’s historic downtown. Walk along Mount Rushmore Road to discover well-preserved buildings that tell the story of the town’s gold rush, and make sure you pay a visit to the 1881 courthouse museum for a window into Custer’s past.
   5. Crazy Horse Memorial: While Mount Rushmore often takes the spotlight, the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial is a must-see. Staying in Custer allows you to visit this monumental tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, witness ongoing construction, and learn about Native American culture.
   6. Community Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Custer hosts a variety of community events and festivals. Whether it’s the lively Gold Discovery Days, or quirky Burning Beetle event, staying in Custer provides an opportunity to engage with the local community and experience the town’s vibrant spirit.
   7. Quaint Downtown Atmosphere: Custer’s downtown area exudes a charming atmosphere with its quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Choosing to stay in Custer allows you to immerse yourself in the town’s unique culture and enjoy a relaxed pace of exploration.
   8. The Eateries: In Custer, dining is not just about the food; it’s also about experiencing the town’s unique hospitality and charm. Whether you’re exploring local eateries after a day of adventure or seeking a quiet spot for a relaxing meal, Custer’s restaurants add a flavorful touch to your visit. Unique, locally owned, and one-of-a-kind, Custer restaurants are giving this small town a big name.
   9. Peaceful Retreat: Unlike larger and busier tourist destinations, Custer offers a more peaceful and intimate setting. Visitors seeking a serene retreat with a genuine small-town feel will find Custer to be a welcoming and relaxed destination.
   10. The locals: The locals in Custer, South Dakota, are a community deeply connected to the town’s history, natural surroundings, and a shared sense of community spirit. Their connection to the land, commitment to preserving the past, and welcoming nature contribute to the authentic and inviting atmosphere that makes Custer a standout destination in the Black Hills.

   In the heart of the Black Hills, Custer, South Dakota, emerges as more than just a picturesque town; it’s a vibrant community with a rich tapestry woven from the threads of history, natural splendor, and the warm hospitality of its residents.

   As you wander through downtown, you’ll encounter locals who wear their love for Custer like a badge of honor. A friendly “hello” is never far away, and conversations often veer toward shared tales of outdoor adventures, community events, and a genuine appreciation for the beauty that surrounds them.

   The community’s outdoor spirit is reflected in their active lifestyles, with many embracing the call of the Black Hills for hiking, biking, and reveling in the untamed wonders of Custer State Park. Preserving the region’s charm and protecting its natural treasures is a shared commitment among locals, who actively contribute to conservation efforts and celebrate the cultural heritage that makes Custer unique.

   Custer’s downtown, adorned with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant boutiques, is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. Each establishment tells a story of passion and creativity, adding to the town’s distinct character.

   The welcoming atmosphere extends beyond mere neighborliness; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re savoring a slice of huckleberry pie at a The Purple Pie Place, chatting with an artist about their latest creation at The Quilted Buffalo, or exploring the town’s history through the eyes of its residents, you’re sure to feel a part of something special.

   In Custer, the people are more than just locals; they are stewards of a legacy, keepers of the Black Hills’ secrets, and ambassadors of a lifestyle that cherishes simplicity, community, and connection to the land. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular in these parts, the genuine warmth of Custer’s residents ensures that every moment spent here is not just a journey through a beautiful town but a heartwarming experience woven into the very fabric of the Black Hills.

    

    

    

3. Black Hills Rainy Day Activities

   August 23, 2022 3:42 pm Comments Off on Black Hills Rainy Day Activities

   FROM THE DESK OF KEELY

   LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS – Best Black Hills Rainy Day Activities

   Hot air ballooning is weather dependent. Meaning that the conditions need to be just right, to fly. A perfect day consists of winds under 10 mph, great visibility (no fog or low clouds), and no rain or precipitation in the surrounding area. That’s why we fly at sunrise here in the Black Hills. It’s the best time of day for predictable light winds. Not to mention stunning sunrise views while local wildlife is waking up and the meadows are covered in morning dew. We love those days, but every now and again we have rain. It’s okay really. We love the rain too. It makes sure our forests are safe from fire danger, keeps our meadows green and lush, and our lakes and streams primed for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. We’d always prefer to fly, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.

   So, what do you do when it rains? The Black Hills are known for fantastic hikes, camping, rock climbing, Mount Rushmore Memorial, and more…but most of our amazing summer activities are outside.

   Luckily, the Hills have lots of indoor activities too, so it’s fairly easy to pivot to an indoor activity when the weather is less than stellar. Below are a few of our favorite activities to share when it’s raining.

   Best Black Hills Rainy Day Activities:

   #1:  Old Pine Social

   If you’re looking for a perfect place to bond with friends or family over a game or two, check out Old Pine Social. Located right next door to our passenger meeting location, these guys are a lot of fun. Try axe throwing, play a game of bocce ball, grab a board game or puzzle, and enjoy a beer. Occasionally a food truck parked right outside, but if not, pizza delivery (or any outside food) is a welcomed option. And they are always fully stocked with locally brewed beers like one of our Spearfish (Northern Hills) favorites, Sawyer Brewing.

   

   #2:  Wind Cave National Park or Jewel Cave National Monument

   The Black Hills are home to some of the most unique cave systems, and both offer fantastic tours. Rainy days tend to be busier at these locations, so plan ahead to arrive early and get signed up. The caves are also great for extra hot days too because they maintain a cool temperature year-round. And if the rain lets up, there are always a few hikes within a short distance, to enjoy the parks above ground too.

   #3:  Moccasin Springs and Evans Plunge

   Check out some naturally warm spring water in Hot Springs, SD! If you’re looking for a spa feel, check out Moccasin Springs. The outdoor pools are a beautiful way to relax, even in the rain, and their spa services are pretty great. For families, Evans Plunge is a great way to go. Their indoor pool features water slides, rings, and more, to enjoy the naturally warm spring water.

   #4: The Journey Museum and Learning Center

   If you’re interested in American History, Black Hills history, and Native American culture, make sure you stop at the Journey Museum located in Rapid City. The museum showcases the history of the Black Hills and Native American culture through four collections: Geology and Paleontology, Archaeology, Native American Culture, and Pioneer History. It’s not to be missed.

   #5: Reptile Gardens

   Known by the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s largest reptile zoo, Reptile Gardens is also home to a two-level sky dome filled with an oasis of tropical plants and flowers, a prairie dog town, giant tortoises, and more. Founded in 1935, they certainly know a thing or two about being a top Black Hills attraction.

   #6:  Crazy Horse Memorial

   Just two miles from Custer sits one of the most mind-blowing collections of Native American history and art. Obviously better known for its ongoing rock carving; its museum alone is more than worth it. They also have an on-site restaurant (Laughing Water), so plan on spending more than a couple of hours on-site enjoying their amenities. The indoor view of the carving is pretty great too, through a gorgeous window that perfectly frames the memorial.

   The best thing about rain in the Black Hills? Our forests, prairies, and farmland can always use the rain. And because it’s so easy to find something to do, it won’t put a damper on your day. Sure, it might mean a change of plans, but the Black Hills are known for being a bit go-with-the-flow, and hopefully, our Best Black Hills Rainy Day Activities make it a little easier to enjoy the moment and embrace the spontaneity of it all. Black Hills Balloons will always be here if you want to try again*.

   *Booking tip: Plan to fly with us early in your stay, so you have some flexibility IF Mother Nature provides less than favorable weather on your scheduled day. If we can move your booking to later in the week, we’ll do our best to get you in the air.  The balloons look like rainbows, after all.  And you know what they say about rainbows after the rain…

   

   Check out more Black Hills Balloons tips and Frequently Asked Questions here.

   We hope you enjoy your visit to the Black Hills, and as always, feel free to reach out to us with questions about the area. We love sharing what we love about the Black Hills.

4. EAT LIKE A LOCAL  – BREAKFAST

   May 23, 2022 1:54 pm Comments Off on EAT LIKE A LOCAL  – BREAKFAST

   BREAKFAST RECOMMENDATIONS

   A sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Black Hills is a magical experience. It’s a stunning way to start the day. The wildlife is active, the lighting is beautiful, and once the flight is over and the world is waking up, all you can think about is breakfast. We know. It happens to us too.

   A flight with Black Hills Balloons starts at sunrise, but the whole experience lasts close to three hours. With drive time to and from launch and landing sites, the inflation, flight, pack up, and champagne toast (yes! Complimentary and traditional champagne, and light snacks are served after the flight), it’s not surprising that people are hungry for a full meal when we return to the Hangar.

   We always tell people ballooning chose us, not the other way around. We aren’t actually morning people, we’re just balloon people. And so over time, we’ve become skilled in the act of finding a great breakfast. Lucky for us (and you!), the city of Custer has some amazing breakfast options.

   

   Located in the southern Black Hills of South Dakota, smack-dab in the middle of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Devils Tower National Monument, Wind Cave National Monument, Jewel Cave National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, and more, we’re not just a place to hike, bike, swim, and snowshoe. We love to eat too and have some amazing restaurants here in Custer. Below are a few of our favorite spots to grab breakfast before you spend your day adventuring in the hills.

   SIT DOWN OPTIONS

   If you’re looking for the traditional small-town diner, full of locals that make up our great community, then Our Place is it. Not, “our place”, although, we’d be happy to cook for you if you don’t mind a crazy Labrador retriever running amok. I’m talking about Our Place, located directly across the street from our meeting place. It’s so convenient, you can leave your vehicle where you parked pre-flight, and walk across the street for yummy traditional pancakes, eggs, and bacon, or whatever your heart desires. They even have an endless variety of hot sauces for you to jazz up your meal.

   HJEM AM is our newest (and most unique) option, and might easily end up being the most memorable meal of your trip. Originally based on an earlier breakfast concept of Skogen Kitchen (which is now only open for dinner. Reservations are highly recommended! Read “48 hours in the Black Hills for the foodie” for our favorite things about Skogen Kitchen), HJEM AM is what breakfast dreams are made of. Pronounced “hem” (the “J” is silent), it means “home” and it certainly feels that way when you’re greeted by owners Cami and Erik. Where else can you get a Breakfast Caesar, Salmon Deviled Eggs, Fresh Oysters, Walleye (with bacon, buttermilk sauce, sugar snap peas, and roasted mushrooms), or Pancakes covered with fried chicken, franks hot sauce, and maple syrup for breakfast? Check out their menu and make your reservations asap.

   

    

   GRAB AND GO OPTIONS

   If you desire more than drip coffee, try Miners Cup. Just down the street, Miners Cup is a grab-and-go option with a huge menu full of yummy breakfast sandwiches and a coffee menu that will satisfy anyone. They offer Gluten Free bread, and you can order off the lunch menu any time, making Miners Cup a favorite of ours. The Drive-thru is super handy when you’re heading to Iron Mountain Road for a scenic drive to Mount Rushmore.

   Maria’s Mexican Food Truck is just a few doors down and offers fantastic breakfast burritos perfect for anyone looking to grab something quick before they continue their Black Hills adventures. You’ll find the Black Hills Balloons crew here almost daily after the flight, spending their tips on bacon egg and cheese or sausage egg and cheese burritos. The salsa is homemade and delicious. It’s a great option if you’re grabbing something and heading into Custer State Park. Just make sure you finish your burrito before you come across the famous Begging Burros.

   Feel Good Café is a casual order-at-the-counter café with lots of cozy indoor and outdoor seating. Located next door to the famous Bavarian Inn, Feel Good Café has a Zen European vibe with crustless quiche, build-your-own breakfast bowls, tropical overnight oats, and even a breakfast banana sundae featuring a split banana covered in vanilla yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

   

   No matter where you go when you’re visiting us here in Custer, stick to the local recommendations to find some of the best food in the Black Hills. You know what they say. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Choose wisely.

    

5. 48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS

   February 3, 2020 6:12 pm Comments Off on 48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS

   FROM THE DESK OF KEELY

   48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS – For the Outdoor Adventurer

   Damien and I often joke that we “traded in our 9 to 5, for a 5 to 9”, but it’s not entirely wrong. Before purchasing Black Hills Balloons in 2015, we often dreamed of owning our own business and creating a better life for ourselves; one that allowed us to enjoy the outdoors, be a bit healthier and spend more time with each other. It’s hard to believe we’re prepping for our 6th season, doing what we love and living that dream of ours.

   We’re often asked about our favorite restaurants, hikes and day trips here in the Black Hills. It’s such a beautiful place full of hidden gems, its easy to get overwhelmed by all there is to do. And there’s SO MUCH TO DO, for everyone… how lucky we are to live in a place with something for everyone.

   When we host a houseguest, we gear their visit to what they like most; fine-tuning itineraries for friends from different backgrounds. It’s so fun to share our favorite spots with friends and family, we just had to share it with all of you. Here is our take on “48 hours in the Black Hills”, for the outdoor adventurer; a person who wants to get out and experience nature and the Black Hills in all her glory.

   48 Hours in the Black Hills – For the Outdoor Adventurer

   Day 1:

   A balloon flight with Black Hills Balloons, of course! You can’t miss an opportunity to soar over the Black Hills in a hot air balloon. Flying over the areas unique landscapes, valleys and granite formations is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the area. Paired with a serene sunrise, wildlife, and a celebratory toast of champagne, the experience is once in a lifetime.  We always recommend you schedule your flight on your first day of vacation. That way, if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating, we have plenty of backup opportunities during your stay.

   

   After your flight, rent a paddleboard or kayak from the South Dakota Outdoor Shop. Located next door to our passenger meeting location, the SD Outdoor Shop is not only convenient but offers fantastic advice and rentals for the adventurer looking to explore our beautiful area. Visit Custer State Parks Sylvan Lake for a picturesque paddle or Legion Lake for a relaxing day in the sun.

   

   If you’re looking for something a little more unique to the area, try rock climbing with Sylvan Rocks Climbing Guides. Ranging from 3 hours to full-day adventures for first-timers or experienced climbers, the guides at Sylvan Rocks will ensure you are safe while climbing some of the nation’s most recognized rock formations. They even offer a day of climbing Devils Tower, if you’re up for it!

   

   Day 2:

   Rent an ATV from Adventure Rentals! Offering full or half-day rentals, Adventure Rentals is an official Polaris outfitter, so you know they’ll always have the best machines. The Black Hills have nearly 4,000 miles of off-road trails to explore and the team at Adventure Rentals are regularly praised for their personalized approach to planning a guest’s perfect day.

   Stop along your ATV travels for a hike to round out your day. Custer State Park offers hikes requiring a variety of skill levels. Just make sure you take plenty of water, and your camera to take full advantage of the amazing views. And while you’re at it, drive the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park for an up-close-and-personal visit with our area’s famous bison herd before you return your ATV.

   If an ATV isn’t your style, tour the Badlands on a bicycle with Black Hills Tour Company. The private day tours can manage up to 8 guests, includes local transportation, your gear, a guide, and a picnic lunch. Catch stunning views of Badlands while you peddle 30 miles through the pinnacles and lower shale formations that make up the historic national park.

   

   But who are we kidding? With so much adventure in the Black Hills, you’ll likely need more than 48 hours. Try yoga, biking our famous 100+ mile Mickelson trail, fly in a helicopter over Mount Rushmore, explore underground at Wind Cave National Park or Jewel Cave National Monument, which are recognized as being two of the largest cave systems in the world, or just spend a day wildlife watching along the miles and miles of trails offered in Custer State Park and surrounding Black Hills National Forest. And once you’ve done it all, you need to come back when the snow falls for fat biking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing and more… It’s so overwhelming you’ll likely want to visit again and again. We encourage it!

   

   A best-kept secret, we’re not only lucky to live here in the Black Hills, but we’re also happy to share it and recommend our favorite things to do. Let us know if you’d like some advice on enjoying our beautiful Black Hills. And let us know if you’ve enjoyed any of the activities shared here.

    

6. 48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS

   May 16, 2019 5:14 pm Comments Off on 48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS

   From the desk of Keely

   48 HOURS IN THE BLACK HILLS – For the Foodie

   Quite often when customers call to book a hot air balloon flight with Black Hills Balloons, Damien And I are asked about our favorite restaurants, hikes and day trips here in the Black Hills. It’s such a beautiful place full of hidden gems, its easy to get overwhelmed by all there is to do. And there’s SO MUCH TO DO, for everyone really… how lucky we are to live in a place with something for everyone.

   We also find that when we host a houseguest, we try to gear their visit to what they like most; fine-tuning itineraries for friends from different backgrounds. It’s so much fun to share our favorite spots with friends and family and make suggestions to those that inquire over the phone, we just had to share it with all of you. Here is our take on “48 hours in the Black Hills”, geared towards The Foodie; a person who not only loves food but considers it a hobby.

   48 Hours in the Black Hills – The Foodie

   Day 1:

   Breakfast

   Try Skogen Kitchen in Custer. Focusing on breakfast and dinner, this restaurant could compete with any high-end restaurant in NYC, and yet it’s located in Custer SD, population 2000. Choose the Morning Walleye with potato-bacon hash, mint emulsion and sunny side up egg, the Ma & Paul Pancakes topped with fried chicken, franks hot sauce and maple syrup, or the Avocado Toast featuring 9-grain bread, avocado, shaved red onion, chopped eggs, sprouts, and lemon pepper. Just make sure you make reservations (they only serve breakfast on Saturday and Sunday) and be prepared to be blown away.

   (2023 update: Skogen Kitchen is now focusing exclusively on dinner service, but it’s amazing! They’re still highly recommended by the team at Black Hills Balloons, in fact. Our friend/chef Joseph Raney was just announced as a semi-finalist for a James Beard Award! Our advice: stop what you’re doing and make a dinner reservation for Skogen Kitchen, then make a breakfast reservation for their sister restaurant Hjem A.M. and read our Eat Like A Local – Breakfast Blog to get up to speed.)

   

   Lunch

   Your 48 hours in the Black Hills wouldn’t be complete without a brewery tour with Black Hills Tour Company. Allow them to escort you to multiple Black Hills breweries in their custom VW limo bus. Along the way, skip lunch while sampling brews at Lost Cabin, Miner Brewing, Mount Rushmore Brewing Company and more. Most of the breweries have food available via full kitchen or visiting food truck to tide you over until dinner.

   

   

   Dinner

   South Dakota might not be known for its curries, but maybe it should be. For dinner, we recommend Everest Cuisine in Rapid City for some of the best lamb curries you can find in the states… it’s true! The cozy restaurant greets you at the door with that delicious smell of curry, friendly smiles and a menu full of all your favorites. It’s almost impossible to stick to one item, so bring friends and share to get the best variety on your plate.

   

   Day 2:

   Breakfast

   Start traditional with Jerry’s Cakes and Donuts or modern with Harriet and Oak, either way, you’ll need to save room for lunch and dinner. Jerry’s is one of those neat old donut shops that has stood the test of time. Get there early because they sell out almost daily and enjoy a traditional donut and cup of joe. Or, Harriet and Oak for a house-roasted coffee drink and a sweet potato breakfast burrito, acai bowl or organic oatmeal. If you are vegan or gluten-free, they can accommodate, and they do it well.

   Lunch

   No visit to the Black Hills is complete without a visit to Mt Rushmore’s Carvers Cafe for a bowl of bison chili. The monument’s restaurant is full of delicious items but it’s the homemade chili featuring locally sourced bison, that continually keeps us coming back for more. The view isn’t so bad either and if you can manage it, their famous Monumental Scoops of ice cream makes for the perfect presidential selfie. Did you know Thomas Jefferson brought the first recipe to the states?  Mount Rushmore is the only place you can get a scoop.

   

   Dinner

   For dinner, head to The Custer Wolf. Named after a legendary wolf who tormented the area in the 1920s, the restaurant is anything but scary. A local hotspot full of craft beer and fresh-made menu items, the Wolf is known for its wall of beer steins, each assigned to a regular customer. Stop in for Walleye Ceviche, added to the menu after the owners traveled to Belize, it’s a fresh South Dakota take on the popular seafood dish, the Shredded Buffalo Sandwich or their signature Bread Pudding topped with Whiskey Caramel Sauce. You won’t be disappointed. Grab a board game and a pint for a fun evening in this cozy spot. The friendly place will treat you like family. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up your 48 hours of the Black Hills.

   

   Of course, speaking of wrapping up. If you’re looking for a nightcap, check out The Custer Beacon. The Custer venue regularly hosts touring and local musicians, serves wine and beer and has a fun late night menu. A mix of comfy couches and tall wooden tables, you’re guaranteed to find a good spot to absorb some local tunes, digest and reminisce.

   Between meals, we recommend touring the beautiful area. The Black Hills area is perfect for hiking, kayaking, hot air ballooning (obviously) and visiting local wildlife, but we’ll save specifics for our next “48 Hours in the Black Hills” list. Have you checked out any of the restaurants we mentioned? Any tips or locations we missed?  Please share, there’s just too much good food in the Hills for 48 hours, wouldn’t you agree?

    

7. Love was in the air, literally.

   April 18, 2019 9:21 am Comments Off on Love was in the air, literally.

   From the desk of Keely

   Love was in the air, literally.

   Quitting our jobs, moving, buying a business and finally, a wedding.

   Over the years, Damien and I have toyed with the idea of adding a blog to our ever-evolving business plan. We constantly hear from friends, family and passengers, that our day-to-day stories need to be shared. We meet such great people flying these gorgeous South Dakota Black Hills, it’s naturally the next step in our quest to share our story, the story of hot air ballooning, and the incredibly fun people that are drawn to it.

   As owners and operators of Black Hills Balloons, Damien and I have taken on many titles. Pilot, Flight Instructor, Small Business Owner, FAA Certified Repairman and more, recently adding the most fun title of all; Husband and Wife.

   And so, after just celebrating our one year anniversary, I figured this was the perfect place to start.  (you can now finally add “Blogger” to the above mentioned titles…).

   Here is our story.

   After purchasing a business together, moving to the Black Hills, and a year of planning, our wedding day was finally approaching. I kept calling it a “destination wedding for everyone but us”; knowing most would need to travel, but sharing this beautiful area was part of the plan. We chose April 5^th, knowing full-well that South Dakota Spring can be moody, and immediately researched “early April” weather history.  Over the last 5 years, temps varied from 14 degrees to 87 degrees.  Perfect…?

   As April 5^th approached, one thing became apparent. I hugged and greeted our arriving guests, happily stating “just wear everything you brought”, with a wink. I could see the terror in their eyes. Snow was in the forecast and we weren’t going to budge. You see, Damien and I chose the beautiful and historic Stratobowl as our ceremony site, and it wasn’t going to happen anywhere else.

   Quick side note.

   The Stratobowl, located just outside Rapid City, is the birthplace of space exploration. In 1935, the Army Air Corps and National Geographic Society launched a manned balloon from this very location, reaching over 72,000 feet. It was the first time human’s saw the curvature of the earth, pre-NASA and man’s first visit to the stratosphere. Since then, there have been many record breaking balloon flights from this spot and it’s a ballooner’s paradise.

   The day arrived.

   Snow was in the forecast. Guests from Hawaii, California, Florida, Ireland and more, bundled up and arrived to the Stratobowl….and it was stunning. Like a ridiculously happy snow globe, giant flakes swirled around Damien and I while our guests sang, cheered and applauded throughout the ceremony. It was like the snow and cold created this crazy “is this magic!?” mood that consumed everyone. It was fantastic. Each person who braved the weather and our little ceremony in the bowl, seemed to walk away with an attitude of awe. The Black Hills, in all her glory, greeted our guests, and one by one they fell in love.

   This is why we love the Black Hills and why we feel privileged to fly here and share this beautiful place with travelers from every corner of the world. On that day at her worst, while snow was falling and temps were in the twenties, she managed to find a place in everyone’s heart. We dare you to visit, meet the locals, take in the views, and not fall in love.

   

   A big thank you to everyone who made our Big Day special and helped make our guests feel at home!

   Jenny’s Floral

   Emily Costoupolous photography & design

   Black Hills Tour Company

   Hotel Alex Johnson

   Paddy O’Neills

   Vertex Sky Bar

   Timeless Wedding and Event

   The Vintage Lease

   Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts

   Stratobowl

   The Custer Wolf

   Blind Lion

   Lost Cabin