Bavarian Inn Black Hills

The room had a handy fridge and microwave, and the beds were comfortable. I also liked the peaceful setting and the balcony or patio, and the reception staff were very kind. There are two pools, a hot tub, a pickleball court, and free laundry, though I forgot my swimsuit and missed out on the water facilities. One small suggestion: the bathtub felt slicker than most, so a rubber mat could help prevent a fall. I’d stay here again if I return to Custer.

Really enjoyed the stay, and it was great to find a place so welcoming to dogs. A couple of things could be better: housekeeping opened my door without warning three hours before checkout, and one of my dogs got out. There was also a lot of dog poop on the lawn. Come on, fellow dog owners, please clean up after your pets. Do Not Disturb signs would help too.

The location made it easy to get to historic Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and other sights. We loved the Bavarian Inn’s flowery outdoor corridors and lovely grounds, including a European fitness trail. Our room had comfy, quality beds, coffee, a small fridge, and a microwave. The staff were attentive, courteous, and friendly, and the Feel Good Cafe next door had coffee drinks and breakfast. It was our first trip to South Dakota, and this cozy place made it even more special. We’d absolutely come back, it beat staying in a hotel.

I was surprised by how much more magical the inn felt in person than it did in the photos. They called to check our arrival time, then had the lights on, music playing on the TV, and the room set to a cozy temperature when we got there. We ordered milk and cookies for bedtime, and they brought them to the room wearing a cookie fairy cape. So cute. The pool and hot tub area are gorgeous, with games and books for little kids and the bigger little kids too. The on-site Cafe was adorable and SO good. This place felt Disney magical, and now I don’t want to stay anywhere else when I visit South Dakota.