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San Francisco, CA, USA to Rapid City, SD, USA from $179: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Rapid City, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Rapid City: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$179 - Train, busBest price
2393 kmDistance
6h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Rapid City with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  27m
Estimated price
$287-795
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
39h  43m
Estimated price
$179-550
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2393 km
Duration: 6h 27m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
22h  36m
Estimated price
$270-2870
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
9h  21m
Estimated price
$298-719
Company
various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
7h  58m
Estimated price
$427-647
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Rapid City

Your journey from the vibrant streets of San Francisco, known for its iconic landmarks and tech culture, to Rapid City, where the stunning Black Hills and rich Native American history offer a distinct contrast, promises an enriching travel experience.

Best Neighborhoods in Rapid City

Rapid City offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Rapid City
• Home to unique shops and local restaurants.
• Features vibrant art galleries and outdoor murals.
The Historic District
• Showcases beautifully preserved historic buildings.
• Hosts cultural events and festivals year-round.
Canyon Lake Park
• Surrounds a serene lake ideal for picnics.
• Offers hiking trails and recreational activities.

Best Times To Visit Rapid City's Attractions

Strategizing your visits can elevate your experience in Rapid City.

Mount Rushmore
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning lighting.
Badlands National Park
Spring and fall offer mild weather and vibrant colors, plus fewer visitors.
Downtown Rapid City
Weekdays are quieter, ideal for exploring shops and enjoying local dining.

Rapid City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rapid City experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Rapid City

Try the tender bison steak at The Prairie Edge—a restaurant that embraces local flavors and Native American culinary traditions. This dining experience, characterized by hearty dishes and a warm, rustic atmosphere, stands in striking contrast to San Francisco's emphasis on seafood and contemporary dining.

San Francisco - Rapid City operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Rapid City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
5h 7m
Estimated price
$2875-2876

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$2877-2878

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
5h 44m
Estimated price
$2879-7950
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
7h 1m
Estimated price
$7951-7952

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
8h 8m
Estimated price
$2879-7953

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
8h 18m
Estimated price
$7954-2878
Website
delta.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$7955-550

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
6h 32m
Estimated price
$7956-7957

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration
6h 2m
Estimated price
$28740-7958
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
16h 43m
Estimated price
$17910-5504
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$7959-1790
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Salt Lake City Intermodal Trans Ctr to Cheyenne

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$1796-55030
Contact phone
+1-877-779-2999
Website
expressarrow.com

Bus from Cheyenne, WY to Buffalo, WY

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$79595-5506
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Buffalo, WY to Rapid City, SD

Average Duration

San Francisco to Rapid City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Francisco and Rapid City offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from the vibrant city of San Francisco to the charming town of Rapid City! Traverse a distance of 1487 miles, immersing yourself in the beauty of diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 With prices ranging from $270 to $390 for the journey by car, you'll have the flexibility to tailor your trip to fit your budget and preferences. Stop by quaint roadside diners or explore off-the-beaten-path attractions as you make your way towards Rapid City. 🏞️ After approximately 22 hours and 36 minutes of driving, you'll arrive in Rapid City, ready to discover its hidden gems such as the iconic Mount Rushmore or the breathtaking Badlands National Park.
Average price
$270 - $390
🛫 Flying from San Francisco to Rapid City involves a single stopover, making the quickest flight duration approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes with options offered by American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines. 🌄 The journey from the vibrant city of San Francisco to the serene landscapes of Rapid City by plane typically takes around 6 hours and 27 minutes, allowing travelers to experience a seamless transition from one destination to another. 💸 Prices for flights between Rapid City and San Francisco vary, ranging from $287 to $795, providing travelers with flexibility in choosing the most suitable option for their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Rapid City Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 58m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Rapid City.

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The distance between San Francisco and Rapid City is 1095 miles by air, and 1487 miles by road. The typical travel times are as follows: 6 hours and 36 minutes by plane, 22 hours and 36 minutes by car, 47 hours and 36 minutes by train and bus, and 45 hours and 55 minutes by bus. Please note that travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and transportation schedules.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Rapid City would be by train and bus, which can cost between $160 and $600. However, this option has a longer travel time of about 47 hours and 36 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest option would be to fly, which takes about 6 hours and 36 minutes and can cost between $180 and $650. Both options have their advantages depending on budget and schedule.
The prices for a bus ticket from San Francisco to Rapid City can range from $256 to $530, depending on various factors such as the time of booking and availability. It is recommended to book in advance to secure lower fares. Additionally, prices may also vary during peak travel seasons or holidays.
To get from San Francisco to Rapid City without public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance is approximately 1487 miles and it takes around 22 hours and 36 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Rapid City can vary between $270 and $390, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
If you want to travel from San Francisco to Rapid City without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 45 hours and 55 minutes and the ticket prices range from $250 to $550. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination without the need for a car.
Yes, there is a link between San Francisco and Rapid City but there is no direct bus service. However, you can travel from San Francisco to Rapid City by taking a combination of buses and trains. The journey includes transfers at Los Angeles Union Station, Denver Union Station Amtrak, and Buffalo, WY, and takes approximately 45 hours and 55 minutes. The bus services from San Francisco to Rapid City are operated by Flixbus USA and Jefferson Lines.
The flight duration from San Francisco to Rapid City typically takes around 4 hours and 51 minutes, including one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available. The cost of a flight between these two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $187 to $645. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Rapid City with over 135 hotels available to choose from. Prices start at a reasonable $32 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly choices. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Holiday Inn, and Best Western, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Rapid City