The Rocket Motel offers a 1950s retro experience in downtown Custer, South Dakota. This family-run roadside motel has been open since 1950 and provides affordable, clean accommodations with vintage decor. Its central location makes it easy to walk to local shops and restaurants. The motel is also conveniently positioned just minutes from major Black Hills attractions, serving as a practical base for exploring the region.
Should you book Rocket Motel?
An affordable, no-frills stay with vintage charm, ideal for accessing regional attractions.
Best for
- Budget travellers
- Families
- Exploring the Black Hills
Maybe not ideal for
- Seeking modern luxury
- No on-site dining
Retro roadside setting
A two-storey roadside motel in Custer, dating back to 1950. Features include a covered pavilion, barbecue facilities, and a fire pit for guest use.
Guest hot tub and grills
Relax in the on-site 6-person hot tub. Outdoor gas grills are available for cooking and dining al fresco.
Convenient walkable location
Situated in Custer, the motel is a short walk to shops and restaurants. Custer State Park is also just 5 minutes away.
Vintage room decor
Rooms feature vintage decor from the 1950s, combined with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and air conditioning.
Rooms & rates
King Suite - Non-Smoking
Family Room - 1 Queen, 1 Double, 1 Single with Shower Only - Non-Smoking
What you'll enjoy
Gallery
Amenities & facilities
Most popular facilities
- Free Wifi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free parking
- Family rooms
Great for your stay
- Parking
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- View
- Bath
- Free Wifi
- Free parking
- Flat-screen TV
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Bath or shower
- Private bathroom
- Toilet
- Free toiletries
- Hairdryer
- Bath
Bedroom
- Linens
View
- Inner courtyard view
- City view
- View
Outdoors
- Picnic area
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- BBQ facilities
- Terrace
- Garden
Location
211 Mt Rushmore Road, Custer, SD 57730, United States, Custer, South Dakota
Rocket Motel is located in Custer, South Dakota.
5 sights nearby, all within 0.5 mi; the closest is 1881 Courthouse at 0.2 mi.
Things to do nearby
- 1881 Courthousemuseum0.2 mi
- French Creek Parkpark0.2 mi
- Way Parkpark0.2 mi
- Big Rock Lookoutviewpoint0.5 mi
- Sunrise Pointviewpoint0.5 mi
Straight-line distances from the property · data © OpenStreetMap contributors
What guests say
9.2 / 10 · Wonderful on Booking.com, from 361 guest reviews
Rocket Motel earns overwhelmingly positive sentiment for its immaculate cleanliness, warm owner-operated hospitality, and authentic retro character that guests consistently find charming and well-maintained. Minor gripes surface around intermittent WiFi, tap-water quality, and occasionally firm beds or draughty doors, but none appear to detract significantly from the overall experience. It represents strong value for the price and location near South Dakota's Black Hills attractions.
Reviews scoring 9–10: 28 · average 9.7
They wrote about: cleanliness, staff, room
Reviews scoring 7–9: 2 · average 8
They wrote about: location, cleanliness, room
No reviews in the selected score range.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What attractions are near Rocket Motel?
The motel is a 5-minute walk to Custer State Park. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a 30-minute drive, and Crazy Horse Memorial is 5.4 miles away. Several parks and museums are within a short walk.
What room amenities are provided?
All rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen cable TV, a microwave, a small refrigerator, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Linens are also provided.
Does the motel have parking?
Yes, the Rocket Motel offers free parking for guests on-site.
Is breakfast served at the motel?
The motel does not have an on-site restaurant or serve breakfast. However, it is within walking distance of several dining options in Custer.
Are pets allowed?
Limited pet-friendly rooms are available upon request. Guests should contact the motel directly to confirm availability.
What is the style of the motel?
Rocket Motel is a family-run, 1950s retro-style roadside motel with vintage decor.
Are there family rooms available?
Yes, the motel offers family rooms. Options include a Large Room with 3 Beds and a Family Room with 1 Queen, 1 Double, and 1 Single bed.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, free WiFi access is provided for all guests.
Does the motel have a hot tub?
Yes, an on-site 6-person hot tub is available for guests to use.