Hello, friends! In 1874, gold was first discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota, and in 1876, a group of unsuccessful gold prospectors founded the little town of Rapid City. Now, 149 years later, the United Church of God is pleased to invite you to join us as we gather to worship the Eternal and observe His Feasts at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center! Also referred to as the “Gateway to the Black Hills” and the “City of Presidents,” Rapid City is a family-friendly city which boasts a number of attractions.
Housing
Although the Best Western Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center is the host hotel for church services, members are free to book housing where they prefer. However, for those staying at the Best Western, all reservations will directly save the Church money, as we are obligated to book 40 rooms to have access to the meeting halls. Any rooms not reserved by members are paid for by the Church. Additional housing in Rapid City is plentiful, including hotels, rental homes, camping and cabins spanning a variety of price ranges.
Once the Festival reservation period begins, please contact the hotel at (605) 343-8550 to reserve a guest room. Guests must reference United Church of God, an International Association and make their reservations before Friday, Sept. 5, to receive the special group rate. You will need a credit card to secure a reservation, but there is no cancellation fee up until one day prior to check-in.
Activities
With a multitude of options for museums, arcades, horseback riding, National Parks and zoos, Rapid City has something to offer just about everyone—provided you have any “free time” remaining after fellowshipping with God’s people! On the city side of things, you’ll find many suitable restaurants and activities with which to occupy your free time. And for those wishing to enjoy the refreshment and peace that comes from immersing oneself in God’s creation, the Rapid City and Black Hills area also offers a host of alluring attractions.
Here is a small selection of well-known attractions which may pique your interest:
Reptile Gardens
Bear Country USA
South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Cosmos Mystery Area
Wall Drug
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Jewel Cave National Monument
The Mammoth Site
Badlands National Park
Custer State Park
Wind Cave National Park
There’s no doubt about it—the Black Hills region of South Dakota is incredibly picturesque with many things to do! Ultimately though, our primary focus at the Feast of Tabernacles is to develop a deeper relationship with Almighty God and with those whom He is calling to join His family. To this end, we hope to provide Feastgoers with ample opportunities for fellowship, Bible study and worship.
Travel
Rapid City and the surrounding region is serviced by the Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). The next biggest, “major” airport is the Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), 4.75 hours / 345 miles away.
Taxes
Total hotel taxes are 8.7 percent.
