This business in Hill City can transport you back in time

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) – April 26 is National South Dakota Day and with that, we wanted to spotlight a business in the area that could be a fun option for yourself or your family. The 1880 Train in Hill City is one option and we spoke with one of the operators Nate Anderson to see what the business was and what’s going on this Summer.

“So we’ve been here since 1957 operating steam locomotives out of Hill City and Keystone and back, we’ve done that every summer since the 50s,” Nate Anderson one of the operators of 1880 Train said. “We’re here to give an authentic steam excursion ride to locals and visitors alike learn a little bit of history of the black hills, sit back and relax, and see an old-fashioned way of transportation and enjoying the black hills.”

The train offers themed and unique events but has a typical route for anyone interested in riding the train.

“Absolutely midsummer we focus on riding a one-hour leg between Hill City and Keystone or vice versa so you can board the train in either town and ride back and forth, Anderson said. “You could really make a fun half-day or full-day out of the train and the towns of Hill City and Keystone.”

For those looking for something a little different, the 1880 Train offers special events.

“Every Sunday night through the summer through June and July we offer an old west shootout where the cowboys show up and have a little performance action off of the side of the train there so that’s really fun for families,” Anderson said. “And then once fall sets in after Labor Day we focus on May 7th this year is our wine express.”

For the wine express the 1880 Train partners with Wineries in the area to bring alcoholic refreshments on board served with snacks. Anderson says these can be an ideal date night or even just something to try if you want to socialize.

If you’d like to see the 1880 Train’s full schedule or book a ride for their upcoming season starting on May 11, click here.

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