I did not have plans to stay in Rapid City on this cold (5 degrees F) Friday night in January, but having been stranded by Delta Airlines and without a car, my first requirement was a hotel that provided free shuttle service to and from the airport (including a 5 a.m. Saturday morning return to the airport. My second criteria was a downtown location so I could walk to shops and restaurants during my unexepcted stay. Lastly, because Delta Airlines refused to offer me any compensation for failing to get me back home, the hotel had to be affordable.
The Radisson gave me an unbelievably affordable rate - even for the middle of January - provided prompt free shuttle service with a driver named Dave who was great. Dave arranged for the hotel chef to keep in the restaurant's freezer some bison meat that I had acquired during my trip. I tipped the chef two bottles of Belgian ale as "rent" and Dave was right there at 5 a.m. next morning for the trip back to the airport with the bison package in hand. Dave got a nice tip too.
The hotel was spotless. Staff was friendly. The room was comfortable and quiet with a digital thermostat. The bed was first rate. Towels were thick and big. Location is perfect - walk to a great choice of restaurants and shops in the surprsingly vibrant downtown. The Firehouse brewpub on Main Street has 50% off Happy Hour. After an Italian dinner at Boticelli's, I found the Tinder Box and enjoyed free jazz, a well stock humidor, big leather lounge chairs, and eight esoteric imported beers on tap and a big wine list.
The Radisson took my day and mood from cursed frustration to an enjoyable evening layover
- Radisson Hotel Rapid City
- Mt Rushmore South Dakota
- Radisson Rapid City
- Rapid City Radisson
