The Hotel Alex Johnson stands as one of Rapid City's most distinguished landmarks, having anchored downtown South Dakota hospitality since its opening in 1928. Located at 523 6th St in the heart of Rapid City, the property sits within easy walking distance of Main Street's galleries, shops, and restaurants, and approximately 26 miles east of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The hotel's German Tudor-inspired architecture, featuring ornate brick facades and a meticulously preserved lobby, earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places and established it as one of the premier lodging addresses in the Black Hills region.
Now operating as a Curio Collection by Hilton property, the Alex Johnson blends its storied 1920s heritage with contemporary amenities. Guest rooms and suites include Standard King and Deluxe Queen configurations alongside Junior Suites and the Presidential Suite, each offering period-inspired décor paired with modern comforts such as premium bedding, flat-screen televisions, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel has hosted dignitaries and notable guests throughout its nearly century-long history, a legacy reflected in the art and memorabilia displayed throughout the property.
Dining centers on the Landmark Restaurant and the Vertex Sky Bar. The Landmark serves regionally influenced American cuisine across breakfast, lunch, and dinner seatings, drawing both hotel guests and Rapid City residents. The Vertex Sky Bar, perched on the upper floors, offers panoramic Black Hills views and a curated cocktail menu, making it one of downtown Rapid City's most sought-after evening venues during the summer season.
A fitness center is available for guests wishing to maintain routines, and professional meeting rooms serve business travelers and event planners. Valet parking provides a convenient arrival experience given the hotel's central downtown location. The concierge team is knowledgeable about Black Hills attractions, from organizing Mount Rushmore visits to arranging dining reservations at Rapid City's independent restaurants. The hotel also serves as a natural base for day trips to Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, and Badlands National Park.
Room types
- Standard King
- Deluxe Queen
- Junior Suite
- Presidential Suite
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- fitness center
- meeting rooms
- historic property
- valet parking
Location
523 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701
44.0802, -103.2310 View on map
Highlights
- Historic 1928 property on the National Register of Historic Places, steps from Rapid City's downtown arts and dining district
- Vertex Sky Bar on the upper floors with panoramic Black Hills views, one of downtown Rapid City's premier evening venues
- Landmark Restaurant serving regionally inspired American cuisine across breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Presidential Suite with period furnishings reflecting the hotel's nearly century-long heritage
- Curio Collection by Hilton property blending 1920s German Tudor architecture with contemporary amenities
Tips for visiting
- Book summer stays 2–3 months ahead; the hotel fills quickly during Sturgis Motorcycle Rally week in early August and Black Hills peak season
- Request a west-facing room for Black Hills sunset views; these rooms command a modest premium but deliver memorable light in the evenings
- Valet parking runs approximately $15–20 per night; the downtown location makes most sights walkable and a car unnecessary for evenings
- The Vertex Sky Bar reaches standing-room capacity on Friday and Saturday evenings; arriving before 7 PM is advisable for securing a table with views
- Ask the concierge for the self-guided downtown Rapid City walking history tour, typically available at no charge
Accessibility
The Hotel Alex Johnson provides ADA-compliant guest rooms with roll-in showers and accessible bathrooms available upon request. The lobby, Landmark Restaurant, and meeting areas are wheelchair accessible, and elevator service reaches all guest floors. Guests requiring specific accessible accommodations should contact the hotel in advance to confirm room availability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Hotel Alex Johnson a historic property?
Yes, the hotel opened in 1928 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The German Tudor-inspired building has been carefully restored to blend original architectural details with modern amenities and Hilton brand standards.
How far is the Hotel Alex Johnson from Mount Rushmore?
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is approximately 26 miles southwest, about a 40-minute drive via US-16. The hotel's concierge can assist with transportation suggestions and timed entry pass information during peak season.
Is parking available at the hotel?
Valet parking is available on-site at the hotel. The downtown Rapid City location also offers nearby street and surface lot parking options for self-parkers.
Does the hotel have a restaurant and bar?
Yes, the Landmark Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with regionally inspired American cuisine. The Vertex Sky Bar on the upper floors offers cocktails and panoramic views of the Black Hills.
Is the Vertex Sky Bar open to non-guests?
Yes, the Vertex Sky Bar is open to the public and is a popular gathering spot for downtown Rapid City visitors, particularly on summer evenings when Black Hills views are at their most dramatic.