Cosmos Mystery Area

To experience the whimsical, disorienting, and downright strange Cosmos Mystery Area without first waiting in line, it's best to prebook tickets. To find your way through the crooked cabin (aka the Mystery House), plan to join for a 40-minute guided tour—included with admission—and take advantage of the live demonstrations and optical illusions. To round out your Black Hills itinerary, pair your visit with a stop at Custer State Park and the iconic Mount Rushmore.

• Cosmos Mystery Area is a prime destination for kids and families.

• If you're prone to motion sickness or have balance issues, you may have a hard time at Cosmos Mystery Area.

• Admission to the Geode Mine and Mystery House is separate, though discounts apply for combined entry.

• Kids under age 12 received discounted admission.

• The attraction has a concession stand and gift shop.

• Cosmos Mystery Area tours are not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Cosmos Mystery Area is located on Cosoms Road in Rapid City. The most convenient way to visit is to drive, via US-16, but keep a sharp eye out for the turn, as it's easy to miss. From Rapid City, the 17-mile (27-kilometer) drive takes about 25 minutes, door to door. Free parking is available on site.

The hours at Cosmos Mystery Area change seasonally, but summer hours are typically longer. Expect more visitors in summer, since many travelers choose to visit Cosmos Mystery Area and Mt. Rushmore on the same day. To avoid crowds, plan a midweek visit, and avoid the incredibly popular Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which takes place annually in August.

One of the best features of Cosmos Mystery Area is its proximity to South Dakota's must-see attraction: Mt. Rushmore. At this historic landmark, you find the faces of four presidents carved into the granite hillside. Tours to Mt. Rushmore National Memorial often depart from nearby Rapid City and typically include a ride along Custer State Park Scenic Drive, so you can see more without the hassles of driving yourself.