Rocket Motel
Retro roadside motel in Custer, South Dakota
A place to stay in Custer
The Rocket Motel offers a 1950s retro experience in downtown Custer, South Dakota. This family-run roadside motel has been open since 1950 and provides affordable, clean accommodations with vintage decor. Its central location makes it easy to walk to local shops and restaurants. The motel is also conveniently positioned just minutes from major Black Hills attractions, serving as a practical base for exploring the region.
Who it's a good fit for
An affordable, no-frills stay with vintage charm, ideal for accessing regional attractions.
Best for
- Budget travellers
- Families
- Exploring the Black Hills
Less suited to
- Seeking modern luxury
- No on-site dining
Retro roadside setting
A two-storey roadside motel in Custer, dating back to 1950. Features include a covered pavilion, barbecue facilities, and a fire pit for guest use.
Guest hot tub and grills
Relax in the on-site 6-person hot tub. Outdoor gas grills are available for cooking and dining al fresco.
Convenient walkable location
Situated in Custer, the motel is a short walk to shops and restaurants. Custer State Park is also just 5 minutes away.
Vintage room decor
Rooms feature vintage decor from the 1950s, combined with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and air conditioning.
What stands out
Amenities at Rocket Motel
Most popular facilities
- Free Wifi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free parking
- Family rooms
Great for your stay
- Parking
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- View
- Bath
- Free Wifi
- Free parking
- Flat-screen TV
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Bath or shower
- Private bathroom
- Toilet
- Free toiletries
- Hairdryer
- Bath
Bedroom
- Linens
View
- Inner courtyard view
- City view
- View
Outdoors
- Picnic area
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- BBQ facilities
- Terrace
- Garden
The location
5 sights nearby, all within 0.5 mi; the closest is 1881 Courthouse at 0.2 mi.
Things to do nearby
- 1881 Courthousemuseum0.2 mi
- French Creek Parkpark0.2 mi
- Way Parkpark0.2 mi
- Big Rock Lookoutviewpoint0.5 mi
- Sunrise Pointviewpoint0.5 mi
Each distance runs directly from the property, not by road · place data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Guests appreciate the motel's value and its retro charm. Positive comments often mention the cleanliness of the rooms and the convenient location for exploring the area.
Reviews scoring 9–10: 28 · average 9.7
They wrote about: cleanliness, staff, room
Reviews scoring 7–9: 2 · average 8
They wrote about: location, cleanliness, room
No reviews fall within this score range.
Based on guest reviews published on sites that partner with Booking.
Good to know
Questions & answers
What attractions are near Rocket Motel?
The motel is a 5-minute walk to Custer State Park. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a 30-minute drive, and Crazy Horse Memorial is 5.4 miles away. Several parks and museums are within a short walk.
What room amenities are provided?
All rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen cable TV, a microwave, a small refrigerator, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Linens are also provided.
Does the motel have parking?
Yes, the Rocket Motel offers free parking for guests on-site.
Is breakfast served at the motel?
The motel does not have an on-site restaurant or serve breakfast. However, it is within walking distance of several dining options in Custer.
Are pets allowed?
Limited pet-friendly rooms are available upon request. Guests should contact the motel directly to confirm availability.
What is the style of the motel?
Rocket Motel is a family-run, 1950s retro-style roadside motel with vintage decor.
Are there family rooms available?
Yes, the motel offers family rooms. Options include a Large Room with 3 Beds and a Family Room with 1 Queen, 1 Double, and 1 Single bed.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, free WiFi access is provided for all guests.
Does the motel have a hot tub?
Yes, an on-site 6-person hot tub is available for guests to use.























