Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
4.5
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Cold War was the defining historical event of the last half of the 20th century. It led to fear, panic, and distrust symbolized by a nuclear arms race between the United States and Soviet Union. The Minuteman Missile is an iconic weapon in the American nuclear arsenal. Minuteman Missile National Historic site consists of three sites along a fifteen mile stretch of Interstate 90 in Western South Dakota. The Visitor Center is located immediately north of I-90, exit 131. The Launch Control Facility Delta-01 is located four miles west (tickets required for entry) and the Delta-09 missile silo is fifteen miles west of the visitor center.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Jen RSpringfield, Missouri82 contributionsVery interesting.This was a very interesting stop and the visitor center was really nice and provided great information. The missile silo stop was great. Our only disappointment was that getting to the missile silo in a wheelchair was very difficult. The area was not paved.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 12 October 2023
- liquidpromises76 contributionsGreat for Cold War history buffs.This is located just down the road from the Badlands park entrance, so you can get two parks in NP system in one day. This is a very nice exhibit covering that era and gives you a very nice prospective of such facilities that were located in this part of the country. From this point you can get info on visiting actual missile silo facilities. As with most locations in the NP system you can get a stamp here if you are collecting them in your NP passports. Also great place to use the restroom especially before heading off into the Badlands.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 November 2023
- angeleyes27Brigantine, New Jersey5,336 contributionsInteresting view into nuclear facilities plus freeThis site is a glimpse into a world that few people ever see and has much interesting information. We attended the talk given by a former worker who held the key to launch the nuclear missiles. There is a small museum, gift shop and missile sites where you can see the actual missiles. Two guys manned these sites. Each had only half of the code so one person couldn't launch a weapon. The missile sites are down the road from the visitor center.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 February 2024
- AngelaMB12Hanover, Pennsylvania335 contributionsExtremely interestingMy family found this visitor center and silo site so interesting. I'd personally never realized the US had all this missile locations on the ready. This was ful of history and very informative. My daughter enjoyed earning the Junior Ranger patch. We stopped by Delta 01 silo site and enjoyed listening to the free audio tour and even seeing and hearing all the birds flying around.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 2 June 2024
- 164sherriw7 contributionsMinuteman MIssilesWho knew this little visitor center could be so interesting. There is a short film and a nice walk thru exhibit about the cold war that started this missile program. I understand you can book a tour of the missile silos and control room but the ranger informed me the tour was soldout months in advance. There are 2 other sites you can stop at and see the actual silos. This location is very close to Badlands National Park so you can combine the 2 locations very easily.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 5 June 2024
- Robert D4,337 contributionsDiscover a former missile siteI stopped at the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site to see the Delta-09 Missile Silo en route to the Badlands National Park. You can see a missile inside its silo there. I also visited the Visitor Center and found the exhibits fascinating. The video inside the Visitor Center was very interesting. I learned a lot about the Minuteman Missiles.Visited May 2024Travelled soloWritten 1 July 2024
- DianeERFalls Church, Virginia2,345 contributionsSuperb & free - a Must doTo truly understand the Cold war in the US during the 60- 70’s, one needs to come here. The visitor center & the museum were both outstanding. We couldn’t get a reservation to tour the missile silo as they sell out way in advance. However, we were very lucky to see a virtual presentation of the underground bunkers & what life was like by a retired launch officer Jim. Go see it if possible- he was extraordinary & we really enjoyed his presentation. It really contributed to our understanding of the Cold war even though we lived through those times. Thank you ranger Jim for your service & outstanding presentation! We were there for about 2 hours. Note if heading from Rapid City & going to Badlands Park, stop here first. If you like my review, I hope you’ll click the “helpful” button; those of us who write reviews live for those and it motivates us to do more.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 18 August 2024
- sandymcdaniel99Ariton, Alabama106 contributionsThe Cold War really brought home.The visitor's center was very informative with its film and displays. We started with it and the staff was very helpful telling us about the complex and the area. She even asked where we were staying and made sure we knew where to go in Badlands with a map. Our guide for Delta 01 was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable and personable. Our group of 6 seemed to all enjoy the whole experience. Since we finished early, she suggested that the other group of 4 could make it to the Delta 06 silos. Now that's considerate. You could tell she enjoyed her job, however she'll be moving to Mississippi in Oct. Big loss for this area. We had seen the Delta 06 earlier in the day and it was impressive as well. To see the rocket sitting there ready to take off. Scary, sobering and a great sense of appreciation for the people that worked here.Visited August 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 1 September 2024
- Brown_SamanthaKennewick, Washington1,781 contributionsInclude this when you visit the Badlands National Park - worth the detourSince most people include this visit along with a trip to the Badlands National Park, we were no exception. We did the self guided tour at Delta 09 area. After a short drive off the interstate and a section of gravel road, you park the car in a lot. Walk over to the displays, then call the phone number and get information on the various spots. You can stand and see down into a missile silo. Very sobering reminder how the Cold War could have had severe consequences. We enjoyed the short detour.Visited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 16 September 2024
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4.5
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Disneybus
Pittsgrove, NJ906 contributions
June 2021
This National Park Visitor Site is staffed with knowledgeable rangers. It's necessary to see the thirty minute movie - Beneath The Plains: The Minuteman Missile On Alert. I'm sure this affects the viewer in different ways depending on one's age. I'm of the sputnik age and remember parts of the cold war while the younger generation will find this as newly discovered history. The movie is excellent and brings forth the chilling history of that era. The displays enhance the movie's theme. Living in New Jersey as a kid I knew that missiles were somewhere in the center of the country but this site brings it all back and makes it all real. A minuteman missile site is open to all travelers further east on #90, while a tour of a minuteman launch site, also east on #90, requires booking several weeks in advance.
Written 3 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vaughanm1976
Amarillo, TX699 contributions
Sept 2020
Great little museum to learn about the important mission of the Air Force Missile Command role in deterring war. Minuteman Missiles sites were scattered all over the Dakotas during the cold war but were removed under the nuclear arms control treaty. The museum takes about an hour or less then you can drive a few miles to an actual missile site for a self guided tour where you can look down into a missile silo. There is also a guided tour down into a missile command center but it was fully booked well in advance. Part of the tour is not being given due to Covid anyway. I had visited a Titan Missile Silo and Command Center in AZ so I was not disappointed to miss this tour.
Written 25 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StevoinMinnesoto
Cottage Grove, MN547 contributions
Sept 2019
Located at one end of the Badlands scenic drive, along I-90 this was our first visit. We knew that we had to have advance reservations to get the guided tour of the missile silo and launch control but we didn't know when we would arrive so we just toured the visitor center. It is well done and very informative with a movie playing that tells the history of the silos. There is also a below ground missile silo that you can look down into a few miles west of the visitor's center.
Written 17 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adam J
Eagle, WI39 contributions
July 2020
As a history teacher, I wish I knew more about this before the end of our trip to Rushmore, etc. to go and explore more of the sites in South Dakota and take the guided tours. Did a good job of telling the story of the sites and how/why they were used. Even kept the interest of my kids (9 and 11) for the 30 or so minutes we were there. One complaint was that the staff limited 20 visitors in the building at the time due to COVID, but not all wore masks themselves.
Written 27 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca L
Atlanta, GA1,638 contributions
June 2022
We did this right before entering Badlands NP. I highly recommend doing it this way as they close around 4 pm. The exhibit does a great job explaining the Cold War, the arms race, and what it was like for the Missileers who had to be ready to obey a launch command. We all found this extremely interesting. Be sure to visit the Delta-09 missile site a few miles away and do a cell phone tour. It helps younger kids/teens understand everything better. However, the missile site closes at 3 pm.
Written 1 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ward D
Satellite Beach, FL3,384 contributions
Oct 2020
This is not a massive structure. It is a small building located just off the interstate. There is plenty of parking. It is dedicated to the Minuteman missile facility that were located nearby. There is a small walk through museum that is very well done highlighting the arms race, why the silos were built and how they worked. It is a neat little museum that anyone and everyone should see to understand what the country went through during those times. There is also a small gift shop. If you are interested, they also have self guided tours of 2 of the delta facilities (missile facilities) nearby. A good historical stop if you are in the area
Written 17 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fondue4two
Madison, WI1,066 contributions
Sept 2020
We really enjoy learning about this part of our history (and current reality) but unfortunately due to Covid some of the displays and the movie at the visitor center were unavailable. The staff at the center was friendly and gave helpful advice in navigating to the two other nearby sites that are part of this historic park.
The audio tour (via cellphone) was very well done and explained much of what you could and could not see at the missile silo and launch center. It was disappointing that the ranger led tours are so few and so small which means it is hard to reserve unless you do it months in advance (I tried a few weeks before with no luck). With the pandemic you only get a tour of the above ground facilities and cannot go down into the launch center. This is understandable since it is a confined space.
Overall it was pretty darn interesting but without the ranger tour and some of the displays it was lacking.
The audio tour (via cellphone) was very well done and explained much of what you could and could not see at the missile silo and launch center. It was disappointing that the ranger led tours are so few and so small which means it is hard to reserve unless you do it months in advance (I tried a few weeks before with no luck). With the pandemic you only get a tour of the above ground facilities and cannot go down into the launch center. This is understandable since it is a confined space.
Overall it was pretty darn interesting but without the ranger tour and some of the displays it was lacking.
Written 12 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
spitzy135
Buffalo, NY944 contributions
June 2022
My husband and I lived through those scary times, so we do appreciate how serious the threat was. We visited the Visitor’s Center and the Delta 9 Silo site, both free, no tickets required. The Visitor’s Center’s historical film and displays brought back the memories of those times. But now, looking back we realize how serious the situation really was. We learned about the behind the scenes information about the people, procedures and technology behind this extraordinary effort to protect our country.
Visiting the Delta 9 Silo was even more incredible and was the highlight of our visit. We heard a presentation from a Ranger who was an actual Minuteman. He explained a lot of fascinating information about the silo, how it worked in its day, and about today’s capabilities by comparison. We were able to ask lots of questions and the Ranger was both knowledgeable and insightful. Imagine getting the inside scoop about cold war history from someone who was directly involved!
One word of warning, we saw conflicting hours of operation on the NPS website vs. Google Maps. We like using Google Maps because they seem to update their information more often than a lot of websites, and it gives us confirmation on the times and days these places are open. NPS says they are closed Monday and Tuesday, Google Maps says they are closed Sunday and Monday. We didn’t take the chance and visited on Saturday. The Visitor’s Center is open 8am to 4pm. The Delta 9 Silo is open 9am to 3pm.
Visiting the Delta 9 Silo was even more incredible and was the highlight of our visit. We heard a presentation from a Ranger who was an actual Minuteman. He explained a lot of fascinating information about the silo, how it worked in its day, and about today’s capabilities by comparison. We were able to ask lots of questions and the Ranger was both knowledgeable and insightful. Imagine getting the inside scoop about cold war history from someone who was directly involved!
One word of warning, we saw conflicting hours of operation on the NPS website vs. Google Maps. We like using Google Maps because they seem to update their information more often than a lot of websites, and it gives us confirmation on the times and days these places are open. NPS says they are closed Monday and Tuesday, Google Maps says they are closed Sunday and Monday. We didn’t take the chance and visited on Saturday. The Visitor’s Center is open 8am to 4pm. The Delta 9 Silo is open 9am to 3pm.
Written 25 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
164sherriw
Eden Prairie, United States7 contributions
May 2024 • Family
Who knew this little visitor center could be so interesting. There is a short film and a nice walk thru exhibit about the cold war that started this missile program. I understand you can book a tour of the missile silos and control room but the ranger informed me the tour was soldout months in advance. There are 2 other sites you can stop at and see the actual silos. This location is very close to Badlands National Park so you can combine the 2 locations very easily.
Written 5 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wendy N
Kissimmee, FL766 contributions
June 2022
If you are visiting the Badlands this is not to be missed and should be included in your itinerary. If you are interested in history, you gain a thorough understanding of the Cold War. Growing up under the constant threat of nuclear war it is surreal to view the interpretive displays in the visitor center. If you plan ahead I definitely recommend the tour of the Delta-01 Launch Control Center. Buy your tickets early (90 days advanced online) you won't regret it. We spent a few hours viewing all three sites.
Written 15 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I see that tickets for the Delta-01 tour go on sale 90 days in advance. Is there a specific time they go on sale? Midnight?
Thanks!
Written 10 June 2024
Hi, Paul. What would you like to know about this attraction?
Written 14 June 2018
I will bring a puppy with me. Is there place I can board my puppy and join the tour or I have no way to deal with this?
Written 6 June 2017
It is a really isolated place, so I don't think there is anywhere to board your puppy, but the place is fairly small, so you might be able to have someone stay with the puppy while the other is inside
Written 7 June 2017
Re: Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. Recommended time to allot?
Assuming one pre-orders tickets, what's a reasonable amount of time to budget if one goes on the tours and wants to also spend some time at the Visitor's Center (including travel time between the Visitor's Center and the two sites)?
Thank you!
Written 2 May 2017
So that you aren't rushing, I would allow at least 4 hours. The museum is relatively small, but packed with so much information you'll want to read, watch, and hear. We weren't able to catch the tour, but if I remember correctly it takes about 1-1/2 hours. This is an amazing part of our history many know little about. It is definitely worth your time.
Written 2 May 2017
Hello,
I am planning to visit the site on 13th June on my way to rapid City. I wanted to buy the tickets in advance, but there are none available. Am I too early or too late, and should try again closer to the date? Thank you!
Written 4 March 2017
We had the same issue. I'd call them to dbl check. They have a visitors center which we thought was worth the visit irregardless.
Written 6 March 2017
How early should we get to the visitor center to tickets? I know people say they sell out 20 minutes after opening. Do we have to wait in line for a hour before opening to get a ticket?
Written 10 July 2016
MinutemanMissileNHS
Philip, South Dakota
The previous answers to this question no longer accurately reflect how tour tickets are obtained for the Delta-01 Launch Control Center Tour. Please do not plan to wait in line at the visitor center - Since October 2016, all tours of the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility require advanced reservations and an amenity fee. Reservations can be made on-line or by phone at 866-601-5129.
The Control Center Tour lasts thirty minutes. The tour begins and ends at the entry gate to the Delta-01 compound. The tour route proceeds with a walk through of the grounds and topside support building before descending in the original elevator 31 feet to enter the underground control center. All tour participants must be able to be physically capable of climbing two 15 foot ladders unassisted in the event of an elevator failure.
Written 8 January 2017
Headed to the minuteman missile site this weekend, wondering does your whole party have to be there to get tickets? Thanks
Written 26 May 2016
MinutemanMissileNHS
Philip, South Dakota
Beginning in October 2016, all tours of the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility require advanced reservations and an amenity fee. Reservations can be made on-line or by phone at 866-601-5129.
There is no need to arrive early at the visitor center to obtain tour tickets, as they must be obtained in advance.
The Control Center Tour lasts thirty minutes. The tour begins and ends at the entry gate to the Delta-01 compound. The tour route proceeds with a walk through of the grounds and topside support building before descending in the original elevator 31 feet to enter the underground control center. All tour participants must be able to be physically capable of climbing two 15 foot ladders unassisted in the event of an elevator failure.
Written 8 January 2017
Just for clarification: It looks as though there is the visitor center, the missile silo, and the launch facility as part of this historic site, correct? And you need tickets for the launch facility (which may be hard to get), but do you need tickets and a timed tour for the silo? I see that it's self guided, but do you have a set time to start? And does anyone know how long that part takes? I'm interested in seeing some things, but don't know that I can wait for the guided launch tour. Thank you!
Written 3 March 2016
MinutemanMissileNHS
Philip, South Dakota
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is located at three sites along a fifteen mile stretch of Interstate 90 in western South Dakota. The Visitor Center is located immediately north of I-90, exit 131. The two historic sites which make up the park are four miles (Launch Control Facility Delta-01) and 15 miles (Launch Facility Delta-09) from the Visitor Center. To fully experience the park, you should visit all three sites.
Beginning in October 2016, all tours of the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility require advanced reservations and an amenity fee. Reservations can be made on-line or by phone at 866-601-5129.
The Control Center Tour lasts thirty minutes. The tour begins and ends at the entry gate to the Delta-01 compound. The tour route proceeds with a walk through of the grounds and topside support building before descending in the original elevator 31 feet to enter the underground control center. All tour participants must be able to be physically capable of climbing two 15 foot ladders unassisted in the event of an elevator failure.
The Delta-09 missile silo is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time daily. A self-guided cell phone tour is available at the silo to explain the components found at the site.
Written 8 January 2017
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