Buffalo Hunt Coaster Multi Ride Wristband in the Black Hills

Experience the thrill of the only Buffalo Hunt Coaster in the world, located in Rapid City, South Dakota. For just $26.50 per person, you get a multi-ride wristband that grants unlimited access to this one-of-a-kind roller coaster, along with entry to the historic Fort Hays Old West Town and the famous Dances With Wolves film set. The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it a perfect addition to a day’s sightseeing or a fun standalone adventure.

What makes this tour stand out are two key features: First, the interactive shooting challenge while riding the roller coaster, where you aim at over 40 targets and soar over a herd of twenty fiberglass buffalo. Second, the chance to step back into the Old West at Fort Hays, a recreated frontier town full of authentic buildings and lively entertainment.

A potential drawback? The ride’s physicality could be challenging for some, especially since you’re swinging side to side while trying to aim and shoot. Also, children need to be over 40 inches tall to ride, which might limit the younger set.

This experience is best suited for families seeking a playful, interactive adventure, history buffs eager to experience a western frontier town, or anyone looking for a lighthearted, humorous thrill in the Black Hills.

Key Points

• Unique Ride: The Buffalo Hunt Coaster features a rare combination of roller coaster thrills and shooting targets, creating a memorable, interactive experience.
• Unbeatable Value: For $26.50, the wristband offers unlimited rides, making it an affordable way to enjoy significant fun over a couple of hours.
• Historic Setting: The Fort Hays Old West Town adds an authentic, immersive backdrop, perfect for those interested in frontier history.
• Family Friendly: Children over 40 inches can participate, but the ride’s swinging motion might be less suitable for very young or sensitive riders.
• Weather Sensitive: Since the experience is outdoors, bad weather could lead to cancellations, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Additional Costs: Dinner and show tickets are sold separately, so plan accordingly if you’re interested in the full Fort Hays experience.

What to Expect from the Buffalo Hunt Coaster Experience

The Ride and Shooting Challenge

When you arrive at the redemption point on Fort Hays Drive, you’ll receive your multi-ride wristband. The main attraction is the Buffalo Hunt Coaster, a roller coaster that’s unlike anything else in the world due to its interactive shooting component. The ride lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 minutes, but with an unlimited wristband, you can hop on again and again. Many visitors spend about two hours enjoying the coaster, returning multiple times to beat their score or just for more fun.

The concept is simple but addictive: as you soar over the herd of fiberglass buffalo, you’ll be tasked with shooting at over 40 targets. These targets are spread along the track, requiring good aim while you’re swinging side to side. It’s quite a fun challenge—say, if you’re competitive or just love goofy, interactive rides. One reviewer remarked, “You can tell everyone back home you shot a buffalo in South Dakota,” which adds a playful bragging right.

Fort Hays Old West Town and Film Set

When you’re not riding, or after you’ve exhausted your wristband rides, you can explore Fort Hays Old West Town. This recreated frontier settlement is a lively walk back in time, with authentic buildings and actors bringing the Old West to life. It’s an excellent spot for photos, history lovers, or anyone wanting a break from the adrenaline rush.

The Dances With Wolves film set is also included in your ticket. This is no Hollywood Hollywood set but a carefully crafted outdoor film location that offers insight into frontier life and movie history. It’s a quieter, more contemplative addition to your visit, perfect for fans of Westerns or those interested in cinematic history.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Rides are weather dependent. If rain or wind cancels the ride, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded.
• Children must be taller than 40 inches to participate, and those between 40-47 inches might find aiming challenging.
• The ticket is mostly booked 16 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re set on visiting during peak season.
• Opening hours vary seasonally, with longer hours in summer (9 AM to 6:30 PM) and shorter in early fall.

The Experience from Visitors

While reviews are limited, the feedback hints that many find the ride a hilarious, unique experience—something they haven’t seen anywhere else. The interactive aspect, combined with the novelty of shooting from a swinging coaster, makes it stand out. Visitors also appreciate the value—for the price, they get to ride as many times as they want in a couple of hours, which is rare for amusement attractions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families with older children, adventure-loving travelers, and history enthusiasts who want a fun, memorable experience beyond the typical Black Hills attractions. If you enjoy interactive rides or want to add a humorous, western-themed activity to your trip, this is a good pick. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more relaxed sightseeing experience or are sensitive to motion, consider whether swinging and shooting on a roller coaster suits your preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Buffalo Hunt Coaster in Rapid City offers a rare blend of thrill, history, and humor. For just over twenty-six dollars, you gain access to a one-of-a-kind roller coaster that combines the excitement of a ride with the challenge of shooting targets while airborne. The chance to visit the Fort Hays Old West Town and the Dances With Wolves movie set adds cultural depth, making this a well-rounded experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for families, adventure seekers, or those wanting a good laugh in South Dakota’s Black Hills. The experience’s uniqueness and affordability make it a compelling addition to any Black Hills itinerary, especially if you’re craving something different from the standard mountain views and wildlife tours.

FAQs

Is the Buffalo Hunt Coaster suitable for children?
Children must be over 40 inches tall to ride. For children between 40 and 47 inches, aiming and shooting might be more difficult, but it’s a fun activity for older kids who meet the height requirement.

How long does the ride last?
Each ride takes about 2.5 to 3 minutes, but with the wristband, you can ride as many times as you like over about two hours.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes a multi-ride wristband for the coaster and access to Fort Hays Old West Town and the Dances With Wolves film set. Dinner and show tickets are sold separately.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 16 days ahead of time, so plan early, especially during peak summer months.

What is the price for this experience?
The cost is $26.50 per person, which offers excellent value considering the unlimited rides and included attractions.

Is there any group size limit?
The specific group size isn’t detailed, but the experience seems suited for small to medium groups, and most travelers find it easy to enjoy at their own pace.

This ride is a playful, memorable twist on traditional Black Hills excursions. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just looking for a good laugh, the Buffalo Hunt Coaster promises an experience that’s hard to find anywhere else in the world.