Cosmos Mystery Area: Family-Friendly Science Attraction

Nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, the Cosmos Mystery Area offers a distinctive, fun-filled amusement for the whole family. Visitors can relish a half-hour tour showcasing the intersection of mystery, humor, and science through interactive experiments and enlightening amusement.

Duration: 40 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Cosmos Mystery Area - The mystery house located within the Cosmos of the Black Hills was discovered in 1952 by two college students who were looking for the perfect place to build a summer cabin. Here, the laws of logic and physics seem to be turned upside down as you feel a slight unbalance in this crooked old cabin.
    Admission includes a 30…
What's Included
  • Local guide
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation to/from attractions
Additional Information
  • Not wheelchair or stroller accessible
Location
Cosmos Mystery Area
24040 Cosmos Rd,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(213 Ratings)
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Williamp639
Sep 1, 2025
A fun place to visit. - This was our 4th visit to the Cosmos and we enjoyed it as much as the first time. Our tour guide, Trig, did a fantastic job of making it very entertaining. Our grandchildren really enjoyed the entire experience. Definitely something to check out if you're in the area.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lachandra_b
Aug 30, 2025
Loved this. - Be ready to experience nature's wonders. Kids and kids at heart will surely enjoy this attraction....
Review provided by Viator
Katieod1652wu
Aug 25, 2025
Fun for all ages! - Evan! Such a funny guy and great tour guide! We loved our trip and what a wild place to see. Such a unique experience. The geode was worth it too!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
J3154inbethanyw
Aug 6, 2025
Cosmos is wild! - Love Cosmos! Our tour guide was so fun, and the experience is one of a kind. Will definitely be back when the pull of South Dakota returns!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
406lyndsyp
Jul 23, 2025
Worth the stop - I brought 3 teens and they loved it. It’s a nice quick stop along the way to Mount Rushmore. William, our guide, was great with corny jokes.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
45pujap
Jul 22, 2025
Don't miss this hidden nugget in Rapid City - We had family here from UK and wanted to give them this great experience at the COSMOS as we love this place! Thank you for making this a memorable experience for all of us
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ashleysy6997id
Jul 16, 2025
great workers - Danny was an amazing tour guide!! I loved seeing a younger crowd working the tours and gift shop. Everyone was helpful and genuinely seemed happy to be there. Highly recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Scottsf7986cj
Jul 7, 2025
Family Fun - Cool Experience for the whole family. Everyone should check this out if you’re in the area. Be aware that there is some climbing and you need to have solid lower body strength. 5 and under might want to reconsider.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Savannah
Jul 18, 2025
Kind of fun, good rainy day activity - This science defying mystery tour lasts 30 minutes for $10, ok price. Kids and teens would really like it. As a couple we enjoyed it too, our guide Trig was super funny. Not a must see, but on a rainy day it was a great add on to our trip.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dawnw966
Jul 4, 2025
Bendy trees and water that runs uphill. - Very fun….make sure you are able to “hike” up the side of a mountain…steep terrain even with the paths. The illusions are pretty cool to experience. But i will say if you have any history of motion sickness….this place WILL challenge you. We also purchased the geode hunt & cracking. Granddaughter liked that part alot too.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $20
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).