Available languages
40 minutes
Mobile ticket
Located amongst the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, the Cosmos Mystery Area is a unique, family friendly attraction. Guests can enjoy a 30 minute tour that displays how mystery, comedy, and science collide as they participate in hands-on experiments and educational entertainment.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not wheelchair or stroller accessible
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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 minute guided, interactive tour where you will be amazed as you see water run uphill, can stand on a wall, and see other incredible optical illusions. The tour consists of various demonstrations that are designed to boggle the mind. Located just minutes from Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, The Cosmos is sure to astonish and amaze the mind.
Local guide
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Cosmos Mystery Area
24040 Cosmos Rd, Rapid City United States
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
217 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Nicole H,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
My family and I had an amazing experience at The Cosmos. The tour guide was great and it was an amazingly strange experience. Definitely a highlight of our trip and would visit again if in the area!



Trek31762412279,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Check my four-year-old son there. The guide was absolutely amazing and patient with us. The entire group we had was patient. it was really a great time



Triplethreat143,Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
So much fun! Merit did an awesome job explaining everything and making it a magical experience, had fun jokes. Kept good pacing
H8702LQangelican,Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was such a fun place. It was worth the admission fee. My kids had so much fun! I would recommend this activity. The girl that helped with the geodes really was so nice and interacted well with the kids. My son said, " She must really like her job" and "she was so nice to help us". The tour guide was very knowledgeable and made some cute jokes for the crowd.

WilliamP639,Sep 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
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.
LaChandra B,Aug 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
Be ready to experience nature's wonders. Kids and kids at heart will surely enjoy this attraction....
katieoD1652WU,Aug 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
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!






J3154INbethanyw,Aug 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
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!
406lyndsyp,Jul 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
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.
45pujap,Jul 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
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
Operated by Cosmos Mystery Area