There are few festivals that come close to the exhilaration of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Over a swift 10 days, the sleepy town of Sturgis awakens with the sound of roaring motorcycles, with almost half a million petrol heads descending on the town for the festival annually. Here's your guide to the ins-and-outs of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
What is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?
A tradition dating back to 1938 in the dusty town of Sturgis, South Dakota, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally embodies all things bike related. Motorcycle enthusiasts from all corners of the globe flock to Sturgis to hang out and discuss their ferocious transportation, while enjoying the many festivities the event has to offer. The town of Sturgis itself is an interesting place for those bike inclined, with the Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame right on its doorstep. Car buffs aren't left out of the celebrations, however – the Saab Heritage Car Museum is full of sleek classic cars for visitors to daydream over.
What can I expect from the Rally?
Despite it's name, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is much more than a meet-and-greet for keen bike riders. The streets of Sturgis come alive with concerts and competitions, food trucks and demonstrations. Tourists get their sightseeing fix, too – there are plenty of scenic drives that show off the historical and natural wonders of the area, including Spearfish Falls, the Homestake Gold Mine and the curious Devil's Bathtub.
You're never alone on these excursions. In fact, a big draw for many of those flocking to Sturgis is the sense of community that it fosters. This is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow motorcycle fans and coordinate a scenic day trip like no other.
How can I stay safe at the Rally?
Like any event that draws large crowds, there's always a risk of danger involved – especially where vehicles and alcohol are present. For this reason, it's best to keep a clear head and stay smart and safe while enjoying the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Safety is simple, and often requires little more than common sense.
- Don't drink and ride.
- Stick to speed limits.
- Wear a helmet.
With so many people in one place, it can be beneficial to explore the event with a group or guide to ensure you're getting the most out of the festival. Here's where Route 66 Tours steps in.
Why should I book with Route 66 Tours?
With Route 66 Tours, your trip to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will be one of a lifetime. Your trek to Sturgis alone is an exhilarating experience. Starting in the 'City of Sin', Las Vegas, you'll embark on a tour packed with places and activities that's sure to knock a few items from your bucket list. Some stops you'll pull into on the way include:
- Antelope Canyon, a cavern of twisting, rippling red rock walls formed millions of years ago.
- Bighorn National Forest, a mountainous landscape perfect for hiking and camping.
- The Beartooth Highway, one of North America's most picturesque drives filled with rolling mountain ranges and lakes.
Booking through Route 66 Tours takes the headache out of planning a trip as everything is ready for you. With transport options including sleek classic cars and roaring Harley Davidsons, you'll be sure to arrive at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in style.
For more information on our tours and to put your travel plans into gear, get in touch with our team.