South Dakota: Hot Springs

Looking for a mix of nature, history, and relaxation all in one spot? Hot Springs, South Dakota, is calling your name! Located at the southern end of the beautiful Black Hills, this historic town is one of the many destinations you’ll discover in our upcoming South Dakota DLC for American Truck Simulator. Scroll on down to take a closer look at our recreation of this unique getaway destination!

Known for its naturally warm mineral waters, historic architecture, and outdoor activities, this charming town offers drivers a relaxing yet memorable stop on their journey through the Mount Rushmore State. Our team has been busy at work recreating its virtual counterpart in this upcoming DLC, including several landmarks.

However, the warm water isn’t the only thing producing steam in Hot Springs! The town also holds a unique place in railroad history, once home to what was considered the world’s smallest Union Station. Built in 1891 from locally quarried pink sandstone, this tiny depot became an iconic landmark of the region. While passenger trains no longer run directly into town, the railway heritage of Hot Springs still lives on today, and you’ll even find a representation of it in-game! The beautifully preserved building now serves as the local visitor information center.

Speaking of history, this next landmark goes back a little further.. way further! Hot Springs is home to a Mammoth Site, an active paleontological dig site and museum where the remains of 61 mammoths have been discovered, including Columbian and woolly mammoths. Since the first bones were uncovered in 1974, the site has become one of South Dakota’s most fascinating attractions, featuring an extensive collection of prehistoric remains.

If you’re looking to learn even more about the local area, be sure to take a look at the Pioneer Museum. Originally built in 1893 as a schoolhouse, it later became a museum dedicated to preserving the history of Hot Springs and the surrounding Black Hills region, featuring exhibits on pioneer life, Native American artifacts, and early settlers.

The town’s historic charm is reflected in its distinctive Neo-Romanesque architecture, a style rarely seen in many parts of the United States. Several buildings around Hot Springs almost resemble small castles, giving the downtown area a unique look.

Drivers passing through town can also spot the picturesque Hot Springs Waterfall, located right in the heart of downtown. Nearby, you’ll find shops, restaurants, walking trails, parks, and the Kidney Springs Gazebo. Other local landmarks include the historic public library, the Evans building, the old wooden 1888 jail, and numerous art murals!

We think you’ll enjoy the laid back charm of Hot Springs, but don’t stay too long, there’s still plenty more to discover across South Dakota! If you’re excited to hit the road in this upcoming map expansion for American Truck Simulator, be sure to add it to your Steam Wishlist using the widget below. 

We look forward to sharing more development previews here on our blog and across our social media channels on X, Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky, where you can also catch exclusive video content. Until next time, keep on truckin’!