June 2024

See Rapid City in a fun and comprehensive way with the City View Trolley Tour . 605 TRIES City View Trolley Tour Started in 2007, the 90-minute ride takes visitors on a narrated history tour through sites like downtown Rapid City, the West Boulevard Historic District , and past city landmarks like Dinosaur Park .

This is the second season where the “jolly trolley” tour has been run by Visit Rapid City .

“The City View Trolley tour is the best way to experience Rapid City history and highlights,” said Visit Rapid City director of operations Ally Formanek . “Riders can learn about the founding of Rapid City—originally Hay Camp— the connection to the Black Hills Gold Rush , and more.” Polly and Ollie (whose names are proudly displayed on their caboose) are the narrators of the trolley rides, but they’re not exactly human.

“The narration leverages AI text-to-voice technology,” explained Formanek.

During the tour, GPS -triggered audio ensures the voice comes to life in relation to the point of interest. Audio Trails , a product of AT Creative , makes this timing possible. Rapid City is the first location in North America to leverage the UK-based company’s technology.

WRITTEN BY ALANA SNYDER + PHOTOS BY JOHN & ALANA SNYDER

THE SUMMER ISSUE june 2024

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