Hot Springs, South Dakota

Searching for the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and tranquil vibes? Hot Springs, South Dakota, is calling your name. Nestled at the southern edge of the breathtaking Black Hills, this historic town is a standout destination featured in our upcoming South Dakota DLC for American Truck Simulator. Join us as we take a closer look at our virtual recreation of this unique getaway.

Hot Springs, South Dakota in American Truck Simulator

Renowned for its therapeutic mineral waters, elegant architecture, and endless outdoor appeal, this inviting town offers truckers a refreshing and memorable stop on their journey through the “Mount Rushmore State.” Our team has meticulously brought this locale to life, ensuring key landmarks are captured in stunning detail.

Scenic view of Hot Springs

Beyond the restorative waters, Hot Springs boasts a fascinating railway heritage. It was once home to the world’s smallest Union Station, a charming structure built in 1891 from local pink sandstone. While the tracks no longer welcome passenger trains, the legacy of the depot endures, and we’ve carefully modeled this historic site—which now functions as the local visitor center—so you can experience it firsthand in the game.

Historic Union Station in-game

For those interested in deep history, Hot Springs hosts the legendary Mammoth Site. This active paleontological research center and museum marks the discovery of 61 mammoth remains, including both Columbian and woolly species. Since its initial discovery in 1974, it has become one of South Dakota’s most intriguing landmarks, housing an expansive collection of prehistoric fossils.

The Mammoth Site featured in-game

If you’re eager to dive deeper into regional heritage, stop by the Pioneer Museum. Housed in a former 1893 schoolhouse, this site is dedicated to preserving the stories of early settlers, pioneer life, and Native American history within the Black Hills.

Pioneer Museum representation

The aesthetic charm of the town is anchored by its Neo-Romanesque architecture. With several buildings reminiscent of miniature castles, the downtown district carries an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the United States.

Neo-Romanesque buildings
Historic architecture detail
Downtown Hot Springs atmosphere

Drivers passing through will also encounter the picturesque Hot Springs Waterfall, alongside an array of local attractions including the Kidney Springs Gazebo, the historic public library, the 1888 wooden jail, and vibrant street murals scattered throughout the heart of the town.

Hot Springs Waterfall
Street mural details

We hope you enjoy the relaxed pace of Hot Springs, but don’t linger too long—the rest of South Dakota awaits! If you are looking forward to exploring this new map expansion, please add it to your Steam Wishlist.

Stay tuned for more updates on our blog and social media platforms, including X, Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky. Until next time, keep on truckin’!

Source