Tuesday, July 31, 2018, Hill City, SD

Joani's fascination with the art of John Lopez was the reason we visited Hill City today. A jewelry store in Hill City purchased one of his works to display in front of their establishment. After meeting Jim and Carmen for a nice lunch it was just 20 miles further down highway 16. The sculpture was another beauty! The way he included the most innocuous things in his work of art was nothing short of genius.

Iron Star, by John Lopez 2009

What I was not expecting when we arrived was to find the town inundated with motorcycles. A lot of people decided to visit Hill City before heading to Sturgis for bike week. The custom paint and accessories added to these expensive toys show just how deep the connection is between bikers and their rides. 

Our timing was off for the 1880's Train also located in Hill City and with a modern diesel/electric locomotive pulling the train I doubt the authenticity of the ride. I had more fun taking pictures and then returning to the air-conditioned comfort of our 08 Fit when I chose to move along.

I think a real 1880's train should have been pulled by this beauty. The chugga-chugga and the coal smoke on the wind might have made the ticket worthwhile.

Prairie Berry Winery was between Hill City and home. We took Carmen's suggestion and stopped in for some free wine tasting. Their claim to fame was their Rhubarb wine (really an Elderberry and Rhubarb mix) which I liked, but Joani found too Elderberry and not enough Rhubarb. We did bring home a bottle of Poker Face, a semi-sweet Pear and Pineapple wine.

David bought me a bottle of Poker Face wine (pear, pineapple and coconut, yum!).  I suggested he buy something dry for himself, but he said Walmart wine suits him just fine.