Vertex Skybar is, both literally and figuratively, a truly high class establishment on the 10th and 11th floors of the historic Hotel Alex Johnson. Boasting spectacular views across the Black Hills, Vertex has indoor seating and an outdoor deck with gorgeous gas-heated fire pits on both levels. The custom built bar with sparkling bronze and nickel details is the perfect place for a glass of chilled wine, to be enjoyed whilst stretching out on the seating near the large, mahogany wine cases.

A prime spot for an all-American road trip, within an easy jaunt of iconic summertime destinations like Badlands National Park and the Black Hills, Rapid City is a small city in western South Dakota that serves as a convenient urban hub proximal to all the greenery, shimmering lakes, and mountain hikes. The star attraction is downtown's historic Hotel Alex Johnson, the tallest building in the area, easily distinguished by its giant neon sign glowing from the roof. Once you're done staring, head up there to lounge at Vertex Sky Bar, a bi-level rooftop haunt with indoor and outdoor seating, multiple fire pits, and beautiful Black Hills views.

As mentioned in our previous review of Vertex Sky Bar, both before and after our Centennial Trail backpacking trip, we stayed in downtown Rapid City at the historic Hotel Alex Johnson. Looking at the various options for breakfast, a simple look out the hotel window showed us that there was a very popular breakfast spot right across the street: Tally’s Silver Spoon. Even at 8am they had a healthy backlog of diners waiting out front for breakfast, so we decided to check it out.

Guests staying at the Hotel Alex Johnson receive complimentary access to the Vertex Rapid City Sky Bar, located on the rooftop of the hotel. Your senses will be delighted with stunning panoramic views of Rapid City and a delectable menu of craft cocktails, appetizers, salads, savory entrees, and exquisite desserts. Whether you come up for happy hour, a private party, or simply dining with a view, Vertex Sky Bar takes service and splendor to new heights.

Casual dining options include Paddy O’Neill’s Irish Tavern, which has typical pub-style food, and the rooftop Vertex Sky Bar, which has craft cocktails, a full menu and panoramic views of the area. There is also Chubby Chipmunk, which offers hand-dipped chocolates, and a Starbucks. Other amenities include AJ's Wicked Salon and Spa, Alex Johnson Mercantile and a 24-hour fitness room.

Make a reservation for an intimate dinner above the city at Juniper at the Vertex. The featured ingredient in their Local Mushroom Ragu is Black Hills Lions Mane served with grey and pink oyster mushrooms, baby portabellas, sweet bell peppers, zucchini, and yellow squash over creamy polenta. To finish, this artistically arranged dish is dusted with Manchego cheese.

High in the sky, atop the Hotel Alex Johnson, Juniper serves a small and diverse menu created from local and fresh ingredients. Entrees change regularly, so there’s a good chance you won’t find the same dish twice. With features such as Brown Butter Sage Pork Tenderloin and Sesame Ginger Citrus Salad, Juniper is known for selling out of popular dishes frequently.

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (374 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (3.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 523 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701-2725- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like:Highest-paying jobs in Rapid City that don't require a college degree

Elevate” your dining experience at Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar, which re-opened in the fall of 2023 atop the iconic Hotel Alex Johnson, 523 6th St., downtown Rapid City. While enjoying panoramic views of the area, sip on craft cocktails and tasty appetizers, or stay for dinner at the most historic dining spot in Rapid City.

The Vertex Skybar occupies the tenth and eleventh floors of the landmark Hotel Alex Johnson, and it is a venue of the highest caliber. Vertex features both indoor and outdoor seating, with beautiful gas-heated fire pits, and breathtaking vistas of the Black Hills.

While there is no shortage of places to see the sunset in and around Rapid City, Vertex Sky Bar is one of the best. Elevate your viewing location by grabbing a drink and cozying up around the outdoor firepit to watch the colors cascade over the Black Hills.

Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar: You’ll want to make a stop to have a craft cocktail and nibbles at the Juniper Vertex Sky Bar. Nested at the top of the Hotel Alex Johnson, you’ll find sweeping views of Rapid City as you sit fireside while sipping a drink.

At the top of the Hotel Alex Johnson, and my list, Vertex has a breathtaking view of Rapid City and the Black Hills. The sophisticated Art Deco style mixes with a modern vibe for a special place to enjoy a cocktail, whether day or night.

The Vertex Sky Bar, located on the roof of the historic Alex Johnson Hotel, offers not just an opportunity to enjoy a meal and drinks outdoors, but an excellent view of Rapid City, the Black Hills and vast South Dakota prairies.

Guests at the Hotel Alex Johnson can sip craft cocktails or eat dinner while viewing the Black Hills, buttes and prairies from the 10th and 11th floors. Chad Coppess/South Dakota Tourism

Make your way to the Vertex Sky Bar at the Alex Johnson Hotel, the tallest building in Rapid City. With unparalleled views of downtown and foothills, it’s the spot to be at sunset.

Lovely and cozy space. During my stay at the Alex Johnson I ran up to the Sky Bar after a long day with a book and asked if could just chill and have...

Vertex Sky Bar in South Dakota offers stunning city views and a luxurious dining experience atop the historic Hotel Alex Johnson.