30 Day Roadtrip

This blog post is part of my 30-day road trip to explore the stunning scenery and breathtaking national parks across the United States. Each stop on this journey showcases the incredible diversity of our natural landscapes, from the vibrant colors of Badlands National Park to the majestic peaks of the Rockies in Grand Teton National Parks. Join me as I uncover the beauty and wonder of these amazing destinations, one adventure at a time! Click here to see other blog posts on this trip.

Exploring Sturgis, South Dakota: A Motorcycle Paradise and Iconic Stops

Sturgis was always something my husband had dreamed of visiting. As an avid motorcyclist, he’s heard the stories, seen the photos, and always talked about making the trip. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it might just be a “biker thing” that I wouldn't fully appreciate. But as soon as we arrived, I found myself swept up in the energy of the place. While we went the week after “bike week”, it is clear the motorcycle culture is so much more than just bikes—it's about freedom, camaraderie, and the spirit of the open road. From the roar of engines to the unique local spots, Sturgis had more character than I imagined, and I ended up being far more impressed than I thought I would. The vibe here is contagious, and I quickly understood why this place is such a bucket-list destination for riders—and even for those of us just along for the ride.

What is Sturgis?

Sturgis, South Dakota, is a name that rings loud and clear in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts around the world. Famous for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this small town transforms every summer into a mecca for riders, drawing over half a million people to the area for one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the country. But even when the crowds aren't in town, Sturgis holds an undeniable charm. With its deep motorcycle culture, quirky roadside bars, and wide-open spaces, Sturgis is a must-see destination that goes beyond just bikes.

Here’s a glimpse into my journey through Sturgis and the unique spots that make it unforgettable.

Motorcycle Signs Everywhere: The Spirit of Sturgis

As soon as you roll into Sturgis, you know you're entering a world that lives and breathes motorcycles. The town itself is adorned with an array of motorcycle-themed signs, sculptures, and murals. Everywhere you turn, it’s clear that this is a place built for riders. From the welcoming "Sturgis" sign decorated with motorcycle art to the smaller, local signs directing bikers to gas stations, bars, and repair shops, it feels as though motorcycles are part of the town's very DNA.

Walking through downtown, I couldn't help but admire how seamlessly motorcycles are woven into the fabric of daily life here. The streets are lined with biker gear shops, custom cycle stores, and even a few spots where you can try your hand at motorcycle-inspired art. It’s a place that feels almost alive with the rumble of engines, the clinking of keys, and the camaraderie that binds riders together.

The Knuckle Saloon: A Biker Bar Like No Other

One of the must-visit stops in Sturgis is the Knuckle Saloon—a biker bar that embodies the spirit of Sturgis itself. The Knuckle has earned its place in Sturgis history not just for its great food and cold beers, but for the atmosphere that radiates from its walls. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, stepping into the Knuckle feels like entering a time capsule of biker culture.

The saloon’s exterior, with its old time gas pumps promises something special. Inside, the vibe is electric, with live music, memorabilia covering the walls, and a mix of locals and travelers sharing stories and drinks. The highlight for me was the sprawling outdoor patio, where the smell of grilled food mingles with the sounds of engines roaring by. The Knuckle isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience, one where the spirit of the open road and the Sturgis rally live on year-round.

The Desolate Road to Full Throttle Saloon: A Ride Through the Wild

If you’re looking for a truly iconic Sturgis experience, you have to make your way to the Full Throttle Saloon—but be ready for a bit of an adventure. Located outside of Sturgis on a desolate stretch of road, the journey to Full Throttle Saloon is almost as legendary as the place itself. The road cuts through the vast South Dakota plains, with nothing but rolling hills, occasional cacti, and the open sky stretching out ahead.

As you get closer, the familiar sound of rumbling motorcycles becomes louder and more frequent, and the horizon begins to sparkle with the gleam of chrome and steel. When you finally reach Full Throttle, you’re greeted by a sprawling oasis of excitement, a biker’s paradise set against the backdrop of the quiet, expansive plains. The atmosphere here is unlike any other, filled with energy, freedom, and an unmistakable sense of rebellion.

Full Throttle Saloon: More Than Just a Bar

Walking into Full Throttle Saloon is like stepping into the heart of Sturgis itself—raw, unapologetic, and alive with energy. The place is huge, sprawling across multiple acres, and it’s always buzzing with activity. One of the coolest features of Full Throttle is the bar top, which is crafted from motorcycle gears—a nod to the town’s love for bikes. The gears create a beautiful, intricate design that adds a bit of edge to the rustic, yet modern, feel of the place. It’s a true biker bar, but also an homage to craftsmanship, engineering, and the open road.

In addition to the gear-covered bar top, Full Throttle is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s dedicated to honoring the legacy of the men who built America—the workers, the innovators, and the dreamers who paved the way for the modern biker culture. The saloon proudly displays a dedication to these figures, with historical tributes and artworks that pay homage to the American spirit of independence and hard work.

The energy at Full Throttle is electric, whether you’re enjoying live music, watching a motorcycle stunt show, or just hanging out with friends (old and new). The saloon is open year-round and hosts a variety of events, from bike rallies to wild-themed parties. Every corner of Full Throttle tells a story, from the wild motorcycle stunts to the folks who work behind the bar, always ready with a cold drink and a smile.

The Uniqueness of Sturgis: A Town Built on Freedom

Sturgis may be small in size, but it’s big in spirit. The town isn’t just about motorcycles—it’s about freedom, adventure, and community. Every stop, from the iconic motorcycle signs to the legendary bars, reflects the unique blend of Americana and biker culture that makes Sturgis unlike anywhere else.

The town’s pulse is in its people: the riders who come for the rally, the locals who keep the spirit alive year-round, and the travelers who stop by for a taste of something different. Sturgis is a place that celebrates the open road, the people who ride it, and the memories made along the way.

Final Thoughts:

Sturgis is a place like no other. Whether you’re here to experience the thrill of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally or to simply soak in the unique atmosphere, this town will leave an impression. From the Knuckle Saloon to the Full Throttle Saloon, each stop tells a story of freedom, camaraderie, and the love of the ride. If you’re ever in South Dakota, make sure to take the time to experience Sturgis—there’s no place quite like it.

My Camera

I’m often asked what camera I shoot with. I’m a firm believer that any modern camera today can produce a good picture. I use a Canon R5 as my main camera. It is a mirrorless camera, and more importantly it is a great tool. I am able to get it to translate the vision that I see into a photograph. My key reasons for this camera are: 

• It is 45 mp. For some photographers, that may be too much as it produces large files. As a landscape photographer it is my sweet spot. 
• It’s a Canon. I have used a lot of Canon cameras and have always found them dependable, reliable and intuitive to use. 
• The RF lenses are truly amazing. I have always had EF-L series lenses, but the RF lenses produce stunning images. 
• The image stabilization is outstanding.
• It is not too large, and not too small and works well as a travel camera for landscape photography. 

But this isn’t a blog about cameras. If you want to know more, please contact me. 

Debbi Marquette Photography is located in Upstate New York at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Debbi is an award winning and published travel, landscape and bald eagle photographer specializing in artistic, authentic, and memorable landscape and wildlife photography. She travels frequently, lives near the mountains and constantly has a camera in her hand to capture photographs so others can see the beauty of our world.

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