Mt. Rushmore Travel Guide: A Spectacular Monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota
Posted April 18, 2015
Updated February 26, 2023
Hello! Thank you for visiting Campfire Travelers! If you're traveling to the Mount Rushmore area with kids, you may want to check out our newest post instead, The ultimate family-friendly guide to visiting Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. This post delves into the topic in greater detail and provides additional insights and information. We hope you'll find it just as informative and enjoyable to read. Happy exploring!
The Black Hills region of South Dakota is known for its rich history, stunning views, and abundance of wildlife. Visitors to the area can explore caves, view buffalo in their natural habitat, and take in a variety of attractions. However, the cornerstone of the Black Hills is undoubtedly Mount Rushmore, a truly spectacular monument that draws visitors from all over the world.
One of the great things about Mount Rushmore is that it is free to enter, although visitors will need to pay for parking. While it may be possible to park somewhere nearby and walk up to the monument, it is not recommended. The parking fee of $10 is well worth the convenience of having your vehicle nearby, and the parking pass is valid for one year from the date of issue. Visitors should make a point of visiting Mount Rushmore multiple times during their stay in the area to get the most out of their pass.
Getting There and Parking
Mt. Rushmore is located near the town of Keystone, just a short drive from Rapid City, South Dakota. The monument itself is free to enter, but there is a parking fee of $10.00. We highly recommend paying for the parking as it is close to the entrance, and the pass is valid for one year from the date of issue, allowing you to return as many times as you want during your trip.
The Entrance and Visitor Information
Upon entering Mt. Rushmore, you'll find a well-stocked bookstore and information desk where you can pick up the audio tour for $5.00. The audio tour is highly recommended by many visitors as it provides interesting historical and cultural information about the monument and the surrounding area. However, keep in mind that it may not be the best option if you're traveling with young children.
The Avenue of Flags
As you make your way towards the monument, be sure to have your kids spot your state (or US territory) flag in the Avenue of Flags. This is a great opportunity to take a picture and appreciate the beauty of the grounds, which are well-designed and well-maintained.
The Grand View Terrace and Amphitheater
The Grand View Terrace offers the best view of the monument and also provides access to the amphitheater. Visitors will also find the gift shop, ice cream store, and cafe at this level. The gift shop is enormous and has just about any trinket you could imagine. Even those who are not typically souvenir shoppers will find something to their liking here. The shop also sells essentials like sunscreen and pain relievers. On hot summer days, the ice cream is a refreshing treat, and the Carver Cafe offers standard American fare. While it may not be a foodie's paradise, the food is good, and visitors will leave feeling satisfied.
The Presidential Trail and Other Attractions
To the left of the amphitheater, you'll find the Presidential Trail, a short walk that brings you closer to the monument and offers additional attractions, such as a Lakota tipi and the Sculptor's Studio. Keep in mind that strollers and wheelchairs won't be able to make it the whole way. The trail is definitely worth a visit, especially for those interested in history and culture.
The Museum and Junior Ranger Program
Below the Grand Terrace, you'll find an extensive museum with a short film and plenty of exhibits. The film may not be suitable for young children, but older kids and adults will enjoy it. The museum also offers a Junior Ranger program for kids who want to learn more about the monument and the natural environment surrounding it. Additionally, there is a small kids' area, so be sure to check it out during your visit.
The Lighting Ceremony
We highly recommend visiting Mt. Rushmore during the daytime to explore the grounds, allowing about 2-3 hours to see everything. However, you should also plan to return one night at dusk for the lighting ceremony. The memorial is a whole new experience at night, and the lighting ceremony is a wonderful time to sit and take it all in. Veterans are honored during the ceremony, and park rangers provide further information about the monument.
When is the Best Time to Visit Mt Rushmore
We recommend visiting Mount Rushmore during the daytime and allowing 2-3 hours to see everything. If you have more time to spare, it is certainly worth spending additional time exploring the grounds. However, for a different experience, consider returning to the monument one evening for the lighting ceremony at dusk. The memorial is a whole new experience at night, and visitors should make their way to the amphitheater to grab a seat. The veteran’s ceremony is touching, and the park rangers provide additional information on the monument. It is a wonderful time to sit and take it all in.
Tips for Visiting Mt. Rushmore
If you're planning a trip to Mt. Rushmore, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Visit during the summer: The summer season is the best time to visit Mt. Rushmore as the weather is usually mild and the park is in full swing. However, be sure to avoid busy holiday weekends like the 4th of July and Sturgis motorcycle rally, as the park can get overcrowded.
Bring cash for parking: While the park accepts major credit cards, it's faster to bring cash for parking. The parking fee is $11, but the pass is valid for one year from the date of issue, so it's worth it if you plan on visiting more than once.
Check the park hours: The park's hours vary throughout the year, so be sure to check the website before planning your visit. During the summer, the park is open from 8 am to 10 pm, but hours may be shorter during the offseason.
Stay hydrated: The Black Hills can get hot in the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. There are water fountains throughout the park where you can refill your bottles.
Allow more time than you expect: There's a lot to see and do at Mt. Rushmore, so be sure to allow plenty of time for your visit. Plan on spending at least 2-3 hours exploring the park and museum, and even longer if you want to take the audio tour or watch the lighting ceremony.
Don't forget your camera: Mt. Rushmore is a beautiful and iconic American landmark, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the memories. From the Grand View Terrace to the Presidential Trail, there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park.
Bring GyPSy Guide Along for the Ride
We highly recommend the GyPSy Guide GPS tour for the Mount Rushmore, Black Hills, Badlands National Park, and Devil's Tower areas. This tour provides a self-guided audio tour that takes you through some of the most scenic and historic places in the area. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect:
Mount Rushmore: The tour starts with a visit to Mount Rushmore, where you'll learn about the history of this iconic monument, the people who carved it, and the significance of the figures depicted.
Black Hills: From Mount Rushmore, the tour takes you through the scenic Black Hills region, with its rugged terrain, scenic byways, and historic towns. You'll learn about the history of the region, including the Native American tribes who called it home and the gold rush that brought settlers to the area.
Badlands National Park: The tour then takes you to Badlands National Park, a stunningly beautiful area of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. You'll learn about the geology of the park, the plants and animals that live there, and the history of the Native American tribes who once lived in the area.
Devil's Tower: Finally, the tour takes you to Devil's Tower, a massive column of rock that rises 867 feet above the surrounding landscape. You'll learn about the geology and cultural significance of this unique natural wonder.
Throughout the tour, you'll be guided by a GPS-enabled app that provides turn-by-turn directions and informative commentary. The app also includes suggestions for places to stop and explore, as well as tips for dining and lodging in the area.
A visit to Mt. Rushmore is a must-do when exploring the Black Hills of South Dakota. From the well-maintained grounds to the extensive museum and gift shop, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun family outing, Mt. Rushmore is an unforgettable experience that shouldn't be missed. If you are in the Black Hills region and skip Mount Rushmore, you will likely be disappointed. While there are plenty of places in the area to get a good view of the monument, experiencing it at the memorial is truly unforgettable. Don't forget to take a look at the sculpture from a distance as you drive through the area; it is visible from quite a distance.