Mount Rushmore and the surrounding areas are a great place for a vacation. Seeing those four president's faces immortalized in granite alone is worth the trip. Pictures cannot do it justice and the story behind it is one you will enjoy. The surrounding area has plenty to do for everyone. There is something for every age and tastes. Here is a sampling of what to do and what to expect on your trip to the beautful Black Hills of South Dakota.
Perhaps you have always thought about going to Mount Rushmore. Seeing those four president’s faces immortalized forever on a granite hillside appeals to both your sense of patriotism and you idea of a great vacation. But where is it? How do you get there? What kinds of other activities does the area offer? But most of all, will you have a good time? You bet you will.
Where is it and how do I get there?
Mount Rushmore, for those of you that are a little vague on geography, is located in South Dakota. The imposing National Monument is nestled in the Black Hills. There is even an airport in nearby Rapid City for people who have no desire to drive themselves to the wilds of South Dakota. However, if you love a scenic drive, you can’t choose a better one. The area is simply gorgeous, dotted with trees, filled with wildlife, and plenty of mountains to draw the eye and soothe the soul.
Mount Rushmore National Monument is a mere twenty-three miles from Rapid City. During the height of summer, it tends to be a little busy, however, the area is so massive, and you will not feel crowded. So who is up there staring down at you, anyway? Can you name all four presidents? The four presidents were chosen by sculptor Gutzon Borglum for specific reasons. George Washington was chosen to symbolize our struggle for independence. Thomas Jefferson is meant to represent our system of government by the people. Abraham Lincoln stands for equality and the permanent union of the states. Theodore Roosevelt is a symbol of our 20th century role in world affairs.
How much does it cost to get in and what can I expect when I get there?
The fee to get in is extremely cheap. Only $8 for a pass that is good for a year, and it is open year-round. Once you manage to find a parking place among the many SUVs and rental cars badly parked in the parking structure, be prepared to walk. If you have a small child, make sure you bring a stroller, because, trust me, you can’t carry them all the way. You approach the monument by the Avenue of Flags on a large paved walkway. The 56 colorful flags of all the states and our territories whip smartly in the breeze. (Yes, I checked, Wyoming is up there with all the rest, and I felt very proud of my state flag.)
As you get closer, little details in the faces begin to stand out. Once you get to the Grand View terrace, you can stand, transfixed by the sight of this amazing work of art. What a strong belief in himself the sculptor must have had to take on a project like this! If you ever manage to tear yourself away from this awesome sight, there are many opportunities to learn more about Mount Rushmore. The Visitor’s Center is very fine, and offers souvenirs and food that is adequate but overpriced. There are a number of exhibits, including the sculptor’s studio and a very nice bookstore. You will want to take the time to watch the 20-minute video about the site. It explains a lot and is very interesting. By the way, make sure you plan to come back for the evening lighting ceremony nightly at 9:00 PM. It’s breathtaking and not to be missed.
Additional Viewing Options
There are a few other great ways to get a different view of Mount Rushmore. Helicopter and hot-air balloon tour offices are located in both Rapid City and nearby Keystone.
Area Activities and Attractions
The area is loaded with other activities and things to do. There is something for every interest. Of course, going online and doing some homework and requesting a South Dakota visitor’s guide will help narrow down the choices immensely. Rapid City offers some excellent choices. One of my favorite stops was at the Black Hills Maze. Constructed of high wooden panels, it is a great place to “get lost in” as the ad proudly claims.
Just a short six miles down the road is Reptile Gardens. They claim to have the largest, rarest and deadliest reptiles on the planet!?! What I do know is that while it is a bit stinky, it was fun to give myself the chills looking at inscrutable reptiles staring impassively from the other side of the glass. Don’t neglect to walk through the snake garden, where you will be a little unnerved by the fact that snakes are hanging out in the trees above you and roaming free. They told me none of them were poisonous.
Another fun outdoor animal activity is Bear Country USA. This is a drive through park, which is exactly what it sounds like. They feature North American wildlife including several types of bears, wolves, big horn sheep, elk, etc. You will be driving among actual bears, and the copious number of signs at the entrance to the park about not rolling down your windows or trying to feed the animals Almond Joys or cheese crackers should be heeded. Note to lady in motor home in front of me who was hanging out of the window to record the bears-this means you! They have also have a baby bear area that you can walk to. They are the cutest little animals and you will love their baby antics. There is a great gift shop full of very cute gifts located conveniently at the end of the tour.
Another little town to hop on over to is historic Keystone. They have some great little shops and historic sites, a wax museum and quite fantastic fudge. One place I enjoyed was the GoodTyme Photo shop. They take fun old-time photos and have several different sets and backgrounds, along with vintage costumes. They take their time and make sure you like your picture. I recommend the saloon bathtub set, where your honey can be pictured naked (from the waist up) pulling you dressed as a saloon girl into the tub. Their barn wood frames are a bit pricey but look very authentic.
Rushmore Cave is located at one end of Keystone. It is a beautiful cavern with lots of stalactites and stalagmites and other cave formations hanging around. The tours aren’t strenuous, and are a great way to get out of the heat of a summer day. It is reasonably priced and fun to do unless you’re claustrophobic or afraid of the dark.
There are a thousand other things to do that I don’t have space to mention. The Petrified Forest of the Black Hills is hokey but a beautiful walk. If you like to gamble, head up to Deadwood or Lead. Opportunities for fishing, Hiking, camping, golf, and anything else you can think of can be done in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Oh, and don’t forget to buy yourself some of the famous Black Hills gold jewelry in one of the many shops that feature it. The prices are cheap because it is mined there, and the gold is gorgeously unique.
Dining
When you’ve wound down for the day and would like some excellent food, go to historic Rockerville five miles down the road. It is really just a bend in the road, but the Gaslight Restaurant and Saloon has great atmosphere, nice cocktails and appetizing food. It is a great place to relax and reflect on your busy day.
Before you head out for the day's festivities, try to Colonial House Restaurant in Rapid City. Their French toast is marvelous! The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable and the service is friendly.
Where should I stay?
There are plenty of places to stay in the area. I recommend trying to book one of the many cabins or cottages tucked away among the pine trees. Just make sure it has air-conditioning, because it tends to get very hot in the summer months.
Mount Rushmore and the surrounding areas are a worthwhile trip. Seeing Mount Rushmore in pictures cannot begin to compare to seeing it in person. But don’t worry if you don’t make it there right away. It is something for generations of people to enjoy. Gutzon Borglum planned on his work being there for quite some time.
“Until the wind and the rain alone shall wear them away.” -Gutzon Borglum