Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know for the ultimate road trip, including the closest airport, interesting facts, and the best places to stay near Mt. Rushmore.
Getting to Mount Rushmore
Flying to Mount Rushmore
The closest airport to Mt. Rushmore is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located in Rapid City, South Dakota, United States. It is approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers) northeast of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and it takes about a 45-minute drive to reach the monument from the airport.
Mount Rushmore Road
Mount Rushmore Road, also known as South Dakota Highway 244, is the primary route that connects Rapid City to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The road stretches approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) from the intersection with US Route 16A in Keystone to the entrance of the memorial.
This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Black Hills and takes you through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and winding curves. As you approach the monument, you will also pass through several tunnels that frame the iconic faces of Mount Rushmore, making for a memorable entrance to the site.
Along the way, there are several lookout points and pullouts where you can stop to take in the breathtaking views and capture photographs of the surrounding scenery. The road is well-maintained and offers a pleasant driving experience for those visiting the national memorial.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
The Four Presidents on Mount Rushmore
Meet the iconic Mount Rushmore Presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. See them firsthand, and marvel at their incredible scale. Learn about their contributions to American history and the significance of their inclusion in the memorial.
Mount Rushmore Being Built
Mount Rushmore was built between 1927 and 1941. Construction began on October 4, 1927, and the project continued for 14 years until it was declared complete on October 31, 1941. The monument was designed by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
Mount Rushmore Address
The Mt Rushmore address is 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, United States.
Mount Rushmore Hours
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is open year-round, with the Visitor Center and park grounds open daily from 5:00 AM to 9 PM. The Sculptor’s Studio is open from late May to mid-September, while the Information Center and the park’s gift shop and café have varying seasonal hours. It’s always a good idea to check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Mount Rushmore City (Keystone)
Mount Rushmore is not a city, but rather a national monument located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. However, the closest city to Mount Rushmore is Keystone, which serves as a hub for visitors to the monument.
Keystone is a small tourist town nestled in the Black Hills, just a few miles away from Mount Rushmore. The town has a rich history, dating back to the late 1800s, when it was founded as a mining town during the gold rush.
Today, Keystone offers a range of amenities and attractions for visitors, such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The town also features several attractions related to the region’s history and the construction of Mount Rushmore, including the Big Thunder Gold Mine, the National Presidential Wax Museum, and the Borglum Historical Center.
In addition to Keystone, the nearby cities of Rapid City and Hill City also serve as convenient bases for exploring Mount Rushmore and the surrounding Black Hills region. These cities offer additional accommodations, dining options, and attractions for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
Lodging and Accommodations
Places to Stay Near Mt. Rushmore
There are a variety of places to stay near Mount Rushmore, catering to different tastes, preferences, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a family-friendly hotel, or a luxurious resort, you’ll find accommodations that suit your needs. Some popular options include:
Bed and Breakfasts: For a more intimate and charming experience, consider staying at a local bed and breakfast. These establishments often offer personalized service, comfortable rooms, and a delicious homemade breakfast to start your day. Some options near Mount Rushmore include the Powder House Lodge and Elk Ridge Bed & Breakfast.
Hotels and Motels: You’ll find a range of hotels and motels near Mount Rushmore, from budget-friendly options to well-known chains. The K Bar S Lodge, Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore, and Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore are popular choices in the area.
Resorts: For those looking for upscale accommodations and additional amenities, consider staying at a resort near Mount Rushmore. The State Game Lodge at Custer State Park Resort offers a unique experience surrounded by nature and wildlife, while Rushmore Express Inn & Family Suites provide comfortable rooms and family-friendly facilities.
Cabin Rentals: If you prefer a more rustic and private experience, consider renting a cabin or vacation home in the Black Hills. These accommodations offer a home-away-from-home atmosphere and often include amenities like kitchens, fireplaces, and outdoor spaces.
Campgrounds and RV Parks: For travelers who enjoy the great outdoors, there are several campgrounds and RV parks near Mount Rushmore. The Black Elk Resort Cottages and RV Park and Mount Rushmore KOA Campground are popular options, offering tent and RV sites, cabins, and a variety of amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and laundry facilities.
Unique Accommodations: For a truly memorable stay, consider booking a glamping experience, a dude ranch, or other unique lodging near Mount Rushmore. Under Canvas Mount Rushmore offers luxurious safari-style tents with comfortable beds and resort-like amenities, while Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins provides cozy accommodations in a serene setting.
When planning your stay near Mount Rushmore, consider factors such as proximity to the memorial, budget, and the type of experience you’re seeking to find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Attractions and Activities
Family Things to Do Near Mount Rushmore
There are plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions near Mount Rushmore that cater to various interests, ensuring a fun and memorable vacation for all ages:
Custer State Park: This expansive state park offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and boating. Don’t miss the scenic drives, like the Wildlife Loop Road and Needles Highway, where you can spot buffalo, deer, and other wildlife.
Reptile Gardens: This unique attraction is home to a large collection of reptiles, including alligators, snakes, and tortoises. Enjoy entertaining and educational shows, a botanical garden, and a giant tortoise exhibit.
Bear Country USA: Drive through this wildlife park to see North American animals up close, including bears, wolves, elk, and bison. After the drive, visit the walk-through area, which features smaller animals and a petting zoo.
Crazy Horse Memorial: Crazy Horse Monument to Mount Rushmore is just a short drive away within 20 miles, this monument is dedicated to the Native American leader Crazy Horse. Learn about Native American history and culture at the visitor center, which offers exhibits, a museum, and cultural presentations.
1880 Train: Take a ride on this historic steam train that travels through the Black Hills between Hill City and Keystone. This scenic journey offers stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures: Enjoy an array of outdoor activities, including an alpine slide, zip lines, a mountain coaster, and a scenic chairlift ride that offers incredible views of Mount Rushmore.
Storybook Island: This free children’s theme park in Rapid City features storybook-themed play areas, a train ride, and a carousel, making it an ideal destination for younger children.
Cosmos Mystery Area: Explore this unusual attraction that offers a guided tour through a mysterious area with gravity-defying phenomena and optical illusions, sparking curiosity and wonder for the whole family.
Black Hills Caverns: Discover the fascinating world of underground caves on a guided tour of the Black Hills Caverns. See stunning formations and learn about the geology and history of the caves.
National Presidential Wax Museum: Located in Keystone, this museum showcases lifelike wax figures of US presidents and important historical figures, offering an educational and engaging experience for the whole family.
Hot Springs Near Mount Rushmore
While there are no natural hot springs in the immediate vicinity of Mount Rushmore, you can find a few hot springs destinations within a reasonable driving distance, offering a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration.
Hot Springs, South Dakota: Located about 60 miles (97 km) south of Mount Rushmore, the town of Hot Springs is home to several hot springs facilities. The town is known for its warm mineral waters, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. Some popular hot springs in the area include:
Evans Plunge Mineral Springs: Built in 1890, Evans Plunge is the oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills. This indoor facility features naturally warm mineral water pools, water slides, and a wellness center. The water temperature stays around 87°F (31°C) year-round, making it a great destination for a relaxing soak.
Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa: This luxury spa facility offers a variety of soaking pools, including a large communal pool and several private pools, all filled with natural mineral water. The spa also provides various treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps.
Wind Cave National Park: About 45 miles (72 km) south of Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park is home to one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world. Although there are no hot springs within the park, the nearby town of Hot Springs offers a variety of thermal soaking options, as mentioned above.
Wyoming’s Hot Springs State Park: A bit further away, about a 3-hour drive from Mount Rushmore, you can visit Thermopolis, Wyoming, which is home to Hot Springs State Park. The park features the world’s largest mineral hot springs and offers free bathhouse facilities where visitors can enjoy the therapeutic waters.
Interesting Facts About Mount Rushmore
Here are a few interesting tidbits about this iconic American landmark:
- Construction Period: The construction of Mount Rushmore began in 1927 and was completed in 1941. It took 14 years and over 400 workers to complete the massive sculpture.
- Size of the Faces: Each of the presidents’ faces on Mount Rushmore is approximately 60 feet (18 meters) tall, with the eyes about 11 feet (3.4 meters) wide and the mouths around 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide.
- Original Design: Sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s original design for Mount Rushmore included the presidents from head to waist, but due to insufficient funding and his death in 1941, only the faces were completed.
- No Federal Funding for Sculpting: Although the project received federal funding for infrastructure, the carving itself was funded mainly through private donations and state appropriations.
- Hall of Records: Behind the sculpture, there’s an unfinished chamber called the Hall of Records. Originally intended to store information about the monument and American history, only the entrance tunnel was completed.
- Amount of Rock Removed: During the construction, about 450,000 tons of rock were removed from the mountain using dynamite and jackhammers. The removed rock was left in a massive pile at the base of the mountain, known as the “talus slope.”
- Maintenance and Preservation: Mount Rushmore undergoes regular maintenance, including monitoring for cracks and erosion. The faces are expected to last for thousands of years, with minimal erosion of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) every 10,000 years.
- Environmental Impact: The construction of Mount Rushmore significantly altered the natural landscape and has affected local ecosystems. Efforts have been made to manage the monument responsibly and protect the surrounding environment.
- Visitor Numbers: Mount Rushmore attracts over 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States.
Conclusion
Embark on the ultimate road trip to Mount Rushmore and make memories that will last a lifetime. From the fascinating history of the memorial to the abundance of attractions and accommodations nearby, your journey to this iconic destination promises to be an unforgettable experience.