Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills

This review explores a highly-rated bus tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, offering a detailed look at what travelers can expect from this popular experience. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 372 reviews, this tour has garnered praise for its guides, scenery, and value. Its main highlights include stunning vistas, seamless transportation, and visits to key landmarks like the Crazy Horse Memorial.

We particularly love how the tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing stress—no worries about driving or navigation. You’ll enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned coach, plenty of time at each stop, and knowledgeable guides who bring the history and stories alive. One thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Black Hills without the hassle of self-driving, those who appreciate engaging guides, and anyone eager for a full day of scenic and cultural exploration. It’s a fantastic option for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to experience South Dakota’s top sights.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport: An air-conditioned coach ensures a relaxed day with no driving stress.
• Expert guides: Guides like Dan, Joe, and Billy are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the group entertained.
• Iconic sights: Up-close views of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and scenic drives through the Black Hills create unforgettable moments.
• Convenient itinerary: Carefully planned stops—including lunch, Needles Highway, and Sylvan Lake—maximize sightseeing and photo opportunities.
• Good value: For around $132.50, you gain access to key landmarks, scenic drives, and engaging commentary.
• Highly rated: With an overall 5 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews, travelers consistently find this tour worthwhile and memorable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The day kicks off bright and early at Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show in Rapid City, a convenient and accessible location. With a departure at 9:00 am, you’ll be on your way to some of South Dakota’s most famous sights. The tour lasts approximately nine hours, which is ample time for sightseeing, photos, and stories without feeling rushed.

The Mount Rushmore Experience

The first stop, Mount Rushmore, is where this tour truly shines. Because the faces face east, the morning sun illuminates the sculptures perfectly, a detail highlighted by guides like Dan who are passionate about sharing the history behind the monument. You get about an hour at the site — enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the grandeur.

Reviewer Jean_K remarked, “Everything about it was brilliant,” and praised the guides’ knowledge. Another review mentioned how the bus driver, Bill Martin, was “very knowledgeable,” emphasizing that the guide’s storytelling enhances the visit. The proximity to the monument and the early timing ensure a less crowded, more immersive experience.

Scenic Drive Through Iron Mountain Road

Leaving the monument, the bus travels along Iron Mountain Road, a 17-mile route famed for its stunning views and photo opportunities. The road features three one-lane tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore perfectly—an Instagram-worthy highlight. The narrow tunnels, often praised by reviewers like Sandra_D, make this part of the trip feel exclusive, as you’re not the one driving through those tight spots.

Lunch in Custer State Park

Next, you arrive at the Custer State Park Resort, where lunch is available at the historic Game Lodge—once the summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge. The reviews mention the lodge as a charming spot with hearty options, with one reviewer raving about the buffalo stew—“the best you will ever find.”

While lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, the ability to purchase a meal here adds convenience. This stop lets you recharge before the afternoon’s scenic drives and exploration.

Needles Highway and Sylvan Lake

Post-lunch, the group heads to Needles Highway, a 14-mile stretch renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The tight curves and towering granite spires—think “inches to spare”—make this drive exhilarating. The bus’s ability to navigate the narrow tunnels and sharp turns is frequently praised, with reviewers like Sandra_D noting how well the driver manages these tricky sections.

A short rest stop at Sylvan Lake offers a peaceful setting, often called a “crown jewel” of Custer State Park. The quick coffee break is a favorite for photos and relaxing by the water, giving you a moment to reflect on the day’s beauty.

Crazy Horse Memorial

The tour culminates with a visit to Crazy Horse Memorial, where you’re given an hour to explore the ongoing carving. Reviewers like Tom_N describe this as “truly awe-inspiring,” especially watching the progress on what will be the world’s largest mountain carving once completed. The onsite museum and film provide context, and many travelers appreciate the chance to see a monument still in the making.

Summary of Key Stops

Each location offers a different facet of South Dakota’s natural and cultural riches—scenery, history, and ongoing craftsmanship. The well-paced itinerary, combined with insightful guides, ensures you get the most out of every stop.

The Guide and Transportation

The tour is led by guides like Dan, Joe, Bill, and Gary, all of whom receive high praise for their friendly demeanor and knowledge. Multiple reviews highlight how guides enhance the experience with stories, humor, and helpfulness.

The air-conditioned coach keeps everyone comfortable, especially during the midday heat or chill. With a maximum group size of 160, the tour feels lively but not overwhelming, and the restroom on board is a considerate touch for comfort during the long day.

Value for Money

The $132.50 price point is quite reasonable considering what’s included: exclusive access to iconic landmarks, scenic drives, and the expertise of a guide. Although lunch and gratuities are extra, many reviews mention the quality of the food options and the overall value, especially given the comprehensive itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This bus tour is perfect for those who want a stress-free way to see top sights in the Black Hills, especially if self-driving isn’t appealing. Travelers who enjoy engaging guides, scenic routes, and meaningful stops will find the experience rewarding. It’s also great for first-time visitors to South Dakota or anyone short on time but eager to get a snapshot of the region’s highlights.

The tour’s combination of expert commentary, stunning scenery, and convenient logistics makes it a dependable choice for a memorable day out. The reviews underline that the guides and the scenery consistently exceed expectations, making it a favorite among many travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate. The bus’s restroom and the short stops make it manageable for all ages.

How long are the stops at each site?
You’ll typically have around an hour at Mount Rushmore, an hour at Crazy Horse, and shorter intervals at other scenic stops. This allows enough time for sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Since lunch isn’t included, bring snacks or money for meals.

Can I expect a lot of walking?
Most stops involve minimal walking—just enough to explore the sites. For example, wandering around Mount Rushmore or Sylvan Lake is manageable without strenuous effort.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities for the driver/guide are not included, so consider tipping based on your satisfaction.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 46 days ahead, as this tour is popular and tends to fill up quickly.

To sum it up, this bus tour offers a well-rounded, captivating look at South Dakota’s most famous landmarks and natural beauty, all served with expert guides and comfortable transportation. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free, informative, and scenic day out in the Black Hills. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to see the highlights without the stress of driving, this tour delivers a satisfying experience.