From Rapid City: Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour

The Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour from Rapid City promises an unforgettable journey through South Dakota’s stunning Black Hills. Travelers can expect a narrated sightseeing experience, exploration of the Lincoln Borglum Museum, and a scenic drive to the iconic monument. With convenient hotel pickup, free cancellation, and ample photo opportunities, this tour caters to history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But the real question is – what secrets does the mountain hold, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Tour includes a narrated sightseeing experience and exploration of the Lincoln Borglum Museum in South Dakota’s Black Hills.
• Scenic drive and photo opportunities along the Presidential Trail are part of the 4-5 hour tour.
• Pickup from Rapid City hotels/Airbnbs and access to Mount Rushmore’s parking and facilities are included.
• Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a charged camera are recommended for the tour’s active exploration.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and a strenuous trek to the Sculptor’s Studio is offered during summer months.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour of Mount Rushmore, America’s Shrine of Democracy, offers visitors a 4-5 hour immersive experience through South Dakota’s beautiful Black Hills.

Priced from $132.12 per person, the tour includes a narrated sightseeing journey, exploration of the Lincoln Borglum Museum, and a scenic drive to the iconic monument.

Guests can walk the Presidential Trail, visit the Carvers Cafe, and capture the profile of George Washington.

The tour also provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve-now-pay-later option, making it a flexible and convenient experience for travelers.

Highlights and Experience

Visitors can learn about the history of the monument with a narrated tour.

They’ll explore the Lincoln Borglum Museum and see the Avenue of Flags. The scenic drive through the Black Hills leads to the monument, where they can walk the Presidential Trail and visit the Carvers Cafe. A photo stop at George Washington’s side profile is a must.

The tour begins with a video narrated by Tom Brokaw about the carving, sculptor Gutzon Borglum, and workers. An optional strenuous walk to the Sculptor’s Studio is available during summer months.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a 14-minute video narrated by Tom Brokaw that provides an overview of the monument’s carving, its sculptor Gutzon Borglum, and the workers involved.

Next, visitors explore the Lincoln Borglum Museum, which features exhibits about Borglum, his family, his works, the mountain, machinery, and the workers.

From there, guests can walk the Presidential Trail for excellent photo opportunities of the individual presidential faces.

During summer months, visitors can opt for a strenuous trek to the Sculptor’s Studio and back to the viewing terrace.

The tour also includes a stop at the Avenue of Flags.

Pickup and Parking

Pickup at your hotel or Airbnb in Rapid City is included, making it convenient for you to join the tour.

The tour also covers your parking fees at Mount Rushmore, eliminating any additional costs upon arrival.

Once you reach the monument, you’ll have access to:

• The Lincoln Borglum Museum, showcasing the history and creation of the iconic sculpture.

• The Presidential Trail, offering prime photo opportunities of the individual presidential faces.

• The Avenue of Flags, representing all 50 states and territories.

• The Carvers Cafe, where you can refuel during your exploration.

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Tour Guides and Inclusions

Tour guides accompany visitors throughout the journey, providing insightful narration on the monument’s history, sculpture, and workers. They share intriguing details about the monument’s construction, Gutzon Borglum’s vision, and the dedicated crew who carved it over 14 years. The tour also includes the following:

| Inclusions | |

| — | — |

| Pickup at hotel or Airbnb in Rapid City | ✓ |

| Parking fees at Mt. Rushmore | ✓ |

| Tour guides | ✓ |

| Cold bottled water | ✓ |

| Gratuities for guides | ✓ |

Plus, the tour excludes any food or other refreshments apart from the provided water.

Participant Requirements

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Participants should come prepared for the adventure.

To make the most of your experience:

Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, pack snacks, and have a charged camera to fully experience this iconic landmark.

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the 0.5-mile Presidential Trail walk.

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable in the outdoor environment.

• Pack light snacks to refuel during the tour.

• Ensure your camera is charged and ready to capture the stunning views of Mount Rushmore.

The tour involves some strenuous walking, so participants should be ready to explore this iconic American landmark actively.

What to Bring

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable, sturdy shoes for the 0.5-mile Presidential Trail walk.

Bring a hat to shield from the sun. A camera is essential for capturing stunning views of the monument and surrounding Black Hills.

Pack light snacks and water to stay fueled and hydrated. Sunscreen is a must to protect skin from the strong South Dakota rays.

Smoking isn’t allowed on the premises. With the proper gear, guests can fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and historical significance of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Prohibited Items

Smoking isn’t permitted anywhere on the Mount Rushmore premises.

Visitors are also prohibited from bringing the following items:

• Alcoholic beverages

• Drones or other unmanned aerial vehicles

• Pets (except service animals)

• Glass containers

These restrictions ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests at this iconic American landmark.

Adherence to the rules allows everyone to fully enjoy the awe-inspiring views and rich history of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Mt. Rushmore tour. The tour itinerary specifically states that smoking is not permitted, and there’s no mention of bringing pets. It’s best to leave your furry friends at home.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

Tickets don’t need to be purchased in advance for this tour. However, it’s recommended to reserve your spot early as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. You can book the tour and pay later.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is primarily offered in English, but the company may provide audio guides or translations in other languages upon request. Visitors should inquire about language options when booking the tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?

The tour offers discounted rates for seniors 65+ and children under 12, though the specific discounts are not provided. Active military and their dependents also receive discounted admission to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 5 hours and cannot be extended. However, visitors can choose to explore the monument on their own after the guided tour is complete if they wish to spend more time there.

The Sum Up

The Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour from Rapid City offers an unforgettable 4-5 hour experience in the Black Hills. With a guided sightseeing journey, museum exploration, and stunning photo opportunities, this tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Convenient hotel pickup, free cancellation, and on-site dining make this adventure a hassle-free way to discover one of America’s most iconic landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: