Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Sights & Landmarks • Rapid City, South Dakota United States

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an iconic American landmark capturing the essence of the nation's history and Presidents. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, the towering 60-foot sculptures of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln stand majestically overlooking the landscape. Known as a symbol of democracy and freedom, this site attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The detail and scale of these sculptures are truly impressive, showcasing the dedication and skill of the artisans who took on this monumental task. The memorial's design and execution are a testament to the enduring spirit and values of the United States.

Visitors can explore the vast memorial grounds, taking in the stunning views, attending ranger programs, and learning about the history and significance of Mount Rushmore. The Avenue of Flags, featuring the flags of all 50 states, adds a patriotic flair to the experience.

Mount Rushmore is not just a tourist attraction; it's a place where visitors can reflect on the past, appreciate the present, and contemplate the future of the nation. It's a must-visit for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to witness the grandeur of America's past presidents immortalized in stone.

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$760 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00 (38 reviews)

Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony

Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, nestled among pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations. We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an unforgettable drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance. We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony—a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.

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$366 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00 (16 reviews)

Private Mount Rushmore and Flume Trail Hike

This tour gives you incredible in-depth knowledge of the Flume Trail, the Black Hills, and Mount Rushmore.

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$100 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony Shared Tour

9 pm Lighting Ceremony: May 22nd - August 9th We would pick you up from your Rapid City hotel at 7:30-7:45 pm in 7 or 12 passenger van depending on if we have others going. It is a 45 minute drive to Mt Rushmore. You would have half an hour to get to the amphitheater to get a seat for the program that starts at 9:00 pm. There is a 10 minute Ranger Talk about some topic about the 4 presidents. After the talk is a 20 minute video about the growth of the country in relation to the 4 presidents. At 9:30 pm, the Star Spangled Banner is sung and the lights go on the faces. Veterans and military are invited to the stage to help retire the flag and be honored. It is about a 45 minute program. We do have blankets for you in your vans if it is a chilly night. But, plan on bringing a jacket as it cools off once the sun goes down. We would get you back to Rapid City around 10:45 pm.

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$100 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Mt Rushmore 8pm Lighting Ceremony Shared Tour

We would pick you up from your Rapid City hotel at 6:30-6:45 pm in 7 or 12 passenger van depending on if we have others going. It is a 45 minute drive to Mt Rushmore. You would have half an hour to get to the amphitheater to get a seat for the program that starts at 8:00 pm. There is a 10 minute Ranger Talk about some topic about the 4 presidents. After the talk is a 20 minute video about the growth of the country in relation to the 4 presidents. At 8:30 pm, the Star Spangled Banner is sung and the lights go on the faces. Veterans and military are invited to the stage to help retire the flag and be honored. It is about a 45 minute program. We do have blankets for you in your vans if it is a chilly night. But, plan on bringing a jacket as it cools off once the sun goes down. We would get you back to Rapid City around 9:45 pm.

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$795 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Stars & Stripes: Mount Rushmore Night Ceremony

Discover the best of the Black Hills on this unforgettable evening adventure. Your tour begins with a scenic drive along the world-famous Iron Mountain Road, a winding masterpiece with pigtail bridges, mountain vistas, and tunnels leading to Mt. Rushmore. Along the way, your guide shares insightful stories of the region’s history, people, and natural beauty. Arriving at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, we’ll stroll the Avenue of the Flags for a first close-up view of the monument. Your guide will bring the story of its creation to life with engaging details about the vision, artistry, and challenges behind this American landmark. As night falls, you’ll take part in the moving Evening Illumination Ceremony, where patriotic music and storytelling culminate in the dramatic lighting of the monument. This tour blends breathtaking scenery with cultural heritage and national pride, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

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$195 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Private Mount Rushmore Lighting Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

Experience Mount Rushmore in its most powerful setting — illuminated against the evening sky with your private guide who served as a National Park Ranger and once delivered the official evening program. Your private evening begins with scenic travel into the Black Hills and ascending Iron Mountain Road, where granite tunnels frame distant views of the the presidents faces. Upon arrival, you’ll explore the memorial in person. You’ll hear the deeper stories of engineering challenges, the unfinished chamber behind the faces, tools still embedded in the granite, and the human drama behind the carving of the mountain itself. As twilight settles, you’ll attend the official Evening Lighting Ceremony — a moving program of history, film, illumination, and tribute. Watching the sculpture emerge from darkness into light is a powerful and reflective moment. You'll return through the quiet Black Hills with memories lingering long after the lights fade.

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$749 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Ultimate Premium Tour: Mt Rushmore-Crazy Horse-Custer State Park

The Ultimate Private Black Hills Luxury tour of the famous Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse - along with a Bison Safari. Perfect for couples, families, small groups seeking exclusive adventure. Experience Custer State Park on a premium, crowd-free, safari. Choose your perfect ride—a Mercedes Calèche Glass Top Sprinter, a Lincoln Executive Limo (AWD), or a specialized Jeep Gladiator (4x4). Enjoy views - perfect for photographing Custer State Park's 1,400 free-roaming bison and wildlife. Premium Lakeside Dining: Unwind with a beautifully curated private picnic right by the water. Smart Summer Scheduling: Our "Beat the Heat" summer itinerary avoids the intense afternoon sun, keeping you cool and maximizing your chances of wildlife sightings. Offered Year-Round: While winter snow and ice may occasionally close specific mountain passes and highways, both major national monuments and the Wildlife Loop remain open daily. Our AWD and 4x4 vehicles ensure a safe, smooth journey in any season.

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$295 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Snow-Capped Escapes: Black Hills in Winter

This entirely private, customizable tour will tantalize the senses and take you to places only a local would know. Plus, you'll love it! Our tours are custom made, quant, curious, and fun. We'll also take photos along the way and provide them complimentary at the end of the tour. It's our honor to host and our pleasure to be your choice when visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota.

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$199 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Black Hills Discovery Tour Southern Hills

Explore the iconic Black Hills with this comprehensive day-long tour. Discover the grandeur of Mount Rushmore, America's Shrine to Democracy, and witness the ongoing work at the Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest mountain sculpture in progress. Navigate through the stunning Needles Highway, where breathtaking views abound, and immerse yourself in the wildlife of Custer State Park, home to bison, deer, and more. The tour includes admission to all attractions and provides a comfortable experience in small groups of 12 or fewer, ensuring a personal and engaging journey through South Dakota's rich history and natural beauty. - Small group sizes for a personalized tour experience - Stops at Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park - Admission fees included, with lunch at the historic Custer State Game Lodge (meal not included) - Free pickup and drop-off from local accommodations in the area

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$425 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00 (217 reviews)

Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal guides, part-time guides or trainees. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's, and a larger vehicle (van) may be rented for larger groups. This is a great tour for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.

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Interesting Places Nearby

Planning the perfect vacation? There are a ton of great places to explore. Checkout out these exciting locations and places near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.