South Dakota Vacation Guide - 2026 South Dakota Vacation Guide
Crazy Horse Memorial®
2025-12-18 16:51:08
Imagine legendary Lakota warrior Crazy Horse sitting tall atop his spirited horse, arm outstretched as he points to the lands of his people. This powerful vision was first conceived by Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear, who sought to honor Native heroes and invited sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski to bring it to life. Work on the Crazy Horse Memorial® began in 1948 and continues today, with crews blasting and sculpting the mountain year-round. When completed, it will be the world’s largest mountain carving, standing 563 feet high and stretching 641 feet long. From May through September, visitors can watch daily cultural performances and explore Indigenous history at The Indian Museum of North America.
EAT & DRINK
In Custer, Begging Burro Mexican Bistro serves south-of-the-border specialties—think empanadas, sauce-smothered enchiladas and grilled fish tacos with tangy slaw—plus tequila and mezcal cocktails. At Buglin’ Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar, buffalo steaks and elk burgers are the draw. Head to Hill City to dine on German specialties from schnitzel to spaetzle at Alpine Inn before sipping your way through a wine flight on the patio of Sick-N-Twisted Brewing Co. and Naughti Wines or enjoying brews with a view at Cohort Black Hills.
Nearby Towns: Custer (5.3 miles); Hill City (12 miles)
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