South Dakota Vacation Guide - 2026 South Dakota Vacation Guide
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
2025-12-19 03:35:28
Take a journey through time and discover the stories of America’s past at National Parks and Monuments. Towering granite peaks, ancient underground wonders, and monumental sculptures share the natural beauty and deep cultural heritage of the Black Hills and Badlands.
A monumental tribute to American history with 60-foot granite sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln
MONUMENTAL EXPLORATION
● Learn fascinating details about the carving process at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center.
● Experience the patriotic Evening Lighting Ceremony held nightly from late May through September. The ceremony includes an inspirational ranger program, followed by a short film. The sculpture is lit against the night sky as the National Anthem is sung.
● Stroll the Avenue of Flags. The 56 flags that line the walkway represent 50 states, one district, three territories, and two commonwealths.
● Capture stunning views of the memorial from the Grand View Terrace and the Borglum View Terrace.
● Visit the Sculptor’s Studio to learn about the carver’s vision. During the summer, rangers present talks at the studio focusing on the workers who helped Gutzon Borglum create Mount Rushmore and the tools and techniques they used.
● Hike the Presidential Trail for the closest viewpoints of the stone faces. This short trail takes you among blast fragments at the base of the Monument.
● Learn about the Native American tribes indigenous to the Black Hills at the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village.
● A new addition to the Memorial is the Stone Hoop and Ethnobotanical Garden, an exhibit on Lakota ethnobotany, star knowledge, and sacred sites.
● Rent a hand-held photo/video tour or an audio wand and take a self-guided tour.
● Dine with the presidents at Carvers’ Café. Be sure to get a sweet treat with a scoop of Thomas Jefferson ice cream, based on the first written recipe in the U.S.
AMERICA’S 250TH
With America’s 250th celebration, you will see the return of fireworks over Mount Rushmore National Memorial on July 3, 2026. Other festivities and special events also will be planned at the Memorial and throughout the region.
FURRY VISITORS
Bringing your furry best friend to Mount Rushmore? While pets are not permitted within the Memorial grounds, they are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet in the pet-exercise area. Follow the yellow paw prints that lead the way. Added bonus? Your pet can become an official Bark Ranger. Check with park rangers at the Memorial for more information.
Explore Mount Rushmore and other parks at BlackHillsBadlands.com/Parks-Monuments.
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