Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
4.5
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Monday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
About
Sculptor Gutzon Borglum created this famous mountainside carving of the visages of four great American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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16 within 3 miles
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47 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- deward070882Johnstown, Colorado704 contributionsMakes me proud to be an American!Amazing art and awesome to learn about Borglum and his vision and process for this masterpiece. The size of this piece is inspirational. His ability to execute this piece in 14 years having to draw on others skill to accomplish is incredible.Visited December 2022Traveled with familyWritten December 27, 2022
- lariluLas Vegas, Nevada10,130 contributionsThis is America, at it's Finest Glory.....This is an Absolute MUST see & do. Mount Rushmore is a true National Treasure. The Visitors Center with its displays and short videos/movies is both educational as well as entertaining and should not be missed. There is also a Great book store/gift shop to pick up a souvenir of your visit. Mt. Rushmore should be a requirement for everyone to see. This is truly America at its finest Glory. God Bless America...Overall Rating ~ ExcellentVisited October 2022Written January 21, 2023
- Out This DoorMesa, Arizona236 contributionsWell run with friendly staffThe park is well run—they have the parking and entrance fee down to a science so that’s very efficient. Their interpretive displays and gift shops are well done and clean and staff is friendly. We loved the state flags as you walk in. This is a magnificent display of rock carving but I’m not all that keen on why this was done in the first place. This was my second time here, don’t need to go again. I think we spent about 30 minutes here and over three days in Custer State Park where the scenery is more natural and the park is less crowded.Visited May 2022Written January 30, 2023
- Thadd_969Highlands Ranch, Colorado126 contributionsEveryone should see this atleast once in their lifeThis is one of the things everyone should see in their life. Picture cannot capture the magnitude of the work. The Black Hills are such a great area with plenty to keep you buisy for a week or more, but Rushmore is the destination.Visited June 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten February 25, 2023
- CanuckAlberta605 contributionsRushmore amazingWe detoured here on our way back to Canada and it was worth the effort. Amazing place, testament to will, determination, perseverance of the time as well as a monument to four influential presidents. It was awesome visiting with so few people around, I cannot imagine being here in the summer. Only down side is the Presidential Trail is closed in winter.Visited March 2023Written March 4, 2023
- ANR_78Marion, Illinois697 contributionsFelt a bit DisappointedHow can you drive out through the Badlands and spend time in the Black Hills area without stopping by Mount Rushmore right? The experience was okay but after seeing this site on TV and in movies, I just felt like the reality didn't live up to the expectation. Luckily, we got in and out on a day that wasn't too busy, so we had as much or as little time to spend on everything that we wanted to see. I'm glad we got to visit (and take the kids) but I don't think I'd ever go back.Visited June 2022Written March 28, 2023
- Michael HElk River, Minnesota745 contributionsVisits Never Get OldI believe this might be my fourth visit over my lifetime and it never gets old. It's always amazing to see! The Mount Rushmore Story is fascinating, but the reason for this monument as an inspiration for the continuance of our freedoms in our beloved country brings hope. It only cost $10 parking fee to visit and is the NPS best deal.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 8, 2023
- Terri J80 contributionsAmazing!Nothing more to say than we were both awestruck by the monument and what is symbolizes to America. It was massive and the walk of flags was a great touch walking up to the monument. We did no walk the stairs as my hubs is disabled but you can see it all on level 3. Go for a visit if you can.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 28, 2023
- MNiceBloomington, Minnesota2,649 contributionsThis is probably one of the least expensive iconic monuments in the National Park ServiceWe live a few hours away in Minnesota and have visited the Black Hills of South Dakota several times. Here’s how to do it on the cheap. First, hit it right in the spring when the weather breaks. We stayed in the Deadwood Lodge right up the road and it was beautiful for only $99 a night including a $25 meal voucher and $25 breakfast voucher. Second, there’s tons of free stuff around here, including the trolly in Deadwood that runs around all the time. Third, this is a driving vacation and there is little public transportation. Drive from wherever you are in the USA, or rent a car with unlimited miles from a faraway place. And finally, don’t try to do it in two days unless you have to. We have been doing the Badlands (1.5 hours east) and the Black Hills piecemeal for several years, it gorgeous and like being in the mountains. Think of it as Aspen or Vail, Colorado at a third of the price. Don’t forget a side journey to Devils Tower (you can hike around it, but not with a dog).Visited May 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 1, 2023
- Oliver L5 contributionsIt was pretty coolEh. It was cool, but compared to the activities in the black hills and the badlands, it’s not that good. It gets hip and it’s always crowded. Good ice cream though! I loved zip lining outside of the park.Visited June 2022Traveled with familyWritten May 2, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
11,915 reviews
Excellent
8,999
Very good
2,147
Average
599
Poor
118
Terrible
52
gypsymamma
Minnesota762 contributions
Jul 2020
Have visited the monument many times, but this was our first return in 5 years. Sometimes changes are not for the better. I would still recommend going to see the monument, but go early, otherwise the crowds, noise and long waits will ruin your experience. The memorial is in the middle of a major (unnecessary) construction project and the changes have ruined the Avenue of Flags in my opinion.
The parking system has also changed- there used to be actual people to talk to, buy your parking pass from, etc. Now you take a ticket and pay as you're walking up to the memorial, after you park, at an automated machine ($10, waiting in a long line of people). Then, you wait in line in your car to exit at the end of your visit, and enter your parking pass in another automated machine to prove that you parked before the gate will raise and let you leave. Imagine the hundreds of cars parked there and the backlog that happens when many of us are trying to leave at the same time, through TWO exit lanes that snake back through the parking lots. I did not see any other exits. There is room at the entrance to the monument for cars to be lined up- not at the exit.
A quick visit to the gift shop and a look at some of the price tags put the cap on our sad visit to Mount Rushmore- $80 for a sweatshirt, $18 for a pair of socks. Come on.
The parking system has also changed- there used to be actual people to talk to, buy your parking pass from, etc. Now you take a ticket and pay as you're walking up to the memorial, after you park, at an automated machine ($10, waiting in a long line of people). Then, you wait in line in your car to exit at the end of your visit, and enter your parking pass in another automated machine to prove that you parked before the gate will raise and let you leave. Imagine the hundreds of cars parked there and the backlog that happens when many of us are trying to leave at the same time, through TWO exit lanes that snake back through the parking lots. I did not see any other exits. There is room at the entrance to the monument for cars to be lined up- not at the exit.
A quick visit to the gift shop and a look at some of the price tags put the cap on our sad visit to Mount Rushmore- $80 for a sweatshirt, $18 for a pair of socks. Come on.
Written July 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
5thgirl
Chicago, IL168 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
This was my teenage son's favorite part of our Black Hills vacation. It's not technically part of the Black Hills but we drove Iron Mt Road to get here. Just stunning in person and a few extras things to do like the presidential trail, sculptor's studio where you can see the original 1/12th scale model and the evening lighting. We knew we were going to stay for the evening lighting so we purposely arrived around 4:30 so as not to have to drive back and forth. We went on a Wednesday and grabbed seats at 7 for the 8pm show and there were plenty of seats. You'll be tempted to take a bunch of photos when you first walk in but don't worry, there are plenty of different photo ops once you get inside.
Written August 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Siobhan L
Belton, TX836 contributions
Sep 2020
We went early morning on a weekday and had no issues. There is ample parking in the garages ( $5-10) and an easy walk up to the monument. Fortunately clear skies that day since we were literally being chased by the smoke from the west coast wildfires on our trip. Masks are required inside all buildings and the gift shop is counting people in and out to maintain social distancing but it was only a 5-8 minute wait to enter. We did not go to the Crazy Horse memorial though but I was so happy to mark this off my bucket list. Well worth the time to go.
Written September 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KAP
5 contributions
Aug 2020
I was here as a child but had the pleasure of bringing my family. Definitely exceeded expectations. Highly recommend viewing early in the morning when crowds are less. We visited at 7:30 AM. I also recommend returning in the evening to see it lit up. Complete "ceremony" with a movie, lighting, recognition to our vets with national anthem and lowering of the flag.
Written August 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
flosventure
Arizona156 contributions
Jun 2020
I was there Jun 21, 2020, during a pandemic and during construction. Most of the area is under construction so you can just walk there, not getting really close, take a few pictures, and leave. The souvenir store was open but I didn't go in. The area to view was fairly small and crowded and no one was wearing a mask, not that there is a pandemic. That's why I took a few pictures and just left again. I also didn't go to the sculpture garden. Parking is $10 and gives you an annual pass. You may get some free parking if you park south of it, there are some spots of the highway. The view into the forest and mountains on the other side was nice. Tip for pictures, the earlier you go the better because the sun sets behind the faces so in the evening, it will be very difficult to take pictures.
Written July 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bet543210
212 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
The main terrace in front of the visitor’s center is under construction and the information center/bookstore is currently closed. The entrance is free but your National Park Pass will not cover the parking fee. If you are able, take the nature trail around and up the presidential trail (250 steps). We learned the most from a ranger in the Artists Studio who was just full of great facts and stories about the construction of Mount Rushmore. Very few people here now when compared to normal. Kids were able to get their Junior Park Ranger badges from a tent in the main corridor.
Written June 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shannan22
Fremont, CA146 contributions
Oct 2020
My husband and I went and saw it at night. I highly recommend seeing it at night rather than during the day, it was absolutely beautiful. Make sure if you go at night you check the gift shop hours as we loved picking up some souvenirs and gifts. It was beautiful and we are both so happy we were able to experience it!
There is plenty of designated parking and areas to sit so you can stay as long as you want.
There is plenty of designated parking and areas to sit so you can stay as long as you want.
Written October 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Denise H
Washington DC area, United States4 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
It was $10 to enter and park (you get a ticket at the automated booth as you drive in). There are many attendants present to direct you to park in o e if the garages. You can then walk up the stairs or take an elevator to about 10 stairs to the paved walkway to the monument. You can see the carvings from the stairs or walk straight past the restrooms, gift and book shops and cafe to the walkway lined with flags from each state to view it closer. We also came back for the evening ceremony. It was 30 mins of background on each President on the mountain, a brief history of the process of creating the monument, everyone in attendance joining in the Star Spangles Banner and then white lights turned on to illuminate the faces on the mountain. After taking pictures, most people left-which happened to be when they called current, past or representatives for military members to come forward. I’m happy we went to experience this. If you are in the area, I also strongly recommend driving about 30 minutes south to see the Crazy Horse monument which is still being built, but also is beautiful to see in the daytime and their evening laser show is spectacular.
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
YargLives
Augusta, GA165 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Pretty neat monument. The museum was lacking a little, and it was crowded so kinda hard to navigate and look around. Still one of those things you have to see. Pro tip though if you don’t want to pay the $10 entrance fee once you pass the entrance going towards Keystone you can see the monument perfectly from the road. Many people were just pulling off there to take pictures.
Written August 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea B
8 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
Our favorite part of the visit to Mt. Rushmore was the carvings themselves. We went in the evening because a visitor center guide told us about a lighting ceremony that happens every night. While our Family waited for the lighting ceremony we went to the ice cream shop. For five dollars and sone change the flavors they had to offer that I could remember were Praline Pecan (my favorite) Mint chip, strawberry cheesecake and vanilla. We were astounded to learn that vanilla was a dollar extra. The story goes that Thomas Jefferson was involved in the first ice cream recipe. Anyway, once the clock struck 9 pm we moved up to the front of the viewing area to gaze at the ill lit faces. The lighting ceremony opened with singing our national anthem, and recognizing veterans. Then a large halogen lit up the presidents faces. I heard several people behind me thinking there was going to be a laser light show or a projection. Just don't come in the evening expecting a laser light show and you will enjoy it!
Written July 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What type of shoes should l wear to visit the attraction
Elaine W
10 contributions
Just regular shoes are OK, there are a few steps in car park
Can you park at 3 separate times in 1 day? Would like to visit at sunrise and go to hotel for breakfast. Then return during morning for touring. Finally, returning in evening for lighting ceremony.
elawson
philadelphia area603 contributions
Your ticket is still good. I asked a ranger about that upon our first time visiting. We visited during the day once and then came back 5 days later to see the evening program and used the same parking ticket. No problem.
Gierc D
Pensacola Beach, FL6 contributions
Can a mobility scooter go on the hiking trails or where exactly can the scooter go?
kevan j
Norman, OK1,413 contributions
I did a lot of the president's trail in a wheelchair a few years ago after having surgery on my knee. They also allowed us to drive down to the Sculptors studio (they let us in the gate there) instead of trying to go down there on the trail in my wheelchair.
Lois C
Taylorsville, UT
I'm 91 years old and can't walk very well. Is there a way to see the sights on a scooter?
helensims61
Wark, UK492 contributions
Yes it’s easy to get round in a wheelchair and if you want to go in the lifts to get closer to the base it’s easy. Hope you enjoy your trip
Susan R
Rapid City, South Dakota, United States
Can a visiting Boy Scout participate in the Mt Rushmore lighting ceremony without his troop?
NME
San Francisco, CA263 contributions
Hey bud! That I couldn’t answer. Best thing you can do is contact the rangers in charge of the park. I’m sure you can find their contact information on the website. Good luck. Let me know what happens!
Sherry B
Lawton, OK
Can I ride my 4 wheel mobility scooter there,?
C_n_H_Pure
Corona del Mar, CA75,274 contributions
Where?
Deven D
Sarasota, FL2 contributions
which city is best to fly into to visit ?rapid city?? denver
Grover R
Pensacola, FL18,030 contributions
Agreed with the answer above. We flew out of Rapid City in September to Charlotte and then our home. It was very easy. Let me say the Rapid City airport is more than you think for a city of its size. Again we flew into Bismark and saw Teddy Roosevelt NP before coming down to the Black Hills but we flew out of Rapid City. If you did the same with Denver, you could see Rocky Mountain NP.
Irina Khod
Broomfield, CO11 contributions
We are driving from Denver to Mount Rushmore with the teenager. We’re planning to spend 4 days on the trip. What is the best place to visit through the driving and around Mount Rushmore. Thank you
OrlandoGator
Orlando177 contributions
Definitely Custer Park with lots of buffalo. I would highly recommend Needles Highway. It is absolutely gorgeous. I would recommend planning to see the Mt Rushmore lighting ceremony at night.
Can you use an electric scooter at MT Rushmore visitor area?
Skynyrdnation
New York City, NY89 contributions
Yes but not all the way to the top there are steps but they do have handi access and elevators
thelamplighterlodge
Panguitch, UT
can i carry my dog with me?
Marshall
Union, WA17 contributions
My recollection is some people had dogs on 6 foot leashes in the parking areas. I also saw elderly people carrying small dogs in thier arms.
A small hill is the last thing before you enter the park (construction) and a ranger is there to greet you. He will let you know if you can do so. I do not remember any designated areas for pets to wander or potty.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial Information
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial Photos | 8,099 |