Shared Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse Tour

Discover South Dakota’s Most Famous Landmarks with Ease

If you’re dreaming of seeing Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial in one day, this shared tour from Rapid City offers a practical, insightful way to do it. For $253.68 per person, you’ll enjoy 6 to 7 hours of expert-guided sightseeing, complete with transportation that takes the stress out of driving and parking at these popular sites. Your guide, who is praised for their knowledge—like Bruce, highlighted for his storytelling—will pick you up at your hotel and lead you through these remarkable monuments.

What we particularly like is how this tour balances efficiency and depth. You get about two hours at each site, enough time to explore, take photos, and learn about the history and artistry behind these sculptures. Plus, including snacks, bottled water, and an English guide adds value, making this a straightforward option for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.

One thing to consider is that, since it’s a shared tour, group size is limited to 12 travelers, which maintains a friendly atmosphere but might affect flexibility. Also, if you’re a nature lover, note that this tour doesn’t include a visit to Custer State Park, which some might wish to see nearby.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate guided insights, want to maximize their sightseeing time, and prefer comfortable transportation. It’s especially perfect for visitors who want to avoid the logistical hassle and focus on enjoying the scenery and learning about the monuments’ history.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visits both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial in a single day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories about the carvings, history, and area.
• Time-efficient: Two hours at each site gives enough opportunity for photos and exploration.
• Inclusive amenities: Snacks, bottled water, and an entry ticket are included, simplifying your day.
• Convenient transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off mean no worries about parking or navigating roads.
• Limited group size: Small groups of 12 travelers enhance interaction and comfort.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Your journey begins early in the morning with a pickup in Rapid City, where a comfortable bus awaits. The first stop is the iconic Mount Rushmore, a symbol of American history carved into the Black Hills. Here, you’ll watch a 14-minute film that covers the monument’s creation, the sculptor Gutzon Borglum, and the workers who brought the faces of four presidents to life.

You’ll have about two hours to wander around the site. The Presidential Trail is a leisurely walk that takes you close to the faces, offering fantastic angles for photos, especially with the backdrop of the Black Hills. For those interested, a more strenuous walk down to the sculptor’s studio (open only in summer) can be rewarding if you’re up for a little extra exercise.

The Avenue of Flags is a highlight, representing all 50 states and territories—it’s a great spot to appreciate the unity of the nation. The Lincoln Borglum Museum provides detailed displays about the monument’s history, the machinery used, and Borglum’s vision, giving visitors a richer understanding of this engineering marvel.

Crazy Horse Memorial

After your time at Mount Rushmore, the journey continues with a 30-minute drive to the Crazy Horse Memorial. This massive sculpture, still in progress, promises to be the world’s largest when finished, and is a powerful tribute to Native American culture.

At Crazy Horse, you’ll spend another two hours exploring. A 20-minute film introduces you to Korczak Ziolkowski, the sculptor dedicated to creating this tribute, and his family. You can also visit the North American Indian Museum to see artifacts from various tribes, giving a glimpse into Native American life.

The Laughing Water Restaurant offers refreshments, and the gift shop showcases Native-made items, supporting local artisans. Additional attractions include Ziolkowski’s workshop and his historic log home, filled with antiques, which provide a personal touch to the story of the monument’s ongoing creation. The Native American Cultural Center hosts artisans making traditional crafts, adding cultural depth to your visit.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with minimal hassle, this tour packs a lot into a well-organized day. The inclusive price covers entrance fees, snacks, bottled water, and guided commentary, which simplifies budgeting and planning. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and your guide’s local knowledge adds layers of context often missed when exploring independently.

The timed visits allow you to see both monuments without rushing, and the transportation removes logistical stress—no parking fees or navigation headaches. We love the way it combines convenience with depth: you’re not just viewing the monuments, but understanding the stories behind them.

How the Experience Compares

While this tour does not include Custer State Park or other Black Hills attractions, it offers a focused, quality visit to two of South Dakota’s most famous landmarks. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as standout features. One traveler praised Bruce for sharing “a lot about the monuments and the industry in the area,” which enriches the experience beyond just snapping photos.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a guided, well-organized day with plenty of insights. It’s perfect if you prefer not to drive or want to maximize your sightseeing time. The tour is also suitable for those interested in Native American culture and history, given the exhibits and stories shared during the visit.

If you’re short on time but want an authentic, educational overview of these iconic sites, this tour delivers. It’s also excellent for family groups or seniors who appreciate small groups and guided commentary.

Final Thoughts

This shared Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse tour offers a balanced combination of convenience, education, and scenic beauty. With knowledgeable guides like Bruce, you’ll gain insights that deepen your appreciation of these national treasures. The included amenities and small group size make it a comfortable and value-packed choice for anyone wanting a stress-free introduction to South Dakota’s most famous landmarks.

While it doesn’t include every nearby attraction, it excels at giving you two key sites in one day, with ample time to enjoy each. The focus on storytelling and stunning views makes it a worthwhile option for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

In short, if you want to see the monuments without the hassle of driving or planning every detail, this tour is an excellent option—especially for those who value a knowledgeable guide and authentic insights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel or designated location in Rapid City, making the day easier and more comfortable.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and time at each monument.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers entrance fees to both sites, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and snacks.

Do I need to bring anything?
You might want to bring a camera, comfortable walking shoes, and a jacket or hat depending on weather, but snacks and water are provided.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it friendly for families and seniors alike.

Are there any additional attractions included?
No, the tour focuses solely on Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, though reviews mention a wish for Custer State Park inclusion.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are issued if canceled within this window.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While specifics aren’t provided, the moderate walking around the sites should be considered; the tour may not be fully accessible for all mobility needs.

Embark on this guided journey to some of South Dakota’s most beloved landmarks, and enjoy a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views—without the stress of planning every detail yourself.