Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show

Experience the Black Hills with this comprehensive Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour. For $164.30 per person, you’ll spend around 9 hours exploring iconic sights like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Sylvan Lake, all in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines hassle-free sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to learn and relax.

What we love most is how this trip covers the major landmarks without the stress of driving or navigating busy parking lots — a real plus if you’re not confident behind the wheel. Plus, the included meals and lively music show at the end make for a well-rounded, value-packed day. That said, one consideration is the tight timing at some stops, which might feel rushed if you love lingering at each site.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a guided experience that hits all the highlights with good food, scenic drives, and entertainment. It’s especially suitable for first-timers or those who want a seamless way to see the Black Hills without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, entrance fees, and entertainment included for a straightforward experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Clint and Dan enhance the trip with stories and tips.
• Convenient Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned coach with a bathroom makes sightseeing easy.
• Iconic Sights: Visits to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Sylvan Lake, and scenic drives along Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway.
• Balanced Pace: Sufficient time at major stops, though some travelers found the schedule a bit tight.
• Authentic Entertainment: Enjoy a lively Chuckwagon supper and a fun variety show to end the day.

Exploring the Black Hills: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Fort Hays and the Cowboy Breakfast

Your adventure begins early at Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show, where you check in between 7:30-7:45 am. Here, you receive your paper tickets, get assigned your bus, and choose your seats for the evening show. The cowboy breakfast — an all-you-can-eat hearty meal — sets the tone for a day full of exploration and fun.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the breakfast, with comments like “the cowboy breakfast was enjoyable,” and travelers appreciate the convenience of starting with a filling meal before hitting the road. The value here is evident, offering a substantial start to a busy day.

Mount Rushmore: The Iconic Landmark

Departing around 9 am, your bus heads straight to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. With just over an hour at this world-famous site, you’ll have time to marvel at the sculptures of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Teddy Roosevelt.

Travelers frequently praise the guided commentary. One review states, “Our guide Clint gave excellent history and fun tidbits,” making the visit both educational and engaging. The convenience of a group tour means no parking worries or navigating crowded spaces alone, which can be especially helpful in peak seasons.

What you’ll love is the chance to see Mount Rushmore from different perspectives and learn stories behind the carvings. The downside? The hour can feel brief if you’re eager to explore further or take many photos, but it’s plenty for a first, memorable viewing.

Scenic Drive along Iron Mountain Road

After the Mount Rushmore visit, the tour continues along Iron Mountain Road — a scenic 17-mile route famed for its breathtaking views and unique tunnels. The three one-lane tunnels framing Mount Rushmore are a highlight, offering iconic photo opportunities.

Many appreciate this drive for its “breath-taking scenery” and the way it provides a different angle of the monument and surrounding hills. The stops here are brief but well worth it for a taste of the Black Hills’ rugged beauty.

Custer State Park and Lunch at the Game Lodge

Next, the group heads into Custer State Park for a lunch break at the historic Game Lodge. Many reviewers rave about the buffalo stew, calling it “the best you’ll ever find,” which adds a fun, local flavor to your trip. The relaxed pace and good food make this stop particularly enjoyable.

Inside Custer Park, all entrance fees are included, so you can explore without extra costs. The park’s vast open space and wildlife often impress visitors, and some take time to walk around Sylvan Lake, described as “among the crown jewels of Custer State Park.”

The Needles Highway and Sylvan Lake

Post-lunch, your journey continues along the Needles Highway, a scenic 14-mile route that is a feast for the eyes. Many reviews mention how breathtaking this drive is, with the stunning granite peaks and tunnels creating a picture-perfect backdrop.

A quick stop at Sylvan Lake offers a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy a coffee, and take in the tranquil beauty of this mountain lake. Reviewers frequently mention this as a favorite moment: “The beauty within Sylvan Lake is something to remember.”

Crazy Horse Memorial: A Work in Progress

One of the trip’s highlights is the Crazy Horse Memorial. With about an hour here, you have the freedom to explore the visitor center, watch the ongoing sculpture, or enjoy panoramic views from the overlook. The monument is still under construction, but its sheer scale and the story behind it captivate many visitors.

Reviewers note that the guided explanation enhances understanding: “You get so much more from the Black Hills tour than trying to see it on your own.” The site’s significance as a symbol of Native American heritage adds depth to your visit.

Wrapping Up with a Chuckwagon Supper and Music Show

The day concludes back at Fort Hays with a hearty Chuckwagon Supper and a lively music variety show. Many travelers describe the meal as satisfying, and the show as “fabulous” — a fun, entertaining end to your Black Hills adventure.

Some reviews mention that the dinner isn’t gourmet, but it’s enough to fill you after a day of sightseeing. The musical entertainment, in a Branson-style variety, keeps the atmosphere joyful and relaxed, perfect for unwinding.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with a bathroom ensures a smooth ride, especially on longer scenic drives. With most stops lasting around an hour, the schedule balances sightseeing with rest, although some travelers feel the timings can be a bit tight, particularly at Sylvan Lake or Crazy Horse.

The tour is capped at 160 travelers, meaning it retains a lively but manageable group size — enough for social interaction, but not overwhelming. The driver guides like Dan and Clint are frequently praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, making the journey all the more enjoyable.

Analyzing the Value

At just over $164 per person, this tour packs a lot into a single day. Covering major landmarks, including entrance fees, meals, and entertainment, it offers convenience and variety. Many reviews emphasize how much they learned and enjoyed without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

The inclusion of meals and entertainment, combined with expert guides, makes the price a fair deal for travelers who value a well-organized, immersive experience. For those short on time or new to the area, it’s a way to get a broad overview while still feeling like you’ve experienced the essence of the Black Hills.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the Black Hills’ must-see sights, without the stress of driving or detailed planning. It’s perfect if you like your sightseeing combined with good food and lively entertainment.

Those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and a mix of cultural and natural attractions will find it particularly rewarding. Keep in mind, if you prefer to linger longer at each site or explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

FAQs

• What is the duration of the tour?
  Approximately 9 hours, starting early and ending back at the meeting point.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, breakfast at Fort Hays and a Chuckwagon dinner with a show are included, plus a stop for lunch.

• Is transportation comfortable?
  Yes, travel is in a modern, air-conditioned coach with a restroom onboard.

• Do I need to buy additional entrance tickets?
  No, all entry fees to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park are included.

• Can I buy bottled water on the tour?
  Bottled water can be purchased at stops, but it’s not included in the price.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Most travelers find it suitable for most ages, especially with the entertaining guides and lively stops.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How many people will be on the tour?
  The maximum group size is 160 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with comfort.

• Is gratuity included?
  No, tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but not included.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Weather-appropriate layers are advised, especially if it’s cool or rainy.

To sum it up, this tour offers a hands-free, engaging way to explore the Black Hills’ most famous landmarks, backed by friendly guides, scenic drives, and hearty meals. It’s best suited for those who want a well-organized, immersive day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or simply seeking a relaxed, fun-filled experience, this trip balances value and authenticity in a way that makes it memorable.