Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills

A Full-Day Adventure through South Dakota’s Iconic Landmarks

This bus tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills offers a comprehensive glimpse into one of America’s most scenic and storied regions. For $132.50 per person, you’ll spend approximately nine hours soaking in the sights, sounds, and history of South Dakota’s famous landmarks—from the towering faces of Mount Rushmore to the rugged beauty of Custer State Park and the ongoing marvel of Crazy Horse. The journey starts in Rapid City, with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach making transportation a breeze, which means you can focus on the scenery and stories rather than the stress of driving.

We particularly love how this tour balances iconic attractions with lesser-known gems, all while keeping logistics simple and hassle-free. The included entrance fees to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Crazy Horse mean you won’t be scrambling for tickets or worrying about additional costs. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable, humorous approach—making history lively and engaging.

A possible consideration is the long day’s length—some travelers might find it a bit tiring or prefer a more relaxed pace with more free time. However, if you’re eager to see a wide swath of the Black Hills in one go, this tour makes it easy and enjoyable. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate expert commentary, scenic drives, and a hassle-free way to tick off South Dakota’s top sights without the need for own driving or planning.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance fees to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park are included, providing excellent value.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Billy and Dan receive high praise for their humor, knowledge, and storytelling, making the day both educational and fun.
• Convenient Transportation: An air-conditioned coach with restroom facilities allows you to relax and focus on the views.
• Scenic Drives: The tour includes breathtaking routes like the Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway, renowned for their dramatic landscapes and tunnels.
• Authentic Experiences: Stops like Sylvan Lake and Custer State Park offer genuine Black Hills beauty, while Crazy Horse reflects ongoing Native American craftsmanship.
• Well-Reviewed: With a 5.0 rating from 390 reviews, most travelers find this tour to be well worth the price and effort.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Fort Hays Chuckwagon in Rapid City, a lively spot that doubles as a dinner show venue, making it an easy, central meeting point. Arriving early between 7:45 and 8 a.m., you’ll pick up your printed tickets, meet your guide, and board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The group size can go up to 160 people, but most reviews suggest it feels intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy the camaraderie.

Mount Rushmore: A Morning Highlight

By 9 a.m., the bus departs for Mount Rushmore, and you’ll love the decision to visit in the morning hours, when the faces are brightly illuminated by the rising sun. Spending just over an hour here allows ample time to wander, snap photos, and soak in the grandeur of the carved faces—an experience many reviewers describe as “great” and “breathtaking.”

Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Billy make the visit informative, weaving stories about Gutzon Borglum and the monument’s history. One reviewer said, “Billy was the best,” and it’s clear that lively commentary enhances the experience far beyond a mere photo stop.

Scenic Drive Along Iron Mountain Road

Next, the tour takes you along Iron Mountain Road, a 17-mile stretch famous for its stunning scenery and iconic tunnels—three of which frame Mount Rushmore perfectly. The narrow, winding road offers a chance to see the Black Hills from a different perspective, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Reviewers repeatedly mention how this drive is “beautiful” and “breath-taking,” with some describing it as “an experience all by itself.”

Lunch and Custer State Park

After the scenic drive, the group stops at Custer State Park Resort for a well-earned lunch at the historic Game Lodge, once the White House for President Calvin Coolidge. The menu features local favorites like Buffalo Stew, with one reviewer claiming it was “the best you will ever find.” The park itself is a highlight, offering a chance to enjoy the landscape and maybe spot some wildlife in their natural habitat.

Needles Highway and Sylvan Lake

Following lunch, the tour continues onto Needles Highway, a 14-mile route renowned for its granite spires and twisting tunnels. The narrow, winding road provides breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. Stop at Sylvan Lake for a brief rest and coffee break; travelers describe Sylvan Lake as “among the crown jewels of Custer State Park,” a picture-perfect spot for photos and a peaceful breather. Many reviews mention how these scenic drives are “awe-inspiring” and “leave you breathless.”

Crazy Horse Memorial

The final major stop is Crazy Horse Memorial, where you have about an hour to explore the ongoing carving and learn about Native American history. Many travelers find this site especially meaningful, as it’s still under construction and promises to be the world’s largest mountain carving upon completion. Guides like Ken are praised for their storytelling, sharing insights about Lakota culture and the story behind the monument. One reviewer said, “It’s truly a piece of history in the making,” emphasizing the importance of witnessing this evolving landmark.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned coach with restrooms means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of long drives or navigating unfamiliar roads. Reviews consistently mention the comfort and cleanliness of the bus as a plus, especially on a long day.

Guided Experience

Having a knowledgeable guide like Billy or Dan makes all the difference. Their humorous, engaging commentary turns a sightseeing tour into a storytelling session, enriching your understanding of South Dakota’s history, culture, and geology. Many reviews note how guides share local stories, Lakota words, and amusing anecdotes, making the day both educational and entertaining.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule is tight but well-organized, with brief stops for photos and rest, allowing travelers to see all the major sights without feeling rushed. Some reviews mention that the day is long, but most agree that the convenience of having everything planned and included offers excellent value.

Cost and Value

At $132.50, the price is quite reasonable considering the included entrance fees, guided commentary, and scenic drives. For travelers unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer not to drive, this all-in-one package offers a good balance of convenience and exploration. Plus, many reviewers consider the experience “worth every penny,” citing the quality of guides and memorable sights.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want to see South Dakota’s highlights without the effort of planning or driving. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guides, scenic routes, and a mix of iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures. Families, first-timers, or anyone interested in learning about the area’s history and natural beauty will find it especially rewarding. If you like to pack a lot into one day and enjoy storytelling along with sightseeing, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This bus tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience some of South Dakota’s most famous sites. With knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and inclusive pricing, it provides excellent value—allowing you to relax and focus on the breathtaking views and fascinating stories.

While it’s a long day, most travelers agree it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to see the highlights without the hassle of self-driving. Perfect for those who love a good story, stunning landscapes, and a straightforward, hassle-free experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply want to tick off a bucket list destination, this tour makes it easy to enjoy the best of South Dakota’s Black Hills.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and travel time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned coach, restroom facilities onboard, and entrance fees to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, with a stop at Custer State Park Resort where you can purchase food. Breakfast can be bought at Fort Hays Chuckwagon in the morning, and dinner and show tickets are available for purchase at the start or end.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 160 travelers, but reviews suggest it generally feels manageable, especially with a friendly guide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially if your kids enjoy scenic drives and storytelling, but keep in mind it’s a long day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked 71 days in advance on average, and it’s recommended to secure your spot early.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting friendly groups and enjoying the social atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

This bus tour is a reliable, engaging way to experience the majesty of South Dakota’s Black Hills. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, scenic, and hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories.