From Rapid City: Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour

The From Rapid City: Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour experience priced at $148 per person, departing directly from Rapid City. This tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded visit to America’s Shrine of Democracy, combining scenic drives, detailed narration, and engaging stops at key sites. The tour promises an immersive look at the history behind Mount Rushmore, with a focus on storytelling and visual highlights like the Presidential Trail and Lincoln Borglum Museum. While the tour is quite full, its inclusion of the Avenue of Flags and Carved in Stone video makes it a compelling choice for visitors eager to deepen their understanding of this iconic monument. The tour’s 5-hour duration makes it suitable for travelers seeking a rich, yet manageable, sightseeing experience.

Key Points

• Includes a narrated drive through the Black Hills, making the journey as informative as the stops
• Explores the Lincoln Borglum Museum with displays about the sculptor, his family, and tools
• Features the Avenue of Flags, representing all 50 states and territories
• Walks along the Presidential Trail for views and photos of the monument’s faces
• A 23-minute documentary called Carved in Stone details the carving process, workers, and sculptor Gutzon Borglum
• Hotel pickup and parking fees at Mount Rushmore are included, but food and drinks are not

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Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills Scenic Drive

The tour departs from Rapid City with convenient pickup options at hotels or Airbnb accommodations. A scenic drive through the Black Hills leads directly to Mount Rushmore, offering travelers picturesque views en route. The Black Hills landscape provides a stunning backdrop as the guide shares insights into the area’s natural beauty and history. The journey itself is comfortable and well-paced, giving ample time to enjoy the landscapes before arriving at the monument.

Visiting the Lincoln Borglum Museum and the Carved in Stone Video

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Lincoln Borglum Museum. Here, visitors find detailed displays about Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor, his family, and the machinery used in the carving process. The museum offers a deeper understanding of the monument’s history and the effort involved. Plus, the 23-minute video Carved in Stone provides a vivid overview of the carving, the workers, and Borglum’s vision—enhancing appreciation for this engineering feat.

Walking the Presidential Trail: Views and Photo Opportunities

The Presidential Trail is a popular feature on this tour, providing a gradually inclining walk that takes visitors beneath the massive faces carved into the granite. The trail offers excellent photo spots with clear views of individual presidents like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln. For those interested in more adventurous walking, the trail extends further, leading to the Sculptors’ Studio (only open in summer), though this involves a more strenuous climb. The trail’s design ensures most visitors can enjoy close-up views without difficulty.

Avenue of Flags: Celebrating All 50 States and Territories

The Avenue of Flags is a striking feature of this tour. It showcases all 50 states along with U.S. territories, with each flag accompanied by its admission date into the Union. The area offers a sense of national unity and pride, making it a meaningful stop. Visitors also find a large gift shop nearby, packed with souvenirs and memorabilia, perfect for commemorating the visit.

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The Sculptors’ Studio and Additional Stops

While the Sculptors’ Studio is part of the tour, it is only open during summer months, and the walk there is considered strenuous. The studio area provides a closer look at the sculptor’s tools and workspace, adding insight into the working conditions and craftsmanship. The tour also stops at a side profile of George Washington for a memorable photo opportunity—an ideal moment for a keepsake.

Food and Refreshments on the Tour

The tour includes cold bottled water for all participants and access to the Carvers Café at Mount Rushmore, where visitors can purchase snacks, meals, or ice cream. Notably, the Thomas Jefferson Vanilla Ice Cream recipe from France is featured at the ice cream shop, adding a fun cultural twist. However, the tour does not include food or additional drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly if they prefer a full meal or snacks beyond water.

Practicalities and Group Size

This guided tour emphasizes comfort and convenience, with pickup at hotel or Airbnb locations only in Rapid City and parking fees at Mount Rushmore covered. The live English-speaking guide leads the group, sharing stories and insights throughout the trip. The group size is not specified but is managed to ensure a personal experience. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, hats, cameras, and snacks for the walk, and note that smoking is not allowed on the bus or at the stops.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

Booking this tour offers flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This setup makes it easier for travelers to plan without risk, especially amidst changing travel arrangements. The duration of 5 hours allows for a relaxed yet informative visit, with start times available based on availability.

Tour Guide and Visitor Experience

While no specific guide’s name is provided, the tour emphasizes live narration in English, ensuring visitors receive informative and engaging commentary. The reviews mention a guide named Flo, who is praised for expertise and personality, enhancing the overall experience. The tour’s rating of 4.7 out of 5 from seven reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, despite some noting the price as slightly high for the length of the tour.

Comparing Similar Tours in the Area

This tour overlaps with several other Black Hills and Mount Rushmore experiences available in Rapid City, including visits to Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and Wildlife Loop, among others. However, the focus here remains on Mount Rushmore, with a detailed narration, museum visit, and scenic drive offering a balanced and comprehensive experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This $148, 5-hour tour is particularly suitable for visitors who want insightful storytelling, scenic views, and a manageable schedule. It’s ideal for those eager to learn about the monument’s history and see iconic sights, but may be less suited for travelers requiring accessible options since wheelchair users are not accommodated. The tour’s rich content and engaging stops make it a worthwhile choice for history buffs and family groups alike.

Final Thoughts on the Mount Rushmore Memorial Tour

The From Rapid City: Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour combines scenic beauty, historical insights, and convenient logistics into a well-rounded package. Its including of a museum visit, a short documentary, and a walk along the Presidential Trail makes it particularly engaging. Though priced slightly higher compared to shorter tours, the depth of experience and coverage of key sites justify the cost for many visitors.

This tour offers a respectful, informative visit to Mount Rushmore, suitable for those who enjoy guided storytelling and scenic drives. It is a solid choice for travelers looking to maximize their Black Hills visit without the need for multiple separate bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include food?
No, the tour includes bottled water and access to the Carvers Café, but meals and additional refreshments are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data does not specify, the walks on the Presidential Trail and the museum visit are generally suitable for older children, but strenuous walking and standing might be challenging for the very young or those with mobility concerns.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the additional information indicates that it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What makes this tour stand out?
The narrated drive, museum visit, and Avenue of Flags are key features that provide an informative, scenic, and patriotic experience centered around Mount Rushmore.

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