Historical Activities Near Mount Rushmore, SD

Mount Rushmore Audio Tour

Mount Rushmore Audio Tour

Mount Rushmore is one of the United States' most recognizable landmarks, known for the massive carvings of four US Presidents in a granite cliff. This monument and the rich history and scenic beauty of the surrounding area draw millions of visitors each year to this remote location in South Dakota. If you are planning a visit to the Mount Rushmore area, there are several activities you will want to enjoy to get the full experience of the area.

At the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the area is little more than a photo opportunity if you don't enjoy the Mount Rushmore Audio Tour during your visit. The Mount Rushmore Audio Tour is a recorded guided tour of the area that features narration, music, interviews, sound effects, and more that really make your visit to this monument come alive. This audio tour can be done at your own pace, with the recording progressing simply by waving a hand held wand in front of various posts as you make your way through the area. You will also be provided headphones to muffle out the sounds of other visitors, giving you a truly intimate experience with the history and patriotism of Mount Rushmore.

Not far from the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Hot Springs, you will find the expansive paleontological dig known as the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs. Here, you can watch as paleontologists work in a real laboratory, watch archaeological films, take a guided tour of the area, or explore the area at your own pace to learn more about the mammoths that have been unearthed at this location.

The National Presidential Wax Museum takes you on a patriotic trip through presidential history. The exciting museum features life-sized, realistic replicas of each of the Presidents of the United States. Each President is dressed in authentic period costumes and is set in accurately detailed settings to create a realistic presidential experience for you. After you spend time with the Presidents, make a stop in the gift shop for a variety of president-themed collectibles and souvenirs, including china, porcelain, sculptures, and more.

Then explore the scenic beauty of the Black Hills in truly historic fashion when you hop on board the 1880 Train. You will tour the Black Hills area in a restored, authentic steam engine train, and travel on an exciting two hour journey from Hill City to Keystone and back again. For the true old-fashioned experience, be sure to order a box lunch and dine in the train like travelers did over one hundred years ago.

Experience all that the Mount Rushmore area has to offer by including these activities in your vacation plans!