Mount Rushmore Area Activities

Big Thunder Gold Mine - Keystone, SD

Big Thunder Gold Mine Sign

Have you ever wondered what life was like during the 1880 gold rush? This attraction will bring you back to those exciting times.

The greater Mount Rushmore area has so much to offer that you may never want to go back home. From beautiful natural landmarks to spectacular man-made landmarks and exciting activities to magnificent parks, you'll find all you need for a complete family getaway.

Mt. Rushmore Area Big Thunder Gold Mine

Your first stop on this trip back to the wild, wild west should be the Big Thunder Gold Mine. You'll visit a real goldmine and learn about the area's mining history from a knowledgeable tour guide. Then it's over to the Mining Museum where you'll see exhibits focused on the lives of miners in during the 1800s and how they survived. You'll also have an opportunity to pan for gold in the nearby stream where you're guaranteed to find gold!

Mt. Rushmore Area 1880 Train

All aboard for a truly memorable experience! Wherever you may be staying in the Mount Rushmore area you're only minutes away from the Old West. Climb aboard the 1880 Train in Keystone or the 1880 Train in Hill City and step into the 19th century as you steam along the tracks. The breathtaking scenery is enhanced by the sounds and smells of this authentic train as you glide along the same tracks used during the 1800s. It's sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Mt. Rushmore Area Devil's Tower Tour

On the Devil's Tower Tour you'll get an up-close view of this magnificent national landmark. You can view the tower from the visitor's center or climb to the top for a bird's eye view of the beautiful landscape below. You'll also learn a bit about the history of this unusual formation and how it came to be. Designated as the nation's first national landmark, the Devil's Tower is undeniably a remarkable sight and a national treasure for everyone to see.

Mt. Rushmore Area Historical Center & Monuments

Of course, no visit to this area would be complete without viewing the magnificent spectacle known as Mount Rushmore. On the Mount Rushmore Tour you'll begin at the Borglum Historical Center where you'll learn about the talented sculptor responsible for this amazing monument. Soon after, you'll find yourself staring in awe at the monument itself as it towers above you on the side of the mountain. After a quick stop at the visitor center for a snack and shopping you'll move along the trail to the Crazy Horse Memorial, the world's largest mountain carving in progress. If you thought the monument itself was a magnificent site just wait until you hit the road for a ride on Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. On this ride you'll see beautiful landscapes that pass through Custer State Park and past Harney Peak.

Mt. Rushmore Area Presidential Wax Museum

If it's Presidents you've come to see, don't rush off just yet. The Presidential Wax Museum features wax replicas of every single United States President. You'll look upon the faces of the founders of this great nation and those that have followed in their footsteps in the quest for a free and democratic world. Authentic period clothing adds to the ambience and makes you feel as if you've stepped back in time to view the signing of the Declaration of Independence, look once again upon the faces of John F. Kennedy and his son John Jr., and experience the stirring emotions of President George W. Bush's visit to Ground Zero following 9/11.

If you've ever wanted to experience time travel, this is as close as it gets. With a visit to the greater Mount Rushmore area you'll not only find some of the most spectacular sites but also some of the most authentic historical sites to date.