Mt. Rushmore Area - Deadwood, South Dakota

Chuckwagon Dinner and Western Music Show at Circle B Ranch - Rapid City

Circle B Ranch Chuckwagon Western Show

The Horn family is proud to put on the Circle B Ranch Chuckwagon Western Show.

When you're visiting the Mount Rushmore area, you'll be awestruck by its myriad of historic sites, tantalizing hotspots and family fun where hospitality abounds. There's something for just about everyone. One "must-see" is the national historic city of Deadwood. Plan to spend at least a day in this authentic replica of an Old West mining town. Its Victorian architecture is unique to the West. In fact, today it is the largest historic preservation project in the U.S.

Deadwood/Lead Historic Tour

You may want to consider taking a tour of this historical town. The Deadwood/Lead Historic Tour will take you through the highpoints of Deadwood, and you'll also enjoy a lunch or dinner at the Silverado Gaming Establishment and Restaurant.

The Deadwood Old Time Saloon Number 10 - Deadwood, SD

Deadwood is home to The Old Time Saloon Number 10, rumor has it Wild Bill Hickok was shot playing poker and holding the famous "Aces and Eights" hand, better known today as the Dead Man's Hand. Wild Bill's tombstone, along with Calamity Jane's, can be found in the downtown cemetery. For more than a decade, Deadwood's renovated eight gaming halls have been host to some of the best betting in the West. This same fun and fair betting got its start more than 100 years back, and nowadays proceeds from legalized gaming go to the city's continued preservation efforts.

Rapid City - Lodging near Deadwood & Mt. Rushmore

A good "central location" for lodging is Rapid City, midway between Deadwood and Mount Rushmore. The closest major airport is located in Rapid City, and the town serves up its own brand of foot stompin' fun at the Circle B Ranch where kids can pan for gold in this authentic Old West locale. Animal lovers enjoy Reptile Gardens and Bear Country USA. History buffs, don't miss The Journey Museum -- an awesome journey through South Dakota history.

When looking for a place to rest your feet, The Alex Johnson Hotel has earned a fine reputation for its charm, beauty and elegance. The combined influences of Germanic Tudor architecture and Native American decor are breathtaking, and it's fun to peek at the gallery of guests, which features the likes of six U.S. presidents and Cary Grant! The original 1928 brick structure is AAA, three-diamond rated, and is located in the midst of antique shops, restaurants and nightlife. The on-site Paddy O'Neill's Pub and Casino is a favorite with visitors and locals alike.

Other nearby Rapid City hotels include The Best Western Town 'N Country Inn, which offers majestic views of Skyline Hill, a kids playground and heated outdoor pool. The Radisson Hotel is a top choice for discerning travelers; rooms come equipped with coffee makers and Nintendo. The hotel features include an indoor pool, on-site coffee shop, a gift shop and video poker casino - even a master tailor!

City of Presidents - Rapid City, SD

Since 2000, local Rapid City artists have working on "City of Presidents." Life-sized bronze sculptures adorn the city's downtown sidewalks. Currently there are 12 presidents on display. It makes for a fun and patriotic time to stay in Rapid City and be surrounded by a President on the street corner as well as looming from above at nearby Mount Rushmore, which is a 30-minute drive away.

While visiting the Mount Rushmore area, get ready for some adventure when it comes to filling your belly! Besides enjoying proud American history and Wild West shooting antics, tempt your taste buds with the local game, which includes pheasant, buffalo, elk and trout. Life is not complete without a visit to the Mount Rushmore area with its amazing choice of activities, culture and history. Make it your next family vacation.