17 Best Things to Do Near Mount Rushmore (For Families, Adventurers & Budget Travelers)

Discover the Best Local Attractions Near Mt. Rushmore

If you're going to be visiting the Black Hills, you must be wondering: what's the best stuff to do around Mt. Rushmore? You've come to the right place. You've found a local's guide that's current, family-approved, and designed to help you make the most of your adventure. From stunning drives and epic hikes to thrill-packed attractions the kids will adore, this list touches on the top 10 things to do around Mt. Rushmore and then some.

Whether you're searching for family fun near Mt. Rushmore, romantic scenery, or open-road escapes on the cheap, we've got it covered. As experienced local South Dakotans who've explored the area inside and out, we've packed the guide with insider secrets, high-end attractions, and the best local intel to help you plan a memorable trip—and stress-free.

Map of Things to Do Near Mount Rushmore

Below is a custom Google Map pinpointing all 17 attractions featured in this guide. You’ll find:

• Popular landmarks
  
• Trails & scenic drives
  
• Museums & cultural sites
• Local food stops
• Free activities and scenic pull-offs
  
  You can open it on your phone to help plan your day or use it like a travel cheat sheet. Each spot is labeled for easy reference.
  

1. Crazy Horse Memorial
2. Custer State Park Scenic Loop
3. Wildlife Loop Road
4. Needles Highway Scenic Drive
5. Iron Mountain Road (Framed Mt. Rushmore Views)
6. Mount Rushmore Night Lighting Ceremony
7. Rushmore Tramway Adventures
8. Keystone Boardwalk & Shops
9. Black Elk Peak Hike
10. Big Thunder Gold Mine Tour
11. Reptile Gardens
12. Bear Country USA Wildlife Park
13. 1880 Train Ride (Keystone to Hill City)
14. Sylvan Lake (Swimming, Kayaking, Picnics)
15. Pactola Lake (Free Beach Area, Boating)
16. Wind Cave National Park
17. Jewel Cave National Monument

Plus:

• ✅ Family-Friendly + Kid Activities Near Mt. Rushmore
• ✅ Free Things to Do Near Mt. Rushmore
• 🕒 Best Time to Visit & How to Avoid Crowds
• ❓FAQ: Most Common Mt. Rushmore Travel Questions

This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

(Cultural, Scenic, Family-Friendly)

Located just 17 miles from Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial ranks among South Dakota’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks. This ongoing mountain carving commemorates Lakota leader Crazy Horse and is the world’s largest unfinished mountain sculpture project, surpassing the combined size of all four Mount Rushmore heads. Visitors can view the sculpture from the main visitor center or opt to pay extra for a bus ride to the mountain's base for a closer look.

Within the complex, you’ll find the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Educational and Cultural Center, and live demonstrations from indigenous artists that rotate regularly. It offers a meaningful, family-friendly experience that combines history, art, and cultural education.

Pro tip: Visit near sunset for incredible lighting on the mountain face.

📍 Approx. 25-minute drive from Mt. Rushmore.
💵 Entry Fee Applies | ⏱ Plan 1.5–3 hours

(Scenic Drives, Iconic Views, Full-Day Experience)

The Custer State Park Scenic Loop offers the ultimate driving adventure in the Black Hills, combining three famous roads: Needles Highway, Wildlife Loop Road, and Iron Mountain Road. Although it isn’t an officially marked loop, most visitors naturally follow this route when exploring the park.

Expect impressive granite spires, wildlife herds, tight hairpin turns, and stunning tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore in breathtaking beauty. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, this circuit ranks among the top 10 activities near Mt. Rushmore, especially if you have just one day to explore the Black Hills.

We suggest starting at the Needles Highway entrance, then passing through Wildlife Loop Road, and finishing on Iron Mountain Road, heading back toward Keystone or Mount Rushmore. It’s a full-day trip with picnic spots, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of surprises.



📍 30–40 mins from Mt. Rushmore
💵 A Custer State Park pass is required (needed if you plan on stopping... most people just driving through don't get flagged)
🕒 Plan 3–6 hours depending on stops
🌄 Best early morning or mid-afternoon for lighting and wildlife

(Kid-Friendly, Wildlife, Must-See Subsection of Custer)

This 18-mile drive through Custer State Park offers a mini safari experience—you stay in your car. Bison, burros, deer, and antelope roam freely across the prairie, often coming close to your vehicle. If you’re seeking family-friendly activities near Mt. Rushmore, this is sure to be a hit.

No need to hike or step out of your car, drive slowly, keep your windows down with caution, and enjoy some of the Midwest's best wildlife viewing. Kids love it when burros approach, and photographers capture beautiful golden hour light reflecting off the hills.



📍 Just south of Hwy 16A (access via Blue Bell Lodge area)
💵 Custer State Park pass is usually not enforced unless you stop and stay awhile, but you didn't hear it from me.
🕒 Best visited early morning or just before sunset
🐃 Don’t feed the burros (tempting, we know)

(Scenic, Romantic, Photo-Worthy)

If you only do one scenic drive in the Black Hills, make it Needles Highway (SD-87). This winding, narrow road cuts through towering granite spires—called “needles”—with rock tunnels so tight they’ll make you hold your breath as you squeeze through. (No RVs allowed. Seriously, or you might turn your RV into a convertible.)

It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful, especially at sunrise or golden hour when the rock formations glow. The Needle’s Eye Tunnel is the most famous stop—a sliver of a tunnel surrounded by a towering granite formation that looks like God carved it by hand.

While it’s a short drive (around 14 miles), most visitors stop frequently for photos, walks, or to stare in awe. And it’s not just for tourists, locals never get tired of this one.

📍 Access via Sylvan Lake or US-385
🕒 Plan 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
💵 Covered by Custer State Park pass if you stop at Sylvan Lake
🚗 No trailers or RVs | One-way pull-offs only

(Engineering Marvel, Epic Views, Family Drive)

Iron Mountain Road (US-16A) is a must-see for anyone visiting Mt. Rushmore, especially if you enjoy winding roads and stunning views. This 17-mile route includes three pigtail bridges, 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, and three tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore. It’s a mix of a scenic drive, a photo opportunity, and a rollercoaster.

The road was intentionally designed to slow drivers down so they can appreciate the Black Hills’ scenery. The tunnels are aligned to give visitors a direct view of the granite faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln as they emerge.

Kids enjoy the rollercoaster ride feel, while adults appreciate the engineering and scenic views. Combine it with Needles Highway for a complete scenic day.

📍 Loop from Custer or Hill City back toward Mt. Rushmore
🕒 Allow 45–90 minutes
💵 No fee for driving the road alone
🚗 Avoid if prone to motion sickness!

(Free, Patriotic, Emotional Experience)

This event has a unique impact. The Mount Rushmore Night Lighting Ceremony, held every summer night, combines history, patriotism, and reverence into a powerful experience. Taking place in an open-air amphitheater, the event begins with a brief ranger talk and a 20-minute film about the presidents, the carving, and American values, culminating in the monument being lit as the national anthem plays.

Veterans are called to the stage for honors, and a hush falls over the crowd as the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln illuminate the night sky. For free activities near Mount Rushmore that feel meaningful, this is a perfect choice.

📍 Starts at dusk (check seasonal times)
💵 Free with monument parking ($10 for most vehicles, valid all year)
🕒 Arrive 30–60 minutes early for seating + parking
🌌 Bring a blanket or hoodie because the wind is relentless

(Kid-Friendly, Active, Great Views)

Just minutes from the monument, Rushmore Tramway Adventures stands out as a popular destination for families seeking thrills. This mountain adventure park, nestled in the Black Hills, offers a scenic chairlift ride, a gravity-driven alpine slide, ziplines, a treetop ropes course, and a small tubing hill during the warmer months.

The chairlift alone is worth the visit, offering access to an overlook with a stunning view of Mount Rushmore from a unique vantage point, perfect for photos. For those feeling bold, racing down the alpine slide is a highlight, especially loved by kids.

Visitors can choose individual activities or purchase a day pass bundle, allowing for a flexible and customized experience. A quaint café is available for anyone wishing to relax and enjoy a break.

📍 Located in Keystone, less than 5 minutes from Mt. Rushmore
💵 Pay per ride or get a full-access pass
🕒 Plan 2–4 hours for the whole adventure
🎢 Height/weight restrictions apply for some rides

(Kid-Friendly, Free, Relaxing)

Sometimes, a slower pace is just what you need, and the Keystone Boardwalk offers precisely that. Located in downtown Keystone, just minutes from Mount Rushmore, this quaint strip features gift shops, snack stalls, ice cream parlors, and plenty of photo opportunities. 

It’s ideal for a quick snack or souvenir,there are many carved wooden eagles and presidential mugs, and a relaxing break if the kids are overwhelmed by all the hikes and drives.

The town maintains a historic Western atmosphere, with many buildings that preserve the gold rush spirit. While you won’t need much time here, it’s an excellent stopping point between attractions or before returning to your hotel. Plus, unlike many other spots, it’s completely free to explore.

📍 Right on Hwy 16A in Keystone
💵 Free to browse, obviously not to buy 😄
🕒 Plan 30–60 minutes
🍦 Don’t miss: ice cream + old-time photo booth

(Scenic, Bucket List, Intermediate Hike)

Standing at 7,242 feet, Black Elk Peak is South Dakota's highest natural point and a must-do for trail enthusiasts seeking stunning views. The most popular trail starts at Sylvan Lake, following Trail #9 through granite outcroppings, pine forests, and open meadows. At the top, an old stone fire lookout tower provides 

360-degree panoramic views across four states on clear days. It’s a memorable experience after a steady 3.5-mile (one-way) hike.

Although not a casual walk, it's moderately challenging, especially for children or those unaccustomed to high altitudes; however, it’s manageable with water, proper footwear, and pacing. If you're looking for a trail that challenges you physically and offers breathtaking scenery, this is the one.

📍 Start at the Sylvan Lake parking lot
🕒 4–5 hours round trip
💵 Free with Custer State Park pass (may not be checked if you go straight to the trail)
🥾 Bring water, snacks, layers—it can be windy at the top!

(Kid-Friendly, Historic, Hands-On)

If your kids have ever dreamed of striking it rich, make this your stop. Situated in Keystone, Big Thunder Gold Mine offers an underground mine tour along with a genuine gold panning experience that’s unexpectedly enjoyable for all ages.

The guided tour takes you into a restored gold mine from the 1890s, where you’ll discover how miners worked in complete darkness, blasted through rock manually, and hoped for a significant find. It’s educational, immersive, and just spooky enough to keep kids engaged with the guide.

After the tour, try your hand at gold panning outside. The staff provides a pan, gravel, and tips on what to look for—and yes, you may find real gold flakes (you keep what you see). It’s one of the most interactive family activities near Mt. Rushmore.

📍 Keystone, just minutes from Mt. Rushmore
💵 Fee for both tour and panning, combo tickets available
🕒 Plan 1.5–2 hours
👷 Helmets provided (no crawling or climbing required)

(Family-Friendly, Unique, Educational)

Don’t let the name fool you. Reptile Gardens is more than just snakes in cages. Located between Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, this family-owned attraction holds the Guinness World Record for the world's most extensive reptile collection.

Inside, you’ll find giant tortoises that roam the lawn, massive alligators, venomous snakes, exotic birds, and tropical flowers, all in one wildly unique, family-friendly setting. There are also live shows featuring gator feedings, snake handling, and even bird tricks. The staff is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and great with kids.

It’s shady, stroller-friendly, and one of the most beloved stops for families in the entire Black Hills. And if you’re visiting on a hot summer day, it’s a great way to stay cool while exploring something totally different.

📍 On Hwy 16 between Rapid City + Keystone
💵 Admission required (discounts often available online)
🕒 Plan 2–3 hours
🐢 Say hi to Tank, the 100+ year-old tortoise!

(Kid-Friendly, Unique, Drive-Through)

This one’s a top-tier family favorite, especially if your crew loves animals. Bear Country USA is a drive-through wildlife park just outside Rapid City where bears, wolves, mountain lions, bison, elk, and reindeer roam in large, natural enclosures.

You stay in your vehicle while cruising a paved loop through the park, getting up-close views of animals in action: bears lumbering across the road, elk locking antlers, and wolves lounging in the shade. Then, after the drive, you head to Babyland, a walk-through exhibit featuring bear cubs playing, as well as smaller animals like porcupines, foxes, and skunks.

It’s safe, clean, and incredibly engaging for both kids and adults. And because you stay in your car for most of it, it’s a great option for bad weather days or stroller-nappers.

📍 8 miles south of Rapid City on Hwy 16
💵 Admission by vehicle (priced per person inside)
🕒 Plan 1.5–2 hours
🐻 Go early or late for the most active animals

(Kid-Friendly, Historic, Relaxing)

Ready to slow it down a little? Hop aboard the 1880 Train, a fully restored steam engine that runs between Keystone and Hill City, offering gorgeous Black Hills views from the comfort of an open-air railcar.

The ride takes about an hour each way and winds through pine forests, granite outcroppings, and historic mining country. You’ll hear live narration about the area’s history, the original mining routes, and fun local legends. Children love the sensation of the train, while adults appreciate the peaceful views and old-fashioned charm.

You can board in either town and do a round trip, or get picked up by someone at the other station. Either way, it’s a fun, relaxing way to explore the hills and sneak in a break from driving.

📍 Departs from Keystone or Hill City depots
💵 Tickets required (reserve in advance for summer dates)
🕒 Round-trip takes about 2 hours
🚂 Great for all ages—even toddlers

(Scenic, Romantic, Kid-Friendly, Hiking Option)

If you’ve seen a photo of a lake in the Black Hills that looks too perfect to be real, it was probably Sylvan Lake. Nestled among granite rock formations in Custer State Park, this small-but-mighty lake is a favorite for kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, and picnicking with views that belong in a postcard.

There’s a paved walking trail around the lake that’s stroller-friendly and very easy, great for families with young kids. More adventurous hikers can also access the Black Elk Peak Trail from here, or explore nearby boulder routes and rock scrambles for fun photo opportunities.

It gets busy in the summer, so arrive early to secure a prime picnic table and shoreline space. And yes, you can swim here, though the water is crisp even in July.

📍 Custer State Park via Needles Hwy
💵 Covered by park pass (but again, not always checked)
🕒 Plan 1–3 hours
🚣 Rentals available in peak season

(Free, Relaxing, Sunset Spot)

Pactola Lake, the largest and deepest reservoir in the Black Hills, is one of the top free spots near Mt. Rushmore to cool off. It offers free beach access, shaded picnic areas, and breathtaking mountain scenery, making it popular for everything from casual swimming to full-day boating.

A designated swimming beach near the Pactola Visitor Center features a soft, sandy shoreline perfect for children. For fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or renting a pontoon, the nearby marina has all your needs covered. Staying until golden hour rewards you with spectacular sunsets over the water.

Compared to Sylvan Lake, Pactola feels more spacious and tranquil, especially on weekdays. It’s an excellent choice for visitors seeking free activities near Mt. Rushmore that still offer classic Black Hills vistas.

📍 Off Hwy 385 between Hill City and Rapid City
💵 Free day use area + public access
🕒 Plan 1–4 hours
🌅 Pro tip: Sunset here is pure magic

(Underground, Scenic, Free Above Ground)

Wind Cave isn’t just a cool cave; it’s a national park with a twist. While most people come for the underground tours, the park's surface area is also home to rolling prairies, herds of bison, and wide-open hiking trails. It's like getting two parks in one: above and below.

Below ground, you’ll find one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world, known for its rare boxwork formations—a honeycomb-like pattern you won’t see in most other caves. Guided tours take you through lit passages with park rangers leading the way and explaining the history, geology, and Lakota legends.

Above ground, the park is free to explore, and it’s way less crowded than other areas in the Hills. If you're looking for a national park with fewer tourists and big scenery, this is a gem.

📍 ~1 hour south of Mt. Rushmore
💵 Cave tours require a paid ticket, but above-ground access is free
🕒 Plan 2–4 hours, depending on the tour
❄️ Bring a jacket—it’s always ~53°F inside

(Underground, Educational, Hidden Gem)

Jewel Cave, often overshadowed by Wind Cave, is equally remarkable and, in some aspects, even more stunning. It ranks as the third-longest cave in the world, with over 215 miles of mapped tunnels, most of which remain unexplored. If you love discovering hidden natural wonders, this is the place for you.

The cave’s name originates from the shimmering calcite crystals adorning its walls, which create a sparkling display when illuminated. Tours range from leisurely scenic walks to more daring spelunking adventures (advance booking is highly recommended).

Unlike Wind Cave, the main attraction here is entirely underground, making it an ideal destination for cooler weather or a retreat from a hot summer day. The visitor center features interactive exhibits and a small gift shop selling geology-themed souvenirs.

📍 Near Custer, ~45 minutes from Mt. Rushmore

💵 Tours require tickets (book online early in peak season)

🕒 Plan 1.5–3 hours

💎 Crystal formations are unlike anything else in the region

Family-Friendly + Kid Activities Near Mt. Rushmore

Traveling with kids? These five top attractions near Mount Rushmore offer great options for fun, safety, and family-friendly convenience. Whether it's wildlife encounters, gold panning, steam trains, or zip lines, there's something for everyone, from toddlers to teens.

This drive-through zoo enables children to safely observe bears, wolves, elk, and other animals from the comfort of their vehicles. The highlight? Babyland, where kids can see bear cubs wrestling and explore smaller animals such as porcupines and foxes.

✔ Great for all ages | Stay in the car | Easy photo ops

This mountainside adventure park features aerial chairlifts, an alpine slide, ziplines, and a treetop ropes course. The alpine slide is especially popular, and there’s a scenic chairlift ride available for families seeking beautiful views without the thrill of the adrenaline-pumping rides.

✔ Buy single rides or day passes | Safety harnesses provided | Great energy burn

Step into an authentic 1890s gold mine with a guided tour, then head outside to try gold panning for yourself. The hands-on aspect is perfect for curious kids, and the staff makes it super engaging.

✔ Indoor + outdoor activity | No climbing or crawling | Educational and fun

Reptile Gardens, home to giant tortoises, gators, snakes, and exotic birds, provides live shows and close encounters that kids recall for years. It’s shady, stroller-friendly, and exceptionally well-managed.

✔ Great for younger kids | Interactive exhibits | Short walking distances

Hop onto a genuine steam-powered train for a scenic journey between Keystone and Hill City. The narration entertains children, and the open-air cars provide fresh mountain air and extensive views.



✔ Relaxing experience | Great for toddlers & grandparents alike | No motion sickness risk

Held every night during the summer, this heartfelt ceremony features a short film, a ranger-led talk, and a stunning lighting of the monument. Veterans are honored onstage, making it a meaningful experience. Don't forget to bring a blanket, so you aren't hurrying to leave!

✔ Free with parking | Starts at dusk | Patriotic and powerful

One of the most famous roads in the Black Hills, this curvy drive features tunnels that perfectly frame Mt. Rushmore, plus three spiral “pigtail” bridges and epic forest views.

✔ Free to drive | Great at golden hour | Perfect for photos

While part of Custer State Park, most visitors can reach Sylvan Lake without purchasing a ticket, especially if their stay is brief. It’s a beautiful spot perfect for easy hikes, swimming, and picnicking along the shore.

✔ Free if you don’t linger | Stroller-friendly walking path | Relaxing atmosphere

Pactola, the largest lake in the Black Hills, offers free beach access. You can relax, swim, skip rocks, or bring a kayak without needing a ticket.

✔ Local favorite | Wide open space | Sunset here is next-level

This historic downtown area features a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and a nostalgic atmosphere, all of which are free to explore. Perfect for stretching your legs between visits.

✔ No admission | Fun atmosphere | Easy stroll for all ages

The hike is free if you’re not flagged for a pass at Sylvan Lake. The highest natural point in South Dakota showcases 360° views and bragging rights.

✔ No ticket if you go straight to the trail | Epic photo op at summit

The Black Hills are beautiful year-round, but timing your visit right can enhance the experience, especially near popular spots like Mt. Rushmore and Custer State Park. Here’s how to catch the best weather and skip the worst of traffic:

• May, June, and September are ideal for mild weather, wildflowers, and fall color, with significantly fewer crowds than in peak July.
• July and early August = prime tourist season. Everything’s open, but expect higher lodging prices and longer lines.
• October can be peaceful and gorgeous, but some attractions begin to close for the season.
  

• Early morning (before 9 AM) or evening (after 5 PM) are the golden hours, characterized by cooler temperatures, softer lighting, and fewer tour buses.
• The Mount Rushmore Lighting Ceremony is a perfect way to wind down the day without the heat or rush.

• Park outside Keystone and walk or shuttle in for significant events.
• Visit big-ticket spots (Mt. Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Reptile Gardens) on weekdays and save lower-effort stuff (like lakes or boardwalks) for weekends.
• Always have a cooler, snacks, and a bathroom plan. Rural roads can mean long stretches between stops.