Mount Rushmore Tour Part 1:
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
My First Time Back at Mount Rushmore (After Many Years)
The last time I visited Mount Rushmore, I was just a little girl. Coming back as an adult? WOW. So much has changed — and honestly, it hits completely different when you understand the history, layout, and all the hidden details.
If Mount Rushmore National Memorial is on your USA bucket list, this guide will help you plan smarter and make the most of your time.
Pro Tip #1: Arrive EARLY (Timing Matters!) β°
If you take one thing away from this post, let it be this:
Come as early as possible.
We arrived right when the gates opened at 8:00 AM and stayed until about noon. Even during that window, there were already lines forming, crowds growing, and tour buses rolling in.
π Early mornings = cooler temperatures, fewer people in your photos, and a more peaceful experience.
SEO tip for planners: The parking facility opens daily, and while entry to Mount Rushmore is free, there is a parking fee — another reason to arrive early and make the most of your visit.ο»Ώ
The Avenue of Flags: Don’t Skip This Photo Stop πΈ
As you walk toward the monument, you’ll pass through the Avenue of Flags, one of the most iconic (and photogenic) parts of Mount Rushmore.
This grand walkway features 56 flags, representing:
- All 50 U.S. states
- 1 district (Washington, D.C.)
- 3 U.S. territories
- 2 commonwealths
It’s the perfect spot for photos, videos, and that “I’m really here” moment before heading to the Grand View Terrace.
Fun fact: The Avenue of Flags was added in 1976 for the U.S. Bicentennial — meaning it didn’t even exist when many adults visited as kids.
The View: Closer Than You Remember π€―
As a child, I remembered the monument feeling far away. Now? You can get much closer to Mount Rushmore than before, making the experience feel more immersive and awe-inspiring.
Seeing the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln up close really puts their scale — and the craftsmanship — into perspective.
Another fun fact: Each face is about 60 feet tall. Yep, that’s roughly the height of a six-story building.
Don’t Miss the Amphitheater & Night Lighting π
Below the main viewing area is the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Amphitheater, which hosts:
- Educational ranger talks
- Special programs
- Nighttime lighting ceremonies (seasonal)
The lighting ceremony is one of the most moving experiences at Mount Rushmore, adding a whole new layer of emotion and meaning to your visit.
π Pro tip: If your schedule allows, plan to visit both during the day and at night.
This Is Just the Beginning…
This is only Part 1 of my full Mount Rushmore tour series. There’s still so much more to cover — nearby attractions, hidden gems, best viewpoints, and how to build this stop into an epic South Dakota or Black Hills itinerary.
π Follow along for Part 2, save this post for later, and when wanderlust kicks in…
β¨ Let me plan your next unforgettable adventure. β¨ As a travel agent and content creator, I help take the stress out of planning so you can focus on exploring the world.
I’ve got you. π
Looking for help planning your Mount Rushmore trip, a USA road trip, or your next bucket-list getaway? Reach out — I’d love to help!ο»Ώ
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