We Made It to Japan!

Did you know there’s a place in South Dakota where you can literally take home a piece of history? 👀 Yep—welcome back to Part 3 of our Crazy Horse Memorial adventure, where we dive into one of the most meaningful and fascinating areas of the entire complex: the Native American Educational and Cultural Center. Located in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, Crazy Horse Memorial is already one of the most awe-inspiring monuments in the United States—but stepping into this center takes the experience to a whole new level.

👀 “Would you believe me if I told you this mountain has had over ELEVEN MILLION tons of rock blasted away… and it’s still not finished? Let me show you why this $5 tour is one of the best travel deals in America.” Welcome to Part 2 of our Crazy Horse Memorial adventure — and today we’re hopping on the guided bus tour that takes you right up to the mountain itself. For just five dollars per person, this ride gets you shockingly close to the carving-in-progress — and trust me… hearing the story while standing beneath it hits completely different. Our guide, Allen, shared how this all began back in 1947, when sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski arrived in the Black Hills from Connecticut… to a place with no roads, no water, no electricity. He literally lived in a tent for seven months before clearing trees and building a log studio by hand. By the late 1950s, with ten kids to raise, the family even opened a dairy farm right on site — and today they still raise cattle here. Oh — and the very first admission to Crazy Horse in 1950? 👉 Just 50 cents per carload.

“If you’re going to Mount Rushmore and NOT stopping here… you’re doing South Dakota wrong.” And honestly? I stand by that. 😏 Just 30 minutes from Mount Rushmore, tucked into the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, sits one of the most fascinating landmarks in the United States — the Crazy Horse Memorial. This isn’t just another quick roadside attraction. It’s one of the largest mountain carving projects in the world… and it’s still being built today. If you’re planning a Mount Rushmore road trip, a South Dakota vacation, or a national parks adventure, put this stop high on your list.

Think the best views at Mount Rushmore are only at the beginning? 👀 Think again. Welcome to Part 5 — the grand finale of my Mount Rushmore tour series — where the Presidential Trail keeps delivering jaw-dropping scenery right up until the very end. If you’re planning a Mount Rushmore vacation, a South Dakota road trip, or a Black Hills adventure, this is your reminder that this iconic destination is so much more than a quick photo stop. It’s a full-on experience.

Another passport?! 👀✈️ Yes, please — and this one doesn’t even require airport security or a middle seat. Welcome back to Part 4 of my 5-part Mount Rushmore series, where we stop at one of the most fascinating (and underrated!) spots at Mount Rushmore National Memorial: the Sculptor’s Studio. If you’re planning a Mount Rushmore trip, a South Dakota road trip, or exploring the Black Hills, this is one stop you absolutely cannot skip.

This is as close as you can get to Mount Rushmore without climbing the mountain itself — and honestly? Most visitors have no idea this trail even exists. 👀 Welcome to Part 3 of my five‑part Mount Rushmore travel series, where I’m continuing along the legendary Presidential Trail and showing you why this scenic walk completely changes how you experience Mount Rushmore National Memorial. If Mount Rushmore is on your USA bucket list, keep reading — this is where the magic really happens.

Most visitors snap a photo from the viewing terrace and move on… but if you really want to experience Mount Rushmore National Memorial, you have to get on the Presidential Trail. Welcome to Part 2 of my five-part Mount Rushmore travel series, where I’m sharing insider tips, fun facts, and smart planning advice so your South Dakota adventure feels unforgettable — not rushed.

Think Mount Rushmore is just a quick photo stop you squeeze in between road trip snacks and your next destination? 👀 Think again. Welcome to Part 1 of my 5-part Mount Rushmore tour series, where I’m breaking down everything you need to know so you can visit like a pro, skip the rookie mistakes, and actually enjoy this iconic American landmark.

There’s that one moment every traveler knows too well — when you slip into your comfiest travel slippers, grab your airplane blanket, and realize… it’s time to head home. After sixteen incredible days exploring Japan and South Korea, I still can’t believe our journey has come to an end. This trip was everything — relaxing, inspiring, and filled with memories that will stay with us forever. From mouthwatering sushi in Tokyo to breathtaking temples in Busan, every single day felt like a new adventure.