This world-famous, rock-cut sculpture by Gutzon Borglum is one of the United States' best known landmarks. The 60-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) faces of four of America's greatest presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln - look down from their lofty perch above the luxuriant forests of the Black Hills. Remarkable in their likeness to the presidents, Mount Rushmore is as much a monumental artistic marvel as it is a cultural gem. These four presidents were chosen by the artist himself as symbols of the foundation, growth, development and preservation of the United States. While Borglum had originally envisioned the sculpture to include the entire body of each president, budgetary and time concerns forced the artist to revise his plans to include only their heads. The Avenue of Flags, sculptor's studio and Grandview Terrace are great vantage points for taking in this marvel.
Big Thunder Gold Mine is an exciting attraction in Keystone that is ideal for the entire family. When in town, take an immersive tour of the old mine as you are transported back to the 1890s. The tour guides are known to be courteous and friendly, with immense knowledge about the history and intricacies of gold mining. So, pan for gold flakes, learn about the intriguing process of mining, and shop for unique rocks and gifts at the small museum at the mine.
Named after Lieutenant George Armstrong Custer, the sprawling Custer State Park at 71,000 acres (28,733 hectares) is the largest state park and first-ever in South Dakota. Nestled between the Black Hills, this astonishing nature reserve is known for its wildlife like white-tailed deer, mules, antelopes, mountain lions, burros, elks and more. Don't miss out on the 'begging burros' who earned this name for their tendency to approach cars heading to the park, and then beg for food. There are well-equipped camping grounds available in the park, as well as opportunities for fishing, trekking, swimming, biking, kayaking, and horse-riding.
Born out of a tragedy, the Memorial Park was built to honor the memory of the victims of the June 1972 floods that devastated Rapid City. In the park, there are structures like the Flood Memorial Fountain, and the Memorial Lake, that ensure the lost residents, and the tragedy, are not forgotten by locals or visitors. Also, the park is home to a Berlin Wall exhibit, which is one of the biggest memorials of the event in the country. See the website for more information.
If you happen to pass by Interstate 90, the humungous bronze statue of McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burger is likely to catch your eye. Rising to a height of nine feet, this statue was built to commemorate the decadent Quarter Pounder burger which has been served at McDonald’s for over 50 years. The statue is constructed on a granite pedestal and the phrase “hot and deliciously juicy” has been carved in Latin, signifying a feature that makes it one of the most liked fast-food items among the locals in the city. The statue is sculpted by a Utah-based sculptor, Raymond Gibby, and almost took 1800 hours to erect. Several passersby often halt at the spot to grab a picture with the ginormous burger.
Steeped in rich history and thrilling outdoor experiences, Keystone is one of South Dakota’s premier tourist destinations. Nestled in the rolling Black Hills, the town is a haven for adventure seekers and history buffs alike. Although star attractions such as the Black Hills National Forest and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial are simply unmissable, the town is also home to Big Thunder Gold Mine and Dahl's Chainsaw Art, quaint attractions for children and art enthusiasts. Offering the charm of a small town and the comforts of modern amenities, Keystone must rank high on your list of getaway destinations.
Named after Lieutenant George Armstrong Custer, the sprawling Custer State Park at 71,000 acres (28,733 hectares) is the largest state park and first-ever in South Dakota. Nestled between the Black Hills, this astonishing nature reserve is known for its wildlife like white-tailed deer, mules, antelopes, mountain lions, burros, elks and more. Don't miss out on the 'begging burros' who earned this name for their tendency to approach cars heading to the park, and then beg for food. There are well-equipped camping grounds available in the park, as well as opportunities for fishing, trekking, swimming, biking, kayaking, and horse-riding.
This world-famous, rock-cut sculpture by Gutzon Borglum is one of the United States' best known landmarks. The 60-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) faces of four of America's greatest presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln - look down from their lofty perch above the luxuriant forests of the Black Hills. Remarkable in their likeness to the presidents, Mount Rushmore is as much a monumental artistic marvel as it is a cultural gem. These four presidents were chosen by the artist himself as symbols of the foundation, growth, development and preservation of the United States. While Borglum had originally envisioned the sculpture to include the entire body of each president, budgetary and time concerns forced the artist to revise his plans to include only their heads. The Avenue of Flags, sculptor's studio and Grandview Terrace are great vantage points for taking in this marvel.
Born out of a tragedy, the Memorial Park was built to honor the memory of the victims of the June 1972 floods that devastated Rapid City. In the park, there are structures like the Flood Memorial Fountain, and the Memorial Lake, that ensure the lost residents, and the tragedy, are not forgotten by locals or visitors. Also, the park is home to a Berlin Wall exhibit, which is one of the biggest memorials of the event in the country. See the website for more information.
Big Thunder Gold Mine is an exciting attraction in Keystone that is ideal for the entire family. When in town, take an immersive tour of the old mine as you are transported back to the 1890s. The tour guides are known to be courteous and friendly, with immense knowledge about the history and intricacies of gold mining. So, pan for gold flakes, learn about the intriguing process of mining, and shop for unique rocks and gifts at the small museum at the mine.
If you happen to pass by Interstate 90, the humungous bronze statue of McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burger is likely to catch your eye. Rising to a height of nine feet, this statue was built to commemorate the decadent Quarter Pounder burger which has been served at McDonald’s for over 50 years. The statue is constructed on a granite pedestal and the phrase “hot and deliciously juicy” has been carved in Latin, signifying a feature that makes it one of the most liked fast-food items among the locals in the city. The statue is sculpted by a Utah-based sculptor, Raymond Gibby, and almost took 1800 hours to erect. Several passersby often halt at the spot to grab a picture with the ginormous burger.
Aptly christened, Hill City is located amidst the rolling Black Hills mountain range. One of South Dakota’s favorite tourist hotspots, the town attracts droves of outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. While popular destinations such as Mount Rushmore and the Custer State Park are only a short drive away, the town boasts of a plethora attractions nestled within its serene environs. A particular delight for history buffs, the town is home to interesting museums such as Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota and the South Dakota State Railroad Museum.