Ultimate Day Trip in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore and Beyond

Day 1: Explore South Dakota

Custer, South Dakota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bullet's Sports Bar and Grill

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast featuring their delicious breakfast burritos and locally roasted coffee.
Located 10 minutes from Mount Rushmore.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Marvel at the iconic faces of presidents carved into the Black Hills, immersing yourself in the history and beauty of this National Memorial.
Easy access from breakfast spot, just 5 minutes drive.
USD10 (parking), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Badlands National Park

Drive through the stunning geology of the Badlands, stopping at scenic overlooks and taking short hikes to appreciate the unique rock formations.
Drive from Mount Rushmore to Badlands National Park, about 1 hour.
USD30 (entrance fee), 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Restaurant

Enjoy a Native American-inspired lunch, including bison burgers and fry bread, while gazing at the breathtaking Badlands scenery.
Located within Badlands Park, making it a convenient stop.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

Witness the ongoing work on the largest stone sculpture in the world and learn about Native American culture and heritage at the museum.
30-minute drive from Badlands to Crazy Horse.
USD12 (entrance fee), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hike to Devil's Peak

Embark on a short hike to Devil's Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Black Hills.
30-minute drive from Crazy Horse Memorial.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive through Needles Highway

Enjoy the scenic drive along Needles Highway, characterized by sharp granite pinnacles and narrow tunnels.
A short drive of about 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Historic Franklin Hotel

End your day with a delicious dinner offering regional specialties and craft beers before relaxing in a historic setting in Deadwood.
A 30-minute drive from Needles Highway to Deadwood.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Explore Deadwood

Stroll through the historic town with its famous Wild West lore, stopping into shops and local bars.
Walking around the downtown area.
Free, 1.5 hours
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