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Ultimate Road Trip from Springfield, Illinois to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse (July 11 - July 18, 2025)

Viewed by 189 travelers

Day 1: Depart Springfield

Springfield, Illinois on July 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at D'arcy's Pint

Start your trip off with a hearty breakfast at this iconic local pub known for its delicious 'Pint Burger' and renowned breakfast menu.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum

Explore the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln through interactive exhibits and artifacts in this captivating museum.
USD15, 2 hours

11:00AM

Depart for St. Louis

Journey to St. Louis, approximately a 2-hour drive.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 2: Explore St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri on July 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Hill

Enjoy a classic breakfast in this diner famous for its pancakes and vibrant décor that celebrates music legends.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Gateway Arch

Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch for stunning views of the city and insight into America's westward expansion.
USD13, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Pappy's Smokehouse

Dig into some of the best Memphis-style barbecue at this award-winning restaurant known for its ribs.
USD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Forest Park

Stroll through one of the largest urban parks in the United States, featuring museums and scenic walking paths.
USD0, 2 hours

2:30PM

Depart for Kansas City

Continue your journey to Kansas City, approximately a 3.5-hour drive.
USD0, 3.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri on July 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Crack Shack

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a fried chicken focus in this casual eatery renowned for creative dishes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit National WWI Museum and Memorial

Explore this comprehensive museum dedicated to World War I, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and beautiful memorial grounds.
USD18, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Joe's Kansas City BBQ

Indulge in award-winning barbecue at a local favorite, famous for its burnt ends and delicious sauces.
USD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Enjoy the impressive art collections and beautiful gardens at this renowned museum, which offers free admission.
USD0, 2 hours

2:30PM

Depart for Lincoln

Travel to Lincoln, approximately a 3-hour drive.
USD0, 3 hours
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Day 4: Explore Lincoln

Lincoln, Nebraska on July 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast House

Savor a diverse menu featuring whole-grain pancakes, unique omelets, and other breakfast favorites.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Nebraska State Capitol

Tour this architectural marvel, the tallest state capitol building in the U.S., with breathtaking views from the observation deck.
USD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Lunch at The Oven

Enjoy Indian cuisine in a cozy setting at this local gem, known for its flavorful curries and naan.
USD15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Sheldon Museum of Art

Explore the stunning collection of American art and enjoy the beautiful sculptural gardens around the museum.
USD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Depart for Rapid City

Journey to Rapid City, South Dakota, approximately a 6-hour drive.
USD0, 6 hours
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Day 5: Arrive in Rapid City

Rapid City, South Dakota on July 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dakota Stone Mining & Stone Supply

An unconventional breakfast spot with good coffee and unique stone décor, it’s perfect for breakfast alone or with company.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Bear Country USA

Drive through this wildlife park and get close to North American animals in their natural habitats.
USD25, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at The Urban Churn

This unique eatery serves gourmet sandwiches and handmade desserts, known for their delicious ice creams.
USD15, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore Downtown Rapid City

Take a stroll through downtown to enjoy galleries, shops, and the famous City of Presidents statues.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 6: Visit Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota on July 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Carver’s Cafe

Located at Mount Rushmore, this café offers breakfast with a view of the iconic monument.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Experience the grandeur of the famous sculpture and learn about its history at the visitor center.
USD10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Blue Bell Lodge

A charming rustic eatery, perfect for a casual lunch with hearty fare in a scenic location near the monument.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hike the Presidential Trail

A short and easy hike offering fantastic views of Mount Rushmore and surrounding Black Hills scenery.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 7: Visit Crazy Horse

Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota on July 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Laughing Water Restaurant

Enjoy Native-American inspired cuisine at Crazy Horse's own restaurant before exploring the memorial.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

Witness the world's largest mountain carving tribute to Native American leader Crazy Horse, along with an informative visitor center.
USD10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper

A fun dining experience featuring a buffet-style cowboy meal, often accompanied by entertainment.
USD24, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Indian Museum of North America

Learn about Native American history and culture through a variety of exhibits conducive to education.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Return Home

Springfield, Illinois on July 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

A convenient option to start your long journey back home.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Springfield

Begin your drive back to Springfield, about a 10-hour journey.
USD0, 10 hours
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