What is the closest airport to Crazy Horse Memorial®?

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the nearest flight hub to all western South Dakota destinations, and is located just 45 miles east of Crazy Horse Memorial®. Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, United and Sun Country Air (summer only) all fly into and out of the airport.

What is the driving distance to nearby U.S. cities from Crazy Horse Memorial®?

Crazy Horse Memorial®, like nearby Mount Rushmore National Memorial , is in rugged, remote country far from major cities. The closest city, Rapid City, is 40 miles from the park. Casper and Cheyenne, Wyoming, are 207 and 254 miles away, respectively. Denver is 354 miles away, and Billings, Montana, is 350 miles away.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Summer is the most popular time to visit Crazy Horse Memorial®. If you’d prefer to come when it's a little cooler and quieter, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April and May or September and October.

What are the busiest times of week to visit Crazy Horse Memorial®?

The summer is the most active time of the year for both this massive work of art and the Indigenous heritage museums that are on the property. While it usually doesn’t get too busy, Crazy Horse Memorial® does see a higher volume of visitors around midday. Park operating hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

What is the climate, geographic information and history of Crazy Horse Memorial®?

Crazy Horse Memorial® is situated in an area of western South Dakota that is sunny more than half the year and receives about double the national average snowfall. Summertime highs are usually around 80 degrees Fahrenheit with winter lows in the teens, so prepare appropriately before visiting. The memorial is located within the remote Black Hills National Forest, within convenient driving distance of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Crazy Horse Memorial®’s history is tied to Oglala Lakota chief Henry Standing Bear’s friendship with sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, who was hired to build a monument to the famed Lakota leader. Ziolkowski began work on the sculpture in 1948, and work on the monument continues today .

Is Crazy Horse Memorial® accessible?

Yes, the facility is handicap accessible, including parking and wheelchair access to the buildings and viewing area. You can also contact 605-673-4681 for information about additional accommodations.

Crazy Horse Memorial® | South Dakota’s Great 8 Landmarks

Plan Your Visit

A couple stands on the observation deck at Crazy Horse Memorial®, with the massive sculpture in front of them.

Things to Do

Places to Stay

Where to Eat

Top Experiences

Visit the Native American Educational & Cultural Center® to meet Native artisans, try children’s activities and games, see one-of-a-kind artifacts and browse the notable Edward S. Curtis photo collection.

A traditional tipi is pictured in front of a dramatic dusk sky. — Incorporating sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski’s love of wood and natural lighting, the Indian Museum of North America® reflects the histories, cultures and landmarks of America’s Native people.

A Native man in traditional regalia talks to children at Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota. — Check the Crazy Horse Memorial® calendar of events to see what’s happening during your visit, from dance performances to storytelling to art shows.

Visit the original Korczak Ziokowski family home, where many of the sculptor’s works from before and after his arrival in the Black Hills still reside.

Join thousands of hikers in a trek to Crazy Horse’s outstretched arm during the Volksmarch, held twice per year (the first Sunday in June and the Sunday after the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup in September).

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Frequently Asked Questions

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