A visit to South Dakota wouldn't be complete without a stop at America's "Shrine of Democracy," Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Leave Rapid City on Mount Rushmore Road (US Highway 16) to Keystone. Shop the specialty stores in Keystone. Before leaving, tour a museum to learn more about the man who created Mount Rushmore, Gutzon Borglum. Another option is a wax museum.
Follow US Highway 16A/244 to Mount Rushmore National Memorial for the viewing experience of a lifetime. The 60-foot granite faces of four U.S. presidents inspire awe. The popular Avenue of Flags, leading up to the viewing terrace, features the 56 flags of American states, territories, commonwealths and one district. For a close-up view of the faces, hike the half-mile trek to the base of the mountain. The Lincoln Borglum Museum explores the making of Mount Rushmore and the meaning behind America's most famous mountain. In the evening, take in the nightly program in an outdoor amphitheater. It consists of a high-tech film, patriotic music and a lighting ceremony. Stay overnight in Keystone.
