Culminating fourteen years of craftsmanship, Mount Rushmore – America’s “Shrine of Democracy” – was completed on October 31, 1941. While this historic tribute to Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson and Roosevelt is a must-see for all, South Dakota – particularly the Black Hills and Badlands area – offers an array of attractions and sights throughout the year.
Of course a visit to Mount Rushmore wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the world-reknowned Wall Drug – the drug store whose humble beginnings led to innovative marketing through signs advertising free ice water. Today, Wall Drug is a 76,000 square foot “western wonderland” serving over 20,000 customers on an average summer day!
The Black Hills and Badlands area is full of outdoor attractions, from trails to waterfalls, parks, and scenic drives. The 1.2 million acre Black Hills National Forest boasts 30 campgrounds and over 450 miles of hiking trails. Winter sports trails for snowmobiling, snowboarding and skiing open on December 1.