Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show

If you’re planning a visit to South Dakota, this Mount Rushmore and Black Hills tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights, scenic drives, and entertainment—all in one day. It’s a popular choice for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving or logistics.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary—covering everything from the grandeur of Mount Rushmore to the striking iron tunnels on Iron Mountain Road. Plus, it includes two hearty meals and a lively music show, adding a touch of local flavor and entertainment you won’t want to miss.

One thing to keep in mind is that the day is packed, which can feel a bit rushed for some travelers, especially if you like to linger longer at each site. However, for those wanting to see many highlights with ease, this tour hits the spot. It suits first-timers, families, and anyone eager to experience the Black Hills without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip covering major Black Hills sights
• Guided by knowledgeable guides for insight and ease
• Comfortable, air-conditioned bus with restrooms onboard
• Two included meals and a lively dinner show
• Scenic drives with breathtaking views and tunnels
• Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time
• Hassle-free logistics—no parking worries or navigation
• Good value for the price, considering all meals and entrance fees included

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Day

This tour packs a lot into roughly nine hours, starting early in the morning from Rapid City. It’s carefully designed to maximize your experience of the Black Hills’ most iconic sights, with a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and entertainment.

Fort Hays Old West Town and Cowboy Breakfast

Your day begins at Fort Hays Chuckwagon, where you’re greeted with a hearty all-you-can-eat cowboy breakfast. Think fluffy homemade pancakes, biscuits with gravy, sausage links, and hot coffee. It’s a perfect way to fuel up before a day of exploring. As one reviewer noted, “Nothing better than home made cowboy pancakes,” and this sets a lively Western tone for the day ahead.

While some might find early mornings a challenge, the included breakfast is a good value considering it’s part of the overall package. It also offers a glimpse into Western heritage, adding authenticity and flavor to your experience.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Next up is the star of the show—Mount Rushmore. Departing at 9 am, the bus heads straight to the monument to beat the crowds and catch the morning sun illuminating the faces of the four presidents carved into the granite. With just over an hour to explore, you’ll have enough time to take photos, walk around the base, or simply soak in the view.

Multiple reviews praise the guide’s insights here. One said, “Our guide had a lot of knowledge of all the sights,” which enhances the experience beyond just snapping photos. Visiting in the morning is ideal, as Borglum intended the monument to be viewed in the early light.

Iron Mountain Road

After Mount Rushmore, the tour winds along Iron Mountain Road, a scenic 17-mile route famous for its breathtaking views and the three one-lane tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore perfectly. This drive isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about experiencing the natural beauty of the Black Hills.

Traveling in an air-conditioned coach with a bathroom makes this part comfortable despite the curvy roads. One traveler mentioned, “The view was breathtaking—no stress about driving through those tunnels myself,” highlighting how this guided drive makes the experience more enjoyable.

Custer State Park and Lunch at the Game Lodge

A highlight for many is the stop inside Custer State Park at the historic Game Lodge, once the summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch, often featuring a famous local dish—buffalo stew. As one reviewer raved, “It’s the best buffalo stew I’ve ever had,” so take the chance to taste this regional specialty.

The relaxed setting allows you to recharge and take in the park’s rugged beauty. The included admission makes this a stress-free meal stop, freeing you from worrying about extra costs or reservations.

Needles Highway and Scenic Drives

Post-lunch, the tour takes you along South Dakota 87, a 14-mile stretch of awe-inspiring scenery. The highlight is the Needles Eye Tunnel, where the bus squeezes through a tiny, natural rock passage—an experience that’s both exciting and a little nerve-wracking.

The drive offers plenty of opportunities to marvel at the towering granite spires and lush landscapes. One review described it as “sure to leave you breathless,” which captures the sense of awe these views inspire.

Sylvan Lake and Relaxation

A quick stop at Sylvan Lake provides a peaceful break amid the natural beauty of Custer State Park. It’s perfect for a quick coffee or just to stretch your legs. One guest shared, “Sylvan Lake is among the crown jewels of the park,” emphasizing its visual appeal.

Crazy Horse Memorial

The tour’s final major stop is the Crazy Horse Memorial, an ongoing sculpture that’s destined to be the largest mountain carving in the world. You’re given about an hour here to walk around, learn about the project, and take photos of the colossal work-in-progress. One reviewer called it “truly awe-inspiring,” which is a fair description of standing beside such a massive endeavor.

You’ll appreciate having the time to explore independently, as the site offers educational exhibits and impressive views of the mountain carving.

Return and Dinner Show at Fort Hays

The day concludes back at Fort Hays with a hearty chuckwagon supper and a lively music variety show. The meal, often described as delicious, offers hearty fare like barbecue and traditional cowboy dishes. The show is a colorful mix of musical acts, jokes, and entertainment suitable for all ages. As one traveler noted, “The dinner and show were fun and yummy,” making it a perfect family-friendly ending to a busy day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour is quite comprehensive in what it covers. All entrance fees are included, so you won’t be surprised by extra costs. It also features two meals—an all-you-can-eat cowboy breakfast at the start and a hearty chuckwagon dinner with a show at the end. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with a restroom, which helps keep the day smooth.

However, the tour does not include lunch—though there’s a stop for it at Custer State Park. Tips for guides and drivers are not included, so consider tipping if you appreciate their service.

Some reviewers mention that the timing of the breakfast and dinner can feel a little long-waited, and the lunch location can be somewhat disorganized. Yet, most agree that the overall value and experience outweigh these minor inconveniences.

The Value: Price and Experience

At roughly $164 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering it includes multiple major sights, all entrance fees, two meals, and entertainment. For travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights, it’s a cost-effective way to cover the essentials without the stress of self-driving or scheduling every stop.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to the Black Hills who want a guided, all-in-one day trip. Families will appreciate the mix of sightseeing and entertainment, and anyone looking to avoid the hassle of navigating winding mountain roads will find comfort in the guided bus.

If you’re interested in history, stunning scenery, and local culture, this tour hits all those notes. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate good food and lively shows to round out your day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with stops and entertainment that appeal across generations.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately nine hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all site entrance fees are covered, so there are no surprise costs.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor stops and dress in layers, as weather can change. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your camera.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, most stops allow enough time to explore independently, particularly Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Sylvan Lake.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, traveling in an air-conditioned coach with restrooms onboard makes the whole journey more comfortable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Are tips included?
No, tipping guides and drivers is optional but appreciated.

Is the dinner show suitable for children?
Absolutely, the lively variety show and hearty food make it a family-friendly end to the day.

Final Thoughts

This Mount Rushmore and Black Hills tour stands out as a well-organized, value-packed option for those wanting to see key highlights without the bother of planning or driving. Its balanced mix of scenic drives, iconic monuments, and entertainment makes it a meaningful, hassle-free way to experience South Dakota’s Black Hills.

While it may be a bit fast-paced for travelers who prefer longer stays at each site, most guests find it hits the sweet spot for a memorable day. The inclusion of meals, entertainment, and all entrance fees makes it a straightforward choice for visitors seeking convenience and a broad overview.

Best suited for first-timers, families, and anyone eager to get a broad taste of the Black Hills’ natural and cultural beauty—this tour offers a practical, fun, and memorable way to experience one of America’s most stunning regions.