Best of Mount Rushmore and the Central Hills

Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center [1]: Everything you'd ever want to know about Mount Rushmore, the sculptor, the carving process, the wildlife at the park, and even western American history can be found at the center. Did you know that Washington has the biggest nose of all the presidents on the mountain? This visitors center is full of fascinating facts.

The 1880 Train: Created by rail enthusiasts who refused to allow steam trains to disappear from the landscape, the 1880 Train provides a leisurely trip between the Hill City [2] and Keystone train depots [3].

The Museum at Black Hills Institute [4]: The founders of the Black Hills Institute and subsequent museum were involved with the discovery of the infamous Tyrannosaurus rex Sue. There are dinosaur bones in South Dakota, and the Institute is known for excellent excavation and restoration work.

Prairie Edge Trading Company and Galleries [5]: This gallery of the best in contemporary and historic Native arts includes exquisite beadwork, star quilts, powwow regalia, ledger art, and music.

Journey Museum [6]: The definitive museum of the Black Hills has great interactive exhibits on archaeology, Lakota culture, geology, pioneer history, and local ecology.

Storybook Island [7]: Fairy tales and nursery rhymes come to life at this children’s theme park, where kids can meet the Three Little Pigs, the Cat in the Hat, Winnie the Pooh, and over 100 other characters.

Reptile Gardens [8]: At this delightful site for kids of all ages, daily shows feature live exhibits and talks about crocodiles, poisonous snakes, and raptors. Best of all are the free-roaming giant tortoises.

Bear Country U.S.A. [9]: Large animals roam this drive-through park, so you can view elk, bear, wolves, badgers, and wildlife babies from the safety of your car.