Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. The memorial, which features the colossal sculptures of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, offers an experience that combines natural beauty with American history. While the experience of visiting Mount Rushmore is free, there are several fees to be aware of, particularly regarding parking and special activities. This article will explore these costs in detail, including entrance fees, parking fees, fee-free days, and tips for a smooth visit.
Entrance Fee: No Charge for Entry
Good news for visitors: There is no entrance fee to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial. You can walk around, enjoy the breathtaking views, and appreciate the artwork without paying a fee to enter. The area surrounding the memorial offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and learning about the history of the U.S. presidents depicted in the monument.
The lack of an entrance fee makes Mount Rushmore an affordable destination for families, students, and history enthusiasts. However, while the entrance is free, other costs related to the visit, such as parking and tours, may apply. Be sure to plan ahead to make the most of your experience.
Parking Fee: Required for Concession-Operated Parking
While you can visit the memorial for free, there is a parking fee for using the concession-operated parking facility located on-site. The parking fees help support the upkeep and operation of the memorial grounds. The rates vary based on the type of vehicle you are driving.
Cars
The fee for parking a standard car is $10 per vehicle.
Motorcycles
The fee for parking a motorcycle is $5 per motorcycle.
RV Parking
RVs, buses, and larger vehicles have a higher parking rate, with fees set at $30 per vehicle.
Commercial Tour Buses
Tour buses, which often bring groups of visitors, are charged a higher fee of $50 per bus.
These fees are payable at the parking lot, and you can park in the designated areas closest to the memorial for easy access.
Fee-Free Days: Special Days for Free Admission
Although there is a fee for parking, Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers a few days throughout the year when admission is free for all visitors. These fee-free days allow you to enjoy the park without paying the entrance or parking fees. These days are typically associated with national holidays or special celebrations.
Some of the fee-free days at Mount Rushmore include:
National Public Lands Day
Held annually on the last Saturday in September, this day encourages people to explore and appreciate the nation’s parks and public lands.
Veterans Day
On November 11th, Mount Rushmore honors veterans by offering free admission to all visitors. This is a great opportunity to pay tribute to those who served in the military.
While parking fees still apply on these fee-free days, the ability to enter the memorial without paying an entrance fee makes these days an excellent opportunity for those interested in visiting on a budget.
Passes
Certain Passes Cover Entrance Fees but Not Parking Fees
For frequent visitors to national parks, the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass is a great way to save on entrance fees. This pass covers the entrance fees for both individuals and families at most national parks and federal recreation lands, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Annual Pass: The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands
Annual Pass costs $80 and provides unlimited access to federal lands for one year.
Senior Pass: Available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older, the Senior Pass offers lifetime access to national parks and federal lands for a one-time fee of $80.
However, it’s important to note that these passes do not cover parking fees. Visitors holding a National Parks Pass or Senior Pass will still need to pay the parking fee to use the parking facility at Mount Rushmore.
Additional Costs: Fees for Special Tours or Activities
While the entrance to Mount Rushmore and general sightseeing is free, some additional activities or tours within the park come with an extra cost.These include:
Audio Tours
Available for a small fee, audio tours provide a guided experience that explains the history behind each of the sculpted faces and the creation of the memorial.
Ranger-led Programs
While some ranger-led programs are free, there are special, enhanced programs that may have a nominal fee.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Mount Rushmore hosts special events, like lighting ceremonies, festivals, and educational programs, some of which may require tickets or a small fee.
Before visiting, check the official Mount Rushmore website or contact the park directly to learn about any scheduled special tours or events and their associated costs.
Payment Methods: How to Pay for Parking and Fees
When you arrive at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, you’ll need to pay for parking either by cash or credit card. The parking payment station is located at the entrance to the parking lot, and you can easily pay on-site. It’s important to keep in mind that parking is handled separately from entrance fees, so even if you have a pass that covers entrance, you’ll need to budget for parking.
Cash
Ensure you have cash on hand, as the parking machines typically accept exact change.
Credit Cards
Most parking machines accept credit cards, including major ones like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
It’s always a good idea to check the payment options available at the time of your visit, as payment systems may change from year to year.
Visitor Tips: Maximizing Your Visit to Mount Rushmore
To make the most of your visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, consider these helpful tips:
Arrive Early
Mount Rushmore can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early in the morning will help you secure parking and enjoy the monument before the crowds arrive.
Check for Special Events or Closures
Before heading to the park, check the official Mount Rushmore website for any closures, events, or special activities that may affect your visit. Some special events may require you to plan ahead for tickets or specific times.
Plan for Weather
The weather in the Black Hills can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast and bring appropriate clothing. If you plan to visit in the winter, be aware that some facilities or services might be limited.
Take Advantage of Educational Resources
If you’re interested in learning more about the memorial’s history, consider using the audio tour or attending one of the ranger-led programs to deepen your understanding of this national treasure.
Be Prepared for the Parking Fee
Remember that while there is no entrance fee, you’ll need to budget for parking. If you are traveling with a larger vehicle or a group, keep in mind the higher parking rates for RVs and buses.
Don’t Forget Your Camera
The memorial provides stunning photo opportunities. Be sure to capture the monument and surrounding scenery.
Conclusion
Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers visitors a unique and enriching experience, combining natural beauty with American history. While there is no entrance fee, visitors should be aware of the parking fees, the availability of fee-free days, and the costs for special tours or activities within the park. Planning ahead by reviewing parking costs, passes, and payment methods can ensure that you have a smooth visit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to enjoy the beauty of this historic site, Mount Rushmore is a must-see destination for travelers to the Black Hills.
