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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Road Trip Minnesota To Mount Rushmore Itinerary

Trip Itinerary: Minnesota to Mount Rushmore

Embark on a scenic journey from the bustling city of Minneapolis, MN, to the majestic Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. Your adventure begins in Minneapolis, a city famed for its rich arts scene, numerous lakes, and the iconic sculpture garden. Travel southwest to Sioux Falls, SD, where you can explore the spectacular Falls Park and relax by the Big Sioux River's rushing waterfalls.

Continue your drive to the quirky town of Mitchell, SD, and discover the Corn Palace, an extraordinary building adorned with murals made from local grains. It's a tribute to the region's agricultural prowess and an interesting cultural pitstop. Venturing westward, you will arrive at Badlands National Park, where you can immerse yourself in an otherworldly landscape of rugged rock formations and extensive prairies, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation.

After exploring the Badlands, make a stop at the famous Wall Drug Store in Wall, SD. Enjoy this delightful slice of Americana with its free ice water, unique souvenirs, and vintage charm. Your next destination is Rapid City, SD, known as the 'Gateway to the Black Hills'. Take time to wander around the historic downtown and appreciate the numerous statues of American presidents.

The final highlight of your road trip awaits at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Here, you can marvel at the immense mountain carving of four U.S. presidents, reflecting on the nation's history and the incredible feat of engineering it took to create this monument. This iconic site provides a powerful and inspiring conclusion to an unforgettable journey through the heart of America.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Minneapolis, MN

    Minneapolis is known for its beautiful lakes, vibrant arts scene, and cultural landmarks like the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. It's a great starting point for any road trip with a blend of urban and natural attractions.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Sioux Falls, SD

    Sioux Falls is home to the stunning Falls Park where the Big Sioux River tumbles over beautiful rock formations. The city offers a serene stopover with opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Mitchell, SD

    Mitchell is famous for the Corn Palace, a unique American folk art landmark decorated with murals made from corn and other grains. It's a quirky and educational attraction that celebrates the region's agricultural heritage.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Badlands National Park, SD

    Badlands National Park features dramatic landscapes with layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone interested in geology or paleontology.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Wall Drug Store, SD

    Wall Drug Store is an iconic tourist stop known for its free ice water, unique shopping experience, and kitschy Americana vibe. It offers a nostalgic look at roadside attractions and a fun break from driving.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Rapid City, SD

    Rapid City is known as the 'Gateway to the Black Hills' and offers a variety of attractions including the historic downtown, Art Alley, the City of Presidents statues, and proximity to natural and historic sites like Mount Rushmore.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Mount Rushmore National Memorial, SD

    Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a symbol of American history and democracy, featuring the famous carvings of four U.S. presidents' faces. It offers a chance to reflect on the nation's past and enjoy breathtaking views of the Black Hills.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Hell's Kitchen

    Hell's Kitchen

    An edgy, subterranean restaurant with unique decor and an adventurous menu in Minneapolis.
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    Falls Overlook Cafe

    Falls Overlook Cafe

    Offers a picturesque dining experience with views of the falls in Sioux Falls.
    Picture for Falls Overlook Cafe
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Corn Palace

    The Corn Palace

    While not a restaurant, this attraction offers concession stands where you can try corn-themed snacks in Mitchell.
    Picture for The Corn Palace
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    Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant

    Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant

    Enjoy local South Dakota cuisine with an incredible view of the Badlands.
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    The Gaslight Social

    The Gaslight Social

    A unique dining venue with a lively atmosphere and inventive menu items in Rapid City.
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  • Alpine Inn

    Known for its European ambiance and a menu that consists mostly of filet mignon, located in the historic Hill City.
    Picture for Alpine Inn
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    Full Throttle Saloon

    Full Throttle Saloon

    Claimed to be the world's largest biker bar, offering an out-of-the-ordinary dining and entertainment experience in Sturgis.
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    Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

    Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

    A family-owned spot that's renowned for its craft burgers and homemade ingredients in Custer, near Mount Rushmore.
    Picture for Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

Hotels

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    The W Minneapolis - The Foshay

    The W Minneapolis - The Foshay

    An art deco icon turned hotel, the first skyscraper of Minneapolis, offering a historical and luxurious stay.
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    JailHouse Inn

    JailHouse Inn

    Stay in an actual historic jail converted into a bed and breakfast in Preston, MN, for a unique lodging experience.
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    Siesta Motel

    Siesta Motel

    Quirky, classic and small-town America motel with themed rooms in Delmont, SD.
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    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Historic hotel with Native American art decor and supposedly haunted rooms in Rapid City, SD.
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    Badlands Interior Motel and Campground

    Badlands Interior Motel and Campground

    Offers a rustic experience right at the edge of Badlands National Park, perfect for outdoor lovers.
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    Coyote Blues Village B&B

    Coyote Blues Village B&B

    European-styled bed and breakfast nestled in the Black Hills, close to Mount Rushmore, offers a tranquil escape.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Scotty McCreery

    Scotty McCreery

    The event will take place at Corn Palace in Mitchell.
    Map IconCorn Palace in Mitchell (95.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Aug 2024
    Picture for Scotty McCreery
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    Billy Currington

    Billy Currington

    The event will take place at Dacotah Bank Center in Brookings.
    Map IconDacotah Bank Center in Brookings (157.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon30 Aug 2024
    Picture for Billy Currington
  • Event Icon

    Pendleton Porch Pass: Billy Currington

    Pendleton Porch Pass: Billy Currington

    Experience the ultimate concert vibe with The Pendleton Porch Pass for the Billy Currington show on August 29! This pass grants you exclusive standing-room access on the Pendleton Porch. Sip on your favorite drinks from a private bar, elevating your ...
    Map IconDacotah Bank Center in Brookings (157.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon30 Aug 2024
    Picture for Pendleton Porch Pass: Billy Currington
  • Event Icon

    PRIMUS and COHEED AND CAMBRIA

    PRIMUS and COHEED AND CAMBRIA

    The Denny Sanford PREMIER Center has a CLEAR BAG POLICY. Please visit our web site for more information: www.dennysanfordpremiercenter.com.
    Map IconDenny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls (161.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Jul 2024
    Picture for PRIMUS and COHEED AND CAMBRIA
  • Event Icon

    Styx & Foreigner with John Waite Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour

    Styx & Foreigner with John Waite Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour

    The event will take place at Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls.
    Map IconDenny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls (161.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Aug 2024
    Picture for Styx & Foreigner with John Waite  Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour
  • Event Icon

    Jim Gaffigan: Barely Alive Tour

    Jim Gaffigan: Barely Alive Tour

    The event will take place at Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls.
    Map IconDenny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls (161.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Sep 2024
    Picture for Jim Gaffigan: Barely Alive Tour
  • Event Icon

    for KING + COUNTRY LIVE: The UNSUNG HERO 2024 Tour

    for KING + COUNTRY LIVE: The UNSUNG HERO 2024 Tour

    The Denny Sanford PREMIER Center has a CLEAR BAG POLICY. Please visit our web site for more information: www.dennysanfordpremiercenter.com.
    Map IconDenny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls (161.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Oct 2024
    Picture for for KING + COUNTRY LIVE: The UNSUNG HERO 2024 Tour

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    You'll pass it on your way to Rushmore. And Branson has some nice shows - look ahead and book something. It's a tourist spot so prepare for that. The main road can get clogged...

    First road trip MT RUSHMORE anyone have any tips or cool ...

    You'll pass it on your way to Rushmore. And Branson has some nice shows - look ahead and book something. It's a tourist spot so prepare for that. The main road can get clogged...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    My 7 yo daughter and I take a road trip every year, and picked Rushmore this year. I found a bunch of things to do near there, but was looking for

    South Eastern Minnesota to Mount Rushmore road trip ideas!!

    My 7 yo daughter and I take a road trip every year, and picked Rushmore this year. I found a bunch of things to do near there, but was looking for

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    My favorite was driving around Custer State Park. Its famous for Bison Herds, and is right by Mt.Rushmore. As others have mentioned, the Badlands are super neat. We also visit...

    Is this trip worth it? - Mt. Rushmore

    My favorite was driving around Custer State Park. Its famous for Bison Herds, and is right by Mt.Rushmore. As others have mentioned, the Badlands are super neat. We also visit...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    Looking for some Mt. Rushmore road trip advice.

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    /r/minnesota
  • Reddit Icon

    If Rushmore isn't worth it, what recommendations do you guys have that's within a day's drive from Wisconsin that is worth seeing as a solo traveler in November. ... MN and th...

    Is it worth driving 11hr to see Mt Rushmore?

    If Rushmore isn't worth it, what recommendations do you guys have that's within a day's drive from Wisconsin that is worth seeing as a solo traveler in November. ... MN and th...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Road trip itinerary from Minnesota. ... but it was recommended that I repost here. Ive started planning a road trip from Minneapolis to see Rushmore, badlands, black hills, et...

    Road trip itinerary from Minnesota.

    Road trip itinerary from Minnesota. ... but it was recommended that I repost here. Ive started planning a road trip from Minneapolis to see Rushmore, badlands, black hills, et...

    /r/RapidCity
  • Reddit Icon

    Ive started planning a road trip from Minneapolis to see Rushmore, badlands, black hills, etc. Im not familiar with the area and am looking for some help. Im traveling with tw...

    Road trip itinerary from Minnesota.

    Ive started planning a road trip from Minneapolis to see Rushmore, badlands, black hills, etc. Im not familiar with the area and am looking for some help. Im traveling with tw...

    /r/BlackHills
  • Reddit Icon

    You bet. Even before there is a lot of traffic and people. Keystone - the town before you get to Mt. Rushmore is always buzzing with people. Mt. Rushmore has a lot of terrain ...

    Mt Rushmore

    You bet. Even before there is a lot of traffic and people. Keystone - the town before you get to Mt. Rushmore is always buzzing with people. Mt. Rushmore has a lot of terrain ...

    /r/SouthDakota
  • Reddit Icon

    Day 1: KC to Omaha. By evening reach Sioux falls for night stay and visit Winter Wonderland. Day 2: Start from Sioux falls to Rapid City and visit Mt.Rushmore if light permits...

    Road Trip to Mt. Rushmore

    Day 1: KC to Omaha. By evening reach Sioux falls for night stay and visit Winter Wonderland. Day 2: Start from Sioux falls to Rapid City and visit Mt.Rushmore if light permits...

    /r/SouthDakota

Music for Your Journey

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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    An upbeat anthem perfect for the open road and the sense of freedom that comes with a road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Laid-back vibes and smooth harmonies make it ideal for cruising through scenic landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster
  • Music Icon

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    An iconic road-trip song that encapsulates the drive toward adventure and escape.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run
  • Music Icon

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    A song about independence and going your own way, fitting for a journey of exploration.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster
  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    The quintessential song about the joys of travel and hitting the road.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live
  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    A classic tune that pays homage to one of the most famous roads in the USA.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Chuck Berry - Route 66
  • Music Icon

    Johnny Cash - I've Been Everywhere

    Johnny Cash - I've Been Everywhere

    A fast-paced song listing numerous U.S. cities, perfect for a cross-country road trip soundtrack.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Johnny Cash - I've Been Everywhere
  • Music Icon

    Luke Combs - Fast Car

    Luke Combs - Fast Car

    A reflective, storytelling song with a beautiful melody that suits long stretches of driving.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Luke Combs - Fast Car
  • Music Icon

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    A southern rock song that's always a hit on the road, with a chorus that begs to be sung along to.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama
  • Music Icon

    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    A song that explores the vastness and beauty of the country, resonating with the spirit of a road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)