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Published Dec 16, 2024 · Updated Nov 6, 2025
Mount Rushmore is a National Memorial in South Dakota, a monumental carved face of four iconic U.S. presidents, symbolising the nation’s history, leadership, and unity amidst the breathtaking Black Hills.
How many tourists visit Mount Rushmore each year?
Mount Rushmore welcomed over 1.85 million visitors in 2024.
- Mount Rushmore attracted 1.96 million visitors in 2019. When the pandemic hit in 2020, this number still increased by 6% to approximately 2.07 million.1
- Around 2.53 million tourists visited Mount Rushmore in 2021.
- In 2022 and 2023, the total number of visits to Mount Rushmore dropped to 2.44 million and 2.43 million, respectively.
- Visitor volume further dropped to 1.85 million in 2024, a 23.9% decrease from the previous year.
How many people visited Mount Rushmore in 2025?
- Mount Rushmore recorded 1.74 million visitors from January to September 2025, representing a 2.8% increase over the same period of last year.
| Monthly Visitation in Mount Rushmore (YTD 2025) | |
|---|---|
| Month | INTL Visitors |
| January | 14,944 |
| February | 15,835 |
| March | 44,226 |
| April | 52,948 |
| May | 164,989 |
| June | 352,361 |
| July | 466,389 |
| August | 381,429 |
| September | 245,010 |
How many people visited Mount Rushmore in 2024?
- Mount Rushmore welcomed 1.85 million visitors in 2024, a 23.9% decrease from the previous year and 5.6% below pre-pandemic 2019 levels
How much do tourists spend in Mount Rushmore every year?
In 2024, visitor spending reached $304.2 million in Mount Rushmore.
- Visitors spent $116.79 million in Mount Rushmore in 2019. Total spending was not affected by the pandemic, increasing to $124.32 million in 2020.
- By 2022, spending climbed to $385.56 million, and in 2023, it peaked at $389.39 million.
- Visitor spending dropped to $304.2 million in 2024, a 21.9% decrease from the previous year, but 160.5% over the pre-pandemic year 2019.
How much did tourists spend at Mount Rushmore in 2024?
- Visitors spent $304.2 million at Mount Rushmore in 2024, exceeding the pre-pandemic figure by 160.5%.
How do visitors spend their money on Mount Rushmore?
- In 2024, Mount Rushmore visitors spent most in lodging, at $146 million.
- Visitors spent $46.1 million and $36.3 million in restaurants and gas, respectively.
- Retail and Recreation spending accounted for $26.8 million and $25.7 million, respectively
- Other sectors include groceries ($14.3 million), camping ($7.8 million) and transportation ($1.2 million)
How much does it cost to visit Mount Rushmore?
- The average spending per visitor per trip in Mount Rushmore was $164 in 2024. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, souvenirs, and recreational activities during their visit.
*Note: Derived by dividing total visitor spending ($304.2 million) by the total number of visitors (1.85 million) in 2024.*
- Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial is quite affordable, as there is no entrance fee to access the site.
- However, visitors are required to pay a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. This fee applies to all types of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and RVs. The parking pass is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
How long do tourists stay on Mount Rushmore?
The average length of stay for tourists visiting Mount Rushmore is relatively short as most visitors spend about 2 to 4 hours at the memorial itself, while those exploring the surrounding Black Hills region tend to stay an average of 1.5 days in total.
- At Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Visitors typically spend 2 to 4 hours viewing the monument, exploring the visitor center, Presidential Trail, and museum exhibits, and attending the evening lighting ceremony.
- In the Black Hills Area (including Mount Rushmore): The average stay is around 1.5 days, as tourists often combine Mount Rushmore with nearby attractions such as Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.
When is the best time to visit Mount Rushmore?
For a balance of good weather and manageable crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) are often considered the best times to visit Mount Rushmore.
- Shoulder Season (April-May & September-November)
- Weather: Pleasant temperatures, though some rain is possible.
- Crowds: Moderate; fewer visitors compared to peak season, leading to shorter wait times.
- Prices: More affordable accommodation and tour options.
- Activities: Most attractions remain open, making it a good time for hiking and sightseeing.
- Peak Season in Mount Rushmore (May – September)
- Weather: Warm, sunny days with occasional afternoon storms.
- Crowds: High visitor numbers; expect longer lines. Early or late visits can help avoid the rush.
- Prices: Elevated lodging and tour costs; book ahead.
- Activities: All attractions are open, with extended daylight ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
What are the peak tourist months in Mount Rushmore?
- July recorded the highest visitation with 438,400 visitors, making it the peak month for tourism at Mount Rushmore.
- August followed closely with 378,247 visitors, maintaining high summer tourism.
- June was another major tourist month with 334,771 visitors, marking the start of the summer peak.
- September saw a moderate decline but still high numbers with 254,146 visitors, as the fall season began.
- May initiated the surge in visitation with 160,438 visitors, signaling the start of the busy tourist season.
Economic Impact – Mount Rushmore Tourism Statistics 2024
- In 2024, visitors spent approximately $304.2 million in communities surrounding the memorial, supporting around 3,080 jobs locally and generating a total economic output of about $402 million.
How popular is Mount Rushmore as a tourist destination?
- Mount Rushmore is recognised as South Dakota’s top tourist attraction and plays a vital role in the state’s tourism industry.
- Its iconic status as “America’s Shrine of Democracy” and its historical significance draw visitors from across the nation and around the world.
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What should tourists do in Mount Rushmore?
- Walk the Avenue of the Flags and enjoy views from the Grand View Terrace.
- Explore the Presidential Trail for closer views and nature immersion.
- Visit the Sculptor’s Studio and Visitor Centre for insights into the monument’s history and creation.
- Attend the Evening Lighting Ceremony for a memorable patriotic experience.
- Enjoy ranger programs, Native American cultural events, and treats at Carver’s Café.
Mount Rushmore FAQs
When was Mount Rushmore built?
The construction of Mount Rushmore National Memorial began on October 4, 1927, and took 14 years to complete, finishing on October 31, 1941.
- The project was led by sculptor Gutzon Borglum, who envisioned the memorial as a tribute to four significant U.S. presidents.
Where is Mount Rushmore located?
- Mount Rushmore is located near the city of Keystone, South Dakota, in the Black Hills National Forest. The exact address is 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751.
How long did it take to build Mount Rushmore?
- Construction began in 1927 and was completed in 1941, taking 14 years to carve the mountain using dynamite and precision tools. Over 400 workers contributed to this massive project.
Who is on Mount Rushmore?
Mount Rushmore features the faces of four of America’s most influential presidents, each chosen to represent key moments in the nation’s history:
- George Washington symbolizes the birth of the United States, representing leadership, independence, and the foundation of democracy.
- Thomas Jefferson stands for the growth of the nation, honoring his role in the Louisiana Purchase and the spirit of exploration.
- Theodore Roosevelt embodies development and progress, recognized for his contributions to economic reform and natural conservation.
- Abraham Lincoln represents the preservation of the Union and the principles of equality and freedom during the Civil War.
Together, these four presidents carved into the granite cliffs of South Dakota symbolize America’s birth, growth, development, and preservation, making Mount Rushmore one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
