Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
We would pick you up from your Rapid City hotel at 6:30-6:45 pm in 7 or 12 passenger van depending on if we have others going. It is a 45 minute drive to Mt Rushmore. You would have half an hour to get to the amphitheater to get a seat for the program that starts at 8:00 pm. There is a 10 minute Ranger Talk about some topic about the 4 presidents. After the talk is a 20 minute video about the growth of the country in relation to the 4 presidents. At 8:30 pm, the Star Spangled Banner is sung and the lights go on the faces.
Veterans and military are invited to the stage to help retire the flag and be honored. It is about a 45 minute program. We do have blankets for you in your vans if it is a chilly night. But, plan on bringing a jacket as it cools off once the sun goes down. We would get you back to Rapid City around 9:45 pm.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
The evening begins with a scenic 45-minute drive from Rapid City, arriving at Mount Rushmore by 7:30 PM to allow ample time for you to secure a seat in the amphitheater before the 8:00 PM start. The formal program opens with an insightful 10-minute Ranger Talk focusing on the history or characteristics of the four presidents, followed by a 20-minute film documenting the growth of the United States. The highlight of the night occurs at 8:30 PM, when the National Anthem marks the moment the massive granite faces are illuminated against the night sky. The ceremony concludes with a moving tribute where veterans and active military members are invited to the stage for the retirement of the flag, wrapped up by 9:00 PM for your return trip. Given the drop in temperature once the sun sets in the Black Hills, it is highly recommended to bring a jacket to supplement the blankets provided in the van for the ride back to your hotel.
Options
Mt Rushmore 8pm Lighting Ceremony Shared Tour
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Admission fee
Snacks
English Speaking Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Optional Dinner at Mt Rushmore is on your own
Gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1 review
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great service and friendly local guide
jlanphere,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Trevor was a great host and guide. Shared lots of information about the area and the monument. Made the entire excursion even better. Since we had never been to this area before it was great to have a tour guide to navigate, especially at night.
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Operated by Affordable Adventures