Crazy Horse Memorial
A colossal, unfinished mountain carving honoring Native American heritage, featuring a vast museum and cultural programs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy perfect weather.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy perfect weather.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal, unfinished mountain carving honoring Native American heritage, featuring a vast museum and cultural programs.
"It was such a great experience and we are so so glad we went and didn't just take pictures from the road."
Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for several hours to explore the museum & cultural programs.
Consider the bus tour
For a closer view, the $5 bus tour is a great value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mountain Carving
Thunderhead Mountain
A colossal, unfinished mountain carving honoring the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. It's larger than Mount Rushmore!
Indian Museum of North America
Explore the largest Native American museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of Indigenous peoples.
Cultural Performances
Witness captivating Native American dances, music, and storytelling that bring history to life.
Volksmarch Hike
Hike to the base of the monument during special events for a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Patience is Key: The Ongoing Legacy
Beyond the Carving: A Cultural Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for several hours to explore the museum & cultural programs.
Consider the bus tour
For a closer view, the $5 bus tour is a great value.
Embrace the culture
Engage with presentations & dances; it's more than just a statue.
Check Volksmarch dates
Hike to the base during these special events for a unique view.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for several hours to explore the museum & cultural programs.
Consider the bus tour
For a closer view, the $5 bus tour is a great value.
Embrace the culture
Engage with presentations & dances; it's more than just a statue.
Check Volksmarch dates
Hike to the base during these special events for a unique view.
Support the mission
Funding is visitor-based; your admission helps continue the legacy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the scale of the unfinished carving and the depth of the cultural experience offered at Crazy Horse Memorial. Many highlight the value of the Indian Museum of North America and the engaging cultural performances. While the ongoing nature of the carving is understood, some express a desire for faster progress. The memorial's self-funding model is also frequently praised.
"This place was phenomenal. I was only expecting to go look at the monument and then leave, but with it being the largest Native American Museum in the North America, there was so much more to it. We watched a presentation, looked at many many artifacts, read about different people and tribes, and then watched several dances with singing and music and even participated in a Native American circle dance at the end. It was such a great experience and we are so so glad we went and didn't just take pictures from the road."
Shannon Meibers
"We visited Crazy Horse Memorial on a beautiful morning, arriving right at 09:00. The weather was perfect, which made the whole experience even better. After a warm welcome, we started with the short film that explains the history and the incredible vision behind the monument. The museum was impressive, with fascinating Native American artifacts and stories.
We browsed the large gift shop before heading outside to take in the view of the massive carving in progress. There’s a huge car park, and for $5 extra you can take a bus ride closer to the statue. Our group of four paid $35 total for entrance, and for those who want the ultimate experience, there’s also a $125 minibus tour to the top.
We stayed until 10:45 — just a short visit this time, as there’s so much more to see and do here. Next time, we’ll definitely allow more hours to explore in depth."
Traveller Off the beaten track
"This is a must stop on your western South Dakota vacation!! It’s going to be HUGE when it gets finished. I am really hoping it’ll be done in my lifetime so I can go back and see it.
It’s impressive they are funding the project by themselves and receive no help from the government. Not many people would turn down 10 million dollars twice.
The stories told were incredible. The museum is beautiful!
Going the bus tour. It’s $5/person.
No one was at the counter when we got there. It’s a one man show. He gives the tours as well as collects the money. So just stay put to get your spot in line. It does fill up.
We also got a rock to take home from the monument. My kids loved that."
Jill House
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crazy Horse Memorial is located about 17 miles southwest of Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota. You can drive there in approximately 30 minutes. Many visitors combine visits to both sites on the same day.
Public transportation options directly to Crazy Horse Memorial are limited. It's best accessed by car. If you are traveling without a vehicle, consider local shuttle services or tour operators that may include Crazy Horse as part of a Black Hills itinerary.
From Rapid City, take US-16 S to SD-40 W, then follow signs for Crazy Horse Memorial. From Mount Rushmore, take US-16A S and then follow signs. The memorial is well-marked along the scenic routes.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available for visitors. The parking fee is typically included in the admission price.
While there isn't a dedicated public transit system, some tour companies offer transportation to the memorial as part of their South Dakota packages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, but a group of four paid $35 for entrance during a recent visit. The memorial is funded by visitors and private donations, not government funds.
Yes, besides general admission, there's a $5 bus tour to get closer to the carving and a more exclusive $125 'Hard Hat Van Tour' that takes you to the base of the mountain.
During the Volksmarch events, you can get admission waived with a donation of canned goods for the local food bank.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Crazy Horse Memorial website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. They typically open around 9:00 AM.
Advance booking is generally not required for standard admission. However, for special events like the Volksmarch, it's advisable to check their website for registration details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The memorial features the Indian Museum of North America, cultural presentations, Native American dances, and educational programs. You can also take bus tours closer to the carving.
A short visit might take an hour or two, but to fully experience the museum and cultural programs, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Some visitors wish they had more time.
No, the carving is still ongoing and has been in progress since 1948. It's a multi-generational project.
Yes, there are guided tours, including the bus tour and the 'Hard Hat Van Tour' which takes you to the base of the mountain. Tour guides share historical information.
Yes, visitors have the option to purchase a rock from the monument to take home as a souvenir.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant and snack bar on-site offering various food options. You can also find Native American frybread from local vendors nearby.
The on-site dining typically includes American fare. For authentic Native American cuisine, look for local vendors or restaurants in nearby towns.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas at many attractions. It's best to check their specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewing area offers excellent panoramic views of the carving. For unique shots, consider the Volksmarch days or the bus tour for closer perspectives.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the memorial. However, always be respectful of cultural performances and any restricted zones.
Drone usage is typically restricted at national memorials and monuments for safety and privacy reasons. It's advisable to check the official policy before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the $5 bus tour to get closer to the carving without a long walk. It's a great way to manage energy levels for younger visitors. The opportunity to purchase a souvenir rock from the monument is also a hit with kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for the $5 bus tour instead of more expensive guided excursions. Pack your own snacks or a picnic lunch to save on on-site dining costs. The cultural presentations are included with admission and offer significant value.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For unique shots, time your visit for the Volksmarch events to get ground-level perspectives. The bus tour also offers different angles. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, though be mindful of operating hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision and Legacy of Korczak Ziolkowski
+1What makes this project unique is its commitment to remaining independent. Ziolkowski and his family famously refused millions of dollars in federal funding, choosing instead to rely on visitor admissions and private donations. This decision underscores their dedication to preserving the integrity and cultural significance of the memorial, ensuring it remains a testament to Native American heritage, funded by those who appreciate it.
Today, the carving continues under the guidance of his children, carrying on his legacy. The memorial is not just a sculpture but a living tribute, aiming to educate visitors about the history, culture, and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples of North America.
Experiencing the Cultural Heart of the Memorial
Visitors can immerse themselves in living history through daily cultural presentations. These often include traditional Native American dances, music performances featuring drumming and flute melodies, and storytelling sessions. These performances are not just entertainment; they are educational opportunities to learn about the rich traditions and spiritual significance of Indigenous cultures.
Furthermore, the memorial is home to the Indian University of North America, which aims to further the education of Native youth. This educational component highlights the memorial's commitment to empowering future generations and preserving cultural knowledge.
The Crazy Horse Volksmarch: A Unique Opportunity
The event is more than just a hike; it's a community gathering that often includes participation from tribal members and supporters. It's a way to connect with the land and the spirit of the memorial. Participants are encouraged to bring canned food donations for the local food bank, which can also grant them admission.
Attending the Volksmarch offers a truly memorable experience, combining physical activity with a deep appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of Crazy Horse Memorial. It's a chance to be part of the ongoing story of this incredible undertaking.
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