• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Visit the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Visit the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial
© Olga Mendenhall/stock.adobe.com

2. Tour the historic Big Thunder Gold Mine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tours
Tour the historic Big Thunder Gold Mine
© Big Thunder Gold Mine

3. View lifelike wax figures at National Presidential Wax Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
View lifelike wax figures at National Presidential Wax Museum
© National Presidential Wax Museum

4. Shop at Holy Terror Antiques

Category: Shopping
Shop at Holy Terror Antiques
© sv_production/stock.adobe.com

5. Stay in a lovely log cabin at Powder House Lodge

Category: Accommodations
Stay in a lovely log cabin at Powder House Lodge
© Powder House Lodge

6. Go on Alpine Slide at Rushmore Tramway Adventures

Tours
Go on Alpine Slide at Rushmore Tramway Adventures
© Monstar Studio/stock.adobe.com

7. Visit Rush Mountain Adventure Park and Rushmore Cave

Tours
Visit Rush Mountain Adventure Park and Rushmore Cave
© Rush Mountain Adventure Park and Rushmore Cave

8. See the historic 1880 Train - Keystone Depot

Category: Attractions
See the historic 1880 Train - Keystone Depot
© jovannig/stock.adobe.com

9. Admire the carvings at Dahl’s Chainsaw Art

Category: Museums & Culture
Admire the carvings at Dahl’s Chainsaw Art
© Dahl’s Chainsaw Art

10. Watch a western show at Red Garter Saloon

Category: Museums & Culture
Watch a western show at Red Garter Saloon
© Red Garter Saloon

11. Take the kids to Keystone Fun Zone

Take the kids to Keystone Fun Zone
© Keystone Fun Zone

12. Have lunch at the Powder House Lodge Restaurant

Category: Accommodations
Have lunch at the Powder House Lodge Restaurant
© Powder House Lodge Restaurant

13. Stop for coffee at Grapes and Grinds

Stop for coffee at Grapes and Grinds
© Grapes and Grinds

14. Have a healthy meal at Carver's Cafe

Category: Food & Drink
Have a healthy meal at Carver's Cafe
© standret/stock.adobe.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

Keystone is a tiny town in South Dakota, located in the heart of the Black Hills, best known as a base for exploring nearby Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and the surrounding area. Just outside Keystone is the famous Iron Mountain Road with a narrow granite tunnels and spiraling bridges. The area is richly forested and perfect for hiking, biking and snowmobiling in the winter. The Mount Rushmore Independence Day Celebration is worth traveling for.

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