News Release

Summer Opportunities at Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Photo of Gutzon Borglum's original scale model located in the Sculptor's Studio.

NPS

News Release Date: May 30, 2019

Contact: Maureen McGee-Ballinger, 605-574-3115

KEYSTONE, SD - The official start of the summer season offers enhanced visitor enjoyment through extended hours and the opening of the newly restored Sculptor’s Studio.

After over a year of historic restoration, the Sculptor’s Studio will reopen May 31. The restored studio will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8: p.m. during the summer. Enhancements to the studio include a new Mount Rushmore Bookstore, access to the buildings, accessible public restrooms and an elevator. The Information Center, open 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, will provide information on a variety of interpretive opportunities. Enjoy a video enhanced version of the self-guided audio tour available from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 pm. at the Audio Tour building across from the Information Center. Due to the opportunity to address deferred maintenance projects, the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, the Avenue of Flags, the amphitheater and a short section of the Presidential Trail will not be available.

Beginning Friday May 31, everyone is invited to attend the first evening program and lighting ceremony. The program will be offered nightly at 9:00 p.m. through August 10, weather permitting. August 11 the evening program start time will change to 8:00 p.m. continuing through September 30. Listen for the ranger’s announcement each evening as the evening program will be held near the beginning of the Avenue of Flags. Come and enjoy a variety of interpretive programs that will be offered throughout the day, check the Information Center for specific topics and times.

The Carver’s Café will be open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Taste Thomas Jefferson ice cream at the Memorial Ice Cream Shop 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Remember your visit with an item from the gift shop, open 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The parking facility with a new automated ticketing system and solar collector will operate from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Throughout the rehabilitation process the Carvers’ Cafe, gift shop, and Mount Rushmore Bookstores will have open facilities. Visit the park Information Center or check the park website www.nps.gov/moru for additional information as work progresses.