First time visitor needs advice

I am planning to visit Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial in April. I could find that there are no escorted tours available during this time. So only option left is to rent a car and do it myself.

I read in this forum that car rentals are expensive at Rapid City airport (where I will arrive). I read about “SHUTTLE SERVICE” to the hotel. What exactly is it? Is it something offered by the hotel or some other service available at the Airport?

Also please advise if I stay in a hotel in Rapid City, can I visit Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial in one day if I drive myself?

One more silly question, are there enough and correct signs on the highways so that I can manage myself in locating the hotel, attractions etc.?

First time visitor needs advice

Further to my above post, Is it easy to find Taxi at Rapid City Airport to go to the hotel. Approximately how much does it cost to a hotel about 8 - 9 miles away?

Thank you.

First time visitor needs advice

I would check into the car rentals at the airport before you become set on an off-airport rental. If you are only visiting for a short time, it might be best to rent a car from the airport. Many of the rental car discussions on this board have been about longer rentals--like a week or more.

If you do get a shuttle to your hotel, it could be one of two options. Some hotels run their own shuttle to the airport. This may or may not be included in the cost of your room--you will need to check. You can also use the Airport Express Shuttle. I believe their costs are reasonable. You can call them to check at 1-800-357-9998.

You won%26#39;t have a problem visiting Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day from Rapid City.

Signage is pretty good as many people visit the area. Your rental car company should give you a map.

The local taxi companies do not hang out at the airport. If you call one it is about $30.00 and takes at least 20 min. Shuttles are always available at baggage claim, the price depends on the number of people. 1 person 16.00, two people 25.00, three or more are 10.00 each to any location in Rapid City and they generaly leave as soon as the luggage arrives off of your flight.

800-357-9998 www.rapidshuttle.com

Thought I would add a few thoughts and other information for you.

First of all, the distance from Rapid City to Mt. Rushmore is less than 25 miles, and about another 7 or 8 miles to Crazy Horse.....definitely no problem for a day trip.

Now, others in this forum may disagree but I will say this anyway. Go to Mt. Rushmore first, then Crazy Horse. I think that, even though it is far from complete, Crazy Horse is the more impressive monument. Others may - and probably will - disagree but just weigh it out and make your choice.

Lastly, I would recommend that when you go, you make a ';loop';. Go through Keystone enroute to Mt. Rushmore and then to Crazy Horse. After that, head south to Custer and go east through Custer State Park where, with just a little bit of luck, you can see herds of buffalo up close (Not too close!) and personal. Then take Iron Mountain Highway back around to Keystone. On this winding highway, you will go through a couple of tunnels that has Mt. Rushmore directly on the other side....quite a sight!

I hope that helps you a bit....enjoy!

Thank you very much for the replies.