Staff Recommendations

Memorial Day weekend is a time to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifices so we, as Americans, can live in freedom.  Throughout the Black Hills there are a variety of activities and Memorial Day events happening to commemorate and honor those during this holiday.  As a family, you will find a wide variety of events in Rapid City and nearby to take part in.

During Memorial Day weekend, a visit to Mount Rushmore is something the whole family will enjoy!  Not only can you take in the great outdoors, but you are able to admire the beautifully sculpted faces of some of our country’s finest presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.  Immersing yourself in our country’s rich history is not only a learning experience, but fun for the entire family. While at Mount Rushmore, which is a mere 20 miles from Quality Inn and Suites, be sure to stop by the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, where you can view various exhibits and watch a short film examining just how Mount Rushmore was carved and created.  In addition to the exhibits, you can also walk the Presidential Trail, which is a beautiful .6 mile long walk alongside the mountain. This is your chance to experience the beauty of the Black Hills up close, and even catch glimpses of local wildlife at the foot of this national memorial. Beginning on May 25^th the Evening Lighting Ceremony, which takes place nightly around 9:00pm, will light up Mount Rushmore in the night sky with beams of light, patriotic songs will be played, and a speech by one of the park rangers about our nation’s great history occurs.  Before leaving Mount Rushmore, stop by Carver’s Marketplace for a bite to eat or grab a scoop or two of ice cream at the Ice Cream Shop. Locals to the Black Hills and tourists alike will both tell you this ice cream is a must stop shop!

Less than 25 miles away from Rapid City, nestled in the rolling Black Hills, is the sculpted Crazy Horse Memorial. Crazy Horse Memorial is the world’s largest mountain carving in progress and once completed will showcase the great Lakota Chief, Crazy Horse, on top of his horse pointing out into the distance of the Black Hills. During Memorial Day weekend, a special will be running where you can enjoy free admission by bringing three canned food items. There will also be different featured Native American artists throughout the museum showcasing their art and talents. Also starting Memorial Day weekend will be the "Legends in Light" Crazy Horse Memorial multimedia laser-light show.  This event occurs nightly at dark (around 9:30pm) and utilizes the mountainside as a “screen” display of laser lights.  These laser lights create a story by highlighting the rich history and culture of the Native Americans within the area. 

Walking around historic downtown Rapid City during Memorial Day weekend can be quite an adventure, especially if you are following the Presidential Walk path.  The heart of Rapid City is just a quick couple minute drive from Quality Inn and Suites. Throughout the City of Presidents you will be greeted by a series of life-size statues of our nations past presidents along the winding city streets. While enjoying downtown dining and shopping, you will be able to honor the legacies of our American presidents and have multiple opportunities for great photo ops!

After all the excitement of Memorial Day weekend, head back to Rapid City’s Quality Inn and Suites to relax at our award-winning and top-rated hotel. Quality Inn and Suites offers the perfect spot to rest, take a dip in the pool, and recharge on your vacation to the Black Hills!