How to Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial
Crazy Horse fought with a group of Native Americans in the attack on General George Custer and the 7th Calvary at Little Bighorn in 1876. Nearly 75 years later, work began on a monument to the Indian war hero on the side of a mountain in South Dakota. When the memorial is completed, it will be the largest sculpture in the world. The Crazy Horse Memorial is in the Black Hills of South Dakota on U.S. 16 near Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore.
Instructions
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Stop at the Welcome Center. The Welcome Center explains the history of the Crazy Horse project through exhibits and other information.
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Explore the Indian Museum of North America. The museum has collected Native American artifacts since 1965. Among the most popular displays are the authentic Plains tipi and an extensive collection of tribal flags.
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Visit the Native American Cultural Center. Built with stone blasted away from the mountain where the Crazy Horse Memorial is taking shape, the facility houses additional exhibits on Native American culture and artwork. At times, Native American artists and artisans are on hand for demonstrations.
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4
Try a Native American dish at the Laughing Water Restaurant. Some of the food samples are Tatanka Stew featuring buffalo meat slow cooked with vegetables, and a Native American taco, made with Indian Fry Bread. The Crazy Horse Memorial can be seen from the eatery's seating area.
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Take a bus ride to the bottom of the mountain for a close look at the memorial. These trips are available daily for a fee.
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Tips & Warnings
Bookmark the Crazy Horse website to keep up with current events.
If you plan to visit during the winter months, be prepared for harsh weather. It can get pretty cold in the Black Hills.