Hidden in Stone: Discover the Mount Rushmore Museum Beneath the Monument

When most people think of Mount Rushmore, they picture the iconic faces of four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln—carved into the granite cliffs of South Dakota’s Black Hills. But few realize there’s an entire world waiting to be discovered beneath the monument.

Just below the grand viewing terrace lies the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center and Museum, a hidden gem that brings Mount Rushmore’s story to life. Named after the son of Gutzon Borglum—the sculptor who oversaw the mountain’s creation—the museum offers a deeper dive into the monument’s artistry, engineering, and enduring symbolism.

A Museum That Carves Out the Past

Inside, you’ll find detailed exhibits that explore everything from the monument’s construction to the lives of the workers who shaped it. Archival photographs, tools, models, and original plans help visitors grasp the immense scale and vision of the project, which spanned from 1927 to 1941.

Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, this museum invites you to see beyond the stone—into the passion, politics, and precision that brought these colossal figures to life.

Don’t Miss the Short Film

One of the highlights of the visitor center is the short documentary film played in the museum’s theater. Running about 15 minutes, the film offers a compelling overview of the monument’s creation, with rare footage and personal stories that add depth to the experience. It's the perfect prelude—or follow-up—to viewing the monument itself.

A Complete Experience

While the viewing deck offers that postcard-perfect photo op, stepping into the museum gives context and meaning to what you're seeing. It transforms a visit from a quick stop into an immersive, educational experience.

So next time you find yourself gazing up at Mount Rushmore, don’t forget to look down—and step inside the story behind the stone.