Summer's biggest holiday celebrates the birth of the nation, so what better way to show your patriotism than heading to South Dakota to visit Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt (Theodore, that is)?
To Do: Go to the night show at the memorial's outdoor amphitheater, which includes a talk from a park ranger, the film
Freedom: America's Lasting Legacy and the lighting of the memorial.
To See: The presidents are the main attraction at Mount Rushmore. First, get a panoramic view of the sculpture from the Grand View Terrace. Then, follow the Presidential Trail to the base of the carving, where you can appreciate the grandeur of the 60-foot heads.
To Eat: There's only one restaurant at the park, so consider brown-bagging it.
To Stay: Rapid City, about 25 miles from Mount Rushmore, has a variety of places to stay no matter your budget.
For more information, visit
Mount Rushmore's official website.
