RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) – From Badlands National Park to Jewel Cave National Monument, the government shutdown is having an impact on some of South Dakota’s most popular tourist attractions
KELOLAND News went to Mount Rushmore Wednesday.
While tourists were still showing up at Mount Rushmore this morning, many were disappointed with how much was shut down.
“It does take away part of our experience, however we’ve been here for a few days already, so we’ve been able to see some of the sights that other folks haven’t. But for those people, we feel like you know, it’s too bad that they planned their schedules and so forth and aren’t going to get the full experience,” Iowa tourist Dick Sievers said.
“I’m not so much worried about myself, but it’s a shame for the people that aren’t able to come to work and provide for their families, that’s the main concern for me. I think something they could’ve worked out beforehand,” Virginia tourist Kevin Roach said
The last government shutdown lasted 35 days back during President Donald Trump’s first term.
Individuals and families that choose to make a vacation out here in the Black Hills are unable to get the full experience of any place that they visit such as Mount Rushmore.
At Mount Rushmore, you can still pull up, park and walk up as close as you can to the monument. You’re unable to talk to park rangers and get full detailed information, making the most of the experience.
“We were planning to participate in some of those things, maybe a guided tour, something like that. Because that’s where you get background information and the details you may not know otherwise. So not being able to do that is disappointing,” Sievers said
The gift shop and food services will stay open, however, the information aspect will remain closed until further notice.
Park Rangers were unable to give any comments because they too are just waiting on this situation to be resolved.
