Create Native Art in South Dakota at Crazy Horse Memorial

When you take the family to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota’s Black Hills, you do so much more than witness an epic sculpture in the midst of creation. You also introduce the family to some of America’s indigenous cultures, giving family travelers a chance to learn how to create beautiful native art of their own with the Living Treasures Program.

This program is one of several special events hosted by the site throughout the year, showcasing the history of the area and traditions of South Dakota’s tribal nations. Daily cultural performances, starting at the end of May, feature native dancing and music, while Mankoche Kin takes visitors on a tour of the surrounding land to learn more about the Black Hills and what the memorial means to native cultures.

The Living Treasures Indian Arts Cultural Exchange program gives visitors a hands-on approach to learning about the tribal nations who call this area home through the artwork of its peoples. Visiting indigenous artists will be on site to demonstrate and teach visitors how Native artwork, such as pottery, is made, and teach proper techniques to make these treasured designs. The workshops, designed to last no more than 90 minutes, happen during five different artist residencies throughout the year (May 28–June 3, July 2– 8, July 30–Aug. 5, Sept. 3–9, and Oct. 1–7).

The memorial is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. The site is currently open 9 a.m.–5 p.m., but these hours will extend beginning March 15, getting longer as the summer gets into full swing. Admission is charged based on the number of people per vehicle, with a price of $24 for two people and $30 per vehicle with three or more. These prices are in effect through May 25, when they increase slightly until the end of the summer season.