City of Presidents Walking Tour

Since 2000, Rapid City has been placing life-size bronze statues of every U.S. president on the street corners of its downtown — sculpted by a half-dozen South Dakota artists and designed not as cold figures on pedestals, but as intimate portrayals of each president's personality, placed at sidewalk level so visitors can step right up beside them. The project was the inspiration of local businessman Don Perdue, who envisioned the installation as a way to draw visitors heading to Mount Rushmore into downtown Rapid City. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, the trail now features statues of every president through Barack Obama, with new additions following each administration. Free walking tour maps are available at the City of Presidents Information Center at 632 Main Street, on the north side of Main between 5th and 6th Streets. A free audio tour, a dial-in version, and a scavenger hunt are also available for families. Presidential sodas and ice cream are sold at the visitor center — a quirky bonus for the walk.