Ramada by Wyndham Keystone Near Mt Rushmore

Mt. Rushmore's White House Resort is a two-pearl motel, not a true resort property. This budget tourist spot has decor and architecture that are more chain hotel than charming Western-style inn. The atmosphere is friendly, but the decor is definitely dated, with lots of oak, gold trim, floral wall-to-wall carpet, artificial flower arrangements, and '80s-era chintz valences. The basic lobby is stocked with tour pamphlets, souvenir postcards, and a collection of rubber duckies lined up along the wooden front desk. While not glamorous, this property has a prime location, with plenty to do within walking distance. 

There are a few cowboy-inspired touches; visitors enter the casino lounge through a set of swinging saloon doors, for example. The White House casino serves cheap drinks under bright lights, and has a bank of video poker machines. The Railhead Restaurant is an all-you-can-eat buffet with the feel of a no-frills western diner. The White House has a casual, welcoming feel, with enough amenities that tourists will find what they need on-site, but guests who want an upscale mountain hideaway should look elsewhere.

Mt. Rushmore's White House Resort is conveniently located at the end of Keystone's main strip, surrounded by shops and restaurants. The hotel is within walking distance of almost all of Keystone's tourist attractions; guests can leave their car in the parking lot and explore Keystone Station, or take a short drive to the many nearby trails and caves. Big Thunder Gold Mine, Gutzon Borglum Historical Center, the National Presidential Wax Museum, and the Rushmore Tramway are all within a 10-minute walk. Mount Rushmore is 2.8 miles from the White House, while Custer State Park is 8.8 miles away.

Rooms at Mt. Rushmore’s White House Resort come in a variety of configurations, from singles to suites with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. There are also a few off-site chalets that have kitchens, decks, some with views of the monument. The rooms are made cheerful with salmon-colored accent walls, but are undeniably dated -- think wallpaper borders, wall-to-wall green carpeting, and floral bedspreads with colorful tropical designs. The old-fashioned decor continues with basic light wood furniture and tube-style TVs. There is a small table and chairs in each room, and some have large whirlpool tubs in the bedroom areas, while others have working fireplaces. Some guests have complained that the beds are uncomfortable. Bathrooms are simple with shower/tub combos and wall-mounted hairdryers. 

The Honeymoon Suite is actually a small studio apartment with a kitchenette, breakfast bar, and whirlpool tub. Amenities in all rooms include microwaves, mini-fridges, and free toiletries, but no in-room safes. Light sleepers should be aware that some rooms have thin walls. There is one elevator to the second floor, so guests with mobility issues may wish to request the first floor. Rooms at the front have the best views. Adjoining rooms are available upon request. 

Hotel features include the Railhead Family Restaurant, Lounge, and Casino. The casual restaurant is lined with red vinyl booths and western memorabilia, and serves a buffet-style breakfast and lunch. The Lounge is small and relaxed, and the casino consists of a bank of video poker and slot machines. There is a large heated indoor pool and hot tub surrounded by a wide deck furnished with lounge chairs and tables with beach umbrellas -- for atmosphere only, as there is no sun. The motel's exercise room is small and for dedicated exercisers only; it contains a handful of cardio machines, but no weight equipment. The fitness room has quite a dated feel with low ceilings, carpeted floors, and fluorescent lights. A gift shop and guest laundry are located on-site. The resort also has several conference rooms available for groups. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but unreliable.