Although the concept of "red tourism" has been around for decades, it wasn't officially included in the country's national tourism plan until 2004. Some analysts say it presents a doctored version of history -- others going so far as to call it outright brainwashing.
Pour one out for anyone who has ever visited Stone Mountain, colonial Williamsburg, or looked at a statue of an American white man.
even disregarding the land theft and desecration I've never understood what makes Mount Rushmore so desirable. I assume the proximity to Yellowstone--otherwise aesthetically it might as well be America's biggest ball of twine.
Update: I take it back if I happened to be passing through I would happily visit any of the three competing largest balls of twine in the United States. Nowhere Minnesota might be a bit unrealistic, but a random gazebo in Kansas City and the Ripley's museum in Branson, Missouri? They each have points in their favor. Missouri sure does love their twine!