Chicago to Mount Rushmore...?
 

Hi There,
I am planning a trip for my family and I from the west suburbs of Chicago to Mount Rushmore. I would appreciate any kind of advice, guidance, tips, paths, parks and fun experiences to expose the kids to, ages 4, 8, and 9 on our way. First time heading this way. :)
Thank you in advance!

Welcome to Fodors Tammy. The trip report icon is used for reports on trips you have already taken.
Leaving from the west side of Chicago, I would plan on driving as far as Mitchell, SD the first day.
See the famous Corn Palace in Mitchell the morning of the second day and then head for the Badlands and then to Mt. Rushmore.
While you are in the area be sire to see Custer State park and Wind Cave NP.
Work is still going at the Crazy Horse Monument.

You didn't say what month and how long this trip was going to be.
If you have more time, consider seeing Devil's Tower in NE Wyoming. With even more time I would see at least part of Yellowstone NP.

How many days, time of year, and interests?
It is a long drive so make sure you have something to keep the kids entertained. There really isn't much between Chicago and the hills (Mississippi and Missouri River crossings are about it). If your kids love swimming, get a hotel with pool on trip out so they have something to look forward to after a long drive.
West of rapid city: Badlands national park or tour the minuteman missle silo
Southern hills: Mount Rushmore, Custer state park wildlife loop, iron mountain drive (scenic drive) , needles highway (scenic drive), bear country USA (drive through animal park) reptile garden, mammoth site (great for kids who like bones), 1880 train, cosmos mystry area, crazy horse, wind cave, jewel cave, tons of hiking.
Northern hills: spearfish canyon (pretty drive I love stopping and wading in the stream as a kid or stop and see the waterfall), trout fishing, gold mine, spearfish fishery, hiking, see the deadwood shoot out.
Horse back riding, atv, chuckwagon dinner and show.
Avoid going in the beginning of August ( sturgis bike rally takes over the entire area)