It seems people have always been attracted to Deadwood like a magnet. This small city in the Northern Black Hills of South Dakota seems to have plenty of things to do for everyone. I doesn’t matter what your are into: Gaming, history, hiking, winter sports, enjoying local food and wine – there is something here for you.
Be sure to us my interactive Deadwood Map to find plenty of things to do.
History
If you have never been to Deadwood I encourage you to pickup a copy of Raiding Deadwood’s Bad Lands
Museums are a great place to learn more and Deadwood has some great options.
Adams House – Beautifully preserved 1892 Queen Anne-style home
Adams Museum – Built in the 1930s as a tribute to the area’s pioneers
Days of 76 Museum – Amazing collection of wagons, stage coaches and carriages
Mount Moriah – The final resting place of some of Deadwood’s most famous residents
Saint Ambrose Cemetery – A lesser known, beautiful Catholic Cemetery
Friendship Tower – Just a few miles out of town on Mount Roosevelt
Main Street Shootouts – Historical reenactments in the summer
Outdoor Fun
Mickelson Trailhead – The 109-mile trail starts in Deadwood
City Park – A great place to relax and let the kids play
Hiking – Numerous options in and around Deadwood
Scenic Drives – Explore the area and find a place to enjoy the natural beauty
D.C. Booth – A historic fish hatchery in nearby Spearfish
Bear Butte – A place held sacred by Native Americans, a 20-minute car ride
Tatanka – Just outside town, amazing views and Buffalo statues
Preacher Smith Monument – Just outside town, a tribute to a Historic Figure.
White Rocks – An unmarked trail above Mount Moriah
Tour and Explore More
Bus Tours – Numerous tours leave right from Main Street.
Trolley – Hop on the trolley to have a tour of the town
Model Train – Fascinating train in the basement of the Bad Lands Casino
China Town Tours – Not sure if they are authentic, but you won’t forget it
Broken Boot Gold Mine – Peak inside an old mine and try panning
Boondock’s – Take a drive to the 1950’s
Annual Events
Your Deadwood experience can vary depending on the time of year your visit. There are events all year long – time your visit to coincide with an event you will enjoy.
New Year – Start the New Year by watch the ball drop on Deadwood’s Main Street
Mardi Gras – Not New Orleans, but a ton of fun
St. Patrick’s – You may believe you are Irish after this celebration
Mickelson Trail Marathon – Not for the faint of heart
Wild Bill Days – Music, shooting and excitement
Days of 76 – Rodeo and parade, highly recommended
Motorcycle Rally – Bikes everywhere and a good time
Kool Deadwood Nights – Classic Cars, free concerts, great people
Deadwood Jam – Live music in the heart of Deadwood
Oktoberfest – Bottoms up, save room for bratwurst
Deadweird – Costumes and cash prizes
Roller Derby – Tough ladies, proud fans
Concerts at the DMG – Deadwood newest casino, Big name concerts
Watch for all the event updates here.
