20 Fun Things To Do In Deadwood South Dakota

1. Visit The Adams House

The Adams House is a must-visit place in Deadwood. It is a perfect spot to dive into the colorful history of the Adam Family. Built in 1892, this historic home belongs to a wealthy businessman Harris Franklin Adams, and his family.

The house was turned into a museum over time. This house certainly gives you a feel of how people lived in the late 19th century. Touring the house you will be presented with beautiful architecture and antique furnishing.

You can also attend exhibits that showcase personal artifacts and detailed stories about the Adams family and their contribution to the city. Nested in an easily accessible location, a visit to the Adams House is one of the major Deadwood, SD attractions. 

2. Walk Inside The Mount Moriah Cemetery

Founded in 1881, this historic cemetery is the last resting ground for many prominent citizens of the city. The Mount Moriah Cemetery contains the graves of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.

This cemetery takes you back into a chapter of Deadwood filled with stories. Walking through this cemetery you will have an opportunity to explore the city's hillside. From here you can take in some stunning views of the Black Hills and the surroundings.

The peaceful atmosphere makes the overall experience more relaxing. Along with a peaceful environment, the Mount Moriah Cemetery is a perfect place to remember and pay respect to those who were connected to the Wild West era.

3. Explore The Historic Old Town

While visiting Deadwood, the Historic Old Town is a place you would not want to miss. Exploring this town is like stepping back in time. The entire area features the charm and character of the Gold Rush era.

As you wander through the main street, classic saloons, old-time shops, and historic buildings come into sight. All these spots offer a glimpse into the past along with a picture-perfect backdrop.

Here you can visit various museums to learn about the legends of Deadwood. Apart from that, the town often hosts historic events, live music, and themed events that take you deep into the city's history.

4. Hike The George L. Mickelson Trail

A suitable destination for someone looking to spend a day filled with adventure is the George L. Mickelson Trail. This tail combines natural beauty with historical interest. Stretching 109 miles through the Black Hills, the trails take you on a scenic journey.

The trail offers stunning views of lush forest, rolling hills, and peaceful rivers flowing along. While on the trail you will travel on an old railroad route that adds a touch of history to the hike.

The entire path of the George L. Mickelson Trail is well-maintained and winds through beautiful small towns, old bridges, and mining sites. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the history of the region alongside the natural beauty of the Black Hills.

5. Explore The Adams Museum

The Adams Museum, nested in the heart of Deadwood is the oldest history museum of the Black Hills. Operating since 1930 this museum is housed in an historic building. Inside, you will find exhibits on the Gold Rush era.

Among these exhibits are the popular personal items of Wild Bill and the largest gold nugget ever found in the Black Hills. In addition to that, a collection of historic objects and rare items are also featured in the museum.

By exploring this family-friendly place, you will gain a deeper understanding of Deadwood's history and its role in shaping western America.

6. Visit The Broken Boot Gold Mine

Located just 1.5 miles away from downtown Deadwood, the Broken Boot Gold Mine is an easily accessible spot. This place is suitable to get a glimpse into Deadwood's gold rush history. The goldmine takes you on a journey of underground exploration. 

Entering the mine, the dark narrow passages welcome you into the tunnels. This is not just a thrilling experience but also a way to understand the daily lives of miners who worked there.

Moreover, the Broken Boot Gold Mine is also a great place to learn about old mining techniques through various equipment housed inside. After a few hours inside the mine, you can view exhibits and artifacts that are showcased outside to get a broader perspective.

7. Spend A Day At Tatanak: Story Of The Bison

A visit to Tatanak: Story of the Bison offers a unique educational experience. The site is centered around the history and importance of bison in North American culture. It is an engaging attraction that features multiple interactive exhibits, displays, and education programs.

All of these highlight the bison's cultural and historical significance. Here you can explore the story of the bison from ancient times to the present. The place thus can be used in tracing the history of bison from the prehistoric times down to the present.

Visitors can also enjoy a guided tour and participate in hands-on activities. Surrounded by a scenic landscape, this place was a roaming site for bison. So, it is better to keep an eye out for these creatures. Who knows you might get a glimpse of a bison.

8. Explore The Brothel Deadwood

While exiting the Adams Museum, a nearby place that you can pay a visit to is the Brothel Deadwood. The place tells of a rather hushed part of the city's history. It speaks about the tale of notorious brothels that once flourished in Deadwood during its prime gold rush period.

Exploring this place you will get to dive into the lives of the women who worked there. Here you can find preserved artifacts, old furnishings, and historical photographs that bring the stories to life.

The tour also offers insights into the history and impact of brothels on Deadwood's development. The Brothel Deadwood is where you can get a deeper understanding of the city's complex history.

9. Walk Around Mt. Roosevelt Monument

Mt. Roosevelt Monument is a refreshing walking destination in touch with nature and history, located just a short drive from the town of Deadwood. It is raised in honor of then-President Theodore Roosevelt and his contribution to the Black Hills.

It features a stone tower that provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the monument is pretty easy. It takes you through beautiful pine forests and rolling hills.

At the top, you can enjoy the stunning views of Balck Hills and the city of Deadwood from a peaceful environment. Strolling around you will find plaques and informative signs that provide details about Roosevelt, making it one of the popular attractions in Deadwood, South Dakota.

10. Explore The Days Of 76' Museum

Situated on the way to the Tatanka Story of Bison, the Days of 76 Museum is another great place to explore Deadwood's Wild West heritage. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the gold rush days.

Showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia, it illustrates the late 18th century in the city. One major attraction here is the collection of horse-drawn vehicles that were used as transportation in the past.

Adding more to the knowledgeable environment, the Days of 76' Museum also hosts interactive displays and educational programs. Attending these programs, you can learn about the lives of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.

11. Try Your Luck At Midnight Star Casino

The Midnight Star Casino is centrally located in downtown Deadwood. It was once owned by actor Kevin Costner and is a great place to find out how lucky you are. This place offers a mix of exciting and entertaining experiences.

With a touch of history, the casino features a wide range of gaming options to choose from. You can either spend time at slot machines or try going head-to-head with others on-the-table games.

Beyond gaming options, the Midnight Star Casino offers delicious foods to enjoy in a vibrant environment. As a popular venue, a special event is often held in the casino. A visit here is not only a chance to win some cash but also to enjoy a memorable night in Deadwood.

12. Learn About Trains At Northern Hills Railway Society

This place is a go-to spot for train lovers. Initially known as the Deadwood Model Train, the Hills Railway Society is situated right next to the Brothel Deadwood. Both of these places can be explored on the same day.

This things to do in Deadwood is where you will find an impressive collection of handcrafted model trains. The miniature landscapes surrounding these models are replicas of old railroads in Deadwood.

The exhibits feature vintage steam engines and classic railroad cars set against the scenery of the Black Hills. When visiting this place filled with craftsmanship, you will get to know about the roles of trains in Deadwood's development.

13. Visit The Deadwood Welcome Center

The very first thing you would do immediately after entering Deadwood would be to drop by the Deadwood Welcome Center. This would indeed make up for a great start to your adventure in this historical city. Within a convent location, this place offers information to help you enhance your travel experience.

You can grab maps, brochures, and personal recommendations on where to go here. The center also provides insight into the town's rich history through various informative exhibits and displays inside.

Additionally, the center offers details about seasonal events, tours, and special activities taking place around town. This welcome center is a fine place to plan your first time, or any other visit, to Deadwood.

14. Take Photos With Wild Bill Hickok Statue

Wild Bill Hickok, is a notable figure from the Wild West era of Deadwood. Honoring his legacy, the city has built his statue at the center of the city. The statue depicts Hickok in his classic attire along with his signature hat and revolvers.

Around this bronze statue, you can take some pictures to remember your trip after returning home. The statue provides a perfect backdrop to make your picture more interesting.

No matter what you are: a history buff, a fan of the Old West, or a casual visitor, this statue offers a perfect opportunity to capture a piece of Deadwood's past.

15. Go Skiing At Deer Mountain Ski Area

When visiting Deadwood during the winter season, the Deer Mountain Ski Area is a fantastic place to spend a fun-filled day. This ski area is located a short drive from Deadwood. It offers different slopes that are suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

As you enter the area, you will find multiple facilities like ski school and rental services. The well-maintained runs make the entire skiing experience smoother alongside the breathtaking views of the Black Hills.

After a day of skiing, you get warm at the cozy lodge while enjoying a meal with a panoramic mountain view. However, to experience this adventure, you will have to visit Deadwood in the winter season.

16. Bike The Whitewood Creek Trail

For someone looking to explore the outdoors, the Whitwood Creek Trail is a great option. Spreading across 2.7 miles, the trail has a perfect path for biking. This activity is ideal for experiencing the natural beauty of the Black Hills along with some physical work.

The path winds through gently rolling country with green forests and shining streams. You can see fine views of the surroundings on this journey.

While on the trail you can stop on several resting spots and take in the views or have a picnic with friends. Offering a sense of adventure in close proximity to nature, the Whitewood Creek Trail is suitable for riders of every skill level.

17. Have Fun At Kodiak's Arcade And Shooting Gallery

A fun place for kids and adults alike, Kodiak's Arcade And Shooting Gallery is a lively entertainment center. This exciting venue combines classic arcade games with interactive shooting experiences.

Inside you'll find a varieoy of retro and modern arcade games like pinball machines and video games. The shooting gallery adds a unique twist, with an opportunity to test your aim and shooting skills.

The atmosphere itself makes the overall experience more fun with every single person having fun along with friends and family. To add a sense of adventure you can compete with your friends at the Kodiak's Arcade And Shooting Gallery in exchange for a meal.

18. Explore The City On A Trolley Ride

A Trolley ride is simple yet fun way to explroe Deadwood city. It offers a scenic and informative tour of the town, making stops at popular places. Riding inside a trolly along with others is also suitable choice to socialize with other visitors.

As you travel across the city, you will get to known about the rich history from the trolley operators. The open air trolley provides a relaxed and unique waty to see the city.

Traveling through quaint streets and historic buildings nestled in the beautiful Black Hills, a trolley ride is both a convenient and informative way to see the city from a unique perspective.

19. Tour The Boot Hills In A Group

Touring the Boot Hill in a group is a memorable way to experience Deadwood's rich history. This tour is held in a open bus. It takes you through the historic cemetery of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.

The group element of the tour makes it more social allowing you to share stories with fellow visitors. The Boot Hill tour offers a fascinating historical context.

While on this tour you can learn about the daily life and challenges of the city's notable residents. Meanwhile, it is also a great way to enjoy some spectacular views from Mt. Moriah. 

20. Shop At The Antique Emporium

If you have come this far in the article, it means you have already visited the above-mentioned place and are about to return home. But before getting back on a returning flight, you should not miss out on the Antique Emporium.

This is where you will find those unique treasures and gift items. The entire store is filled with a diverse collection of antique, collectible, and historical artifacts. Each one of these pieces reflects the rich history of the area.

As you browse through, every item you discover has its own story.  So, picking up one or two things from here is a must-do before ending your trip to take a piece of Deadwood back home.