7 Things To Do In Deadwood On Your Next Day Trip

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, the small town of Deadwood stands as a tribute to the days of the wild west. Its rich history, told through beautifully preserved streets and architecture, brings stories of gunslingers, gold rushes, and pioneers to life. But beyond its storied past, Deadwood is a thriving destination for modern adventurers, especially those journeying in RVs. 

If you’re planning a day trip to Deadwood, be prepared for a blend of the historical and the contemporary, served up with genuine South Dakota hospitality. Book a Deadwood RV rental to explore the beautiful area.

Seven Things To Do In Deadwood In A Day

Historic Main Street

Historic Main Street isn’t just a route through Deadwood; it’s a journey through time. A walk down this iconic stretch provides a sensory-rich experience of the town’s yesteryears. From the wooden facades of buildings to the occasional echo of spurs on the sidewalk, Historic Main Street is where the old and new intermingle seamlessly.

Interspersed with these stores are Deadwood’s unique casinos. Unlike the neon-lit establishments in modern cities, these casinos maintain a vintage charm. While they offer contemporary games, the interiors are adorned with historical artifacts, photos, and decor that reflect Deadwood’s golden days. It’s not unusual to find a poker table where legends might have once sat or a roulette wheel that’s seen more than a century of spins.

Adams Museum & House

The Adams Museum owes its existence to Deadwood’s pioneering philanthropist, W.E. Adams. In 1930, with the aim of preserving and showcasing the Black Hills’ unique history, Adams donated the museum to the city. It was his way of honoring Deadwood’s pioneers, including his own family. It’s worth noting that this is Deadwood’s oldest museum, bearing witness to nearly a century of the town’s evolution.

Inside, the museum boasts a plethora of exhibits that span various facets of Deadwood’s history. Among the most captivating is the collection of personal belongings of some of the town’s most iconic figures, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Each artifact tells a deeply personal story, giving visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of these legendary characters.

Mt. Moriah Cemetery

High above the bustling streets of Deadwood, Mt. Moriah Cemetery stands as a quiet sentinel, overlooking the very town whose history it safeguards. This hallowed ground isn’t just a burial site; it’s a reflection of Deadwood’s soul, a place where legends rest and stories echo through the winds of the Black Hills.

While many cemeteries are revered for their peaceful ambiance, Mt. Moriah stands out for its roster of legendary residents. The graves of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are among the most visited, with fans and history enthusiasts alike paying their respects to these iconic figures. But beyond the infamous, the cemetery is also the final resting place for many of Deadwood’s unsung heroes – miners, pioneers, settlers, and many who played a pivotal role in shaping the town.

One unique aspect visitors often remark upon is the “Boot Hill” tradition. In the days of the Wild West, those who “died with their boots on” (often due to violence or other untimely circumstances) were buried at hilltop cemeteries. Mt. Moriah, with its elevated location, embraces this tradition, and the setting sun over the hills offers a poignant moment for many.

Tatanka: Story of the Bison

Tatanka, the Lakota word for bison, isn’t just a term to describe the great American Bison; it’s a word that encapsulates the essence of the plains, the spirit of the Native American tribes, and the pulse of the land itself. Deadwood’s “Tatanka: Story of the Bison” is more than just an attraction; it’s a heartfelt tribute to these magnificent creatures and their inextricable bond with the indigenous people.

The driving force behind this evocative experience is none other than renowned actor and director, Kevin Costner. Moved by his time filming “Dances with Wolves” and the profound connection he felt to the Black Hills region, Costner envisioned a space that would pay homage to the bison and the Native Americans who revered them. Thus, Tatanka was born, a sprawling 1,000-acre expanse dedicated to telling the story of the bison.

The main attraction that captivates visitors as they enter Tatanka is the impressive bronze sculpture depicting a scene from yesteryears. Created by artist Peggy Detmers, the sculpture showcases three Native American hunters on horseback, chasing 14 bison down a hill. 

Deadwood’s Culinary Scene

With the Black Hills serving as a lush backdrop, it’s no surprise that many of Deadwood’s chefs prioritize farm-to-table dining. Fresh game, local trout, wild berries, and native herbs often feature prominently. This commitment to local sourcing doesn’t just enhance flavor; it provides diners with a taste of the region, transforming each meal into a sensory exploration of Deadwood and its surroundings.

Complementing the food offerings, Deadwood boasts an impressive array of craft breweries and local wineries. The Black Hills’ unique microclimate proves favorable for vineyards, resulting in wines that are both robust and nuanced. 

Likewise, local breweries often experiment with native ingredients, producing beers that are both familiar and refreshingly novel. For visitors, this means an opportunity to sip on flavors that are quintessentially Deadwood.

Embracing the Call of the Wild

For those who yearn to connect with the natural world, Deadwood serves as an ideal base to dive deep into the heart of South Dakota’s most treasured landscapes.

Just a stone’s throw away from Deadwood, the Black Hills National Forest stretches over 1.2 million acres, offering a diverse range of habitats from ponderosa pine forests to expansive grasslands. Here, hiking trails like the ’76 Trail and the Flume Trail offer varying levels of difficulty and mesmerizing views. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, deer, mountain goats, and if lucky, the elusive mountain lion.

A bit further afield but well worth the drive, Custer State Park is a gem of the Black Hills. This vast park is renowned for its herds of free-roaming bison, scenic drives like the Needles Highway, and pristine lakes such as Sylvan Lake. 

Whether you’re into wildlife watching, fishing, rock climbing, or simply picnicking amidst nature, Custer State Park has something for every nature aficionado.

Nights in Deadwood

Deadwood’s rich musical heritage, from folk tunes to more modern genres, comes alive as night falls. Numerous venues across town host live performances, ranging from local bands playing country or rock to touring artists showcasing their talents. The ambiance is often intimate, making concerts in Deadwood a deeply personal experience, where artists and audiences connect amidst the backdrop of the town’s storied past.

For those intrigued by the supernatural, Deadwood’s dark history offers a plethora of ghostly tales. As night cloaks the town, guides lead brave souls on ghost tours through dimly lit streets, creaky hotels, and other rumored haunted sites. These tours are more than just scare tactics; they provide a unique lens to view Deadwood’s history, replete with tragic tales, unsolved mysteries, and eerie coincidences.

Wrapping Up

Deadwood’s allure is undeniable. For history enthusiasts, foodies, RVers, and just about any traveler, this South Dakota gem promises an unforgettable day trip. So, whether you’re reliving the tales of old wild west legends, enjoying a gourmet meal, or simply taking in the majestic Black Hills from your RV window, Deadwood awaits with open arms and stories aplenty.

Don’t forget to check out these RV rentals near Deadwood!