Deadwood

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Highway 14A
Deadwood, SD 57732
800-999-1876 Save to My Wishlist

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Deadwood Description

The entire town is a national historic landmark, true to its Wild West roots, right down to the replicas of turn-of-the-century street lamps. This is where Wild Bill Hickok was gunned down, and rumor says it's where the tradition of laying sawdust on bar floors began (barkeeps hoped it would hide spilled gold dust, which they could sweep up after closing time). It is once again a gambling town, so the raucous flavor of the Gold Rush era is replicated here as well, but it has a multitude of souvenir shops, gold panning, and Wild West re-enactments that appeal to the kids. Blend a rustic mini-Vegas, and Old West town, throw in lots of souvenir shops, and you have a feel for Deadwood. If the casino vibe bothers you, you might want to give this a pass.

Historical Landmark
Town

Kid Tips

School-Age Kids: Some kid-friendly Deadwood attractions to consider are Kevin Costner's Tatanka (Bison Museum), The Broken Boot Gold Mine, The Roo Ranch (kangaroos and wallabies), and Gulches of Fun (amusement park rides), as well as the staged gunfights at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. inside the #10 Saloon. The gunfight on Main Street, just before the Trial of Jack McCall (every evening at 8 p.m. in summer), is also a lot of fun.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Most of the attractions that appeal to school-age kids (listed above) will appeal to pre-teens and teens as well, with the possible exception of Gulches of Fun. It has miniature golf and an arcade, but none of the adrenaline-drenched rides that teens love.

Planning Notes

Use the public transportation. Parking can be tough in Deadwood, and the attractions are scattered, so take advantage of the city trolley service that shuttles visitors around. The fare is $1 per person.

Just the Facts

Hours: The town, casinos, and lodging are open year round, though many of the activities and attractions are only open during the summer. Call ahead to specific attractions for dates and hours open.

Fees: Free

Recommended Time: 3 4 hours