Things To Do in Deadwood, SD: Exploring Haunted History

A town of history, a town of mystery; Deadwood seems straight out of a Wild Wild West Hollywood picture, and actually is (more on that later). This boom town was once filled with dreamers, adventurers, the lucky, the poor, and the lawless. But is there more to this historic town than meets the eye?


Join us today as we explore Deadwood and discover why this storied town is worth a visit on your next trip through South Dakota. This helpful guide will help you plan a visit to the best Deadwood attractions and nearby scenic spots.

A man in a cowboy hat is standing in front of a building

What is Deadwood Known For?

Don’t let the name scare you, this town was once the epicenter of vibrant dreams and thriving townsfolk. Found in a dry gulch of the Black Hills, Deadwood used to be a gold mining town made famous for its colorful characters and wild, lawless history.


Even today, Deadwood embodies the spirit of the West. Deadwood is famous for its reputation as a true Wild West town, where the lure of gold brought in the likes and legends of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Seth Bullock, and many more. Deadwood and its surroundings boast enough attractions to keep vacationers busy for a week.

A row of brick buildings with red awnings on them

Start your shopping by strolling down historic Main Street and immersing yourself in the timeless heritage of Old Western buildings.


For a taste of the traditional, you’ll find whiskey shops, local jerky, and even western wear. And don’t forget to visit a local jewelry store like Berg Jewelry to take home a bit of Black Hills gold.


Explore the History of Deadwood

You can’t visit Deadwood, South Dakota, without experiencing the unforgettable Wild West history; it's an experience you won’t forget. The town's history provides insight into the lives of those pursuing riches.


Deadwood has several museums and mine tours that keep those rough and tumble days of gold prospecting alive. 

Here are just a few of the historical museums in Deadwood worth a visit:

Unique Shopping on the Deadwood Streets

The Days of 76 Museum

The Days of 76 Museum was established to commemorate the settlers who ventured into the Black Hills to mine its gulches. The museum collects Old West Pioneer and Indian artifacts, archives, firearms, wagons, and stagecoaches.


Broken Boot Gold Mine

The Broken Boot Gold Mine will lead you underground to the old worn paths of mine cars. You’ll practically hear the blast of dynamite or the crunch of a miner’s pick. Get your bones chilled and try the Candlelight Ghost tour in the evening.


Adams Museum

No, this isn’t a museum based on Wednesday Addams or Cousin Itt, but an intriguing attraction showcasing the Black Hills Gold Rush. The Adams Museum is Deadwood's oldest museum and visitors can browse artifacts from the Gold Rush and notable legends like Wild Bill Hickok, and Calamity Jane. The museum is open the whole year and features rotating exhibitions and special events

A clock in front of a building that says hotel

Best Hiking Trails Near Deadwood 

For the hiker, the biker, the trail runner, and the explorer, woodland trails traverse the Black Hills like ribbons. From easy strolls past historical sites to natural wonders, there’s an outdoor adventure for anyone around Deadwood. There are many great trails to explore.


Here are a few we recommend, but with a little research, you’ll find an abundance of choices.

A lake surrounded by rocks and trees in the middle of a forest.

Mount Moriah Cemetery Loop 

Length: 1.0 Mile

Time to Visit: About 33 minutes

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This straightforward route takes a loop around the cemetery where many of Deadwood’s famous and infamous characters are buried: Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Seth Bullock, and others. It’s a pleasant historical walk open year-round.


George S. Mickelson Trail 

Length: 106.5 Miles

Time to Visit: Multi-day

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This is a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and running, which is accessed by 15 different trailheads. This pathway, made of gravel and asphalt, is considered moderate in its difficulty, but it does provide some gorgeous scenery.


Custer Peak

Length: 4.6 Miles

Time to Visit: 2hrs

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Reaching the summit of Custer Peak is worth the trek, as the view is stunning and unobstructed. Appropriately, the peak is named after General George Armstrong Custer, who explored the area in 1874. Highway 385 accesses the peak, which takes you to some forest roads, but you will have to hike the remaining four miles to reach the summit.

A row of old wooden buildings in a western town

If you have a soft spot for historical fiction or feel like you were a rugged cowboy in a past life, you’ll love Deadwood. The show ran for a few years on the HBO Network and the general plot includes historical truths and substantial fictional elements. Many of the characters are based on real people who lived in Deadwood.


The writer used real diaries and newspapers from many of the 1870s residents, giving the show some unique historical accuracy. The show ran for 3 seasons and was wildly successful winning 8 Emmy Awards. Visit and explore Deadwood and then watch the show and see how it stacks up.



A wooden sign that says historic site saloon number 10 where wild bill was shot august 2 1876

Is Deadwood Haunted?

Although we can’t say one way or another if the town is haunted, Deadwood has embraced the bone-chilling legends and ghost town reputation. If you’re visiting during the fall, consider stopping by during the annual Deadweird event. 


The spooky event is a fun experience for locals and visitors of all ages as the town rings out with exciting celebrations, live music, and elaborate costumes. You might even come across some of the Wild Wild West characters who used to live in Deadwood.

Stay at Summer Creek Inn

Well, if you’re wondering if Deadwood is worth visiting, we’re happy to report YES! Given the colorful history of the town, rich past, natural beauty of the Black Hills, and the sheer amount of attractions, Deadwood is definitely worth exploring. 


For a more in-depth look at attractions around the Black Hills, check out our Things To Do page to explore the area. Complement your stay with a visit to our property, Summer Creek Inn, just 45 minutes away in Rapid City.


Summer Creek Inn is a specialty resort offering 10 magnificent guest suites. Our suites each feature private luxury baths, beds, and premium linens that will make you want to stay in bed all day. Book your stay today!

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