Deadwood is a National Historic Landmark and its identity
as the most famous of the Wild West frontier towns is half of the appeal
for visitors today. The other half, inspired by the city’s colorful
past, is gambling.
Legalized limited stakes poker and Casino gambling is probably more
prominent in modern Deadwood than they were in Wild Bill Hickok’s
day. You can gamble then eat at Silverado’s Gaming Establishment
and Restaurant, gamble then sleep at Cadillac Jack’s Gaming resort,
or simple gamble at the 4 Aces or Tin Lizzie’s.
Of course the history of Deadwood is still the major attraction for
many visitors. The Adams Museum’s self-guides tours are very interesting,
as is the Adams House, a 19th century mansion with its original contents
completely intact. Mt. Moriah Cemetery and the infamous Boot Hill are
favorite destination for anyone who wants a gander at the graves of
Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Discovery Tours run daily.
There are 6 campgrounds around Deadwood, such as the Deadwood KOA. The
Bear County Wildlife Tour showcases native wildlife like bears, wolves,
mountain lions, bison, elk and sheep.
The Historic Franklin Hotel in downtown
Deadwood is the best and most fun place to stay, but the slot machines
in the lobby detract from the historic atmosphere. The Deadwood Social club is one of the
few gambling free dining establishments in Deadwood, and it’s
located above the Saloon where Wild Bill Hickok was murdered.
Getting around Deadwood can be fun in itself
if you take the trolley.
