True Life: A Deadwood Vacation (Yes, Like The Show)

A Local's Guide to Planning a Vacation to Deadwood, South Dakota. Including Best Time of Year, Places to Stay and Things To Do.

By Hallie Published 4 years ago • 4 min read

*Photo by Tumblr

Whether you're a die hard fan of the series or merely recoginze the name from HBO Now on your way to watch Game of Thrones, chances are you've heard of Deadwood.

Although having a relatively short run of 3 seasons, Deadwood has become one of the most critical acclaimed shows of all time. With 28 Emmy nominations and 9 wins, the show's witty dialogue and historic close attenion to detail is one of a kind. In 2006 after the third and final season, HBO left fans and critics startled with the decision to cancel the show. For years there was talk of production resuming, as well as a possible film. Last year, almost 11 years later, Deadwood: The Movie (an exclusive HBO production) aired and finally gave fans closure with little dissappointments.

Over the years, the show has cast a spotlight on the already popular travel destination of both Deadwood, South Dakota and the Black Hills. Mount Rushmore and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are just a few examples what surrounds Deadwood.

Since 1889, Deadwood has changed (I mean one would hope, right?). I've had people ask me (seriously) if the town has electricity and running water yet. The answer? Yes, yes we do.

Besides being your favorite outlaw town, Deadwood has been in the gaming industry for over 30 years and has since established itself as one of the leading gaming towns in the world. In 2018, $126 million was spent in Deadwood casinos. Not too bad, right?

Why listen to me?

Although I'm currently living in Denver after graduating college in Colorado, Deadwood will forever be the place I call home. Over the years I've watched many hotels/restaurants/attractions come and go, but here are some of my top recommendations while planning a trip to Deadwood.

So You Want To Live Here

Ok, You Want To Plan Vacation Here*

Best Time of Year, Places to Stay and Things to Do

The busiest and most obvious time would be during the summer, but what if you don't want to be obvious you ask? Great question.

I've met so many tourists and traveler's from all walks of life over the years. So here's some general patterns I've seen people most happy on their visit.

If you're wanting that crowded-hot-Disneyworld type of atmosphere then by all means, come in the summer. However, I highly recommed spring or fall for just about anybody (unless you're coming to ski/snowboard/snomobile). Everything worth going to will be open and you'll save big time on hotel stay and general attractions.

For Kids

If you're planning a full-on Griswald family vacation that includes anyone under the age of 21, please choose summer. Speaking as a former kid who was here year-round, trust me on this one. There are endless kid-friendly attractions/shows/concerts that are only open or offered during the summer. Although it's true that Deadwood is generally tailored more to adults, they've improved improvement dramatically for families.

Lodging

If you're staying in Deadwood, you want to be on/extremely close to Main Street. Period. The rates are never catostrophically higher - sometimes there's not even a difference than hotels on the other side of town.

Best Overall: Deadwood Mountain Grand

It's right across the street from Main Street - it has the advantage of a much more space. It includes a covered parking garage, restaurant, casino, and concert venue.

Runner-Up: Holiday Inn Express

Located in the center of Main street, you'll be right in the action. They have a pool/hot tub and has the added bonus of being right next to the popular Saloon No.10 bar.

Attractions

These are my locally-approved top 5 time favorite things to do:

The Adams House

As seen on the Travel Channel, take a tour through one of America's most famous haunted houses. Although there are many "haunted" attractions located in Deadwood, this one is by far the spookiest.

The Saloon No. 10