‘Tis the season for summer trip planning! Deadwood is the perfect summer road trip destination for history-buffs and outdoor adventurers alike and is only a 3–5-hour drive away from major cities such as Denver, Cheyenne and Billings. For those who are planning jaunts in their vehicles this summer, Deadwood, South Dakota is a must-visit spot!
Nestled in the Black Hills, Deadwood is a history-rich town that has maintained its 1800s architecture and preserved its Wild West roots. Located near Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Devil’s Tower and more, Deadwood is the perfect stop on a summer national park tour.
For the less nature-inclined, Deadwood gives visitors plenty of reasons to stay in town. On an average day in Deadwood, you can expect to
see reenactments of their famous shootouts by Deadwood Alive, a tour of the original Shasta Room Brothel and old-time saloons that transport you to a time when Wild Bill Hickock just might be bellied up to the bar. Throughout the summer months, the town hosts a variety of events such as the Wild West Songwriters Festival, Wild Bills Days, Deadwood Professional Bull Riding, Days of ‘76 Festival and more.
In terms of where to stay while visiting, the Deadwood Mountain Grand is situated just steps from downtown, providing guests with a front –row seat to all that Deadwood has to offer. Deadwood Mountain Grand features a 98-room hotel that was completely refreshed in 2023 plus two full-service restaurants, 210 state-of-the-art casino games, high-stakes gaming action including Dale’s Sportsbook Bar & Grill, a 3,000-person entertainment and event center that’s hosted everyone from Dolly Parton to Willie Nelson and a calendar of impressive talent lined up for 2024.
Located in the once Homestake Slime Plant, DMG is a fully-renovated, 98-room luxury hotel featuring two full-service restaurants, 210 state-of-the-art casino games, high-stakes gaming action including Dale’s Sportsbook Bar & Grill, and a 3,000-person entertainment and event center that’s hosted everyone from Dolly Parton to Willie Nelson.
For being a small town, Deadwood is jam-packed with things to do year-round. From summer concerts to rodeos, to music festivals, to bull-riding, and more, there’s never a shortage of fun here. Some can’t miss summer 2024 events include:
• Ian Munsick ‘Boots, Buckles and Bolos’ Tour (June 7-8), at Deadwood Mountain Grand
• Bear witness to the wildest ride in the West at the annual Deadwood PBR event (June 7-8)
• Wild Bill Days (June 13-15) – Celebrate the life and times of Deadwood’s most famous gunslinger, Wild Bill Hickok. This weekend event features live reenactments, concerts, a midnight cowboy run, gold-panning demos, and more!
• Spanning across five days (July 22-July 27) Days of 76 is one of the best outdoor rodeos in the nation and is rich with history and pioneer spirit. Featuring a historic parade, Rodeo Queen competition, and all kinds of rodeo performances, you don’t want to miss this iconic Deadwood event
• Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (Aug. 2-11) – Experience one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world, featuring over 500,000 riders, live concerts, and street food, located just 20 minutes outside of Deadwood
• Kool Deadwood Nites (Aug. 21-25) – Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Kool Deadwood Nites is a five-day celebration of classic cars, classic music and classic fun. It’s a 50’s and 60’s sock hop – Deadwood style
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