Named after the dead trees found in its valley, Deadwood is a Heritage-listed town renowned for its Gold Rush-era architecture. It’s noted for its legends of Wild Bill and Calamity Jane, as well as the 1990 Academy Award-winning film “Dances with Wolves”.

Things to do

Learn about some of Deadwood’s most infamous characters at the Adams Museum, which occupies a Queen Anne-style house dating back to the late-19th century. Discover the legends of Wild Bill and Calamity Jane while exploring the period-furnished rooms and get up close to Potato Creek Johnny's famous gold nugget.

Wild Bill, Calamity Jane and Potato Creek Johnny are all buried in the Mount Moriah Cemetery. In addition to offering a unique insight into the people and events that have shaped Deadwood, the walk up to the Mount Moriah Cemetery features remarkable views of the town below.

Delve into the history of the North American buffalo at Tatanka: Story of the Bison, which was founded by “Dances with Wolves” star Kevin Costner. Learn about the more than 30 million bison that once roamed the Great Plains and admire the immense bronze sculptures of bison being followed by Native Americans.

Auto enthusiasts should visit Nelson's Garage Car Museum inside the Celebrity Hotel, which is home to an impressive collection of famous vehicles. Get up close to the jeep from the TV series M*A*S*H and Magnum P.I.'s Ferrari, as well as an Aston Martin once driven by James Bond.

Getting around

Deadwood is a 45-minute drive from Rapid City and one hour from Rapid City Regional Airport. Although there are taxis, Downtown Deadwood is compact enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.