Breakfast Joints to Fuel Your Day

Coffee? Eggs? Fruit? A little eye-opener? However you start your day, finding the perfect breakfast in Deadwood is easy. Try a breakfast burrito or rancher steak tips at Deadwood Miners, or dig into chicken-fried steak with eggs or steel-cut Irish oats at Oggie’s Sports Bar. Miss your friendly neighborhood coffee shop? The baristas at Deadwood’s Pump House Coffee & Eatery or Main Street Espresso, Sturgis’ The Coffee Shop or Sturgis Coffee Company complement the morning with espresso, lattes and pastries, as do Spearfish’s Creekside Bean and Vine, Good Day Cafe and Green Bean Coffeehouse.

Steakhouses & Seafood

Surf and turf in the Black Hills? Yes, please. After a long day in the car or at the slots, nothing beats a tender, juicy steak or lobster hot from the kitchen. Try Maverick Steaks and Cocktails for their signature “fallin’ off the bone” baby back ribs. Head to Legends Steakhouse for a lobster dinner, braised elk gnocchi, buffalo ribeye or rack of lamb. The Farmhouse Bistro & Bar in nearby Spearfish takes a farm-to-table approach to its seafood, sandwiches and burger entrees. 

Saloons, Bars, Brewpubs & Wineries

If you’re over 21, don’t leave Deadwood without imbibing at some of South Dakota’s most famous watering holes. Drenched in history, Deadwood bars, breweries and wine cellars — some in operation since the late 1800s — boast museums of Old West artifacts, live entertainment, full bars, classic cocktails and craft brews. Check out Old Style Saloon #10, taste different flavors of moonshine and whiskey at Deadwood Distillery, and hit plenty of other hot spots along Deadwood’s Main Street. Heading in or out of town? Try Crow Peak Brewing Company, Redwater Kitchen, Spearfish Public House or Spearfish Brewing Company in Spearfish; Dakota Shivers Brewing in nearby Lead; or DesJarlias Farm and Winery, Belle Joli Winery Sparkling House, The Knuckle Brewing Company and Sturgis Brewing Company in Sturgis.

Burgers & Casual Dining

Come as you are… and come hungry. No need to dress up or get a reservation at most Deadwood restaurants. Mustang Sally’s is a fan favorite for burgers (and watching sports). If you need a break from beef, find health-conscious fare — as well as outdoor seating — at Jacob’s Brewhouse & Grocer. Nearby neighbor Oyster Bay Bar and Casino serves up delicious pizza straight from a special family recipe at A&B Pizza at Oyster Bay, and most gaming resorts lay claim to a signature anchor restaurant that flaunts the vibe of its attached casino.

Explore Casinos and Gaming in Deadwood

Try your hand at some serious fun at one of the fantastic casino options in Deadwood. The Midnight Star, a three-story historical casino, beckons with blackjack, poker and slot machines, while Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort stands tall as Deadwood’s largest all-inclusive resort, promising a Vegas-style escape. Don’t miss The Landmark Casino, Deadwood’s newest casino complete with bar, lounge and sports betting. While victories aren't guaranteed, the electric atmosphere ensures excitement is inevitable.

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Attend an Iconic Deadwood Event

In the heart of Deadwood, the excitement never fades, with a lively calendar that boasts rodeos, thrilling snocross competitions and world-class concerts and festivals. Join the revelry during Mardi Gras for a weekend of partying and live music. This iconic town is celebrated for its spirited nature, catering to those who revel in a good time. Deadwood embraces those who crave excitement; whether you're a thrill-seeker or a music enthusiast, Deadwood promises an unforgettable experience.

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Discover Deadwood's History

Beyond the lively streets, delve into magical museums, historical sites and tours. The Historic Adams House is a meticulously preserved Victorian mansion that stands as a testament to a bygone era. Learn about another side of history at The Brothel Deadwood. The Days of '76 Museum pays homage to the town's pioneers with dynamic exhibitions, while the fusion of art gallery and motorcycle museum at Scott Jacobs Gallery excites with vintage motorcycles and unique art installations.

Explore Deadwood's History

More Things to Do Near Deadwood

Venture beyond Deadwood's borders to discover a realm of Wild West wonders, from historical tours and gunslinger reenactments to local delicacies and wines. Peruse art galleries and local boutiques, or embrace your inner cowboy with horseback riding or with ATV rentals. Stock up on new gear or rent what you need at an outdoor adventure shop. In the winter, ski and ice skate amid the snow-kissed landscapes. In the Deadwood area, every season is an opportunity for exploration and exhilaration.

Explore more things to do near Deadwood with the directory below:

Drive the Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road or Needles Highway

The Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway is an incredible one-of-a-kind road that sprawls along 18 miles of rolling, pine-covered hills and red-walled canyons. Wildlife sightings and crossings are commonplace in these parts, so drive cautiously along the bends of this road for the safety of both you and the animals. Chances are you’ll encounter bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, elk, deer, coyote, prairie dogs or one of the numerous bird species in the park. Keep your camera ready — but keep a safe distance — as each curve offers a new opportunity to capture the untamed beauty of this scenic route and the creatures that inhabit its surroundings.

Try out another iconic route within Custer State Park for an unforgettable scenic drive: the Needles Highway. The Needles, with their soaring granite rock formations, have become a major attraction, drawing visitors from near and far. This renowned stretch of road features 14 miles of captivating views through Custer State Park, offering glimpses of forests, meadows, mountains and Sylvan Lake.

Iron Mountain Road was famously described as "one of the most crooked 17 miles you’ll ever drive" by South Dakota writer Bernie Hunhoff. And that’s a compliment. This winding route, an integral part of the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway, offers a thrilling driving experience complete with three “pigtail” bridges and stone tunnels. Senator Peter Norbeck's ambitious vision has transformed this road into a beloved driving destination, leading to breathtaking vistas of the Black Hills and the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup

One of the most sensational events in all of South Dakota is the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup, an annual gathering of Custer’s 1,300-strong bison herd. Cowboys and cowgirls collaborate to funnel the bison throughout the park into corrals, attracting thousands of spectators to bear witness. The roundup takes place annually on the last Friday of September. It offers an exciting blend of nature, culture and history, making it a must-see experience for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the American West.

Learn More About the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours

Want to get up close and personal with Custer’s wildlife? The Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour may be the perfect excursion for you. Hop into an open-air jeep and embark on a thrilling wildlife safari that explores the rolling fields and dirt back roads of Custer State Park. These privately led tours span around two hours and offer an intimate, awe-inspiring experience where you come within a stone’s throw of stunning wildlife. Along the way, seasoned guides will help you spot the critters and share historical facts about the park.

Custer State Park Hiking

Miles of backcountry roads and trails, once traversed by early residents, now offer an unforgettable hiking experience. Hike the 7.1-mile Black Elk Peak Loop to reach the highest point in South Dakota. Snap a photo of the panoramic view of the entire Black Hills area. Sit with a lunch and you might make some chipmunk friends. Are you looking for a more family-friendly adventure? The Cathedral Spires Trail provides a more concise hiking experience, guiding you down a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a breathtaking cluster of stone giants and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. If you prefer a leisurely lakeside stroll, consider the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail, a 1.1-mile loop that traces the idyllic Sylvan Lake and typically takes less than half an hour to complete.

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Explore Nearby Caves: Jewel Cave National Monument & Wind Cave National Park

Only a short drive from Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park is a must-see while visiting South Dakota's western region. This unique sanctuary offers a mesmerizing underground adventure with its intricate cave system adorned with rare boxwork formations and sparkling crystals. Above ground, the park sprawls with rolling hills of vibrant green grass stretching for miles, providing a haven for diverse wildlife — bison, elk, prairie dogs and more. Guided cave tours allow visitors to explore the hidden wonders beneath the surface, while hiking trails reveal the beauty of the park's diverse landscapes.

Wind Cave Tours

Jewel Cave National Monument offers another incredible caving adventure. Jewel Cave is truly one of a kind, famous for both the geologic formations it earns its name from and for holding the title of the third-longest cave in the world. Both Wind Cave and Jewel Cave have various guided tours available. Whether you're seeking family-friendly, accessible tours of the main caverns or intense multi-hour adventures, navigating through narrow passageways with only the glow of headlamps to light the way, there is a tour option to suit every preference. 

Jewel Cave Tours

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Just 40 minutes from Custer State Park, tucked away in the granite-veiled Black Hills, four of America’s most eminent leaders stand tall — Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and George Washington. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is America’s Shrine of Democracy, featuring 60-foot recreations of four great American presidents’ faces. Immerse yourself in the rich history and majestic beauty as you embark on a Ranger Tour, traverse the awe-inspiring Presidential Trail or bask in the splendor of the evening lighting ceremony. A thrilling quest awaits young adventurers with the Junior Ranger program, led by the National Park Service. Regardless of your age, Mount Rushmore stands as a testament to the extraordinary, beckoning all to witness its grandeur and make unforgettable memories.

Enjoy a Show at the Black Hills Playhouse

Hidden among the trees in the Black Hills National Forest is a truly unique spot to enjoy live musicals, dramas and comedies: the 75-year-old Black Hills Playhouse. Since 1946, this cultural gem has delighted audiences with a diverse repertoire of musicals, romance, comedy and drama. Located on the site of a historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp, this theater holds performances throughout the week every summer. Be sure to make reservations in advance and check the website for tickets, directions and other essential information, as a Custer State Park entrance pass is required for entry. Trust us. You’ve never experienced live theater like this.

More Things to Do Near Custer State Park

The adventure doesn’t end when you leave Custer State Park. Embrace the cowboy or cowgirl spirit with a guided horseback ride in the Black Hills, enjoy an old-fashioned hayride or rent an off-road vehicle and explore the 1.2 million acres of terrain suitable for off-roading in the Black Hills. Take the kids to play in a hot spring pool or try out an extreme sport by embarking on a guided outdoor climb.  

Embrace the Old West spirit by combining the region’s pioneering history with modern-day fun. Pose for an old-timey photo or explore an Old West Town. Have some fun in the sun by renting a canoe, kayak or paddleboard at Sylvan Lake. Fossil lovers can find thrills in a fossil finder museum or an active paleontological dig site.

Explore more things to do near Custer State Park with the directory below.