Days of '76 Museum Deadwood
Commemorating Deadwood's Wild West spirit with extensive carriage, wagon, and memorabilia exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Days of '76 Museum Deadwood
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Commemorating Deadwood's Wild West spirit with extensive carriage, wagon, and memorabilia exhibits.
"One of the coolest museums I have ever been too I know you will like it."
🎯 Plan for the Festival
Visit during the Days of '76 festival in late July for parades & reenactments!
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be tricky during peak times; consider arriving early or using nearby public lots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carriage and Wagon Collection
Lower Level
Marvel at an extensive display of historic carriages, wagons, and stagecoaches, offering a tangible connection to the Old West.
Wild West Memorabilia
Various Exhibits
Explore artifacts related to bull riding, firearms, and the legendary figures of Deadwood's Gold Rush era.
Interactive Scavenger Hunt
Throughout the Museum
Engage with history through a fun scavenger hunt, perfect for families and curious minds alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Days of '76 Museum
Understanding the Museum's Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for the Festival
Visit during the Days of '76 festival in late July for parades & reenactments!
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be tricky during peak times; consider arriving early or using nearby public lots.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of unique photo ops, especially with the historic wagons and Wild West displays. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for the Festival
Visit during the Days of '76 festival in late July for parades & reenactments!
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be tricky during peak times; consider arriving early or using nearby public lots.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of unique photo ops, especially with the historic wagons and Wild West displays. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧 Family Fun
The scavenger hunt makes it engaging for kids! :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Days of '76 Museum to be a fascinating place, particularly appreciating the extensive collection of carriages and wagons that offer a tangible connection to the Wild West. While some note it focuses more on the festival's history than general Deadwood history, the displays are consistently described as interesting and well-presented, with interactive elements adding to the experience.
"Interesting, I had understood ( obviously incorrectly) from the visitor centre that it was a museum dedicated to the history of Deadwood. It’s actually dedicated to the parade/celebrations commemorating its past.
Lots of interesting displays .
Lots of carriages but maybe too many for the space they have as they were literally lined up."
Catherine Shawarby
"This place had so many carriages and covered wagons. It was pretty cool to walk through. There are a lot of displays to give some historical information and there was a scavenger hunt to go with one of the large pictures. There are quite a few interactive exhibits and photo opps."
Laura Jones
"I enjoyed this museum. I loved the lower level of wagons and carriages. I spent quite a bit of time here. Good place to visit!"
Travis K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Days of '76 Museum is located at 18 76th Dr, Deadwood, SD 57732. It's easily accessible by car within Deadwood. If you're visiting Deadwood as part of a larger Black Hills trip, consider driving or using local shuttle services if available.
Yes, parking is generally available at the museum, but it can fill up quickly, especially during the Days of '76 festival or on busy summer weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
While Deadwood is walkable, getting there without a car might require pre-planning. Some visitors opt for tours that include Deadwood, or you might find limited local transit options depending on the season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is seasonal, typically open from May through September. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees apply, but they are generally considered reasonable for the experience. Check the museum's official website for current pricing. Special events like the Holiday Open House may offer free admission.
For general visits, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their policy, especially during peak season or for special events.
No, the Days of '76 Museum is a seasonal attraction, typically operating from May to September. It is not open year-round.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children is usually available on the museum's website. Keep an eye out for special event promotions like the Holiday Open House which offered free admission.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum primarily focuses on the history and spirit of the annual Days of '76 festival, celebrating Deadwood's Wild West heritage with extensive displays of carriages, wagons, and memorabilia. 
Expect to see a large collection of horse-drawn vehicles, including carriages, wagons, and stagecoaches, alongside exhibits on bull riding, firearms, and the Gold Rush era.
Yes, the museum offers interactive elements like a scavenger hunt that can make the visit engaging for children.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level and engagement with the exhibits.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Days of '76 Museum itself does not typically have a restaurant or cafe. However, Deadwood offers numerous dining options, from casual saloons to sit-down restaurants, just a short walk away.
Deadwood boasts a variety of eateries, including classic American diners, steakhouses, and historic saloons offering traditional fare. You'll find options to suit most tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic exhibits are the extensive collection of antique carriages and wagons, the Wild West memorabilia, and any interactive displays. The museum's historical theme provides many unique backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around museums and historical sites for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit with the annual Days of '76 festival in late July for an even more exciting experience, complete with parades and reenactments.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot to explore, and parking can be competitive during peak times, so arriving early is a good strategy. 🤠 History Buffs & Wild West Enthusiasts
Beyond the carriages, the museum's exhibits on bull riding and firearms offer further insights into the rugged lifestyle and entertainment of the time. The connection to the annual Days of '76 festival adds another layer, showcasing how Deadwood continues to celebrate its heritage.
Don't miss the chance to explore the town of Deadwood itself, which is a living testament to its Wild West roots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Days of '76 Festival
Visitors can experience a taste of this legacy year-round through the museum's exhibits. The collection of horse-drawn vehicles, from elegant carriages to rugged wagons, offers a vivid portrayal of life in the late 19th century. These displays are not just static objects; they represent the ingenuity and hardiness of the pioneers who shaped Deadwood.
+1Beyond the vehicles, the museum delves into other aspects of the Wild West, including the history of bull riding and firearms. This comprehensive approach ensures that visitors gain a well-rounded understanding of the era. The interactive elements, such as scavenger hunts, further enhance the educational and entertainment value, making it a compelling visit for all ages.
Exploring Deadwood's Wild West Charm
The museum complements this by focusing on the celebratory aspect of Deadwood's past. The extensive collection of carriages and wagons highlights the importance of transportation and the spectacle of frontier life. These displays provide a tangible connection to the era, allowing visitors to imagine the bustling streets and the journeys undertaken by early settlers.
+1Beyond the museum, Deadwood offers a full immersion into the Wild West. Visitors can witness live reenactments, explore historic sites, and soak in the atmosphere of a town that has fiercely preserved its heritage. The Days of '76 Museum is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to delve into the captivating stories and vibrant history of this iconic South Dakota destination.
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