Historic Adams House
Step into the meticulously preserved 1892 home of Deadwood pioneer W. E. Adams, filled with original furnishings and personal stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive holiday decor
Historic Adams House
Best Time
Festive holiday decor
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the meticulously preserved 1892 home of Deadwood pioneer W. E. Adams, filled with original furnishings and personal stories.
"A must-see while in Deadwood; the house is gorgeous and offers a wonderful insight into the past."
🤫 Follow the House Rules
Guides are strict about no touching, no flash, and staying on paths to preserve the historic home.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Tours typically last between 45 minutes to an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Furnishings
Throughout the house
Step back in time with original furniture and personal items that tell the story of the Adams family.
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior and interior
Admire the stunning Victorian architecture and intricate details of this 1892 pioneer home.
Christmas Decorations
Throughout the house
Experience the magic of the holidays with the house elegantly dressed for Christmas tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Respect the Rules for Preservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Follow the House Rules
Guides are strict about no touching, no flash, and staying on paths to preserve the historic home.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Tours typically last between 45 minutes to an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house.
📅 Book Christmas Tours Early
These special holiday tours are popular and sell out; book tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Stay with Your Group
You'll need to stay with your tour group and keep moving through the house.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Follow the House Rules
Guides are strict about no touching, no flash, and staying on paths to preserve the historic home.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Tours typically last between 45 minutes to an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house.
📅 Book Christmas Tours Early
These special holiday tours are popular and sell out; book tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Stay with Your Group
You'll need to stay with your tour group and keep moving through the house.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Historic Adams House for its exceptional preservation and the insightful tours that bring the past to life. The house is described as gorgeous and a wonderful glimpse into Deadwood's history, with guides often highlighted as fantastic and detailed. However, some guests note the strict rules regarding touching and photography, which guides enforce assertively.
"Great tour and tour guide! It's so amazing to hear the preservation and story of this home and residents. A must see while in Deadwood"
David Mueller
"Well worth the stop. The house is gorgeous. Very well preserved and a wonderful insight into some of the past in Deadwood. The guide was fantastic. On a very strange twist of fate we were at the Mount Moriah cemetery before this and just happened to stumble upon the gravesite of the prior owner without even knowing it until we were there. I would definitely recommend checking the place out."
Kevin Sterwald
"Very cool museum. The tour guides provide lots of information, but they do have strict rules no touching anything, no standing on the antique rugs, no standing on the tile by the fireplace, no using flash, and no sitting on the furniture. They are very strict about these rules and will not hesitate to yell at you. You must stay with your tour group and keep moving. Other than that our guide shared lots of information, answered every question, and was very detailed. The house was incredible. I highly recommend the Adams House—just follow the rules, as you should always do anyway."
Eli Pattridge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Historic Adams House is located in Deadwood, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car within the town. Parking is generally available nearby, though it can be limited during busy periods. Check local parking regulations upon arrival.
Deadwood has limited public transportation options. It's best to check with local Deadwood tourism resources for any available shuttle services or trolley tours that might include the Historic Adams House as a stop.
Yes, the Historic Adams House is centrally located in Deadwood, making it a pleasant walk from many hotels and attractions in the downtown area. Enjoy the historic streets as you make your way there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, and it's recommended to check the official Historic Adams House website or DeadwoodHistory.com for the most current pricing. General admission tickets can often be purchased online or at the door.
While walk-in tickets may be available, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times like weekends or the special Christmas tours, to guarantee your entry.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Historic Adams House website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and days of operation. Christmas tours have specific dates and times.
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or group rates is typically available on the official website. It's always a good idea to inquire when booking or upon arrival.
Photography is allowed inside the Historic Adams House, but with strict limitations. Flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate artifacts and furnishings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours of the Historic Adams House generally last between 45 minutes to an hour, providing a thorough exploration of the home and its history.
Yes, guided tours are the primary way to experience the Historic Adams House. Knowledgeable guides share the preservation story and personal items of the residents.
Visitors must adhere to strict rules, including no touching of artifacts, no standing on antique rugs or tiles, and no flash photography. Guides are vigilant about enforcing these rules.
As a historic home, accessibility can be challenging. It's advisable to contact the Historic Adams House directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any limitations.
The Historic Adams House was the 1892 home of Deadwood pioneer W. E. Adams. It's significant for its well-preserved original furnishings and personal items, offering a unique glimpse into late 19th-century life in Deadwood.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can use your phone camera, but remember that flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the historic artifacts.
While the entire house is a photo opportunity, the well-preserved rooms with original furnishings offer the most compelling shots. Be mindful of your tour group and guide's instructions.
Expect to capture beautiful interior shots showcasing Victorian-era decor, antique furniture, and personal mementos that tell the story of the Adams family.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic districts and residential areas. It's best to check local ordinances and the Historic Adams House's specific policies before attempting drone photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of the Adams Family
Tour guides at the Adams House are crucial in bringing these stories to life. They share details about the preservation efforts and the personal histories of the Adams family members, making the visit both educational and engaging. The emphasis on preservation means visitors are asked to be extremely respectful of the house and its contents, ensuring that this piece of Deadwood's history can be appreciated for generations to come.
The dedication to maintaining the house's original integrity is a key reason why a visit here feels so authentic. It’s not just a museum; it’s a preserved moment in time, offering a tangible link to Deadwood's past and the individuals who shaped its development.
Experiencing Deadwood's History
Visiting the Adams House complements other Deadwood experiences, such as exploring the underground Chinese tunnels or learning about the town's mining past. It offers a more refined perspective on the historical tapestry of Deadwood, highlighting the lives of families who contributed to its growth beyond the rough-and-tumble frontier image. The house stands as a testament to the architectural styles and interior design trends of the late 19th century, making it a valuable stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
For those interested in the broader history of Deadwood, the Adams House provides context for the town's development from a rough mining camp to a more settled community. It’s a place where the stories of preservation and personal history are paramount, offering a quiet yet profound connection to the past.
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