If you’re into stories of spirits, ghostly encounters, and tales of Deadwood’s wild past, this Deadwood Ghosts Walking Tour might just be what you’re after. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a neat blend of history and haunted legends that can appeal both to ghost enthusiasts and history buffs.
What really caught our eye are two things: first, the guided storytelling seems to be engaging and informative, with some reviews praising guides like Susan for making the experience memorable. Second, the tour covers a good stretch of Deadwood’s most historic and haunted spots, from cemeteries to old buildings, giving a well-rounded feel of the town’s ghostly reputation.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that some reviews point out the tour’s value might not hit the mark for everyone. If you’re expecting a ghost hunt with paranormal activity galore, you might find the experience more about storytelling and atmosphere than actual ghost sightings. This tour is likely best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, local tales, and a bit of spooky fun rather than a fully immersive supernatural investigation.
All in all, if you’re in Deadwood and curious about its eerie side, this walking tour offers a nice, paced way to explore and learn through stories, especially if you appreciate guides who share personal experiences. Now, let’s break down what it’s all about and whether it’s worth your time.
Key Points
- Engaging guides can make or break this tour; many reviews praise guides like Susan for their storytelling and personable approach
- Historic landmarks are visited, offering a good mix of Deadwood’s past and ghostly lore
- Price point at $32 per person is reasonable, especially considering the duration and the tour’s detailed stops
- Timing and pace are generally seen as manageable, with many reviews noting the walk is comfortable and well-paced
- Repetition concern: some travelers felt the tour overlaps with museum visits, which could make it less exciting if you’ve already learned similar info
- Ghostly encounters reported vary, with some saying there’s spooky activity, while others highlight the tour’s focus on storytelling more than paranormal phenomena
- Group size usually caps at 40, making it relatively intimate for a guided walk
- Family friendliness isn’t explicitly mentioned, but given the short duration and outdoor walk, it could be suitable for most ages
- Booking tends to be done about 19 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re eager to join
The Tour’s Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The Deadwood Ghosts walking tour is designed to walk you through about a mile of Deadwood’s historic streets, stopping at key haunted locations. It’s about an hour long, making it an easy add-on for a day of sightseeing. Let’s go through the stops and what each offers.
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Deadwood Welcome Center
Starting at what used to be the heart of Deadwood’s busy district, this site is said to host the restless spirits of saloon-goers and hotel guests. Travelers have reported sudden temperature drops and shadowy figures here, which hints at a lively, if slightly spooky, beginning. It’s a solid entry point because it’s both historically significant and atmospheric—perfect for setting the tone.
566 Main St
This spot was once Deadwood’s Chinatown, associated with violence and unrest. It’s said to still harbor echoes of its troubled past with ghostly noises and apparition sightings. If you’re into haunted neighborhoods with a gritty history, this stop is interesting, though some might find it a bit eerie or unsettling.
610 Main St — Brothel Museum
This former bordello is notorious for its paranormal activity reports, including unexplained footsteps and whispers. Visitors often describe feeling watched, which adds a layer of genuine creepiness. The outside of the building looks historic and well-preserved, but don’t expect inside access—this is an external viewing point, adding to its mysterious appeal.
622 Main St — Lucky Nugget Casino
Built on grounds soaked with tales of lost fortunes and lives lost, this casino’s paranormal activity includes flickering lights and cold spots. According to reviews, some ghost sightings resemble gamblers from the past. It’s a lively historic site, and the ghost stories add a chilling dimension to the lively gambling history.
Wild Bill’s Trading Post
Connected to the legendary Wild Bill Hickok, this spot is said to be haunted by his spirit. Visitors have experienced cold drafts and the feeling of being followed by unseen presences—classic ghostly signs that keep the legend alive. It’s a fun stop if you’re interested in Wild Bill’s story and the legends surrounding him.
628 Main St — Fairmont Hotel
This historic hotel has a reputation for strange noises and sightings, especially in the older rooms. Stories of tragic deaths and restless spirits seeking peace make this site a compelling stop. While you might not go inside, the outside ambiance alone offers a haunting vibe.
Mount Moriah Cemetery
Though it’s just a cemetery, this spot is famed for ghost stories and apparitions. The graves of figures like Wild Bill Hickok add historical importance, and the atmosphere is often described as chilling. This visit might involve a quiet contemplative moment, with some visitors feeling a spooky presence.
Silverado Franklin Hotel & Gaming Complex
This hotel has been haunted for years, with reports of ghostly figures and eerie noises. Guests and staff have described sudden temperature drops and the sense of being watched, which enhances its haunted reputation without needing to move indoors.
Historic Adams House
Finally, this historic home is known for ghostly encounters and strange sounds. It’s a former lavish residence turned haunted spot, where stories of former inhabitants’ spirits persist. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions here, making it a fitting end to the tour’s haunted trail.
Real Experiences from Tour Participants
The reviews highlight a variety of experiences. Many praise guides like Susan for their enthusiasm and personal touch, making the stories more relatable. One review said, “Susan was wonderful. She was very informative and even brought her own experiences into the making,” which hints at a more personable approach.
Others appreciated how the tour balanced historical narration with ghost stories, creating an immersive atmosphere. However, not everyone loved every guide or stop. For example, one traveler felt the guide’s knowledge was limited, and another found the tour a bit repetitive if they had already been to the museum earlier in the day.
A common theme is that the walk is comfortable and well-paced, with stops generally lasting around 6-7 minutes. This keeps the experience light and engaging, rather than dragging or feeling rushed.
That said, some reviews mention that the ghost sightings can be hit or miss—some say they experienced unusual cold spots or shadows, while others felt the stories were more atmospheric than paranormal. If you’re hoping for a serious ghost-hunting night, keep your expectations tempered.
Pricing and Value for Money
At $32 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering its duration and coverage. It’s an hour-long walk across some of Deadwood’s most historic and reportedly haunted sites. Several reviews mention the guide’s personable storytelling as a highlight, which adds value beyond just the sights.
One reviewer pointed out that, for the price, the experience was worth it, especially if you enjoy absorbing local stories. Others felt it could be more engaging or that they’d prefer a more in-depth ghost hunt, but overall, it offers a good mix of history and haunting tales for the cost.
Keep in mind that most stops are outside, and some locations are privately owned buildings viewed from the outside only, which means you won’t get inside access to interiors. If you’re expecting a full-blown paranormal investigation, this might not satisfy your needs, but if you’re after a fun, haunted walk with a knowledgeable guide, it checks those boxes.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This ghost tour is ideal for history lovers who want to see Deadwood’s historic sights with a spooky twist. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy storytelling and atmospheric walks. Because it’s only about an hour and generally easy to follow, it works well for most fitness levels and ages, though it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly.
If you’re someone who appreciates guides sharing personal stories or is curious about the haunted legends of the Old West, you’ll probably find this tour engaging. However, if you’re expecting a highly paranormal experience with lots of ghost sightings, you might find it more subdued, as the focus is as much on storytelling as spirits.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you enjoy a laid-back, story-driven exploration of Deadwood’s haunted reputation, this walking tour offers solid value. It’s a good way to see some of the most iconic historic spots while hearing tales of ghostly encounters that add a fun, spooky layer to your visit.
The guides seem to be a key part of the experience, with many reviewers praising individuals like Susan for making the tour memorable. The stops, from cemeteries to old buildings, give a good sense of Deadwood’s storied past, with just enough ghostly tales to keep the atmosphere lively.
While it might not satisfy thrill-seekers or paranormal investigators, it’s perfect for casual ghost enthusiasts and those interested in local history presented with a spooky flair. If you’re in Deadwood and looking for an engaging, reasonably priced way to learn about its haunted tales, this tour could be a fun addition to your trip.
Deadwood Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour
“Guide brought her dog along. A big distraction. Guide didnt seem to know as much as we did. We talked very little about the ghost aspect. It was a …”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour lasts about an hour and takes place mostly outdoors, so it could work for most ages. However, it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, so consider your kids’ interests and tolerance for spooky stories.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable activity in your day. The walk covers about a mile with stops at major haunted spots.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 19 days ahead, as most travelers do, to secure a spot. You can confirm your booking within 48 hours.
What’s included in the price?
The $32 ticket covers the guided tour and mobile ticket access. Stops at private buildings are viewed from the outside only.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is open most travelers and most ages, but it’s not specifically tailored for children. Use your judgment based on your group’s interests.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, since it’s a walking tour covering roughly a mile, accessibility may depend on the terrain and group size.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
What if I want a more paranormal experience?
This tour leans more toward storytelling and atmosphere than ghost hunting or paranormal investigation. For more intense ghost encounters, you might look for specialized experiences.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Susan are praised for their engaging storytelling and personal touch, though some travelers have noted limitations in guide knowledge.
If you’re after a fun, atmospheric look at Deadwood’s haunted past, this walking tour offers a good mix of history and spooky stories at a reasonable price. Just remember to keep expectations in check—this is more about tales and ambiance than paranormal activity.