Tracing its historical roots as far back as 1877, the Buffalo Bodega boasts a rich cultural legacy that few other establishments in the area – or the state – can compete with. Whilst staying true to its pioneer spirit, it has evolved into a unique gaming complex complete with slot machines and a steakhouse restaurant. For an in-depth insight into the venue and all it has to offer, look no further than our complete Buffalo Bodega review.

High class casino guests at Buffalo Bodega.

In the following sections we’ll be offering a complete overview of the casino and its features. We’ll cover everything from the game selection, promotions, nearby attractions, and plenty more, so that by the time you’re finished, you’ll know all there is to know about the establishment. Alternatively, you can head over to our FAQ section and find quick answers to some commonly asked questions.

Buffalo Bodega: What to Expect

Visitors at Buffalo Bodega discover pretty early on that it’s far more than a bare bones casino. Not only are you treated to a rich historical experience; there’s live entertainment every weekend, a top steak restaurant and saloon style bar, and plenty of non gambling attractions nearby in the Deadwood area. To learn about what’s on offer, scroll down to the sections below, or, for quick access to specific sections, select the content navigation tool above.

Buffalo Bodega Casino Games

After having a good look through the betting services available here, it’s fair to say the Buffalo Bodega games selection is pretty well stacked in the slots department. With new slot machines introduced monthly, the gaming floor is fully equipped and up-do-date. In addition, the Bodega is home to one of the largest slot machines in the world, Big Bertha, which is, needless to say, one of the main gaming attractions.

A spinning roulette wheel.

In total, there are over 75 slots machines to choose from in the gaming room – more than enough to keep you entertained for the duration of your stay! Among the selection are electronic adaptations of table games such as video poker, video roulette and video blackjack. For a quick look at the full games catalogue, the section below provides a breakdown of all that’s on offer here.

  • Interactive Penny Games
  • Video Poker
  • Video Roulette
  • Slots
  • Keno

All things considered, we’re sure that everyone familiar with the venue would agree that the Buffalo Bodega games selection is more heavily weighted toward slot machines. Card sharks and those more geared towards live table games may want to consider visiting the Tin Lizzie Casino. As well as 220 slot machines, there are 8 live tables games, which includes craps and roulette, available there.

No Online Games at Present

Unfortunately, the Buffalo Bodega does not provide any online gambling services at this time. The state of South Dakota has some of the strictest rulings in the country when it comes to online gambling for real money. Other than greyhound racing, horse racing and some fantasy sports bets, online betting for real money is pretty much completely prohibited. However, there has been recent discussion which suggests the state senate may be making moves to legalise sports betting in the near future, so be sure to watch this space!

No Betting Promotions

Golden poker chips falling.

A feature we feel would be welcomed with open arms at Buffalo Bodega is a solid range of special promotions for bettors. Unfortunately, this isn’t something you’ll find here at present. Other casinos in the Deadwood area have been known to offer daily, weekly and seasonal promotions in the form of cash prizes, lucky draws, raffles, tournaments and more. However, as far as Buffalo Bodega betting promotions are concerned, you’re better off looking elsewhere.

It is possible, however, to find a rare drinks coupon or food voucher for special events. To learn about some of these, be sure to ask the staff members on your next visit and they’ll be happy to keep you in the loop!

No Loyalty Programs

Giant gold letters spelling V.I.P.

Similar to special promotions, there are currently no loyalty schemes or awards for faithful Buffalo Bodega visitors. There are, however, a number of casinos in the Deadwood area that have plenty. For instance, the Gold Dust Casino has one of the best loyalty card schemes in the state, offering discounts on hotel stays, free valet parking, birthday rewards and more!

Possible Sports Betting in the Future

Due to strict laws and regulations around online betting, there is currently no sports betting or sports book service at the Buffalo Bodega. However, amid increasing pressure from popular figureheads and state residents who want to see sports betting introduced, there is currently a lot of deliberation in the state legislature taking place. With discussions set to continue in the coming months, there may well be a breakthrough here, so be sure to keep checking back for updates!

Alternative Attractions and Entertainment

For all the die hard bettors out there, there’s not normally a need to look past the games selection at a particular casino. There are occasions, however, when you need a little break from the games room, so it pays to know what else a gaming complex has to offer. The following sections will serve as your complete guide to the non gaming related attractions at Buffalo Bodega.

A woman singing at a concert.

Top Hotels and Accommodation Nearby

Although the Bodega doesn’t offer overnight accommodation, the Deadwood area is packed with plenty of alternative options. Given its widespread appeal as a gambling haven, large numbers of tourists travel here every year with the intention of staying for more than a single day, so the area is very well equipped. If you’re after upmarket digs, the First Gold Gaming Resort offers premium level rooms. Or, if you’re on a budget, or perhaps making a road trip in a RV, there’s also a choice of camper van parks.

Due to its location just off the Interstate 90, (the longest interstate highway in the nation) Deadwood is easily accessible if you’re travelling by car. Furthermore, if you’re travelling by air, the nearest commercial airport is Rapid City. Once you land and hit the road Deadwood is a mere 50 miles away – less than an hour to drive! When you arrive you’ll find the area full of historic tourist attractions, with the Buffalo Bodega Bar being among the most popular!

Events and More Entertainment

While it may be true the venue is somewhat lacking when it comes to promotions and loyalty schemes, the same cannot be said about the Buffalo Bodega events calendar. Whether it’s for Mardi Gras, St Patricks’s Day, Oktober Fest or Labour Day, there’s plenty to get excited about here! In addition, there are regular wine tasting events which feature top of the range drops from local distilleries, craft beer nights, karaoke and lots more. To stay up to date and find out what’s upcoming, be sure to check out the official Buffalo Bodega events page.

An outdoor event.

General Company Info

Owner Buffalo Bodega
Phone Number (605) 578-9993
Gaming License Class Class II
Number of Games 75+
Hours 9am – 2am
Opened 1877
Website Buffalo Bodega
Social Media Facebook

As previously mentioned, Buffalo Bodega is as much a historic landmark as it is a gaming complex. First established back in 1877, it is one of the oldest sites in Deadwood, making it extremely popular among tourists wanting to sample their own slice of history. In its near 150-year lifespan it has undergone many transformations and withstood considerable pressure from local authorities back when betting was still unregulated by the state.

Buffalo Bodega Casino logo. Having truly stood the test of time, it is now a full service bar, restaurant, and casino, and continues to draw eager tourists, gaming enthusiasts and locals to its saloon every year. However, its Class II license means that live table games are not permitted, so the games selection is limited to slot machines.

The Final Say on Our Buffalo Bodega Review

Overall, Buffalo Bodega is a great place to visit and get a genuine, historic experience that few other casinos in the area can offer. If you’re a fan of the slots then there’s plenty for you to enjoy. One of the largest slot machines in the world, Big Bertha, is housed here, and there are loads of new editions being introduced every month. It is true that there’s not much else in the way of live table games and, as far as promotions, loyalty schemes and even overnight accommodation goes, you could say the Bodega is lacking. Nevertheless, it’s well worth a visit; and if lady luck is with you, you may even land some big wins on the reels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for reading our Buffalo Bodega review! We hope that we’ve covered all the necessary ground and answered all your burning questions. If we haven’t, don’t worry: the following FAQ section will clear up any queries you still have. If there’s still something we haven’t covered or you’re after additional info, feel free to reach out and contact us directly by mail!

Can I place sports bets at the Buffalo Bodega?

At the moment, no. However, there is currently a great deal of debate happening in the state legislature as to whether sports betting will be permitted in the future. For more info, see our sports betting section.

Are there special loyalty schemes for regulars?

Unfortunately, not. However, it is something the venue may introduce in the future. Alternatively, there are other casinos in the area that have some pretty outstanding loyalty schemes. The Dakota Sioux Casino & Hotel, for instance, is widely known for having some cool member packages.

Where is Buffalo Bodega located and is it close to an airport?

Lucky for you, the venue is located in a prime position. The address is 658 Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States, and the nearest airport is Rapid City. See our hotels and accommodation section for details.

What else is there to do other than gamble?

As well as a gaming floor packed with novel slot machines, the Bodega has a lot to offer such as wine tasting, karaoke, craft beer nights and more. For a closer look at the events and entertainment offering, jump over to our events section.

What’s the game selection like?

You’ll find that the Buffalo Bodega games offering is heavily weighed towards slot machines, although there are a few others. For a complete overview, jump up to the games selection page and discover exactly what’s on offer.

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