The Iron Horse Inn is yet another unique gaming complex in the historic town of Deadwood. The building in which it is housed was founded way back in 1893, making it one of the oldest establishments in the area. Today, it offers basic casino gaming facilities, comfortable accommodation, on-site dining, and a plush lounge area. Moreover, many of Deadwood’s most popular destinations are just a short walk away. Continue reading our Iron Horse Inn review for the full story!
If you’ve been searching for a complete, honest review of Deadwood’s popular Iron Horse Inn, you’ve come to the right place! In the sections to follow we’ll take a close look at the games selection, promotions and loyalty benefits, licensing details, and lots more. By the time we’re done, you’ll have all the info you need to go ahead and plan your trip. For quick answers to commonly asked questions, skip down to the FAQ section at the end.
The Iron Horse Inn: What to Expect
Contents
It would not be unfair to say that the Iron Horse is somewhat limited when it comes to casino gaming facilities. It is, however, one of the most iconic venues in the area. The building’s exterior is a relic of Deadwood’s rich heritage and its interior retains much of the original, 19th-century decor. To learn more about the building’s past, skip ahead to the general company info section — or any other section — using the content navigation tool above.
Iron Horse Inn Casino Games
When compared to some of the other gambling destinations in Deadwood, it’s clear to see the Iron Horse Inn games selection is rather small. There are just a few slot machines on the gaming floor — about 23 in total. You’ll find traditional, 3-reel slots and one or two machines that simulate live table games such as video poker. The gaming area itself has been extended to allow for more floor space, so the mood here is generally laid back and pleasant. All games are tested for fairness by the South Dakota Commission on Gaming.
Due to its Class II license, the Iron Horse Inn games selection does not feature live table games. As mentioned briefly above, there are a couple of video slot machines that recreate live table games; however, when it comes to the real thing, you’re best off looking elsewhere. Due to the venue’s location in Deadwood, all-purpose casinos with fully operational licenses are never far away. We’ll point out some of our top recommendations as we continue.
- Traditional Slots
- Video Slots
- Video Blackjack
As the list element above shows, the Iron Horse Inn games selection isn’t the most impressive. Slots fans will find a few cool titles here and games come in a range of coin denominations, so players of all budgets are catered for. However, if you’re looking for live table action, you’ll have to go elsewhere. We recommend Saloon Number 10. There’s live poker and blackjack every day and regular tournaments.
No Online Games
Online gambling is pretty much nonexistent in Deadwood. This is due to strict laws and regulations currently in place throughout the state of S.D. There may be a handful of venues which take online bets on some niche markets, however, there won’t be any real money transactions taking place. If there are, it could be a scam, so stay well clear. The good news here is that it appears as though the state is ready to reconsider its hardline approach to online gaming. Keep checking back for updates: if there is a breakthrough, we’ll be the first to know.
No Promotions
Unfortunately, the Iron Horse Inn promotions offering is pretty bare. On the odd occasion, you may find a deal offering special seasonal rates on rooms at the hotel. Otherwise, there’s not a huge amount to talk about here. The best way to stay up to date with new promotions is via the Facebook page or the official website. If there is some kind of special promotion at the hotel or, if you’re really lucky, at the restaurant, they’ll be advertised there.
The good news is, because Deadwood is full of top casinos — many of the best gaming destinations in S.D are found here — you don’t have to look too hard to find cool promotions. One of our personal favorites is the Deadwood Gulch. Not only is it set in stunning natural surroundings but it also has plenty of cool promotions to choose from.
No Loyalty Scheme
A similar story to the promotions, the Iron Horse Inn unfortunately doesn’t offer any perks or benefits for loyal players. While we were disappointed to learn this, we didn’t waste any time moping around. Deadwood is quite possibly the premier gambling destination in S.D, so there are tons of alternative venues with great loyalty schemes to choose from. Tin Lizzie, undoubtedly one of the top venues in the area, has a cool loyalty scheme known as The Clubhouse. Some of the perks include discounts at the gift shop and restaurant, entry to exclusive jackpot draws, and lots more.
No Sports Betting
While there has been talk of horse racing and greyhound racing returning to S.D later on in the year, strict laws and regulations currently in place prohibit sports betting at this time. You may find a few venues where betting on certain niche markets is permitted, but the offering will be extremely limited. For now, we advise you to keep a close eye on the news and check back here regularly for updates. If there is a breakthrough, you can be sure venues all over Deadwood will race to update their services.
Lots to See and Do in Deadwood
Because Deadwood is arguably the premier gambling destination in the state of S.D, we don’t blame you for wanting to take full advantage of the casino facilities around town. However, there’s a whole lot more going on, so you should take the time to discover some of the non-gambling attractions the town has to offer when you visit. Keep reading below to discover some of the area’s major highlights.
Boutique-Style Accommodation
| Hotel Rooms | 19 rooms + 4 suites |
|---|---|
| Price per Night: | $48 – $129 |
| Pool: | Not Available |
| Room Service: | Depends on accommodation |
| Gym/Fitness Studio: | Not Available |
| Address: | 27 Deadwood St, Deadwood, SD 57732 |
This small, charming hotel is probably the best feature of the Iron Horse Inn. With just 19 rooms and 4 suites, it definitely isn’t the biggest; but its high ceilings, period furnishings and original decor offer visitors a unique chance to get an authentic taste of Deadwood’s rich history. In addition, the rates are extremely competitive, so no matter your budget, you’ll always find a room at the Iron Horse – just be aware of booking during busy periods.
The Iron Horse Inn is located just one block away from Main Street, so all the main attractions are close by. If you’re travelling to Deadwood by car, the Interstate 90 is the main connection. There’s also free parking here when you arrive. If you’re planning on flying, the nearest airport is in Rapid City, which is less than 50 miles away — a comfortable hour’s drive.
When it comes to attractions outside the games room, there are a few things to do on-site. You can relax and have a drink at the recently remodeled Garden Level Pub or enjoy a meal at the Lee Street Restaurant. For all the smokers out there, there’s a comfortable smoking lounge close to the games floor where you can buy fine tobaccos at a reasonable price. There are no Iron Horse Inn events as such; however, you can (and should) check out events taking place in town! There are seasonal festivals, live music concerts, museums, nature trails, and loads more!
General Company Info
| Owner: | Iron Horse Inn |
|---|---|
| Phone Number: | +1 605-717-7530 |
| Gaming License Class: | Class II |
| Number of Games: | Over 20 |
| Hours: | 24/7 |
| Opened: | 1996 |
| Website: | Iron Horse Inn |
| Social Media: |
The building in which the Iron Horse is housed was first built in the late 19th-century, making it one of the oldest buildings in the area. Extensive restorations have ensured that it retains its old Western charm whilst offering modern, boutique lodging for visitors. It has a Class II license, so players can enjoy a range of over 20 slot machines safe in the knowledge that the casino is fully regulated and regularly tested for fairness.
Despite the fact that live table games and bingo are not permitted here, the venue does a good job of making sure its selection of slots remains up-to-date. To find out about new editions to the games room as well as info relating to promotions, room rates and events, check out the Facebook page or the official website. Both sites can be accessed using the links in the table above.
The End Verdict
The testing is over. Our Iron Horse Inn review has explored all the different aspects of the venue and we’ve come to a final verdict. All in all, it’s fair to say the venue isn’t the best when it comes to casino facilities. There are just a handful of slots and no live table games or bingo. Plus, there are no promotions or loyalty benefits of real worth. However, the hotel is unique and affordable and serves as a good springboard to explore other attractions in the Deadwood area. All in all, it’s a decent venue. Head back to the homepage and explore more S.D casinos!
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve made it to the final section of our Iron Horse Inn review — hats off for staying with us!
We’re confident we’ve covered all the most important details; however, the following FAQ section should clear up any remaining queries. If you still have some, reach out and email us using the contact tab.
Can I smoke on-site?
Yes. There’s a smoking room located close to the games room. You can also buy fine tobaccos here at a very reasonable price. To learn more about the smoking room and other on-site facilities, head back up to our section on non-gambling related attractions.
What is the legal gambling age?
Here, and throughout the state of S.D, the legal age to gamble is 21. Anyone without a valid ID proving their age will not be allowed to enter the gaming area or use any of the machines. Learn more about the venue’s license in the general company info section above.
What is the inn like?
The hotel here is small but full of character and history. There are 19 rooms and 4 suites and the rates are extremely competitive. If you’re lucky, you may find the odd promotion offering discounted rates. To learn more about the accommodation here, skip back up to the hotel section.
Are there any live table games?
Unfortunately, due to its Class II license, you won’t find any live table action at Iron Horse Inn.
Casino games are limited to the 20 or so slot machines on the games floor. Fortunately, however, there are loads of casinos in Deadwood with live table games. For instance, Cadillac Jack’s has blackjack, roulette, craps and poker.
Is online betting allowed here?
No. At this moment in time, online betting is prohibited in S.D, so there are no services of this kind at the Iron Horse. However, it looks as though the state may be ready to reconsider its hardline approach, so we could see online betting in Deadwood, and the rest of the state, toward the end of the year. Check out the online betting section for more info.