The Old Wild West has captivated generations of travelers, and it’s a time that is still talked about to this day in hit dramas such as Yellowstone. Stories of cowboys, outlaws, lawlessness, and rugged landscapes have been passed down through the years. Surprisingly, there are still places of historical significance where groups can travel to learn even more about this period in early American history. For those traveling in a group, a trip to some of the locations below offers the chance to explore the rich history and take a step back in time. Here are three special destinations you shouldn’t miss out on.
Tombstone, Arizona
A town made famous by several cult films and television shows, Tombstone is a must-see for anyone interested in the Wild West. It continues to get just under half a million visitors every year, and it’s no surprise. As mentioned, the era continues to be immortalized in the entertainment industry through movies, books, and series and has even made the crossover into the iGaming sector. For example, megaways games like Western Wilds allow gamers to sample a piece of that era while gaming online. New players can even enjoy a welcome bonus for their first play.
Known as ‘the town too tough to die’, Tombstone was the site of a legendary fight between lawmen and the Clanton-Mclaury gang in 1881. These days visitors can expect to walk the same streets, still as dusty as you’d imagine. The O.K. Corral is one of the more popular attractions where reenactments of famous fights are performed. Additionally, the Bird Cage Theater, a famous saloon, and Boothill Cemetery also give tourists an interesting insight into times gone by.
Deadwood, South Dakota
Deadwood in South Dakota is another destination that attracts plenty of tourists interested in learning more about the Wild West. The gold rush of the late 19th century meant Deadwood became a haven for those seeking out fortunes. Wild Bill Hickok was the famous resident of the town, but it was visited by plenty of outlaws and miners, turning it into a lawless outpost after some time.
These days, visitors can find much of the town’s old charm still awaiting them. The Adams Museum houses artifacts from the era, and tour guides also offer tours of the main street and surrounding areas, telling tales of what went on hundreds of years ago. Once again, visitors can also make their way to a cemetery to visit the graves of some of the more notable names, such as Calamity Jane.
Related: Building Memories in the South Dakota Black Hills and Badlands
Enjoy Cody’s picturesque landscape.
Cody, Wyoming
Finally, there is Cody, a town made famous by its founder, Buffalo Bill Cody. The Buffalo Bill Center is the first port of call for most tourists who can take in the life of Buffalo Bill in what is now a state-of-the art museum complex. Including five museums and insights into Native American culture, it gives tourists the complete experience and makes a visit to Cody completely worth while. Although not strictly related to the Wild West, Cody is also the perfect place from which to visit Yellowstone National Park.
Each location we’ve mentioned brings with it a look back into recent history and culture. They are the perfect places to explore the Wild West era and feel truly part of a bygone time.
