DEADWOOD, South Dakota— The Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood opened its doors on August 8, becoming the first of its kind in the Hard Rock International portfolio. The grand opening included a proclamation from South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, remarks from leaders of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and South Dakota Sioux tribes, a traditional Hard Rock Guitar Smash featuring members of the Harley-Davidson family, music stars and several dignitaries.
“For years, historic Deadwood and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally have given countless individuals the opportunity to vacation and to enjoy the state of South Dakota,” Governor Noem stated in her proclamation. “This new Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood will make those opportunities even better for years to come.”
The Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood is unique in the Hard Rock portfolio; the boutique hotel and casino include most of what the Hard Rock brand is known for, but on a smaller scale than integrated Hard Rock resorts in gateway international cities.
The property features a casino with 86 new slot machines, a full-service restaurant and bar with craft cocktails, a new menu and music memorabilia. The on-site Rock Shop will also offer custom Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood apparel. Newly renovated luxury guest rooms are scheduled to open later this year.
“Hard Rock prides itself on being able to provide authentic and memorable experiences for our guests embodied by music and rich cultural history,” said Jon Lucas, COO at Hard Rock International. “We are thrilled to become a part of one of the most celebrated historic places in the U.S. and provide an economic stimulus to the city of Deadwood.”
Deadwood Mayor David Ruth lauded Rocksino partners, Steve Slowey and Marc Oswald, for bringing the Hard Rock brand to the city. Located on Historic Main Street, the property sits in the heart of Deadwood’s National Historic Landmark District.
Following an extensive renovation, Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood is housed in a historic structure built after Deadwood’s Great Fire of 1879, which destroyed nearly every building in the downtown core. After the fire, entrepreneurs rebuilt the town in brick and stone to ensure its longevity.
“As a community famous for entertaining guests since 1876, Deadwood is excited to welcome Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood as our newest, can’t-miss property,” Ruth said. “Our rich, Old West history combined with the Hard Rock brand will enhance the Deadwood experience for which we are known.”
The Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood celebrated its grand opening with a $40,000 contribution to the Oglala Sioux Tribe Veterans Shelter as well as Hard Rock’s traditional guitar smash with 22 individuals smashing prop guitars on stage.
Learn more about Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood at rockcasino.hardrock.com/deadwood.
