March 13, 2025

This paid piece is sponsored by The Ramkota Companies.

History meets hospitality in an exceptional new addition to the renowned Lodge at Deadwood.

Preacher Smith’s Taproom & Commons is open for guests, offering destination nightlife in a “rustic chic” setting.

“I couldn’t be happier with the overall look and feel. It’s exactly what we were going for,” said Josh Schmaltz, president and CEO of The Ramkota Companies.

“It’s very high end, kind of bougie, and yet you know you’re in South Dakota. You know you’re in Deadwood.”

Inspired by the legendary preacher who brought hope to the Black Hills during the gold rush era, Preacher Smith’s is “incredibly unique,” Schmaltz said. “I’ve been told it’s unlike anything people have experienced in the Hills or even in South Dakota.”

A well-crafted drink menu features 20 beers on tap, high-end takes on classics such as the Old-Fashioned and Moscow mule, along with modern creations featuring exceptional bourbon and other spirits.

“We play off the Old Testament and the New Testament on our menu to go with the theme, plus offer a great variety of mocktails,” Schmaltz said.

“You don’t go to Preacher Smith’s for a large sit-down dinner, but you go for a charcuterie board or shrimp cocktail and then stop by our adjacent Oggie’s Sports Bar for dinner before or after, where you’ll find a great selection, from steaks to burgers and pastas.”

As part of the construction of Preacher Smith’s, Oggie’s also expanded and now offers additional seating.

“We see Preacher Smith’s as a place where you can enjoy very nice, high-end nightlife that serves as a contrast to the downtown Deadwood experience,” Schmaltz said.

“We might occasionally host a solo musician, but you’re not going to find concerts or a lot of noise. It’s a place to go with friends and family and have a great conversation.”

There’s also a meeting room off the bar area that provides “the Preacher Smith’s atmosphere for a private event or an evening working meeting,” he added.

To begin, hours are 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday and 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours will start this summer.

Preacher Smith’s will celebrate its grand opening April 11-12 as part of the popular Forks, Corks & Kegs event in Deadwood, which allows participants to sample food and beverages at multiple stops as culinary creations are paired with the perfect complimentary beverage.

“We’re excited to be part of Deadwood’s growing food and beverage scene, and this is a fun opportunity to welcome new guests,” Schmaltz said.

“After that, our hours will expand to a 2 a.m. close every day but Sunday.”

There’s still time to get in some final skiing in the Black Hills this season, plus plan ahead for a summer of fun in Deadwood.

“We think it’s a great time to be opening as we gear up for summer, which is our busiest season,” Schmaltz said.

The Lodge at Deadwood also isn’t finished with its new additions.

Recent years have brought plenty of popular upgrades, including its standout two-story executive suite.

“We’re looking toward our next expansion,” Schmaltz said, adding that The Ramkota Companies owns 80 acres to the south, which offer “incredible 360-degree views of the Black Hills.”

While plans still are being finalized, “we want to find the best way for guests to enjoy the setting,” he continued.

“Our executive suite has been very well received, so we think there’s opportunity to build on that, but the goal is to finalize our plan this year and be moving dirt a year from now. The Lodge is such a successful place that we always want to keep evolving it.”

To book your stay at The Lodge at Deadwood, click here.

The Lodge at Deadwood expansion includes executive suite like no other