Tatanka: Story of the Bison

On Deadwood's northern edge, Tatanka features a spectacular, larger-than-life bronze sculpture of 14 bison pursued by three Native American horseback riders, frozen in motion in a high-prairie setting. Founded by Kevin Costner, the site tells the story of the Lakota people from the near-eradication of the bison and into the present — a story of resilience, rebirth, and perseverance. An interpretive center includes exhibits depicting the relationship between bison and the Lakota people in the 1800s, along with a full Native American village on-site where visitors can learn about tribal culture and how it changed under Euro-American influence. Indoors, a short film narrated by Kevin Costner tells the story behind the making of the exhibit. A Native American gift shop and snack bar are also on site, along with a hands-on interpretive center. Visiting on a cloudy day is recommended for better photography opportunities.