Why Is Bucky’s Casino Closed?

Bucky’s Casino, located in the heart of the historic mining town of Deadwood, South Dakota, is closed. The last day of operation was December 31, 2016.

The casino, which opened in 1993, was named after Wild Bill Hickok’s alias, “Buck” Earp.

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The decision to close the casino was made by the property’s owner, American Real Estate Partners (AREP), after “a careful and thorough review of the property and the market.” AREP is a New York-based investment firm that specializes in hospitality and gaming properties.

The closure of Bucky’s Casino comes as no surprise to those who have been following the Deadwood gaming market. In recent years, Deadwood has seen a decline in both visitation and gaming revenue.

PRO TIP:Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many casinos have been closed until further notice. Bucky’s Casino is no exception and is currently closed until it is deemed safe to open again. To stay informed on when the casino will reopen, visit their website for updates and news.

This is due in part to increased competition from neighboring states, such as Wyoming and Montana, who have recently expanded their own gaming offerings.

The closure of Bucky’s Casino is a blow to the Deadwood economy, which has been struggling in recent years. According to the most recent figures from the South Dakota Department of Tourism, gaming revenue in Deadwood was down 8% in 2015 compared to 2014.

This decline is likely to continue in the wake of the casino’s closure.

While the future of the Bucky’s property is uncertain, it is unlikely that it will remain vacant for long. AREP has already stated that they are “exploring all options” for the property and are “committed to finding a buyer or tenant that will best utilize” it.