10 Fun Things To Do Near Brookings, South Dakota (That Locals Actually Love)
Planning a trip to
Brookings, South Dakota? Or maybe you’re driving along I‑29 and wondering if it’s worth pulling off the highway for a few hours?
Short answer:
yes, it is.
Brookings is a friendly college town in eastern South Dakota, in
Brookings County. It’s home to South Dakota State University, wide-open skies, and more to do than you might expect for a small city.
Below are
10 fun things to do in and near Brookings that work well for families, couples, solo travelers, and road‑trippers.
1. Wander the Beautiful McCrory Gardens
If you only have time for one stop in Brookings, make it
McCrory Gardens on the SDSU campus.
This 25‑acre garden and 45‑acre arboretum feel like a peaceful oasis just a couple minutes from downtown. You’ll find:
- Colorful flower beds in spring and summer
- Shady walking paths and benches
- Themed gardens, like a rock garden and children’s area
- Plenty of spots for photos
On a warm afternoon, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, sip a coffee, and slow down a bit. If you’re on a long road trip, a 30‑minute stroll through here can reset your whole mood.
Travel tip: Mornings and early evenings are usually quieter and cooler, which is great if you’re visiting in July or August.
2. Let the Kids Run Wild at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota
Traveling with kids? The
Children’s Museum of South Dakota is a must‑stop and one of the top family attractions in the entire state.
Don’t picture a “look but don’t touch” museum. This place is all about hands‑on play:
- Life‑size T. rex and dinosaur models outside
- Interactive exhibits where kids can build, splash, climb, and pretend
- Rotating activities that keep things fresh for repeat visits
Even adults usually find themselves joining in. It’s the kind of place where an hour turns into three before you know it.
Good to know: This is a popular spot on weekends and rainy days, so consider going right when they open if you like smaller crowds.
3. Explore the South Dakota Art Museum
For a quieter, more reflective stop, head to the
South Dakota Art Museum, also on the SDSU campus.
The museum showcases:
- Works by regional and Native American artists
- Pieces inspired by the prairies and rural life
- Changing exhibits, so there’s often something new
If you’re curious about the art and culture of the Northern Plains, this is a great place to start. The space itself is calm and welcoming—ideal for a slower-paced morning or afternoon.
Bonus: The museum shop is a nice spot to pick up unique, locally inspired gifts instead of the usual highway souvenirs.
4. Catch a Game or Show at South Dakota State University
Brookings is a college town, and
South Dakota State University (SDSU) brings a lot of energy to the area. Depending on when you visit, you might be able to catch:
- Jackrabbits football at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium
- Basketball or volleyball games
- Campus concerts and theater performances
- Livestock shows and ag events at the campus facilities
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, a college football game on a crisp fall day can be a lot of fun. The community really turns out, and the tailgating scene is lively but friendly.
Tip: Check the SDSU events calendar before your trip. Planning around a game day or show can add a lot to your Brookings experience.
5. Relax by the Water at Dakota Nature Park
If you crave a little nature, head over to
Dakota Nature Park, just a short drive from downtown Brookings.
This reclaimed gravel pit area has been turned into a surprisingly peaceful outdoor space, with:
- Walking and biking paths
- Small lakes and ponds
- Canoe and kayak rentals (seasonal)
- Picnic areas and open fields
It’s a nice place to walk your dog, let the kids burn off energy, or just sit by the water with a cup of coffee. On calm days the water can be mirror‑smooth, perfect for paddling.
Local feel: You’ll see plenty of Brookings residents here—jogging, fishing, or just unwinding after work.
6. Step Back in Time at the Brookings County Museum (Volga)
A short drive west of Brookings brings you to
Volga and the
Brookings County Museum, a cluster of historic buildings that tell the story of pioneer life on the prairie.
You can walk through:
- A historic schoolhouse
- Old homes and farm buildings
- Displays of tools, household items, and local memorabilia
If you’ve ever wondered what daily life was like here 100 or more years ago, this is your chance to really picture it. It’s not a flashy attraction, but it is heartfelt and personal.
Hint: Hours can be seasonal and sometimes limited, so it’s smart to check ahead or call before you go.
7. Stroll Historic Downtown Brookings
You don’t have to drive far to find something to do in Brookings—in fact, you can ditch the car for a while and explore
Downtown Brookings on foot.
Along Main Avenue and the surrounding streets you’ll find:
- Locally owned shops and boutiques
- Cozy coffee shops and bakeries
- Casual restaurants and pubs
- Seasonal events, like summer festivals and holiday gatherings
It’s the kind of downtown where people still greet each other on the sidewalk. If you like discovering small businesses and chatting with locals, this is where you’ll want to spend some time.
Idea: Plan a simple “downtown day”—coffee, a little shopping, lunch, then an afternoon museum or garden visit. Everything is close together, which makes it easy.
8. Sip Something Local at a Brewery or Winery
If you enjoy checking out local drinks when you travel, Brookings has you covered.
You’ll find:
- Breweries with rotating craft beers, often including seasonal or experimental flavors
- Casual taprooms where you can relax after a day of sightseeing
- Regional wineries within driving distance that showcase upper Midwest grapes and fruit wines
The vibe is usually laid‑back, more “come as you are” than “dress to impress.” It can be a fun way to end the day—maybe grab a flight, share a snack, and plan tomorrow’s adventures.
Reminder: As always, have a designated driver or plan a safe ride if you’re sampling alcohol.
9. Enjoy Seasonal Events and Fairs Around Brookings County
One of the best ways to get a feel for
Brookings County is to time your visit with a local event. Depending on the season, you might find:
- Summer festivals with live music and food trucks
- County fair events featuring 4‑H, livestock, and carnival rides
- Holiday markets and winter celebrations
- Farmers markets with fresh produce and homemade goods
These events are usually family‑friendly and very community‑oriented. You’re not just watching the local culture—you’re stepping right into it.
How to plan: Check the Brookings city or county event calendars online before your trip. Even a simple farmers market can be a highlight if you like meeting people and trying local foods.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Prairie
It might sound simple, but one of the most memorable things you can do around Brookings is just…
drive.
Head out on the back roads of
Brookings County and you’ll see:
- Endless fields stretching to the horizon
- Classic red barns and small farmsteads
- Big, dramatic skies—especially at sunset
On a clear summer evening, watching the sky change colors over the prairie can feel almost unreal. If you’re coming from a big city or a more crowded state, the amount of open space here might surprise you.
Safety note: Fill up your gas tank, keep an eye on the weather, and pull completely off the road if you stop for photos.
Planning Your Brookings, South Dakota Getaway
Whether you’re:
- Road‑tripping along I‑29
- Visiting a student at SDSU
- Looking for an affordable, low‑stress weekend away
Brookings offers plenty of things to do without the crowds and high prices of bigger cities.
You can mix and match:
- Nature – McCrory Gardens, Dakota Nature Park, scenic drives
- Family fun – Children’s Museum, downtown ice cream stops, parks
- Culture – South Dakota Art Museum, Brookings County Museum, SDSU events
If you like relaxed travel, friendly locals, and having time to actually breathe on vacation, Brookings is worth a spot on your South Dakota itinerary.
What Would You Add to This Brookings Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
Brookings, South Dakota or elsewhere in
Brookings County?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you discover a great local restaurant, park, or shop?
- Do you have any tips for first‑time visitors?
Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips and maybe even discover a new favorite Midwest town.
If you found this list of things to do in Brookings helpful, please
share it with a friend, post it on social media, or send it to someone planning a South Dakota road trip. Your share might be the reason someone discovers this friendly little corner of the prairie.
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