Brookings Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Brookings, South Dakota, including natural and cultural attractions, hiking routes, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Brookings

Brookings is a city located in the state of South Dakota, on the eastern side of the state. The city is situated in the Glacial Lakes region, known for its picturesque lakes left over from the last ice age. Despite its small size, Brookings has a lot to offer, including its vibrant college town atmosphere, natural beauty, and rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Brookings

If you’re planning a trip to Brookings, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of sites the city has to offer. Here are some of the top places to visit in Brookings:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Brookings is home to several museums and historical sites. These attractions can provide insight into the city’s fascinating history and rich culture.

  • South Dakota Art Museum: This museum showcases artworks by regional and national artists, including Native American artists. Admission is free, and visitors can take advantage of free guided tours.

  • Agricultural Heritage Museum: This museum explores the history of agriculture in South Dakota and its impact on the state’s economy. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or attend one of the museum’s many events.

  • South Dakota State Agricultural Heritage Museum: This museum features exhibits that highlight the agricultural traditions of South Dakota. Visitors can tour the exhibits and participate in various hands-on programs.

Natural Attractions of Brookings: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Brookings is situated in the Glacial Lakes region, which provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities and scenic views.

  • Dakota Nature Park: This park features over 150 acres of land, including hiking trails, a fishing pond, and a bird watching area.

  • Oakwood Lakes State Park: This state park is located 12 miles east of Brookings and offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, and swimming opportunities.

  • McCormick Park and Family Aquatic Center: This park features a swimming pool, water slides, and other aquatic activities. It’s a great place to cool off during the summer months.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brookings

Brookings is known for its beautiful natural scenery, making it a great place to explore on foot or by bike. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Brookings Bike Loop: This 11-mile loop takes riders through the heart of the city and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Dakota Nature Park Trail: This trail is a 2.5-mile loop that takes hikers through the park’s prairie and woodland areas.

  • Oakwood Lakes State Park Trail: This trail is a 1.4-mile loop that takes hikers through the park’s scenic landscape.

Best Things to Do in Brookings: Activities and Tours

Brookings offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in the area:

  • South Dakota State University Campus Tour: This tour takes visitors through the campus of South Dakota State University, the state’s largest university. Visitors can learn about the university’s history and see the various academic and athletic buildings on campus.

  • Brookings Farmers Market: This weekly farmers market is held in the summer months and features local produce, crafts, and live music.

  • Brookings Summer Arts Festival: This annual festival is held in July and features over 200 artists showcasing their work, live music, and food vendors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brookings

If you’re planning to spend a week in Brookings, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 South Dakota Art Museum, lunch at Nick’s Hamburger Shop
2 Agricultural Heritage Museum, dinner at Cubby’s Sports Bar and Grill
3 Dakota Nature Park, picnic lunch
4 South Dakota State Agricultural Heritage Museum, dinner at Wooden Legs Brewing Company
5 Oakwood Lakes State Park, lunch at Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge
6 McCormick Park and Family Aquatic Center
7 Brookings Bike Loop, dinner at B-Dubs

Food and Drink Scene of Brookings

Brookings has a growing food and drink scene, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nick’s Hamburger: This famous hamburger shop has been a Brookings staple since 1929. The burgers are served with onions, pickles, and Nick’s special sauce.

  • Pheasant Sandwich: This sandwich features breaded and fried pheasant breast, lettuce, and tomato on a bun. It’s served at many local restaurants, including the Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge.

  • Kuchen: This traditional German dessert is popular in South Dakota, and Brookings is no exception. Kuchen is a sweet pastry filled with fruit or custard.

Local Beverages

  • Wooden Legs Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers and hosts events throughout the year.

  • Jolly Lane Greenhouse & Garden Center: This garden center offers a variety of plants and flowers for sale, as well as a cafe that serves coffee and baked goods.

Where to Stay in Brookings: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Brookings offers a variety of lodging options for visitors of all budgets. Here are some of the top places to stay in the area:

  • My Place Hotel: This hotel is located near the South Dakota State University campus and offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes.

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Brookings: This affordable hotel is located near the heart of downtown Brookings and offers free breakfast and an indoor pool.

  • Prairie House Manor Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast is located in a historic home and offers comfortable rooms and a home-cooked breakfast.

What to Buy in Brookings: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home from Brookings, here are some suggestions:

  • South Dakota State University Merchandise: The university’s bookstore offers a variety of clothing, gifts, and accessories featuring the university’s logo.

  • Boomtown Boutique: This locally owned boutique offers trendy clothing and accessories, as well as home decor items.

  • South Dakota Made Products: Many local stores offer products made in South Dakota, such as honey, soap, and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Brookings

South Dakota has a rich agricultural heritage, and visitors to Brookings may notice the importance of farming and agriculture in the local culture. Additionally, Brookings has a vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and festivals throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Brookings

The best time to visit Brookings is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and many of the city’s outdoor attractions are open. However, visitors who don’t mind the cold may enjoy visiting in the winter, when the city is covered in snow and many winter activities are available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brookings

Here are some suggested do’s and don’ts for travelers visiting Brookings:

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the city’s hiking and biking trails and other outdoor activities.

  • Do visit the local museums and historical sites to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent during the summer months.

  • Don’t ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities, especially when hiking or biking in remote areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Brookings

Brookings is generally a safe city, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take proper precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Visitors should also be careful when driving on rural roads, especially at night.

Health in Brookings

Brookings has a variety of medical facilities, including Avera Medical Group and Brookings Health System. Visitors should also take proper precautions to protect themselves from insect bites and ticks when engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Brookings: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Brookings

The nearest airport to Brookings is the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, located approximately 60 miles south of the city. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, American, and United.

Bus Stations Near Brookings

Greyhound offers bus service to the nearby city of Watertown, approximately 50 miles north of Brookings.

Other Options

Visitors may also consider renting a car to travel to Brookings, as the city is located along Interstate 29.

How to Get Around in Brookings

Brookings is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s hiking and biking trails, or rent a car or bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Brookings: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond Brookings, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Watertown: This small city is located approximately 50 miles north of Brookings and offers a variety of outdoor activities, as well as historic sites.

  • Sioux Falls: This larger city is located approximately 60 miles south of Brookings and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including art museums and performing arts venues.

  • Badlands National Park: This national park is located approximately 150 miles west of Brookings and is home to unique geological formations and diverse wildlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or just getting a taste of small-town life in South Dakota, Brookings has something for everyone. With a variety of attractions and activities, as well as a growing food and drink scene, Brookings is a must-visit destination in the heart of the Great Plains.