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Brookings

Brookings, South Dakota, United States

Brookings, South Dakota, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant community life. Situated in the eastern part of the state, Brookings is known for being the home of South Dakota Sta…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Brookings.

Top Hotels in Brookings

Top Flights to Brookings

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Brookings.

Tours

Explore the South Dakota Art Museum

Visit the South Dakota Art Museum to view an array of regional, national, and international art exhibits.

Stroll through McCrory Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful botanical gardens at McCrory, featuring flowers and plants from all over the world.

Shopping

Shopping at the Brookings Mall

Visit the Brookings Mall for a variety of shops from local boutiques to well-known retail stores.

Outdoor

Adventure in Dakota Nature Park

Engage in various outdoor activities like hiking, biking and bird watching at Dakota Nature Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Brookings.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
24,500
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Brookings
Jan
rain
12°5°
Feb
rain
13°5°
Mar
cloud
14°6°
Apr
cloud
15°7°
May
cloud
17°9°
Jun
cloud
19°11°
Jul
sun
21°12°
Aug
sun
22°13°
Sep
cloud
21°12°
Oct
rain
18°10°
Nov
rain
14°7°
Dec
rain
12°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Brookings.

What people love

Brookings, South Dakota, is a charming city with several attractions and activities that make it a worthwhile travel destination. Some pros of traveling to Brookings include:

  1. South Dakota Art Museum: This museum showcases a diverse collection of Native American art, regional artists, and changing exhibitions. It provides insight into the cultural heritage and artistic expressions of the region.

  2. McCrory Gardens: Spanning 25 acres, McCrory Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden with various themed areas, including a rock garden, rose garden, and children's garden. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, educational programs, and seasonal events.

  3. Outdoor Recreation: Brookings offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing. Nearby locations like Oakwood Lakes State Park and Lake Campbell provide scenic spots for nature enthusiasts.

  4. South Dakota State University: As a college town, Brookings is home to South Dakota State University, which hosts cultural events, sports games, and educational resources. Visitors can explore the campus, attend lectures, or catch a sporting event.

  5. Local Events and Festivals: Brookings hosts various events throughout the year, including the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, the Downtown at Sundown concert series, and the Brookings Summer Farmers Market. These events offer a chance to experience the local culture and community spirit.

Overall, traveling to Brookings can provide a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and community events that cater to a wide range of interests.

What to know

Brookings, South Dakota is a lovely place to visit, but like any destination, it comes with its own set of cons. Here are some potential downsides of traveling to Brookings:

  1. Limited Public Transportation: Brookings is a relatively small town, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around if you don't have access to a car.

  2. Limited Dining and Entertainment Options: While Brookings does offer a variety of dining and entertainment options, the selection may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities. If you are looking for a wide range of culinary experiences or nightlife activities, you may find Brookings lacking in comparison.

  3. Weather Extremes: South Dakota experiences a wide range of weather conditions, including cold winters and hot summers. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.

  4. Limited Cultural Attractions: While Brookings has some cultural attractions like museums and art galleries, it may not offer the same level of cultural experiences as larger cities. If you are seeking a wide range of cultural activities, you may find Brookings to be lacking in this regard.

  5. Limited Shopping Options: Brookings may have limited shopping options compared to larger cities, which could be a downside for travelers looking to indulge in retail therapy or find specific items.

Overall, while Brookings has many positive attributes, these potential cons are worth considering when planning a trip to the area.

Brookings, South Dakota, is a city with a rich history that dates back to its establishment in the late 19th century. Here is a detailed historical overview of Brookings:

  1. Founding and Early History:

    • The city of Brookings was officially platted in 1879 and was named after Wilmot Brookings, a pioneer promoter of Dakota Territory. Brookings was instrumental in the development of the area and served as a key figure in the establishment of the Dakota Territory.

  2. Railroad Development:

    • The arrival of the railroad was a significant event in the history of Brookings. The city became a hub for transportation and trade when the Chicago and North Western Railway reached Brookings in 1879. This development facilitated growth and attracted settlers to the region.

  3. Education and South Dakota State University (SDSU):

    • One of the most significant developments in Brookings was the establishment of South Dakota State University (SDSU) in 1881. Originally founded as a land-grant college, SDSU has grown into the largest university in South Dakota. The university has played a crucial role in the economic and cultural development of the city.
    • SDSU is also home to the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum and the Coughlin Campanile, an iconic campus landmark.

  4. Economic Development:

    • Over the years, Brookings has developed a diverse economy. The presence of SDSU has contributed to a strong educational and research sector, while agriculture and industry have also played significant roles in the local economy.

  5. Brookings County Courthouse:

    • The Brookings County Courthouse, built in 1912, is a notable landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its architecture is an example of the Classical Revival style, and it remains a central feature of the city.

  6. Cultural and Community Events:

    • Brookings hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, which are important to its cultural identity. The annual Brookings Summer Arts Festival is one of the largest and longest-running events of its kind in the region.

  7. Notable Figures:

    • In addition to Wilmot Brookings, other notable figures associated with the city include prominent educators and leaders from SDSU, as well as local business leaders who have contributed to the city's growth.

  8. Modern Developments:

    • In recent years, Brookings has continued to grow, with developments in healthcare, technology, and retail. The city is known for its high quality of life and community-focused environment.

Brookings remains a vibrant community with a blend of historical significance and modern innovation, largely driven by the presence of SDSU and its role as an educational and cultural center in South Dakota.