Seven galleries, more than 7,000 objects, and exhibitions featuring both traditional and contemporary Native American art: the South Dakota Art Museum adds a multifaceted cultural dimension to Brookings. The variety of art forms gives the museum more than one single focus and offers different perspectives on the works on display.
Art, Agriculture, and History
Agriculture can also be explored from different perspectives in Brookings. At the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum, visitors can take a close look at a 65-horsepower J.I. Case Steam Traction Engine. The Ag-Xploration Gallery is designed as a family-friendly space where children ages 1 to 6 can explore agriculture. The historical theme is thus complemented by an offering for a clearly defined age group.
The Brookings County History Museum houses more than 4,500 artifacts; visitors can also explore five historic buildings. Another historic landmark is the Stock Judging Pavilion, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Display Gardens or Trails for Getting Active
McCrory Gardens includes more than 25 acres of formal display gardens with hundreds of different flowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses. The South Dakota State Arboretum covers 45 acres. Jogging and cycling are allowed and encouraged on its trails.
The two sites have different focuses: McCrory Gardens centers on formal plant displays, while the arboretum offers trails for jogging and cycling. If you’re choosing between botanical variety and outdoor exercise, these specific features offer helpful guidance.
Outdoor Activities and Practical Information
The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center has an Olympic-size archery range and a 12-lane shooting range with automatic retrieval. During public hours, you can use either of the two ranges without a reservation by signing up on arrival. Hours and operating procedures may change, so check them before your visit.
Equipment for outdoor activities at Dakota Nature Park can be rented by the hour. Since availability and rental terms may change, it’s a good idea to check in advance.
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area is in Brookings County, 14 miles northeast of Arlington on US Highway 81.
Market and Performing Arts
The Brookings Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from the first week of May through the last week of October. Depending on the season, local producers sell fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat, jams, honey, bread, and coffee, among other items. The selection changes with the seasons. Check dates and times before you travel.
The Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center hosts concerts as well as theater and dance performances. Since the program changes over time, check the schedule if you have a particular performance in mind. Along with art, history, gardens, and outdoor activities, the cultural program offers another facet of a visit to Brookings.
Discover more destinations: Brookings, Hutchinson County, Fall River County, Lake County, Jerauld County, Lawrence County, Grant County, Jackson County.
For the regional travel overview: South Dakota.
