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Brookings, South Dakota is a vibrant university town in the eastern part of the state, home to South Dakota State University. The city sits in the heart of the Dakota prairies, offering visitors a blend of collegiate energy, agricultural heritage, and Midwestern charm. With a population that swells during the academic year, Brookings serves as a cultural and economic hub for the surrounding agricultural region.
The city’s identity is deeply tied to South Dakota State University, founded in 1881. The Frost Arena hosts Jackrabbits athletics and major campus events throughout the year. The South Dakota Art Museum on campus showcases regional and American art, including the renowned Harvey Dunn collection depicting pioneer life on the Great Plains. Visitors can explore the University Arboretum, featuring hundreds of plant species adapted to the northern prairie climate.
Brookings was founded in 1879 as a planned railroad town at the junction of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad lines. The city was named after Robert Oakley Brookings, a railroad official who played a crucial role in establishing the community. The arrival of the railroad transformed what was then empty prairie into a thriving settlement that would become Brookings County’s seat and a center of commerce for the surrounding agricultural region.
The establishment of South Dakota State University in 1881 cemented Brookings as an educational center for the region. Early settlers were primarily farmers drawn to the fertile soils of the Dakota prairies. The university grew alongside the community, eventually becoming the state’s largest institution of higher education. The college’s agricultural research programs helped transform the region into one of the most productive farmland areas in the United States.
Throughout the 20th century, Brookings maintained its agricultural roots while diversifying its economy. The city became home to Rainbow Electronics and other manufacturing facilities, balancing traditional farming with modern industry. Today, Brookings remains true to its heritage while looking toward the future, preserving its small-town character while serving as a regional center for education, healthcare, and commerce.
The South Dakota Art Museum houses an impressive collection that spans centuries of American art. The Harvey Dunn collection is particularly noteworthy, featuring dramatic depictions of pioneer life on the Great Plains that capture the hardship and resilience of early settlers. The museum’s Mayo Collection includes works by prominent regional artists, while rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural destination for visitors of all ages.
The University Arboretum offers a unique botanical experience on the northern prairie. With over 500 species of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants, the arboretum demonstrates what can thrive in the region’s challenging climate. Guided tours are available during the summer months, and the grounds make for a peaceful stroll year-round. The adjacent Intramural Fields provide recreational space for students and community members alike.
Brookings has numerous parks scattered throughout the city. Sunset Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding prairie landscapes, particularly stunning during golden hour. The Brookings County Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities just minutes from downtown. In winter, the parks transform into cross-country skiing and snow shoeing destinations.
The Big Sioux River flows through Brookings, providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The river is stocked with various fish species, making it popular among local anglers. In warmer months, residents and visitors enjoy paddling along the scenic waterway, appreciating the natural beauty of the riparian corridor as it winds through the prairie landscape.
Camping and hiking are popular pastimes in the Brookings area. The nearby Lake Vermillion offers a larger water recreation destination with campgrounds, swimming beaches, and hiking trails. The lake’s proximity to Brookings makes it a favorite weekend getaway for families seeking to escape the flat plains for some water-based fun.
Winter recreation brings a different character to Brookings. Snowmobiling trails connect to broader networks across eastern South Dakota, while cross-country skiing is popular at local parks and rural areas. The university’s recreation facilities are also available to the public during non-school hours, offering indoor swimming, basketball courts, and fitness equipment.
The best time to visit Brookings is during late spring through early fall (May through September). May and June bring blooming wildflowers across the prairie, ideal for photography and outdoor exploration. July and August offer warm temperatures perfect for river activities, farmers’ markets, and outdoor festivals. September showcases the beginning of harvest season, with golden fields stretching to the horizon.
Summer weekends are when Brookings truly comes alive. The Brookings Summer Arts Festival brings musicians, artists, and performers to the downtown area. University athletics, particularly football and basketball, draw crowds during the academic year. The campus itself offers tours, museum visits, and sporting events that provide insight into Jackrabbits culture.
Winter visitors can enjoy a quieter pace. The university’s Swiftel Center hosts concerts, conferences, and community events throughout the colder months. Indoor attractions like the South Dakota Art Museum and local restaurants provide warm retreats from the prairie cold. Snow enthusiasts will appreciate the access to snowmobiling and skiing opportunities in the surrounding countryside.
College football fans should consider visiting during the fall season. The Jackrabbits compete in the NCAA Division I FCS, and game days create an electric atmosphere that showcases the community’s passion for its team.
Here are some of our recommended things to do near Brookings. Select what you would like to do!
McCrory Gardens is a botanical treasure tucked into the campus of South Dakota State University in Brookings. Spanning 70 acres of formal display gardens, arboretum collections, and restored native prairie, the gardens serve as both a living laborat…