Grab the kids for a fun-filled day exploring a few of Brooking’s family-friendly offerings. When you think of Brookings, you might think of a college town home to South Dakota State University. But it’s one of the most child-friendly places you can visit. In this adventure, you’ll see a museum, have an old-fashioned burger, visit a park, and end your day with a sweet treat. Bring the whole family along — you’ll all enjoy it.
South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum
Your first stop is the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. This museum provides something for the entire family. The children’s gallery educates kids on many aspects of agriculture and livestock management in a fun way! Practice collecting and grading eggs or milking a cow. Peddle the grain auger to move crops from the field to the silo and more! It’s a local favorite for playdates. This place isn’t just for littles, though! Grownups can also enjoy the galleries, including homesteading during the dust bowl or wind energy.
Pro Tip!
This museum is totally free to enter!
Nick’s Hamburger Shop
After our trip to the museum, it’s time for lunch! Visit Nick’s Hamburger Shop for an old-fashioned burger. The menu is no-frills but precisely what you want: burgers, cheeseburgers, milkshakes, and homemade pie. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with classic red vinyl stools. The burgers come loose in a paper bag and feel like the perfect callback to a bygone era. This delicious, classic treat will hit the spot with young and old alike. The perfectly cooked patties are like taking a step back in time.
Pro Tip!
Hillcrest Park
After your bite to eat, it’s off for a visit to the park. Take your burgers on the go and head on over. Hillcrest Park truly has something for everyone. There are immaculate tennis courts, pickleball, and even a horseshoe pit. There’s a large, spacious playground with lots of equipment. It’s the ideal place for a game of catch, flying a kite, or playing in the jungle gym. It’s a great way to spend the day together as a family.
Pro Tip!
SDSU Dairy Bar
After the park, cool off with a sweet treat at the cult-favorite SDSU Dairy Bar. It is such a fun and unique experience! The ice cream is made on campus as part of the university’s dairy science program. SDSU invented Cookies n’ Cream ice cream right here in 1979. You’ll love the creamy texture with just enough cookie chunks. Are you looking for something else? There are many flavors to choose from, like McCrory Maple, made from maple syrup from the SDSU Arboretum’s stand of maple trees. You’ll want to come back again and again.
