Downtown Urban Canvas
Brookings itinerary
Art Filled Day Trip

Do you get excited by art gallery openings? Are you interested in taping into a more artistic side of yourself?  If so, this may be the day trip for you, this itinerary is certified art buff approved!

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Morning

Brookings is filled with unique sculptures. From memorializing the traditions of South Dakota State University with Weary Wil & Dirty Lil or celebrating 125 years of township with The Little Professor you will be kept busy exploring and learning more about the community. Most of the works are located in the Downtown District, however there are many others scattered throughout the community as well, for example The Blind Man II/ The chase located in Hillcrest Park.  Whether you choose to walk down main street or hop on a bike and pedal around the community there are plenty of sculptures to take in.

Public art thrives in the alleyways of downtown Brookings. The walk consists of 8 life-size murals. Among the works of art is a collaboration with the South Dakota Dept. of Tourism and the talented women of Pandr Design Company on the backside of the Brookings Register. The colorful outdoor murals make a great backdrop for a family photo or styled photoshoot. The newest addition to the larger-than-life art scene downtown is a community mural called Project Gestalt which Brookings residents helped create. You can find this mural on the side of Wooden Legs Brewery.

Mid-morning

Public art thrives in the alleyways of downtown Brookings. The walk consists of 8 life-size murals. Among the works of art is a collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the talented women of Pandr Design Company on the backside of the Brookings Register. The colorful outdoor murals make a great backdrop for a family photo or styled photoshoot. The newest addition to the larger-than-life art scene downtown is a community mural called Project Gestalt which Brookings residents helped create. You can find this mural on the side of Wooden Legs Brewery.

After you’ve snapped all your pictures in front of the murals, round the corner and make your way to Nick’s Hamburger Shop for a bag full of delicious sliders. Pull up to one of the many vintage red bar stools inside or enjoy your meal outside and take in more of the downtown scenery.

Afternoon

For those who are looking to appreciate the finer things. The South Dakota Art Museum curates, preserves, exhibits, and interprets visual art for the viewing pleasure of all its patrons. The museum has a program of changing exhibitions of contemporary and traditional works of art so there is always something new to come see! Explore the works of  legendary South Dakota artist, Harvey Dunn. From his stunning portraits to his powerful war works, there are many beautiful paintings to marvel. The museum is the perfect place to recharge after a morning outdoors.

Evening

Wrap up your day with a visit to the state-of-the-art Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, home to world class concerts and beautiful dance performances. An asset to the South Dakota State University campus as well as the Brookings community the PAC brings an elevated level of entertainment for your enjoyment.

If you are lucky enough to be around on one of the weekends that the Brookings Community Theatre is putting on a show, it is a can’t miss event! Now in their 20th season, the Brookings Community Theatre provides theatrical entertainment and puts on three main stage shows per year.

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