Start your weekend right with cold ones at Cubby’s Sports Bar & Grill. Never miss a game with more than 55 flat screen TVs, and numerous brews on tap, and a robust menu. During halftime, enjoy a friendly game of billiards or darts. After filling up on brews and burgers, make your way to Larson Ice Center for a Brookings Ranger or SDSU Jacks Club hockey game. Not feeling the cold of the ice? Try Tee’d Off for a golf simulator experience complete with zombie dodgeball. The Lanes has all you can bowl on Friday nights if bowling is more your speed.

Mornings in Brookings are best when started with coffee. Pick up something hot or cold, flavored or strong at Kool Beans Coffee and Roasterie in Downtown Brookings. The industrial vibe and overall ambiance will have you feeling right at home. Grab a hearty breakfast at Cook’s Kitchen, you’ll need a solid meal before tailgating.

After breakfast head to tailgate as the day begins as early as you make it (5 hours before kickoff is officially when tailgate opens!). Tailgaters load up with coolers, crock-pots, portable stoves and all the munchies money can buy. Don’t forget to bring a few chairs and a shade tent to pull the whole look together. The weather in Brookings can change with the wind so stop by Jackrabbit Central to stock up on hats, mittens, sweatshirts, or T-shirts before hitting the stands.

Once evening hits, grab the group and try out a mini brewery tour. Your first stop is Wooden Legs Brewing Company where the story of Wilmot Wood Brookings comes to life, or at least the “inspired by” version. Then, step out of your comfort zones and try a fun flavored sour at Eponymous Brewing Company.

Looking for a more family-friendly evening? Grab some pizza at one of our ten restaurants. George’s Pizza and Pizza King are Brookings staples.

On Sunday before hitting the road visit Cottonwood Bistro for caffeine and a breakfast treat. A quick, hot meal on a cool day is just what you need. Planning to stay a little longer? Check out the latest exhibit at the South Dakota Art Museum or get moving at Dakota Nature Park!