Written in collaboration with the International Tourism class from the Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management program at SDSU by Cait Veal, Hope O’Reilly and Grace Pauling.
Thursday
Children’s Museum of South Dakota:
The Children’s Museum offers both indoor and outdoor aspects, providing an intriguing day for children. It allows kids and their parents to experience both interactive and educational exhibits, themed areas (like Kids’ Street) and other hands-on exhibits. You could spend quite a bit of a day here if you wanted to!
Pro Tip: Visit the Children’s Museum on an off day to make sure the museum has space for your littles to play! Monday through Thursday are the least busy days compared to the weekend!
Dinner at Cubby’s:
Enjoy a delicious dinner at Cubby’s Sports Bar and Grill! Your go-to spot for all the classic American eats!
Pro Tip: Consider dining on the rooftop patio for a unique experience and view of Downtown Brookings.
Tee’d Off Golf Simulator:
Tee’d off Golf Simulators offers virtual reality experiences for golf, hockey, basketball, dodgeball and more. It is a great place to go if your family is into sports and wants a virtual experience.
Friday
Cottonwood Bistro:
The perfect spot for brunch and coffee lovers! Made from scratch their meals are made from the freshest of ingredients. Enjoy your brunch inside their cozy atmosphere or out on their outdoor patio.
Pro tip: If you plan on ordering the pancakes, be aware they are humongous!
Dakota Nature Park:
Dakota Nature Park is a beautiful area where you can enjoy a beautiful park, have a picnic or just take a walk in the sun! In the summer, you can also go fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding and kayaking to enjoy some quality family time!
Pro tip: Check out equipment rentals for everything from bikes to binoculars.
Saturday
Brookings Farmers Market:
The Brookings Farmers Market offers a variety of local products. They offer fresh produce such as vegetables and fruits, herbs, meats, jams, honey, bread, coffee, soap and eggs. Check their Facebook page for events including free family yoga and other children’s activities, along with booths that have handmade crafts to purchase.
Nick’s Hamburger Shop:
Enjoy a lunch at Nick’s Hamburger Shop, a Brookings classic since 1929. Order and dine inside or take your meal to the seating areas right outside.
Pro tip: Nick’s features different kinds of locally made pie every day! Try a slice of pie a la mode or their various flavors of milkshakes for a sweet treat after some delicious sliders.
Brookings Summer Art Festival:
This art festival provides art, entertainment and activities. There is also a children’s area, diverse booths and captivating performances done on stage. It occurs every second weekend in July.
