Bartender serving beverages on Cubby's rooftop seating
Your Favorite Stop Before Sturgis
Welcome Bikers

You’ve got miles behind you, the highway humming beneath your wheels, and 360 to go. Whether you’re riding solo or with your crew, Brookings is more than fuel and rest. It’s a chance to catch your breath, share a laugh, and soak in the ride

Not Your Average Pit Stop

You could gas up and go, but where’s the fun in that? Here, even a quick stop comes with cold drinks, blooming gardens, rooftop patios and small-town charm that sticks with you. Stretch your legs, stay awhile and make this stop count.

Now let’s explore a few things to do before you ride on.

Brookings Staples
Places to Eat

Think burgers that need two hands, roadside comfort food, and meals that hit just right after 200 miles. The kind of spots your bike would stop for if it could.

Where to eat like a local:

  • Nick’s Hamburger Shop – A Brookings classic since forever. No frills, all flavor.
  • Cubby’s Sports Bar & Grill – Hit the rooftop for burgers, beers and people-watching.
  • The Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge – A James Beard favorite with old-school charm and unforgettable flavor.
Raise a Glass
Bars & Brews

Cold drinks, good company, no hurry. Find a spot to kick back, enjoy great company and soak in the local vibe. Whether you’re swapping stories or just relaxing.

Where to unwind:

  • Ray’s Corner — Laid-back atmosphere and friendly faces.
  • Wooden Legs Brewing Company — Local brews and good times.
  • Jim’s Tap — Classic hangout with a lively crowd.
Worth the detour
Big Surprises Here

Take your time. Find the unexpected. Brookings isn’t just a place to pause, it’s a place to discover. From blooming gardens surprising at every turn to murals and museums telling stories worth hearing, this is where the journey slows down and the adventure deepens.

A family walks under a wooden structure at McCrory Gardens surrounded by trees changing colors
Peaceful Pit Stop
McCrory Gardens

Swing by July 16–August 17, 2025 to enjoy these rider perks:

  • Buy One, Get One Free Admission — because good rides (and gardens) are better shared
  • Free bottled water — cold, refreshing and ready when you are
  • Postcard Station — grab a card, write a note and they’ll mail it for you
  • Temporary Tattoo Station — add some flair to your day, then wash it away when you’re ready
  • Pin your hometown on their travel map and see where others have rolled in from
  • Breakdown Buddy Program — if your bike needs a little fixing, local shops will have free passes for you to relax and reset in the gardens
  • Forever 605 Giveaways — free swag, because who doesn’t love a little something extra?

Need Additional Ideas While in Brookings

Events in Brookings This Week