Things To Do
in Brookings
Brookings is a city located in the eastern part of South Dakota, USA. Known for its small-town charm and friendly community atmosphere, Brookings is home to South Dakota State University, providing a vibrant college town environment. The city boasts a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and sports facilities.
With a strong economy and diverse range of industries, Brookings offers a high quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, head to the scenic views of Harris Beach State Park for a morning stroll along the shore.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach and then explore the tide pools during low tide. Spend your afternoon discovering the unique marine life with family or friends.
Relax with dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Wake up early for a hike in the nearby Azalea Park. The morning sun enhances the beauty of the blooming azaleas and natural scenery.
Have lunch at a peaceful spot in the park and continue exploring its trails. Take your time to enjoy the sounds of nature.
Head back to town for a cozy dinner at a local diner. Spend the evening sharing stories around a campfire under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to outdoor recreational activities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Low crime rates and a safe environment for families.
- Diverse local wildlife and natural surroundings, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- A growing arts and culture scene with local galleries and events.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Higher cost of living compared to other small towns.
- Fewer entertainment options and amenities than larger cities.
- Inclement weather during winter months can be challenging.
- Limited access to public transportation.
Best Activities in Brookings
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful walk through beautiful gardens, visit the azalea maze, or have a picnic in this lovely park.
Explore the scenic trails and enjoy stunning views of the coastline and Chetco River at Chetco Point Park.
Search for agates, explore tide pools, or simply relax on the sandy beaches at Harris Beach State Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Brookings with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Brookings
Visit one of these nice places.
Chetco Point Park offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged coastline, making it a prime spot for photo opportunities in Brookings.
Harris Beach State Park features scenic viewpoints and picturesque landscapes, providing excellent photo opportunities for visitors to capture the beauty of Brookings.
The Brookings Harbor and Marina offers panoramic views of the harbor, boats, and coastline, making it a popular location for photographers seeking captivating images of the area.
Food in Brookings
Brookings Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local dish consisting of bite-sized pieces of seasoned meat, typically grilled or deep-fried. It's often served with a side of garlic toast or dipping sauces. Check out Nick's Hamburger Shop for a classic chislic experience.
Must-Try!
Unique to the region, this dish features layers of mashed potatoes, roast beef, gravy, and a cherry tomato on top, resembling a sweet sundae. Try it at Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge for an authentic taste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Brookings Farmers Market to savor fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local treats. You can indulge in homemade baked goods, handcrafted cheeses, and even ready-to-eat snacks while enjoying the bustling market atmosphere.
Explore the Food Truck Frenzy events to sample an array of delicious street food offerings. From gourmet tacos to inventive fusion dishes, these gatherings provide a vibrant showcase of local culinary talent and foodie delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Brookings, it's important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close during conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is valued in Brookings, so it's important to arrive on time for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings.
Using polite language and manners, such as 'please' and 'thank you', is appreciated in interactions with others in Brookings.
Safety
Tipping in Brookings
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in Brookings, United States, where it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tipping rate is generally 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Brookings, United States is commonly made using cash, credit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Brookings as the weather is mild and flowers are in bloom. It's a good time for outdoor activities and to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season in Brookings with warm temperatures perfect for beach activities, hiking, and water sports. The coastal town comes alive with festivals and events.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. It's a quieter time to visit, and ideal for nature walks and enjoying the changing landscapes.
Winter (December to February) in Brookings can be wet and stormy, but also offers spectacular storm watching opportunities. Indoor activities and cozy coastal getaways are popular during this time.
Brookings at Night
Hiking in Brookings
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful coastal park featuring stunning ocean views, sandy beaches, and numerous hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes.
A vast forest with a variety of hiking trails ranging in difficulty, offering scenic views of mountains, rivers, and diverse wildlife.
A small park with trails that provide breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding area. Perfect for a leisurely hike.
Features rugged coastal trails that lead to stunning vistas, wildlife watching opportunities, and access to secluded beaches.
Offers trails with beautiful views of the coastline, sandy dunes, and the Pistol River, ideal for hiking and photography.
Aiports
How to reach Brookings by plane.
Located approximately 80 miles northeast of Brookings, this airport serves as the primary airport for the Sioux Falls metropolitan area and offers various domestic flights.
Situated about 340 miles west of Brookings, this airport serves the Rapid City area and provides several flight options primarily to domestic destinations.
Located around 250 miles to the east of Brookings, this major airport serves the Twin Cities area and offers numerous international and domestic flight options.
About 350 miles south of Brookings, this airport serves Omaha, Nebraska, and provides a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian demographic group.
Includes individuals of Latin American and Spanish origin.
Includes individuals with African ancestry.
Includes individuals of Asian ancestry, such as Indian, Chinese, and Filipino.
Includes individuals belonging to indigenous tribes of the United States.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds.
Includes all other ethnicities not classified above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American football is popular at both the high school and college levels in Brookings, particularly with the Brookings High School and South Dakota State University football teams.
Basketball is widely played and followed in Brookings, with strong community support for local high school teams and college games.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, especially among youth leagues and South Dakota State University's teams.
Baseball enjoys a rich tradition in Brookings, with youth leagues and summer teams participating in regional competitions.
Track and field events are popular at local schools, with students participating in various competitions throughout the year.
Wrestling has a strong presence in Brookings, particularly at the high school level, nurturing talent for state competitions.
Volleyball is a popular sport among high school girls and has a supportive community following in Brookings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brookings.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors with vegetarian or vegan preferences can explore various dining establishments in Brookings offering plant-based menu items. Notable options include veggie-packed wraps, fresh salads, and flavorful vegan burger creations.
Individuals seeking gluten-free dining experiences will find accommodating options at several restaurants in Brookings. From gluten-free pizza choices to carefully prepared gluten-free pasta dishes, there are delicious selections available for those with gluten sensitivities.