Good Roots Farm & Gardens is always a good idea on a summer Sunday afternoon.

Earlier this week, Brookings had the honor of hosting the South Dakota Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board. Our team, along with several of our board members, joined the state board and their partners for tours showcasing the many ways Brookings contributes to tourism in South Dakota.

A big thank you to the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center and SDSU Athletics for opening your doors and sharing your outstanding facilities!

Ready to level up your customer service game?

Join Visit Brookings this August for the Brookings Tourism Ambassador Program—a community-wide certification open to all industries!

This program enhances your customer service skills, deepens your knowledge of Brookings, and equips you with the tools to create positive, memorable interactions every time.

Register by August 13, 2025 to secure your spot!

A great reminder for those visiting this weekend.

Please be patient and courteous as Brookings will be filled with visitors for the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and the Buffalo Wild Wings Classic baseball tournament among many other events.

On Wednesdays, we explore Brookings' hidden gems!

Did you know many Brookings attractions are highlighted within the Travel South Dakota Passport?

Get your passport and start exploring to earn prizes here: https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/passports

An update regarding tomorrow's Uncle Sam Jam.

For additional updates regarding this event, follow the Dacotah Bank Center.

Planning a trip for the Brookings Summer Arts Festival on July 12 and13?

Check out this itinerary written by Wandering Badger Media with what to see and do during your visit at the festival.

#VisitBrookingsSD #BSAF https://visitbrookingssd.com/itinerary/summer-arts-festival/

Brookings has some amazing public 🎨 art that is free and available for everyone, such as the I love South Dakota mural behind Nick's Hamburger Shop or the Bunny Trail in the alley by Meraki Threads.

Head to VisitBrookingsSD.com for more ways to see the artwork that decorates the streets.

Forever 605 is a celebration of what makes South Dakota feel like home. In Brookings, you’ll find this spirit everywhere. It lives in the curiosity sparked at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, the energy of our charming downtown and within our local businesses.

#Forever605 #HiFromSD #SouthDakota #VisitBrookingsSD

Did you know only a handful of states have one area code?

Forever 605 Day celebrates South Dakota by not only honoring the area code, but also inspires residents and visitors alike to care for our state through responsible, respectful travel.

Sign the pledge and show your support: https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/forever-605-pledge

Extra! Extra! Read all about the South Dakota Art Museum!

In 605 Magazine's June issue, learn more about the museum, arts in South Dakota and what to see in the galleries.

Pick up this month's issue around Brookings:
- Kool Beans Coffee and Roasterie
- Cubby's Sports Bar & Grill
- Wooden Legs Brewing Company
- Cottonwood Bistro
- Cottonwood Coffee
- Choco Latte
- McCrory Gardens
- South Dakota Art Museum
- Starbucks (1404 6th St)
- Outdoor rack near the Post Office https://605magazine.com/2025/05/30/605-spotlight-south-dakota-art-museum/

We ❤️ Nick's Hamburger Shop!

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor the brave individuals who gave their lives in service to our country.

In observance of the holiday, Visit Brookings will be closed Monday, May 26, and will reopen on Tuesday, May 27.

With over 20 miles of trails to bike, walk and explore, Brookings is ready for your next adventure. Whether you're heading to your next attraction or wandering through a local park, the journey is part of the fun.

Grab a parks and trails map at our office or download it here: cityofbrookings-sd.gov/866

#VisitBrookingsSD #ParksAndRec

Big things are coming to Brookings! 🎉

Join us as the City of Brookings and Ryan Companies break ground on The Marketplace tomorrow, May 14 at 2pm.

This exciting development will bring new shopping and grocery options to the east side of I-29, including Target, Aldi and more. It will add to the offerings both residents and visitors can enjoy in Brookings.

The event will include light refreshments and brief remarks. Park at the Dacotah Bank Center, then cross 32nd Avenue and walk to the west side of the Research & Technology Center.

We look forward to welcoming even more ways to shop, explore and experience Brookings in 2026!

Check out this information about parking for SDSU graduation this Saturday. ⬇️

The 54th Annual Brookings Summer Arts Festival is happening tomorrow and Sunday, July 12 & 13!

As you make plans to stroll through more than 175 vendors, check out our helpful tips to make the most of the festival. https://visitbrookingssd.com/10-tips-to-have-the-best-brookings-summer-arts-festival-ever/

If you need us, we'll be at La Cantina, soaking up the sun and enjoying tacos on the patio.

📸: alexainthewoods

Mid week pizza pick me up?! It's a YES if you ask us. 🍕

Find your perfect slice at VisitBrookingsSD.com!
📍 George's Pizza

Someone told us it's time to get the crew together for a shopping day in Brookings!

Sorry, we don't make the rules... 🛍️

📍The Socialight Boutique

It's gearing up to be a busy weekend in Brookings! https://brookingsregister.com/stories/classic-cars-fresh-festival-show-returns-to-brookings-with-new-framework,139544

This is your last chance to register for the Brookings Tourism Ambassador Program - June Class!

Elevate your customer service skills and make every experience a positive one by attending the class on June 24.

Sign up and learn more at https://visitbrookingssd.com/industry-relations/cta-program/.

Pizza Nights are back at Good Roots Farm & Gardens LLC! Order ahead starting the Tuesday before to reserve your spot.

Don’t forget to bring your picnic essentials like plates, napkins, cutlery and something comfortable to sit on. Drinks including water, lemonade, beer and wine will be available for purchase on the day of the event.

A little birdy told us you are looking for brunch spots! Lucky for you, we've got the perfect recs! 🍳

📍 Cottonwood Bistro
📍 Cook's Kitchen
📍 Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge
Find even more places to eat at VisitBrookingsSD.com

Tourism makes Brookings a place people want to visit and a community we’re proud to call home. Last week, we honored some of the people and places who go above and beyond to create that experience:

Shari Budahl Avery received the Tourism Champion Award for her work leading the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, one of South Dakota’s top cultural events.

Mandy Lyons, Play Facilitator at the Children's Museum of South Dakota, earned the Hospitality Hero Award for making every visitor feel welcome.

Downtown Brookings was recognized with the Tourism Extra Mile Award for creating events and spaces that bring people together.

The Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center was named Tourism Facility of the Year for drawing visitors with performances, events and community impact.

Congratulations and thank you for elevating the community experience for all.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who makes tourism thrive in Brookings.

To the friendly faces at the front desk, the servers who go the extra mile, housekeepers, event crews and every person who helps create memorable experiences in our community

Tourism wouldn’t happen without you. You make Brookings welcoming, vibrant and full of life for visitors, residents and students.

We see you. We appreciate you. And we’re so glad you’re part of the Brookings story.

#NTTW25 #VisitBrookingsSD

Visit Brookings is the destination marketing organization for Brookings, South Dakota.

As destination experts, we proudly share the Brookings story, strengthen the local economy, and help create a welcoming experience for visitors and residents alike. Our team focuses on marketing the community, attracting conferences and meetings, and advocating for the vital role tourism plays in our economy. We work closely with community partners to ensure tourism efforts reflect Brookings' values and enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.

With a footprint that spans every region and state including Brookings, travel is essential to America’s economy and identity. It connects, it employs, it delivers.
#NTTW25

Travel is an economic powerhouse, a job creator, a community builder — indispensable and irreplaceable. This National Travel and Tourism Week, we’re recognizing our industry’s impact in Brookings.

Learn more about how we are celebrating at VisitBrookingsSD.com/NTTW/.

Cookies and cream was invented right here at South Dakota State University in Brookings, so you could say we’re the OG scoop. 🍦

Happy National Ice Cream Day from the city that churned up a classic!

Looking for a cool way to spend a summer day with the family?

Grab your Great 8 Passport and start exploring! From hands-on exhibits to sweet treats, these eight must-see Brookings attractions are perfect for family fun. Whether you hit them all in one day or spread the adventure out over the summer.

Snag your passport at any of the Great 8 locations or at the Visit Brookings office. Heads-up: The SDSU Dairy Bar and Visit Brookings is closed on weekends.

Bringing your furry friend to Brookings?

Check out our dog-friendly itinerary filled with pet-approved spots, outdoor adventures and places you’ll both love. Start planning a paws-itively perfect trip today! 🐾

Read more at VisitBrookingsSD.com/itinerary/dog-friendly-brookings/

The Anderson Plaza Performance Series is back every Tuesday in July at the South Dakota Art Museum!

The FREE live music starts at 6 PM so bring a picnic, chairs or blanket and enjoy the evening. There is plenty of space to relax on the Campus Green or to play yard games. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Free parking is available in nearby lots after 4pm. Anderson Plaza is located behind the museum.

📸 South Dakota Art Museum

Celebrating the 4th in Brookings? Be sure to check hours before you head out as some restaurants and attractions may have adjusted hours for the holiday.

If you are closed or have adjusted hours, please comment below.

📌 Visit Brookings will be closed on Friday, July 4.

Explore, shop, dine, and soak up charm in Downtown Brookings at the Brookings Bonanza tomorrow, June 28 from 9AM–4PM!

Enjoy food trucks, mobile boutiques, live music, the farmers market, Kidpreneur market,and more. Cap off the day with the Firefighter’s Street Dance at 7PM featuring Brandon Jones Band.

🚧 Main Ave. will be closed from 3rd St. to 5th St. from 6AM–5PM. A portion will remain closed through the end of the street dance. Plan ahead and use nearby parking lots along 3rd Ave and 5th Ave.

For more information about the event and parking, visit downtownbrookings.com.

This is your sign to stop scrolling, take a deep breath and go explore some green spaces in Brookings. 😌 💚

📍McCrory Gardens
📸 @EverydayCait

Brookings is brimming with summer events!

From hands-on camps and outdoor concerts to art markets and live theatre, summer days are packed with ways to explore and enjoy the season.

🎶 Jam out at Downtown at Sundown and the Anderson Plaza Summer Series
🎭 Experience Prairie Repertory Theatre productions
🎨 Wander the Brookings Summer Arts Festival
📅 Discover even more events at VisitBrookingsSD.com/Events/

Whether you're visiting or calling it home, summer in Brookings is yours to enjoy. Learn how to become a part of this vibrant, event-filled community at LiveInBrookings.org.

This weekend's forecast: Sunny with a chance of home runs!

The Cubby's Sports Bar and Grill Classic 9U-12U Tournament runs through Sunday and brings 20+ teams and families to town.

Celebrate Forever 605 Day with a giveaway!

To us, South Dakota is more than just a state… it’s our home. That’s why we support #Forever605 and its goal to keep Brookings and the 605 state bold and beautiful for years to come.

Visit us office at 1321 6th St today only (6/05 from 8am -5pm), sign the pledge and select from one of the prizes.
*While supplies last.

June is here! Don’t miss this events happening this month in Brookings, SD:

☀ JUNE 1: Good Roots Farm & Gardens Wood Fire Pizza Night
☀ JUNE 3: McCrory Gardens Eyes on the Iris
☀ JUNE 6 - 8: Cubby's Sports Bar and Grill Classic 9u-12u
☀ JUNE 7: The Nook Grand Reopening Celebration
☀ JUNE 11-14: Prairie Repertory Theatre Presents Grease
☀ JUNE 14-15: Brookings Kite Festival
☀ JUNE 18: Carden International Glow Circus Spectacular
☀ JUNE 25: Brookings Arts Council 2nd Annual Block Party for the Arts
☀ JUNE 28: Brookings Bonzanza
☀ JUNE 28-29: Soy Street at the Children's Museum of South Dakota

Let us know in the comments what you’re most excited for!

Don't text, currently fueling up for the weekend! ☕️

📍 Kool Beans Coffee and Roasterie
📸: Ally Wurts Photography

Ready to take your customer service skills to the next level?

Enroll in the June Brookings Tourism Ambassador Program certification class to make every encounter with visitors a positive experience.

Learn more and register at VisitBrookingsSD.com/CTA-Program.

*UPDATE - Visit Brookings will be open 8am - 5pm on Tuesday, May 20.*

Visit Brookings will have modified hours on Wednesday, May 15, Friday, May 16, and Tuesday, May 20. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you soon!

Congratulations to the South Dakota State University graduates! 🎓

We’re proud you called Brookings home during your time at South Dakota State University and made memories within our community. Today, you celebrate your hard work, your accomplishments and the exciting chapters ahead.

No matter where life takes you, we look forward to welcoming you and your families back to Brookings in the years to come.

Did you know visitors spent $37.5 million on food and beverage in Brookings County last year?

Every coffee run, happy hour toast, late-night bite, celebratory dinner and every meal in between at Brookings restaurants, bars and cafes adds up to a powerful impact on our community!

Learn more about National Travel & Tourism Week at VisitBrookingsSD.com/NTTW.

Brookings is getting ready to celebrate South Dakota State University graduates on Saturday, May 10!

Whether you call Brookings home or will be visiting to celebrate a graduate, we’re excited to welcome you. With ceremonies at First Bank & Trust Arena throughout the day, you can expect extra traffic and longer-than-normal wait times at restaurants.

Thank you in advance for being patient with extra traffic, busy restaurants and proud families everywhere.

Whether you're coasting through town on a bike or strolling through one of our scenic trails, Brookings is built for adventure. Cruise along the Allyn Frerichs Trail, test your skills at the Single Track Trail and Pump Park, or simply enjoy our dedicated bike lanes around town.

Not into biking? No problem. From dog parks to disc golf, playgrounds to nature trails, Brookings is packed with places to play and unwind.

Find your perfect pace in Brookings, SD. Learn more at LiveInBrookings.org.

#LiveInBrookings #BringYourDreams #OutdoorAdventure #BikeBrookings

Looking to fuel up for the week? Find a spot at VisitBrookingsSD.com! ☕️

📍 Choco Latte

Congratulations to our newest Brookings Tourism Ambassadors!

Thirteen individuals have completed the Brookings Tourism Ambassador Program, gaining tools to elevate visitor experiences and showcase what makes our community special. This program empowers locals to share Brookings with pride, one friendly face and helpful tip at a time.

This cohort of ambassadors represents McCrory Gardens, The Lanes, Peaceful Pines Senior Living at Brookings and South Dakota State University.

Ring, ring... McCrory Gardens is calling.

With something new blooming every visit, now’s the perfect time to stop and smell the flowers (literally). Celebrating 60 years of sunshine, blooms and peaceful strolls, there's always a reason to come back.

The free Brookings Kite Festival is soaring this weekend, Saturday & Sunday from 10AM–4PM at Fishback Soccer Complex!

🎆 Don’t miss the lighted kite show Saturday night at 8:30PM.
🪁 Fly your kite, watch the pros, enjoy food trucks & family fun.

#VisitBrookingsSD https://visitbrookingssd.com/event/brookings-kite-festival-4/2025-06-14/1/

We'll take all the angles of Brookings, please and thank you! ✨

#VisitBrookingsSD

Tourism is about creating a place people want to visit, but the benefits go far beyond travelers. When visitors explore Brookings, they support the restaurants, shops and attractions we all enjoy.

Last year, visitors spent $127.1 million in our community and generated $10.1 million in state and local tax revenue. When visitors spend money in Brookings, they help fund services we all rely on, from public safety to parks and better roads.

Tourism helps make Brookings a great place to live and an even better place to share. Learn more at LiveInBrookings.org. #LiveInBrookings #VisitBrookingsSD #TourismMatters

Hosting an event in Brookings? Share it with us for free.

Once approved, your event will be featured on our online calendar and included in 50 printed calendars sent to businesses around town.

Help more people discover your event by submitting it today at VisitBrookingsSD.com/events/community/add/.

When tourism thrives, communities like Brookings thrive.

- Visitor spending also helps fund services people rely on including education, emergency response and public safety. In 2024, Brookings County generated $10.1 million in tax revenue.

- Tourism supports 7.6% of the workforce in Brookings County and provides more than $36 million in direct labor income. This industry enhances the quality of life for residents in Brookings.

#NTTW25

Last night, Visit Brookings lit up red!

Red is the official color of the tourism industry and represents the people, places and passion behind every trip. In Brookings, tourism supports local jobs, drives small businesses and helps create a community we’re proud to share with visitors and residents alike.

#NTTW #VisitBrookingsSD #BrookingsSD #HiFromSD

Mama T. Rex looks good in red!

Many attractions around Brookings are lighting up red this week to show their support for the tourism industry during National Travel & Tourism Week.

Weekend plans? Brookings is calling with gardens to explore, patios to enjoy and memories to make!

Begin planning your family-friendly weekend here: https://visitbrookingssd.com/itinerary/make-your-kids-day-in-brookings-sd/