Visit Brookings

05/29/2026

Welcome to Brookings, Miss South Dakota Competition contestants, families, staff, and visitors! 👑✨

We’re excited to have you in our community for another incredible week celebrating talent, leadership, service, and scholarship across South Dakota. Events like the Miss South Dakota Competition bring energy and visitors to Brookings while showcasing all that makes our community such a special place.

Visit Brookings is proud to support the Miss South Dakota Competition through the Event Grant Program.

Best of luck to all of this year’s contestants, and welcome to town!

05/28/2026

There’s nothing better than seeing Brookings through a visitor’s eyes

Last summer, we had the opportunity to partner with 605 Magazine as they explored Brookings during a three-day stay in our community — highlighting the people, places, experiences, and energy that make Brookings such a special place to visit.

From local favorites to unforgettable experiences, we loved helping showcase everything our community has to offer. Thank you to 605 Magazine for spending time in Brookings and sharing your experience with your readers!

Check out their full Brookings road trip feature at https://605magazine.com/2026/05/01/605-guide-brookings-road-trip-itinerary/

05/11/2026

There’s still time to be part of Brookings’ America’s 250th Celebration! 🇺🇸

Join the Community Painting Party tomorrow at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota from 4:30–6:30 PM.

This come-and-go event is open to all ages and no Museum admission required. Stop by to paint a tile, learn more about the project, and even enjoy the $5 Community Meal at Café Coteau while you’re there!

Want to get even more involved? There’s still time to host your own painting party with friends, coworkers, family, or your organization. Reach out to get a mural kit and help us bring this community artwork to life!

05/09/2026

Come paint with us! We’re at the Brookings Farmers Market this morning inviting the community to be part of the 250th Mosaic Mural.

05/08/2026

Looking for a fun way to explore Brookings as we wrap up National Travel and Tourism Week? Check out the Brookings Great 8 Passport.

The Brookings Great 8 is a self-guided experience highlighting some of Brookings’ favorite attractions and destinations for visitors, new residents, and longtime locals alike. Pick up a passport at any of the 8 locations or at the Visit Brookings office, then start exploring.

From arts and culture to family fun and local favorites, the Great 8 is a great reminder of all the experiences helping make Brookings a destination people want to visit again and again.

Be sure to share your adventure using

05/08/2026

National Travel and Tourism Week is a great reminder of the impact tourism has on Brookings and the role destination development plays in supporting our local economy.

In 2025, Brookings County welcomed $127.6 million in visitor spending, supporting more than 1,400 jobs and generating $10.4 million in state and local taxes.

Through Visit Brookings, we continue investing in events, experiences, and partnerships that bring visitors to our community year-round. Last year alone, 26 community events supported through our grant program attracted approximately 62,000 visitors and generated an estimated $7.2 million in economic impact.

From tournaments and festivals to conferences and campus visits, every visit creates opportunity for local businesses and our community.

It starts with a visit.

05/07/2026

The Hospitality Hero Award recognizes someone who goes above and beyond to make Brookings welcoming, helpful, and memorable.

This year, we’re proud to honor Nicole Winesky as the recipient of the Hospitality Hero Award💛

Known for her exceptional service, welcoming smile, and genuine love for Brookings, Nicole creates unforgettable first impressions for every visitor. Join us in celebrating her!

05/06/2026

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

’s 2026 Commencement Ceremonies are May 9! 🎉🎓
Expect increased traffic on campus and throughout Brookings that weekend. Plan ahead with info on parking, traffic updates and other weekend activities: Learn more about the event: https://bit.ly/4efZHxS

05/06/2026

Tourism starts with experiences that leave a mark and the Larson Family Tourism Champion Award recognizes those who create that lasting impact through leadership, collaboration, and community commitment.

This year’s recipient, The Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge, has grown into a nationally recognized culinary destination, earning a James Beard Award and showcasing Brookings in a powerful way.

We’re proud to celebrate their continued impact on our community 👏

05/04/2026

This week, we’re celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week 📍

Right here in Brookings, travel is more than just a visit, it’s what keeps our community vibrant. From local shops and restaurants to events, attractions, and SDSU pride, every visitor helps support the people and places that make Brookings special.

The 2026 theme “Postmarked: Essential” is a reminder that travel fuels our local economy, creates opportunities, and connects us to something bigger.

Whether you’re planning your next visit or welcoming guests to town, you’re part of the impact.