Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Brookings County Brookings County stands out with its blend of pastoral beauty, educational attractions, and community pride. The area’s museums, public art, and bike-friendly streets reflect a commitment to culture and accessibility. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy peaceful lakes and trails, while families find plenty of activities to engage all ages. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, Brookings County is a rewarding destination in eastern South Dakota. Where to look for an Airbnb in Brookings County Downtown Brookings Downtown Brookings is the cultural heart of the county, offering walkable streets lined with local shops, coffee houses, and restaurants. Airbnbs in Brookings include updated apartments above historic storefronts, cozy lofts, and renovated homes near Main Avenue. Visitors can enjoy concerts at Pioneer Park, browse the Children's Museum, or relax in cafe patios. This area is perfect for guests who appreciate a blend of small-town charm and urban energy. SDSU Campus Area The SDSU Campus Area is ideal for those visiting South Dakota State University for events, conferences, or college tours. Vacation rentals near SDSU Campus include student-friendly apartments, guest suites, and private homes within a short walk or bike ride to university facilities. Guests can explore the McCrory Gardens, attend a Jackrabbits game, or take part in university-hosted cultural events. Medary Township Located just outside the city limits, Medary Township offers spacious homes and rural Airbnbs surrounded by wide open landscapes. Travelers enjoy peaceful mornings, starry skies, and easy access to Brookings via a short drive. Many properties here feature gardens, decks, and pastoral views perfect for quiet retreats. Aurora A small town just southeast of Brookings, Aurora provides a quiet, community-oriented environment close to the county’s center. Vacation rentals in Aurora include comfortable family homes, small-town guesthouses, and modern builds with backyards. Aurora’s location offers a balance of tranquility and convenience, with quick access to both SDSU and Lake Campbell. This neighborhood suits travelers seeking a slower pace and hometown feel. Volga Situated to the west of Brookings, Volga is another charming small town that offers a tight-knit atmosphere and comfortable accommodations. Airbnbs in Volga include traditional homes and well-appointed rentals with access to local parks and walking trails. Volga’s agricultural roots and welcoming vibe make it appealing for travelers seeking authenticity. What to do if you spend a vacation in Brookings County Children’s Museum of South Dakota Located in downtown Brookings, the Children’s Museum of South Dakota is a favorite attraction for families. The museum features interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Kids can explore a life-size T. rex, build in the maker space, and learn through play. McCrory Gardens Operated by South Dakota State University, McCrory Gardens is a beautifully maintained botanical garden and arboretum. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, attend seasonal festivals, and admire diverse plant collections. The gardens provide a peaceful environment for reflection, photography, or quiet conversation. South Dakota Art Museum The South Dakota Art Museum, located on the SDSU campus, showcases regional art, Native American works, and changing exhibitions. Guests can view pieces by Oscar Howe and other celebrated South Dakota artists in a serene, well-lit setting. The museum also features a gift shop with locally made crafts. It offers a cultural experience that reflects the state’s rich artistic heritage. Daktronics Visitor Center Tech enthusiasts can explore the Daktronics Visitor Center, home to one of the world’s leading digital display manufacturers. The center showcases the evolution of scoreboard and display technology, including examples seen in stadiums around the world. Interactive exhibits and displays provide insight into engineering and innovation. Brookings Summer Arts Festival Held annually in July, the Brookings Summer Arts Festival is one of the region’s top cultural events. Artists and craftspeople from across the country gather in Pioneer Park to display and sell their work. Live music, food vendors, and children’s activities add to the festive atmosphere. The festival draws thousands and is a highlight of the local calendar. Hillcrest Aquatic Center For fun in the sun, the Hillcrest Aquatic Center offers pools, slides, and splash zones ideal for families. Visitors can cool off during warm months and enjoy amenities like lounge chairs, snack bars, and shaded areas. The center is well-maintained and welcoming to guests of all ages. Lake Campbell Located in southern Brookings County, Lake Campbell is a recreational hotspot offering fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics. Vacation rentals near the lake include cabins and lake houses with beautiful views and water access. The area is perfect for sunset watching, kayaking, or enjoying a weekend barbecue. Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center combines indoor archery, shooting sports, and educational programming under one roof. Visitors can participate in classes, test their aim, or learn about wildlife and conservation. The center promotes safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation for all skill levels. Where to find a vacation rental near Brookings County Sioux Falls, South Dakota Just over an hour south, Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota and offers a dynamic contrast to Brookings County’s quiet setting. Visitors can walk the trails of Falls Park, explore local museums, or enjoy upscale dining and breweries downtown. To make the most of the city’s culture and energy, book a vacation rental in Sioux Falls near the bustling urban core. Rapid City, South Dakota About five hours west (perfect for extending your South Dakota adventure), Rapid City serves as the gateway to the Black Hills and iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park. Travelers can walk the presidential statues downtown, visit local art galleries, or take day trips to scenic natural sites. Enjoying a vacation rental in Rapid City, from a family lodge with mountain views to a rustic cabin, adds bold scenery and historical depth to the Brookings experience. Aberdeen, South Dakota Approximately two hours north, Aberdeen is a welcoming city that blends prairie life with family-friendly fun. Popular attractions include Storybook Land, the Dacotah Prairie Museum, and Wylie Park. Spending time in a vacation rental in Aberdeen, whether a quiet residential retreat or spacious suburban home, brings a recreational and easygoing rhythm that complements Brookings County’s community vibe. Watertown, South Dakota Just over an hour north, Watertown offers lakeside recreation and local arts, including the impressive Redlin Art Center. Visitors can enjoy Lake Kampeska, tour wildlife exhibits, or explore downtown dining and shopping. Relaxing in a vacation rental in Watertown, such as a lakeside cottage or charming guesthouse, enhances your Brookings-area stay with artistic flair and waterfront serenity. Marshall, Minnesota About two hours east, Marshall is a friendly, college-focused community with a strong agricultural and cultural heritage. Guests can visit Camden State Park, tour local museums, or explore Southwest Minnesota State University’s campus and gardens. Settling into a vacation rental in Marshall, from rural retreats to cozy homes near downtown, blends educational charm with scenic relaxation, echoing Brookings’ academic warmth. Embark on thrilling urban adventures across the United States While exploring the scenic beauty and historical allure of Brookings County, consider expanding your urban adventures. Just a state away, a wealth of experiences awaits you with Missouri vacation rentals, where the vibrant culture of St. Louis, including the iconic Gateway Arch, offers by day and an exciting nightlife scene by night. Venture further to discover the rich history and southern charm in holiday homes Elizabethtown, where you can explore the fascinating Hardin County History Museum. For a mix of innovation and tradition, airbnb Dublin Ohio provides an excellent base to experience the spirited festivities and the famous Dublin Irish Festival, reflecting the lively ambiance and unique heritage of the Midwest.