4 hotels near Brookings, SD

The city of Brookings was named after American pioneer and South Dakota politician Wilmot Wood Brookings 1871. The arrival of a rail line helped the city grow in the late 19th century, and agriculture has always been a significant part of the area’s economy. Brookings is the headquarters of a number of manufacturing and agricultural companies, and you can learn about the area’s farming history and the importance of agriculture in the region today by visiting the South Dakota State Agricultural Heritage Museum. It’s on the campus of South Dakota State University, which also houses the South Dakota Art Museum.If you’re in town during the summer, you may be able to catch the Brookings Summer Art Festival. The festival features the work of more than 200 artists from across the country who make their way to South Dakota for this popular annual event. In addition to art, you’ll find vendors serving a variety of gourmet and ethnic foods, antique vendors and a regional products area. And year round, you can shop for fine art, clothing, jewelry, antiques and more in downtown Brookings. There are also restaurants, night clubs and music venues downtown.Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Dakota Nature Park. Activities like hiking, fishing, bird watching, kayaking, ice skating and cross country skiing make the park a fun place to visit throughout the year. You can also go for a stroll through the McCrory Gardens botanical garden, which is operated by the Plant Science Department of SDSU.Enjoy warm hospitality, friendly service and great value during your trip to South Dakota. Book a room at one of the Choice Hotels in Brookings for your upcoming visit.