Art lovers will enjoy the collection of more than 150 original oil paintings by American artist, Terry Redlin, at the Redlin Art Center. Located on beautiful grounds which includes a huge garden with walking trails, this free center has three floors of Redlin’s nature and rural life paintings. Prepare to spend a full day here and learn about Americana history through the paintings and life of this renowned artist. Spend an afternoon exploring and learning about the 800 animals that call the Bramble Park Zoo their home. Given that this is a small zoo, you will have it to yourself on the weekdays to get up close and personal with the animals. Bring picnic provisions and have a lovely day at the zoo. Immerse yourself in Codington County history at the Codington County Historical Museum. Located downtown in the 1906 Carnegie Library, this museum has a collection of permanent and rotating exhibits, including stories of the crazy weather that has occurred in Codington County. If you are visiting Watertown from May to October, take a quick tour of the 1885 Mellette House. The former home of Arthur Calvin Mellette, the first governor of South Dakota, this Italian-styled house has two floors comprised of numerous parlors and bedrooms as well as a third floor tower room.
Located 20 minutes from downtown Watertown is the Dakota Sioux Casino. This casino has an excellent steakhouse and buffet as well as a local shuttle to Watertown. Remember to check their event calendar before your trip for a complete night of entertainment. For a great environment to hangout, look no further than the three-floor, 1888 Goss Opera House. Containing the original hardwood and brick, this venue has an operating opera house, fine dining, coffee house and a contemporary art gallery.
With so much to see and do around town, you will want to make sure you have a comfortable room to come back to at the end of the day. Check out the Watertown, SD hotels below and start planning your South Dakota escape today.