The Wilmot Welcome Center & Rest Area is a convenient stopping point for travelers along SD-15 in Wilmot, South Dakota. Located at 57279, the center offers a range of amenities to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you're in need of a restroom break, a stretch of the legs, or simply a place to relax and unwind, the Wilmot Welcome Center has you covered. Visitors to the Welcome Center can take advantage of clean and well-maintained restrooms, ample parking for cars, RVs, and trucks, as well as picnic tables and benches for a peaceful outdoor break. Travel information and brochures about local attractions are available at the Welcome Center, helping visitors plan their route and discover new places to explore in the area. The Wilmot Welcome Center & Rest Area is staffed by friendly and knowledgeable attendants who are ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you're a local resident making a quick stop or a traveler passing through, the Welcome Center is committed to providing a welcoming and comfortable experience for all visitors.

The Aberdeen Aqua Addicts present an exciting water ski show featuring barefooting, jumping, pyramids and ballet, all choreographed to music and themed entertainment. Head to Dahme Lake, just south of Aberdeen, for this thrilling experience, with shows running in June, July, and August. Check the website or Facebook for the schedule and buy tickets at the gate.

Seasonal Operation: Open every weekend from Early September to late October. Join us at the Back Forty Beef Adventure Farm & Corn Maze near Pierpont for family fun during the fall season! Explore a 12-acre corn maze, enjoy games, food trucks, and farm animals, and shop for local products, including homegrown beef and pumpkins. Special events will be held on select weekends. Visit the official website for more details.

*Seasonal Activity* At Big Stone Pumpkin Patch near Big Stone City, you can pick your own pumpkins or select from pre-picked pumpkins of all sizes as well as gourds, specialty pumpkins, Indian corn, straw bales and corn shocks. Enjoy fall fun with hayrides, a corn maze, a jumping pillow, a corn dig, climbing bales and barrel train rides.

Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown is the place to be! Immerse yourself in nature and get up close and personal with more than 600 animals from around the globe. From majestic leopards to playful monkeys, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with beautiful prairie gardens and interactive exhibits, it's a perfect family-friendly outing or a solo escape into the wonders of the animal kingdom. Come discover the magic of Bramble Park Zoo – where every visit is a safari of fun and learning!

*Seasonal Event* One weekend every July, more than 200 selected regional and national artists representing 17 disciplines display their original and handcrafted works of art. Enjoy more than 40 food booths, as well as numerous living history, antique and children's booths that compliment the festivities in Pioneer Park. There is also entertainment on three stages, and shuttle buses are available. The hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.

At the Brown County Fair, families can enjoy a week filled with carnival rides, live entertainment, and exciting competitions, creating memories for all ages. The fair features agricultural exhibits, 4-H showcases, and interactive animal displays, offering fun learning experiences for children. With diverse food vendors, concerts, and special events, the fair provides a vibrant and festive atmosphere for the whole family.

Build. Climb. Paint. Play. Learn. Discover. Imagine! Fun and lasting memories await with hands-on exploration. Enjoy 44,000 square feet of space on four acres of prairie. This year-round attraction has received much recognition, including Best of the Midwest - Midwest Living Magazine, Must-See Attraction - Travel Channel, and Must-See Museum - Chicago Tribune. This amazing interactive museum is ideal for day trips or to be part of your vacation experience.

At the Crystal Springs Rodeo, families can enjoy an action-packed day with thrilling rodeo events like bull riding, barrel racing, and roping competitions. The event also features kid-friendly activities like mutton busting and a chance to meet the rodeo stars. With its lively atmosphere, live music, and concession stands offering a variety of tasty treats, the rodeo is a fun-filled experience for everyone.

The DPM in Aberdeen is a look at the history of Brown County and how westward expansion of the U.S. formed the region culturally and economically. Explore the history of the railroad and pioneer settlers. A children's exhibit allows families to experience frontier life, while the Hatterscheidt Wildlife Gallery is an exciting departure into Africa, Asia and North America.

At Dakota Nature Park, you can explore scenic trails, enjoy birdwatching, and fish in a peaceful natural setting. The park’s Larson Nature Center offers educational exhibits and programs about local wildlife and ecosystems. Families can picnic, play at the playground, and take in the stunning landscapes while learning about nature.

The Watertown Family Aquatic Center features a three-pool complex with something for everyone, including a zero-depth entry main pool, a lazy river, and interactive play areas. Amenities include a bath house with locker rooms, family change rooms, and a concession stand. Enjoy various attractions like a diving board, slides, and a sand play area for endless fun.

*Seasonal Hours* Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Faulkton Carousel is a delightful piece of local history featuring hand-carved wooden horses that have brought joy to families for generations. Located in Faulkton's beautiful city park, this classic carousel offers a nostalgic ride experience for children and adults alike. It's a perfect stop for family fun, where the charm of yesteryear meets modern-day enjoyment. Seasonal hours are Wednesday 6-8 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 3-5 and 6-8 p.m.

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park offers families a blend of outdoor adventure and history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved 19th-century fort, participate in guided tours, or enjoy family-friendly events like historical reenactments. With scenic picnic areas, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing, it's a perfect destination for an enriching and relaxing family outing.

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park offers families a blend of outdoor adventure and history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved 19th-century fort, participate in guided tours, or enjoy family-friendly events like historical reenactments. With scenic picnic areas, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing, it's a perfect destination for an enriching and relaxing family outing.

At Good Roots Farm and Gardens, families can enjoy farm-to-table experiences by picking fresh produce and exploring the beautifully maintained gardens. Children can meet farm animals, participate in educational workshops, and enjoy the open outdoor space. The farm also offers seasonal events and activities, making it a fun and interactive destination for families looking to connect with nature.

*Seasonal Hours* Ingalls Homestead offers a fascinating glimpse into the real-life home of Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of "Little House on the Prairie." Visitors can enjoy covered wagon rides, interact with farm animals, and try their hand at traditional pioneer chores. It's a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the daily life of the prairie just like Laura did.

At the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes, families can step back in time and explore the charming homes where Laura Ingalls Wilder lived and wrote her beloved books. Visitors can tour the historic sites, see exhibits about her life and the pioneering era, and participate in interactive activities. It's a fun and educational experience that brings the stories of "Little House on the Prairie" to life for all ages.

*Seasonal event dates* At the Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, families can immerse themselves in the world of the beloved author through captivating outdoor performances that bring her stories to life. The event features reenactments of scenes from her books, live music, and interactive exhibits that offer a glimpse into pioneer life. With its engaging storytelling and family-friendly atmosphere, the pageant provides a memorable and educational experience for all ages.

The Museum of Wildlife, Science & Industry in Webster offers a glimpse of the past in 23 buildings. The unique exhibits show the history of Day County and South Dakota in many military, agriculture, hunting, fishing railroad and pioneer life exhibits. Admission is by donation, ensuring the memories are kept alive for future generations.

Nestled atop Ravine Lake Park, Putters and Scoops is Huron’s hidden secret. Pick from a lunch menu of healthy sandwiches and green salads, fresh baked pie, coffee, fruit smoothies and SDSU ice cream available in 16 hand-dipped flavors. Find fun with an 18-hole mini golf course, paddleboats, kayaks, bicycles, flower gardens located on Izaak Walton Island, picnic shelters and basketball courts. Located along the city’s bike and walking trail system, hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily May through August.

A gift from artist Terry Redlin, the Redlin Art Center in Watertown showcases more than 160 of his original oil paintings that celebrate nature and small-town America. Visitors can explore three exclusive gift shops and stroll through the 30-acre Conservation Park. Open year-round with free admission, the center's hours vary seasonally— please check the website or Facebook for details.

Stroll through the picturesque Shakespeare Garden and visit the Anne Hathaway Cottage, designed to resemble the original in England. Located 30 miles north of Interstate 90 (Exit 310), the cottage is the only thatched-roof structure in South Dakota. The cottage is available for tour appointments and can be reserved for "High Tea" for groups of up to 16 people. The garden is open to the public during daylight hours.

Sica (pronounced she-cha) Hollow State Park - located 15 miles northwest of Sisseton in the northeastern corner of South Dakota - is a place filled with rugged beauty and ancient mysteries. The park, part of the Prairie Coteau Hills, offers a wide variety of year-round activities and is the source of many eerie Indigenous legends. Hiking, camping and horseback riding are all easily enjoyed in this scenic park.

Explore the state's artistic gem! Galleries feature Indigenous art, Harvey Dunn paintings, Paul Goble illustrations, Marghab Linens and dynamic exhibits by regional and national artists. The on-site store features jewelry, pottery and original works of art by local and regional artists along with books about South Dakota history and culture. Kids love the artmaking activities and gallery scavenger hunts. Admission is free!

Head to Huron over Labor Day weekend for the South Dakota State Fair! During five days in early September, enjoy award-winning entertainers, thrilling carnival rides, special events and six stages of free entertainment. Take in a grandstand show and car races. Experience South Dakota's largest carnival midway. See the state 4-H and FFA exhibits and championships, including livestock and animal shows. Fun for the whole family! Daily gate admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth (ages 6-15). Children ages five and younger are free. Family and weekly passes are also available. Gate hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

*Seasonal Hours* Splash Central Waterpark in Huron offers a fun-filled aquatic experience for families and visitors of all ages. The park features a lazy river, thrilling water slides, a wave pool, and a children's play area, ensuring a variety of activities for everyone. With its well-maintained facilities and friendly staff, Splash Central Waterpark provides a refreshing and enjoyable destination for a day of water-based adventure.

Wylie Park in Aberdeen provides numerous recreational opportunities for all ages. The park features camping, picnicking, playground areas, sand volleyball, softball, horseshoe courts, miles of trails, a swimming beach, miniature golf, go-karts, bike rentals and more. While visiting Wylie Park, follow the yellow brick road to Storybook Land & the Land of Oz. Ride the train, roller coaster, carousel and balloon rides.

At the Codington County Heritage Museum, families can explore interactive exhibits that bring local history to life, from pioneer life to the growth of the community. Kids will enjoy hands-on activities and scavenger hunts, making learning about the past fun and engaging. It's a great place for all ages to discover the rich heritage of Watertown and Codington County together.

At the Threshing Show, families can experience live demonstrations of vintage farming equipment, including steam engines and threshing machines, bringing history to life. Kids will love the hands-on activities, such as corn shelling and tractor rides, and everyone can enjoy homemade treats and browse local crafts. It's a fun and educational day out that celebrates agricultural heritage with something for everyone.

*Seasonal Event* One weekend a year in June, families can enjoy a dynamic lineup of events including thrilling truck and tractor pulls, custom car shows, and motorcycle stunts at Wheel Jam. The festival also features live music, interactive exhibits, and a variety of food vendors, offering something for everyone to enjoy. With its energetic atmosphere and diverse activities, Wheel Jam provides a fun-filled experience for all ages.

The Ski Hill at Wessington Springs City Park may be the most charming sledding spot in South Dakota! Sledders can call to obtain (for free) a key for the park's historic Rube Goldberg ski lift. A simple flip of the switch will activate the ski lift, allowing sledders to grab the rope and safely slide back up the hill. It's a perfect setup for a great day of sledding! Come experience the small-town charm of the Ski Hill in Wessington Springs.

Wylie Park Campground in Aberdeen, South Dakota, offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated on 210 acres of lush greenery, Wylie Park Campground provides visitors with a range of amenities and activities to enjoy during their stay. Campers can choose from 140 campsites, including both electric and non-electric options, as well as cabins for those seeking a more comfortable lodging experience. The campground is equipped with clean restroom facilities, showers, and a laundry area for convenience. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the on-site playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits for recreational fun. Nature lovers will appreciate the park's proximity to Wylie Lake, where they can partake in fishing, paddle-boating, and swimming activities. The park also features scenic walking trails and picnic areas perfect for enjoying a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. For those looking to explore beyond the campground, Wylie Park Campground is conveniently located near attractions such as Storybook Land, a fairy tale-themed park that delights visitors of all ages. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the nearby Lee Park Golf Course, while history buffs can visit the Dacotah Prairie Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage.