20 Best Things to do in Aberdeen!

Aberdeen in South Dakota, is a charming city with a small town feel, offering a warm welcome to visitors. Known for its rich history, friendly people, and scenic landscapes, Aberdeen is a place where you can enjoy a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors or learning about local history, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Aberdeen during your visit to South Dakota.

1. Must-See Attractions

Dacotah Prairie Museum

The Dacotah Prairie Museum is an engaging destination that provides visitors with a deep look into the history and culture of the region. Housed in a historic downtown building, the museum features a variety of exhibits, both permanent and rotating, that showcase the stories of the land, its people, and its heritage. Highlights include detailed displays on pioneer life, offering a glimpse into the tools, clothing, and household items used by early settlers, as well as exhibits dedicated to the Native American tribes of the area, celebrating their rich traditions and connection to the land.

Aberdeen Community Theatre

For over four decades, Aberdeen Community Theatre has been providing high-quality live performances, showcasing local artistic talents. The theater offers a mix of plays, musicals, and special events throughout the year, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Its dedicated team of actors, directors, and volunteers work hard to bring each production to life, creating an engaging experience for audiences of all ages. Attending a show at this theatre is more than just entertainment, it’s a chance to connect with local arts scene and support creative efforts in the community.

Prairie Village

The Prairie Village is an open-air museum that lets visitors to experience the lives of early settlers in the region. This historic site features a collection of restored buildings, including a schoolhouse, church, general store, and train depot, each filled with original artifacts that tell the story of pioneer life. Walking through the village, you’ll find unique details that showcase the challenges and accomplishments of the area’s early residents. The village hosts special events like threshing bees and workshops of old farming techniques, providing a hands-on way to learn about history.

Johnson Fine Arts Center

Located on the Northern State University’s campus, Johnson Fine Arts Center is known for its excellent productions, including plays, musicals, concerts, and student showcases. It serves as a hub for creativity, gathering talented students, faculty, and community members to deliver quality performances every year. Attending a show here is a unique way to experience the local arts scene and witness the dedication and skill of the performers. It also encourage students to grow their skills and share their passion for the arts, making each show not just entertaining but also inspiring.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Wylie Park

The Wylie Park is a wonderful place for families and outdoor lovers to enjoy a day of fun and relaxation in Aberdeen. Kids especially enjoy walking through the scenes and taking a ride on the train or the carousel. For outdoor enthusiasts, park offers plenty of activities, including hiking and biking trails that take you through the scenic grounds. There is also a large lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating or fishing. Picnic areas with tables and shelters are scattered throughout the park and also feature a campgrounds for those who want to extend their stay overnight in the park.

Odde Ice Arena

Odde Ice Arena is an indoor arena, serves as the home for local hockey teams, including the Aberdeen Wings of the North American Hockey League, offering exciting opportunities for fans to watch competitive games. The facility also hosts youth and adult hockey matches, making it a hub for players of all skill levels. Public skating sessions are available, providing a fun activity for families and individuals to enjoy, especially beginners. Odde Ice Arena is also a venue for community events and school outings, making it more than just a place for sports — it’s a gathering spot among locals.

Brown County Fairgrounds

The Brown County Fairgrounds is known for hosting the annual Brown County Fair, the fairgrounds come alive each summer with exciting attractions, making it one of the biggest events in the region. The fair features carnival rides, concerts, food vendors, livestock shows, and a variety of competitions. Beyond the fair, the grounds are used throughout the year for other events, including trade shows, craft fairs, and local celebrations. During the fair season, visitors can experience the energy of live music, thrilling rides, and the flavors of classic fair foods, creating unforgettable memories.

Golfing Courses

In Aberdeen, one of the popular choice for golfing is at Moccasin Creek Country Club, offering 18-hole course with scenic views. Another great option is Lee Park Golf Course, a public 18-hole course, offers a chance to test their skills on this course, which features well-kept fairways. For those looking for a quicker game, the 9-hole course at Rolling Hills Golf Club is perfect for casual players or anyone with limited time who still wants to enjoy a round of golf. Aberdeen’s courses have amenities such as pro shops, where visitors can rent equipment or stock up on golfing essentials.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Dakota Event Center

Whether it’s a wedding, conference, trade show, or community event, Dakota Event Center offers a welcoming space with modern facilities to make any occasion special. The venue features multiple meeting rooms and a spacious ballroom, all equipped with modern technology to ensure a smooth and successful event. Its flexible layout allows organizers to customize the space based on their specific needs, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The catering team provides delicious and professionally prepared meals, making dining a seamless part of the experience.

Aberdeen Community Gardens

The Aberdeen Community Gardens offer individual plots that are perfect for both rookie and pro gardeners looking to enjoy the satisfaction of planting and nurturing their own produce. Families often use the gardens as an opportunity to teach children about plant growth and the importance of fresh, local food. The gardens also host workshops, events, and volunteer activities, creating a hub for exchanging tips, sharing resources, and forming friendships. By promoting sustainable practices and reducing food waste, these gardens encourage healthier living and responsibility.

Kuhnert Arboretum

The Kuhnert Arboretum features paved paths that take you through areas filled with trees, flowers, and native plants, all labeled to help visitors understand their importance to the environment. Along the trails, benches offer families to relax and kids enjoy the spaces designed for outdoor learning. Community events, workshops, and gardening programs add to the arboretum’s role as a hub for education and connection. The arboretum’s focus on conservation highlights the value of preserving natural resources, and it’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Storybook Land

The Storybook Land is a delightful attraction located within Wylie Park, where classic fairy tales come to life in an interactive way. It features creative displays and play areas inspired by beloved stories such as “The Wizard of Oz,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” and “Alice in Wonderland,” offering plenty of excitement for kids and nostalgia for adults. Visitors can explore the whimsical Storybook Land Castle, is a highlight that serves as a favorite spot for photos and imaginative play. The park also includes a carousel and a train ride that takes guests on a journey through its themed areas.

Aberdeen Aquatic Center

Aberdeen Aquatic Center is a favorite spot for families and anyone looking to cool off and have fun during warmer months. The center features a large pool with plenty of space for swimming and relaxing, along with exciting water slides that are sure to entertain thrill-seekers. There’s a lazy river where guests can float along and relax and for the kids, there is a splash pad and a children’s play area, ensuring young visitors have an enjoyable experience. With shaded seating areas and concessions, the center is also a great place to spend the day while staying comfortable and refreshed.

Disc Golf

With well-maintained disc golf courses and beautiful surroundings, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh air and some friendly competition. One popular spot is the Richmond Lake Disc Golf Course, which features a mix of open and wooded areas, providing a good challenge while still being accessible for beginners. Another option is the Melgaard Park Disc Golf Course, where the lush greenery and scenic layout make for an enjoyable experience. Both courses are free to use, making them budget-friendly options for families, friends, or solo players looking to spend time outdoors.

Ice Fishing

Aberdeen is surrounded by several lakes that offer excellent spots for ice fishing, including Richmond Lake and Mina Lake. These locations are popular spot during the winter, when the ice is thick and safe. Ice fishing is a relaxing activity where anglers drill holes in the ice, set up their gear, and wait for the fish to bite. For those new to the sport, local bait shops and outfitters in Aberdeen provide equipment rentals, and updates on ice conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing. Many anglers bring portable shelters to stay warm, making it a pleasant experience even in the cold weather.

Aberdeen Aqua Addicts Water Ski Team

The Aberdeen Aqua Addicts Water Ski Team brings excitement and fun to the water with their action-packed shows. Performing at Dahme Lake just south of Aberdeen, the team puts on thrilling water ski performances during summer months. Their shows include a variety of impressive acts like barefoot skiing, jumping, and building human pyramids, all set to music and centered around a theme. The Aqua Addicts are not just about entertaining, they are also dedicated to teaching people of all ages the basics of water skiing, promoting teamwork, and building leadership skills.

5. Day Trips & Excursions

Mina Lake Recreation Area

Located just a short drive from Aberdeen, Mina Lake Recreation Area is perfect for families or solo travelers looking to relax and have fun. The recreation area centers around the scenic Mina Lake, which provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. Anglers often catch species like walleye and bass, making it a favorite destination for fishing enthusiasts. The area also features picnic spots with tables and shelters, ideal for enjoying a meal surrounded by the nature. The trails around the recreation area are great for hiking and exploring the beautiful landscape.

Richmond Lake

A day trip to Richmond Lake is a wonderful way to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors from Aberdeen. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, with walleye, crappie, and perch being common catches. For those who enjoy paddling, kayaking or canoeing on the calm waters provides a refreshing and scenic experience. Hiking and biking trails around the area let visitors explore the natural beauty of the surroundings, with chances to spot local wildlife along the way. The park’s sandy beach is perfect for swimming during the warmer months, offering a fun activity for kids and adults.

Bramble Park Zoo

Located in Watertown, Bramble Park Zoo is just a one hour drive away from Aberdeen, making it easy getaway. As you explore, the marked paths lead to exhibits showcasing mammals, birds, reptiles, and more, all housed in environments designed to be safe and natural. Highlights include the big cats, playful otters, and tropical birds that capture the attention of both kids and adults. The petting zoo area adds an interactive element, allowing children to meet and feed friendly farm animals. The zoo also hosts programs and events, making the visit both entertaining and informative.

James River

The James River, known for its calm waters and scenic views, is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, or canoeing. For those who enjoy paddling, the gentle flow of the river provides a perfect setting to explore and take in the natural surroundings. Along the riverbanks, visitors can find quiet spots to have a picnic or simply sit back and enjoy the sounds of nature. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, so birdwatching and nature photography are popular activities for those looking to connect with nature. The open spaces around the river make it ideal for families to spend time together.

How to Reach Aberdeen

Aberdeen is served by Aberdeen Regional Airport (ABR), which connects to major cities through regular flights operated by regional airlines. If you’re coming from other parts of the country, you can easily connect through Minneapolis and reach Aberdeen in a short flight. This option is convenient for travelers coming from farther distances or those looking to save time. For those driving, Aberdeen is accessible via several highways. U.S. Highway 12 runs east to west through the city, making it a straightforward route for many travelers.

South Dakota Highway 281 also connects Aberdeen to other parts of the state, offering a scenic and relaxing drive. For visitors arriving from nearby cities, driving is often the best way to reach Aberdeen, with well-maintained roads making the journey smooth and hassle-free. If you’re traveling by bus, regional bus services provide connections to Aberdeen from various locations. Most of the attractions are within a short drive or even walking distance. Local taxi services are also available to help you explore the area with ease.

Local Transportation

Aberdeen is compact, making it easy to navigate by car, which is the most common choice for transportation. Rental car services are available in Aberdeen, offering flexibility to explore both the city and nearby attractions like Richmond Lake or Mina Lake. For shorter distances within the city, taxi services and rideshare apps like Uber are accessible and provide a hassle-free way to get around. Aberdeen also has a public transit system operated by Ride Line, offering affordable transportation for local travel.

This service is especially helpful for those without access to a car, and it caters to residents and visitors. Biking is another great way to explore Aberdeen, thanks to its bike-friendly streets and trails. The city encourages outdoor activities, and biking provides a fun and eco-friendly way to visit parks and other local spots. Walking is also a popular choice for travelers who want to explore the downtown area, where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located within a comfortable walking distance.

---

FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

---

Related Articles