what to do in watertown sd
What to do in watertown sd: Watertown, SD is a city located in the northeastern part of South Dakota, in the United States. It is the county seat of Codington County and has a population of approximately 22,000 people. Watertown is known for its rich history and natural beauty, with attractions such as the Terry Redlin Art Center, Bramble Park Zoo, Pelican Lake Recreation Area, and more.
The city also offers a variety of shopping and dining options, including the Watertown Mall, which features a mix of national retailers and local businesses. Watertown is a great place to visit for anyone looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a small Midwestern city.
Watertown, SD offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some ideas:
Bramble Park Zoo
Bramble Park Zoo is a popular attraction in Watertown, SD, located at 800 10th St NW. The zoo is home to over 500 animals from all over the world, including tigers, bears, wolves, monkeys, and reptiles.
The zoo is open daily from 10am to 5pm from April to October, and on weekends from November to March. Admission fees vary depending on age and season, but typically range from $5 to $7 per person.
In addition to viewing the animals, visitors can also participate in educational programs, such as animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and zoo camps for kids. The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Zoo Boo, which is a Halloween-themed event, and ZooFest, which is a summer festival featuring live music, food, and games.
Overall, Bramble Park Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family and friends, learning about and appreciating the diversity of the animal kingdom.
Codington County Heritage Museum
The Codington County Heritage Museum is a museum located in Watertown, SD, at 27 1st Ave SE. The museum’s mission is to preserve and showcase the history of Watertown and Codington County, which is located in northeastern South Dakota.
The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including agriculture, industry, transportation, education, and Native American culture. Some of the highlights of the museum include a replica of an early 1900s general store, a restored 1920s fire engine, and a collection of Native American artifacts.
The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts educational programs and events throughout the year. These programs include lectures, workshops, and special events, such as the Annual Heritage Festival, which celebrates the history and culture of the region.
Overall, the Codington County Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Watertown and Codington County, and to appreciate the unique culture and heritage of this part of South Dakota.
Terry Redlin Art Center
The Terry Redlin Art Center is a museum located in Watertown, SD, at 1200 33rd St SE. The museum is dedicated to the work of Terry Redlin, a renowned wildlife artist who was born and raised in Watertown.
The museum features a large collection of Redlin’s paintings, sculptures, and prints. Redlin was known for his realistic depictions of wildlife and rural life, and his work is characterized by its warm and nostalgic atmosphere. Some of his most famous paintings include “Autumn Run,” “Evening with Friends,” and “Morning Solitude.”
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 5pm. Admission fees vary depending on age, but typically range from $5 to $10 per person.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts events and programs throughout the year, such as art workshops, lectures, and book signings. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase Redlin’s prints, books, and other merchandise.
Overall, the Terry Redlin Art Center is a must-visit destination for art lovers and fans of Terry Redlin’s work. It’s a great place to appreciate the beauty of wildlife and rural life, and to learn about the life and career of one of South Dakota’s most famous artists.
Lake Kampeska –
Lake Kampeska is a beautiful lake located in Water town, SD, and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The lake covers an area of 5,240 acres and has a maximum depth of 16 feet.
One of the most popular activities at Lake Kampeska is fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bass, and crappie. There are several public access points around the lake, as well as boat rentals available for those who don’t have their own boat.
In addition to fishing, Lake Kampeska also offers a variety of other recreational activities, such as swimming, boating, water skiing, and jet skiing. The lake has several public parks and picnic areas, as well as a beach where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.
One of the most popular parks at Lake Kampeska is Sandy Shore State Park, which is located on the south shore of the lake. The park has a campground, hiking trails, and a playground, as well as a boat ramp and fishing pier.
Overall, Lake Kampeska is a great place to spend a day or a weekend, enjoying the outdoors and participating in a variety of activities. Whether you’re fishing, boating, or just relaxing on the beach, Lake Kampeska has something for everyone.
Mellette House
The Mellette House is a historic home located in Watertown, SD, at 421 5th St. NW. The home was built in 1885 and was the residence of Arthur C. Mellette, who was the first governor of South Dakota.
The Mellette House has been restored to its original condition and is now a museum that showcases the history of Watertown and the Mellette family. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life and accomplishments of Governor Mellette and his family.
The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including Victorian-era home life, local history, and the life and career of Arthur C. Mellette. Some of the highlights of the museum include a parlor, a formal dining room, and a library, all furnished with period-appropriate furniture and decor.
The Mellette House is open for tours from June to September, on Tuesdays through Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Admission fees vary depending on age, but typically range from $2 to $5 per person.
In addition to the guided tours, the Mellette House also hosts special events throughout the year, such as holiday tours, musical performances, and historical reenactments.
Overall, the Mellette House is a great place to learn about the history of Watertown and South Dakota, and to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of a historic Victorian-era home.
Goss Opera House
The Goss Opera House is a historic performing arts venue located in Watertown, SD, at 100 E Kemp Ave. The building was constructed in 1889 and served as a popular opera house and community gathering place during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Goss Opera House has been restored and renovated in recent years and is now a thriving performing arts center. The venue features a large auditorium with seating for up to 450 people, as well as a smaller studio space for more intimate performances and events.
The Goss Opera House hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year, including live music, theater productions, dance performances, and comedy shows. Some of the highlights of the venue’s calendar include the annual Watertown Winter Farm Show, which features live music and entertainment, and the Watertown Film Festival, which showcases the work of local and regional filmmakers.
In addition to the performances, the Goss Opera House also hosts educational programs and workshops, such as acting classes and music lessons. The venue is also available for private events and rentals, such as weddings, conferences, and corporate meetings.
Overall, the Goss Opera House is a great place to experience the performing arts in Watertown and to appreciate the beauty and history of one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
Watertown Mall –
The Watertown Mall is a popular shopping destination located in Watertown, SD, at 1300 9th Ave SE. The mall features over 40 stores and restaurants, including national retailers like JCPenney, Maurices, and Bath & Body Works, as well as local boutiques and specialty shops.
In addition to shopping, the Watertown Mall also offers a variety of services and amenities, including a movie theater, a food court, and a children’s play area. The mall also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as live music performances, seasonal celebrations, and community gatherings.
One of the unique features of the Watertown Mall is its focus on supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. The mall has several spaces dedicated to showcasing and selling products from local artists, crafters, and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for small businesses to reach a wider audience.
The Watertown Mall is open seven days a week, with extended hours during the holiday season. Parking is free, and the mall is easily accessible from the surrounding area via several major roads.
Overall, the Watertown Mall is a great place to shop, dine, and socialize in Watertown, and offers a wide range of retail options and amenities for visitors of all ages.
Pelican Lake Recreation Area
Pelican Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful outdoor destination located near Watertown, SD, at 48052 176th St. The recreation area covers over 3,500 acres and features a large lake, a campground, and miles of hiking and biking trails.
The centerpiece of the Pelican Lake Recreation Area is Pelican Lake, a 3,000-acre lake that offers a variety of water-based activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and crappie, making it a popular destination for anglers.
The recreation area also features a large campground with over 150 campsites, including sites with electrical hookups and primitive tent sites. The campground offers a range of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and a playground, making it a great place for families to enjoy a weekend getaway.
In addition to the lake and campground, Pelican Lake Recreation Area also offers several miles of hiking and biking trails, including a scenic 5-mile trail that circles the lake. The trails wind through the wooded areas around the lake and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, Pelican Lake Recreation Area is a great place to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature in the Watertown area, with a variety of outdoor activities and amenities to suit visitors of all ages and interests.
conclusion
In conclusion, Watertown, SD, offers a variety of interesting and enjoyable attractions for visitors to explore. From the Bramble Park Zoo and Terry Redlin Art Center to the Pelican Lake Recreation Area and Goss Opera House, there are plenty of options for those looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. The Watertown Mall also provides a great shopping and dining destination, with a focus on supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. Overall, Watertown, SD, is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and retail therapy.
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