Watertown Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Watertown, located in the beautiful South Dakota region of the United States, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This charming city offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant community that will captivate any traveler.

Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of the breathtaking landscapes that surround Watertown. Just a short drive away, the majestic Big Sioux River awaits, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful walks along its banks. The nearby Lake Kampeska is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with its crystal-clear waters perfect for boating, swimming, and jet skiing. For those who prefer to stay on land, the Cattail Crossing Golf Course provides a picturesque setting for a round of golf, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.

History buffs will be delighted by the wealth of historical sites and museums in Watertown. The Codington County Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the area's past, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's early settlers. The Mellette House, a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home, provides a unique glimpse into the life of South Dakota's first governor.

No visit to Watertown would be complete without exploring its vibrant downtown area. Stroll along the charming Main Street, lined with local boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafes. The Redlin Art Center, dedicated to the work of renowned wildlife artist Terry Redlin, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing his breathtaking paintings that capture the beauty of the American Midwest.

For a taste of local cuisine, visitors can indulge in the city's thriving food scene. From hearty Midwestern fare to international flavors, Watertown offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy any palate. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the famous South Dakota beef at one of the city's steak houses, or indulge in a mouthwatering homemade pie at a local bakery.

Alternative names: Founded: 1879 (145 years ago)Population: 22.1 thous.Area: 25.9 mi²Elevation: 1713 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°53'30"N, 97°6'50"W

Location

South DakotaUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Watertown Top Attractions

Watertown Attractions - What to See and Explore

Watertown offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Redlin Art Center, Bramble Park Zoo, Codington County Heritage Museum, Mellette House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Art gallery • Museum • Shopping
Redlin Art Center
The Redlin Art Center is an art gallery located in Watertown, South Dakota where over 150 of artist Terry Redlin's original paintings are displayed. The center was opened on June 6, 1997, and has welcomed over two million visitors. This 52,000-square-foot brick building was designed by Terry Redlin's son, Charles Redlin.
Historic zoo housing over 100 species
Bramble Park Zoo
Bramble Park Zoo is located in Watertown, South Dakota. Open since 1912, the zoo comprises 15 acres with approximately 500 animals representing 130 different species.
Museum • History museum
Codington County Heritage Museum
The Codington County Heritage Museum is a museum located at 27 First Avenue Southeast, Watertown, South Dakota, in the Carnegie Free Public Library building.

Museum • Architecture • Specialty museum
Mellette House
The Mellette House is a historic home and museum located at 421 Fifth Avenue Northwest in Watertown, South Dakota. It is the former residence of the first governor of South Dakota, Arthur C. Mellette.
History museum • Museum
Courthouse
The Codington County Courthouse is a courthouse serving Codington County, located at 14 First Avenue Southeast, Watertown, South Dakota. Codington County is part of South Dakota's Third Circuit Court.
44°53'28"N • 97°7'22"W
Watertown Family Aquatic Center
Water park • Amusement park
44°53'58"N • 97°6'51"W
Old Post Office
The Old Post Office is a historic building located at 26 South Broadway in Watertown, South Dakota. The Watertown Post Office was built in 1908 and served until 1976. From 1976 to 2009, it was known as Old Post Office Square, and housed several tenants. From 2009 to 2014 it was home to KXLG in Watertown.
Church • Gothic Revival architecture
Evangelical United Brethren Church
The Evangelical United Brethren Church is a former church and a historic building at 409 N. Maple in Watertown, South Dakota. It was built in 1914, affiliated with the Church of the United Brethren in Christ until around 1946, when a merger formed the Evangelical United Brethren Church.
Universities and schools
Lake Area Technical College
Lake Area Technical College is a public community college in Watertown, South Dakota. The campus covers 40 acres and serves an area of 18,000 square miles.

Day trips

Watertown – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Watertown, it's worth seeing attractions such as: McCrory Gardens (Brookings), Coughlin Campanile (Brookings), South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum (Brookings).

43 milesSE
Botanical garden, Garden, Park
McCrory Gardens, Brookings
McCrory Gardens and South Dakota State Arboretum are botanical gardens and an arboretum located on the South Dakota State University campus in Brookings, South Dakota.
43 milesS
Tower
Coughlin Campanile, Brookings
The Coughlin Campanile was completed on the campus of South Dakota State University in 1929. It was designed by architects Perkins & McWayne. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
43 milesSE
44°19'6"N • 96°47'16"W
South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum, Brookings
History museum, Museum
43 milesS
44°18'35"N • 96°47'45"W
Children's Museum of South Dakota, Brookings
Children's museum, History museum, Museum
41 milesSW
Museum
Ingalls House, De Smet
Ingalls House is a historic house museum at 210 3rd Street Southwest in De Smet, South Dakota. The house was a childhood home to the author Laura Ingalls Wilder.