Aberdeen is the third largest city in South Dakota, home to Northern State University, and a healthy agricultural hub.
The town is undergoing an extensive reconstruction to attract more activity to the downtown area. As it stands now, there are more than 70 restaurants that make wining and dining a sublime experience, countless retail stores that cater to every whim, and nightlife that is sparked with excitement. Aberdeen is good now, and it's only getting better.
Aberdeen residents attend musicals and theatrical productions at Downtown's Capitol Theater or at the university. At The Granary, there's an interesting selection of exhibits housed in a reconstructed granary on a park-like setting. And historians need only walk the streets of Downtown to revel in landmark buildings.
Some points of interest include Dacotah Prairie Museum, Fort Sisseton State Historical Park; and the Museum of Wildlife. And if you follow the Yellowstone Trail, a 1200-mile path connecting the Atlantic to the Pacific (in Aberdeen, from Big Stone Lake to Lemmon) you'll come across many interesting and educational attractions along the way.
Fourteen parks offer a plethora of different amenities. The 210-acre Wylie Park has a swimming beach, nature trails, and camping. It also has a wildlife exhibit as well as embedded attractions such as Storybook Land, and The Wizard of Oz.
The 18-hole Lee Park Golf Course offers a relaxing afternoon on the green. With a well-stocked pro shop, putting greens, and snack bar there's nothing to want for here. Swimmers can dip into the crystal waters of the Southside Pool on South Dakota Street or the Holgate Pool on North Dakota Street.
Anglers can cast into the glacial Mina and Richmond Lakes for their catch of the day. Walleye, perch, and bluegills are residents and often end up on dinner plates. These lake areas also provide excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, water skiing, and hiking.
Finally, Sand Lake Wildlife Refuge is a great observation spot for bird watchers and nature photographers. Fishing is permitted here, as well.
Aberdeen is located on Route 12 in northeastern South Dakota.
