East of Aberdeen, South Dakota, lies lakes, hills, and history.

U.S. Highway 12, the main East – West road through Aberdeen, was once part of The Yellowstone Trail – the first Transcontinental Highway in the United States. It still runs from Plymouth, Massachusetts, to Seattle, Washington.

As you’re planning a trip to Aberdeen, make a stop to stretch your legs and say hello to some of our neighbors.

For some fresh air and greenery:

A day pass to state parks is $8 per vehicle or $36 for an annual pass that’s good from Memorial Day weekend to that same time next year.

Any state or local park you pick is a great way to spend an afternoon or short break on your way to Aberdeen.

• Pickerel Lake State Recreation Area
  • Boating / Fishing
  • Canoeing / Kayaking/ Paddleboarding
  • Hiking
• Roy Lake State Park
  • Camping
  • Disc Golf
  • Hiking
• Fort Sisseton Historic State Park
  • Canoeing/Kayaking
  • Hiking
  • Historical interest
• Sica Hollow State Park
  • Hiking
  • Historical interest
  • Horse Trail
• Sand Land National Wildlife Refuge
  • Observation tower
  • Wildlife drive

Waubay, South Dakota

• Stop by The Purple Cow for a waffle cone and a chance to stretch legs on vintage playground equipment.
• Blue Dog Fish Hatchery.

Webster, South Dakota

• Day County Museum.
• Museum of Wildlife, Science & Industry.

Sisseton, South Dakota

• The Joseph N. Nicollet Tower & Interpretive Center.
• Stavig House Museum.

Britton, South Dakota

• Lion’s Club Picnic Shelter.

Roslyn, South Dakota

• International Vinegar Museum