About Watertown, SD

Watertown, South Dakota, is a thriving city of 22,000, set along the Big Sioux River and framed by Lake Kampeska and Lake Pelican. This prairie community offers four distinct seasons, each with its own way to get outside and enjoy it.

Spend the day at the lakes or parks, fish for walleye, bass, and northern, or head into the fields for some of the country’s best pheasant, duck, deer, and turkey hunting.

Whether it’s snowmobiling, hiking, playing ball, jet skiing, shopping, dining, or taking in concerts and local art, there’s always something to do.

Indoor & Outdoor Recreation

LATC students receive a free membership to the Prairie Lakes Wellness Center, which includes:

The Watertown area also offers:

Shopping

You’ll find everything from local charm to major retailers, including:

Learn more about shopping, dining, and attractions on the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce website.

Parks

• Bramble Park Zoo – Home to 500+ animals, a Discovery Center, gift shop, playground, picnic areas, and outdoor concerts.
• Memorial Park (Lake Kampeska) – Swimming, camping, boat launch, and concessions.
• Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park (Lake Kampeska) – Modern camping, swimming, and a boat launch.
• Lake Pelican Recreation Area – Fishing, camping, swimming, boating, and winter amenities including a warming house for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.
• Sandy Shores State Park (Lake Kampeska) – Water sports, boat launch, picnic areas, and camping.

The Arts

• Redlin Art Center – A 52,000 sq. ft. architectural landmark housing more than 150 original Terry Redlin paintings.
• Goss Opera House – A beautifully restored historic opera house offering world-class entertainment and a gourmet restaurant in Uptown Watertown.

Restaurants

Craving burgers, pizza, wings, subs, or something more adventurous? Watertown’s food scene has it all—from fast casual to fine dining. Many establishments offer delivery and welcome LATC students with open arms. Check out Visit Watertown’s website for a list of great food options.

Festivals & Events

Watertown is a lively place all year around. There is always something happening whether it be downtown, at the lake, or hosted by a local business.

Annual Watertown events include:

Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce

To learn more about Watertown and all it has to offer, visit the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce website.