Central Park

Right behind the Children’s Museum in Brookings, this spot has quickly become a go-to for families with younger kids. The dinosaur-themed climbing structure is a genuine hit — there’s a T-Rex sculpture that little ones lose their minds over, and the tunnels keep them busy longer than you’d expect. Afternoon shade here is legit, between the trees and the shaded seating, so you’re not baking while you watch the kids play. Picnic tables make it easy to pack a lunch and stay a while, and parking is basically right there, which parents around here definitely appreciate.