McCrory Gardens | Brookings

McCrory Gardens is a botanical garden located in Brookings, South Dakota. It functions as an outdoor laboratory and public display space for South Dakota State University.

Visual Characteristics

The gardens encompass 26 acres, featuring a diverse range of plant collections. These include a formal rose garden, a perennial border, a native plant garden, and a children's garden. The landscape is characterized by manicured lawns, gravel pathways, and mature trees. Water features include a pond and a stream.

Location & Access Logistics

McCrory Gardens is situated at 605 17th Avenue South, Brookings, SD 57007. It is approximately 2 miles south of the Brookings city center. Access is via 17th Avenue South, which connects to Highway 14. Parking is available on-site in a designated lot. Public transport options to the gardens are limited; the Brookings Area Transit System (BATS) does not have a direct route to the gardens.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The gardens were established in 1965, named in honor of Dr. John T. McCrory, a former head of the Horticulture Department at South Dakota State University. The site was developed as an extension of the university's horticultural research and education programs. The land is part of the prairie ecosystem of eastern South Dakota, with efforts made to showcase native flora alongside cultivated species.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore themed garden areas, including the Rose Garden, Perennial Border, and Native Plant Garden. Educational signage provides information on plant species. Walking the paved and gravel paths is a primary activity. Photography is permitted. Seasonal events and workshops are sometimes held.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the main building. Limited shade is provided by trees and a few covered structures. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should plan to bring their own refreshments. A gift shop is located within the main building.

Best Time to Visit

The gardens are best visited from late spring through early autumn (May to October) to observe peak bloom. For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended. The Rose Garden is most vibrant in June and July. The Native Plant Garden is best observed in late summer.

Facts & Legends

McCrory Gardens is home to a collection of over 1,000 varieties of plants, making it one of the most extensive horticultural collections in the region. A specific "secret" tip for visitors is to look for the small, often overlooked, herb garden located behind the main building, which contains a variety of culinary and medicinal herbs.

Nearby Landmarks

• South Dakota State University Campus (0.8km North)
• Children's Museum of South Dakota (1.5km North)
• Pioneer Park (2.0km Northwest)
• Downtown Brookings (2.5km North)