For a state with a population of less than one million people, South Dakota has some pretty cool towns. We’ve written about Rapid City and its many amenities, and we’re always featuring something cool in Sioux Falls (like this awesome restaurant). We’ve even mentioned that we think Sturgis is one of the coolest small towns in the country.

Aberdeen is also a town that’s pretty cool for so many reasons. To learn all about Aberdeen, South Dakota, including why we think it’s one of the coolest places in the Midwest, take a look below.

Aberdeen was incorporated in 1882. It's really come a long way since then.
Google
Settled as part of the railroad boom, Aberdeen originally had flooding issues and was ridiculed for being located in "Frog Pond." Now, as South Dakota's third-largest city, it's a thriving community with around 28,500 residents and tons of great amenities.
Aberdeen is a college town.
Northern State University/Facebook
With Northern State University and Presentation College both making Aberdeen their home, there are plenty of college kids keeping things current here.
You can see movies and live theater productions at the restored Capitol Theatre.
Capitol Cinema/Facebook
This historic theater was built in 1926, and it's been lovingly restored so that we can still enjoy it today.
In fact, Aberdeen is pretty well known when it comes to film.
South Dakota Film Festival/Facebook
The South Dakota Film Festival is held here every September.
Storybook Land makes all of your dreams come true.
Storybook Land/Facebook
Well, as long as your dreams include riding the carousel, following the Yellow Brick Road, and storming the medieval castle.

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Kids of all ages have a blast at Wylie Thunder Road.
Wylie Thunder Road Aberdeen/Facebook
Race around the go-kart track, play in the lazer maze, try the Euro bungy, and more at this fun family park.
Aberdeen is just moments away from two lakes that provide plenty of outdoor recreation.
Richmond Lake and Mina Lake Recreation Areas/Facebook
Both Richmond Lake and Mina Lake Recreation areas provide hiking, boating, swimming, picnicking, fishing, and more.
The Aberdeen Aquatic Center is the place to go for summer fun.
Aberdeen Aquatic Center/Facebook
This huge complex is the best place to cool off on a hot summer day.
Aberdeen has an award-winning library.
CO-OP Architecture
Aberdeen's library won two architectural awards for its design. This is the coolest library in the state! We've actually written about the library.
You'll find plenty of cool coffee shops and restaurants in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Business owner/Yelp
Red Rooster is a great place to settle in with a cup of coffee and a book. They often feature live music, too.

If you haven’t been to Aberdeen lately, it’s time for a visit. You’ll love it!

If you’ve ever been to Aberdeen, South Dakota, what did you think about it? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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Jennifer Young | July 15, 2022

Which county is Aberdeen, South Dakota in?

Aberdeen, which is nicknamed "The Hub City," is located in Brown County, South Dakota. In fact, Aberdeen is the seat of Brown County. Even though Brown County has less than 40,000 residents, it's still the fourth-most populated county of all 66 counties in South Dakota. Brown County, which was founded in 1881, is named after Alfred Brown. Mr. Brown was a Dakota Territory legislator in 1879. Whether you're planning to visit Aberdeen or another town in South Dakota, be sure to stop and explore Brown County. With so much to see and do, it's the perfect destination for a day trip.

What is Aberdeen, South Dakota famous for?

Aberdeen, South Dakota is famous for a variety of things. One of the things it's most famous for is that it's the home of Capitol Theater. Capitol Theater is a beautifully-restored theater that was built in 1926. It boasts 450 seats and occasionally shows special Hollywood movies throughout the year. Live theater productions are also held here. Capitol Theater also hosts the South Dakota Film Festival. Today, the historic Capitol Theater is home to the Aberdeen Community Theater. If you've ever wanted to visit a movie house such as Capitol Theater, Aberdeen, South Dakota most certainly belongs on your list of towns to visit. The moment you step inside this theater, you'll be reminded of yesteryear. The interior of it reflects what it would've looked like in the 1920s. In addition to Capitol Theater, you'll discover many other great places while exploring the historic town of Aberdeen, including Storybook Land and the Land of Oz, Wylie Park, and the Dacotah Prairie Museum. There's something for all ages in this South Dakota town.

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Aberdeen, SD 57401, USA