The Spot In South Dakota That Turns Into An Enchanting Holiday Garden Every Year

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is the way the twinkle lights transform places that are already beautiful into even more enchanting holiday wonderlands. At McCrory Gardens in Brookings, that's exactly what's happening right now.

McCrory Garden's winter hours are normally from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, but during December the arboretum celebrates Garden Glow and is open every night from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

McCrory Gardens is located at 631 22nd Avenue, Brookings.

The 45-acre garden is turned into a brightly-lit holiday wonderland from December 2nd through the 31st.

The Gardens will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Stroll through the formal gardens, where you'll be enchanted by thousands of lights and several different displays.

The Visitor Center is cozy and warm, and decorated for the holidays. Get some hot cocoa or coffee here to warm yourself up.

Check out the South Dakota Tree, with its hand-painted ornaments!

You'll also find some wonderful holiday gifts in the Gift Shop. From local honey to locally-crafted jewelry, lotion, and soap, you're sure to find something for everyone on your list.

Santa will be at McCrory Gardens to say hello to all the good girls and boys.

Visit Santa on Sunday, December 3rd from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and the 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Take a horse-drawn trolley ride around the arboretum.

Rides are just $10 for adults and $5 for SDSU students and children six and older. Kids five and younger ride for free. The last trolley leaves for its tour at 4 p.m.

The gardens are gorgeous in the summer, but they're downright magical at Christmastime!

If you're looking for more outdoor winter adventures, take a sleigh ride in the Black Hills.