As summer quickly approaches, Huron is preparing for its summer season, attracting visitors with various activities.
Home to fresh perspectives, eclectic dining, shopping, outdoor activities, and recreation, there’s something for everyone, any day of the year.
Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau shares five things to experience this summer.
1. Splash Central Waterpark
There is no better place to enjoy the sunshine than in the center of the city. Splash Central Waterpark provides residents and visitors with an outstanding destination for summer fun, family vacations, and special gatherings.
The waterpark features waterslides, a lazy river, an Olympic pool, and aquatic entertainment for the whole family.
“The most unique feature is our water slide, the Master Blaster,” said Laurie Shelton, president and CEO of the Huron Chamber. “This is an experience that you can’t get anywhere else within 500 miles.”
The signature attraction brings adventure seekers the exhilaration of a roller coaster and water slide combined.
Stop by the concession stand to pick up delicious treats like candy, ice cream, slushies, hot dogs, and pizza. Shelton adds that every Friday throughout the summer, the waterpark will sell Huron’s infamous Cookie Dough Cupcakes.
“There are so many different parts of Splash Central that bring fun for all ages,” shared Shelton.
Share the aquatic fun with friends and family with cabana rentals and party packages.
MORE INFO: SPLASHCENTRALWATERPARK.COM+
“SPLASH CENTRAL WATERPARK IS CELEBRATING ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, WE DON’T KNOW WHERE TIME HAS GONE.” -LAURIE SHELTON
2. Ravine Lake Park
The 32-acre park has benches, a sand beach, handicap-accessible fishing nodes, a playground, and picnic shelters.
“The most distinct feature is Putters & Scoops, which is housed in a 1930s rock bath house, original to Ravine Lake,” said Shelton.
The summer destination hosts an 18-hole mini golf course and water rentals such as kayaks, paddle boards, paddle boats, and inner tubes.
Putters & Scoops offers savory food options ranging from salads, paninis, and wraps, as well as sweet treats like ice cream, smoothies, lemonades, and sodas.
Take a stroll along the paved trail surrounding the lake or bury your toes in the sand along the water with your friends or family.
For special occasions or weddings, visitors can reserve shelter space or a gazebo in the Izaak Walton Island Flower Gardens.
“This area offers so much to those who want to enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s frolicking in the water or soaking up the sun,” explained Shelton.
MORE INFO: HURONSD.COM+
Putters & Scoops Menu
Salads
Taco Salad
Lettuce, taco meat, tomato, onion, cheese, salsa, taco sauce, and sour cream.
Chef Salad
Lettuce, ham, turkey, cheese, tomato, and egg.
Paninis
Chicken Bacon Ranch
Sourdough bread, grilled chicken, lettuce, cheese, bacon, and ranch.
Pepperoni Pizza
Sourdough bread, cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce.
Wraps
Chicken Fiesta
Flour tortilla, lettuce, cheese, grilled chicken, corn, black beans, taco chips, and chipotle ranch.
Club
Flour tortilla, lettuce, cheese, ham, turkey, bacon, tomato, and ranch.
3. South Dakota State Fairgrounds
“The South Dakota State Fairgrounds is not just the location of the annual South Dakota State Fair, as it hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year,” said Shelton.
The fairground sits on 190 acres and is home to 90 multi-facility buildings and 1,200 campsites.
“Throughout the year, you can expect the atmosphere to be filled with excitement, expectations, and loads of fun, depending on the nature of the events,” explained Shelton.
In early June, the fairgrounds will be home to Wheel Jam and the Original South Dakota BBQ Championships.
The memorable weekend consists of an abundance of auto shows, live music, and a tasting of world-class BBQ during Saturday’s People’s Choice Tastings.
The memorable South Dakota State Fair begins on August 31 and runs until Labor Day. Get ready for exhilarating rides, carnival games, local treats, and performances by renowned artists and comedians.
MORE INFO: SDSTATEFAIR.COM+
South Dakota State Fair Performance Series
Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias // September 1
Carly Pearce // September 2
Lady A with Rowan Grace // September 3
4. Manolis Grocery
“Manolis Grocery is a legend of its own here in Huron,” said Shelton. “It’s the oldest running grocery store in the state and contains a casual yet eclectic atmosphere.”
Discover the history and charm of the historic grocery store as you browse the local meat counter. Shelton says that groceries aren’t the main selling point; it’s the sandwiches.
Manolis Grocery is known for its freshly prepared sandwiches, liquor store, and extensive meat selection. Shelton adds that adults can add a cold beer while they indulge in their meals.
Customers can pick up their favorite chips, soda, water, candy bars, and much more.
“You’ll find history written all over the store,” said Shelton. “It’s definitely a go-to place when visitors come to town.”
Did You Know?
The Rocket Slide was originally named the Astro City Slide and was built in 1971. Huron Parks and Recreation continues to preserve the slide.
5. Prospect Park
Prospect Park is the perfect family outing, says Shelton. The 15-acre city park features honey locust, soft maple, and Austrian pine trees, along with playgrounds and shelters for families to enjoy.
“June is always a great month to get outdoors and play,” said Shelton. “This park provides sun, shade, and family fun.”
Pack up your favorite snacks for an afternoon picnic, or get your game on in the tennis courts, pickleball courts, soccer field, and skateboard park.
Prospect Park is also known as Rocket Slide Park among the locals, as it’s home to one of the six original Miracle Equipment Astro City slides.
“If you and your children enjoy park life, this is definitely a place to visit,” admitted Shelton.
*All photos for 6 Things are submitted by the event or its promoter unless otherwise noted.
For more information, visit HURONSD.COM+
