South Dakota is a mecca for charming small towns, and we happen to believe that the tinier the community, the better it becomes, thanks to all of its locally-owned stores and incredibly friendly residents! While many SoDak towns fit this bill, there is one in particular that few have heard of but will want to visit, which is the quaint community of Castlewood:
Located near Watertown, Castlewood is home to nearly 650 residents and is the poster child of a charming small town!
First platted in 1881, Castlewood was established thanks to the railroad's extension to that point and has since grown into a thriving agricultural community.
What is there to see and do around Castlewood? Like all great small towns, Castlewood is home to locally-owned markets and restaurants, including the delicious Ship’s Inn Bar and Steakhouse (pictured).
Do you like to be active? If so, Castlewood has your back, as this small town also houses the Castlewood Community Golf Course, plus nearby lakes and outdoor recreational areas.
Named for a place mentioned in the 1857 novel The Virginians by William Makepeace Thackeray, Castlewood is also a great place to live, thanks to its low cost of living and easy access to larger towns like Watertown and Brookings.
If you have a family, get ready to fall in love with Castlewood, as they also house both a highly-rated school and a reputation for being a safe community.