Aberdeen City Guide

Food is mainly American comfort classics with some Mexican, Chinese, and Italian options. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist but are limited. Most places close by 9 or 10 PM; fast food lasts later.

Nightlife is low-key with local bars and pubs. Live music and clubs are limited.

Growing coffee scene with local shops and chains. Specialty roasters are rare.

Tipping is expected for most services including restaurants (15-20%), taxis (15-20%), and hair stylists.

You can buy local SIM cards at Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile stores. Prepaid plans require valid ID. eSIM is becoming more common but varies by provider and phone.

Streets are generally clean with regular waste collection.

Limited 24/7 services, mostly fast food or some convenience stores. Pharmacies rarely open overnight.

Main supermarkets include Kessler's Food & Drug, Walmart Supercenter, and Runnings. Most open 7 AM to 10 PM. International products are limited. Bargaining is not practiced.

Most places accept credit and debit cards, including restaurants and shops. Cash is still accepted but not essential for most purchases.

ATMs are common at banks like Dacotah Bank, Wells Fargo, and US Bank, plus convenience stores. Out-of-network ATM fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Local schools include Aberdeen Central High and Aberdeen Roncalli High. Instruction is in English. No international schools are prominent.

The digital nomad community is small and informal, with limited dedicated resources.

Parks like Wylie and Storybook Land offer green areas for recreation.

Good running routes exist at Wylie Park and Richmond Lake with generally safe and well-lit paths.

Several gyms offer standard fitness options for residents and visitors.

Public tennis courts are available in parks and the YMCA.

Padel courts are generally not available in the area.

Several yoga studios offer classes and drop-in sessions.

Martial arts schools for Taekwondo, Karate and self-defense are present.

No ski resorts nearby; closest ones are hours away in the Black Hills.

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible at nearby Richmond and Mina Lakes, with seasonal equipment rentals.

No surfing options since the city is far from the ocean.

No diving or snorkeling sites near Aberdeen.

Avera St. Luke's Hospital offers quality care with English-speaking staff. OTC meds are easy to find at Walgreens and CVS. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water meets or exceeds federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Several parks and playgrounds like Storybook Land and Melgaard Park. The aquatic center and baby supplies are available in major stores.

Moderate acceptance reflective of a conservative area; limited dedicated venues or groups.

Several parks allow leashed dogs, veterinary clinics and pet stores are available. Pet rules follow US standards.