Visit Watertown Celebrates New Headquarters With Ribbon Cutting, Tourism Awards

Steve Jurrens
May 8
2 min read

Trophies on a wooden table for Watertown's 2026 Visitor Industry Awards. Red balloons and banners in the background. Bright, celebratory mood.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Visit Watertown marked a major milestone this week with a Ribbon Cutting and Open House at its new headquarters, drawing a strong turnout from community members, business leaders, and tourism partners. The celebration coincided with National Travel & Tourism Week, highlighting the growing impact of tourism in Codington County.

Three women smiling in front of a brick wall with a red balloon arch and a "Happy National Travel Tourism" banner. Festive atmosphere.

The event also served as the official recognition ceremony for Visit Watertown’s annual Tourism Awards, honoring standout businesses, attractions, and individuals who help make Watertown a welcoming and memorable destination.

According to Visit Watertown, the evening was both a celebration of the organization’s new chapter and a chance to spotlight the people who elevate the city’s visitor experience year‑round.

2026 Visit Watertown Tourism Award Winners:

🏆 Top Retail – House of Dreams & Decorating and The House Next Door

🏆 Top Restaurant – Oh Baby O’s

🏆 Top Event – Winter Wonderland

🏆 Top Hotel – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton, Watertown, SD

🏆 Top Attraction – Joy Ranch of SD

🏆 Gordy Osthus Award – Julie Ranum

Visit Watertown thanked attendees for their support and emphasized the importance of collaboration between local businesses, attractions, and community partners. The organization noted that tourism continues to play a key role in Watertown’s economic growth, with rising visitor spending and increased engagement across local events and attractions.

Charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, fruits, and olives. Letters spell "VISIT WATERTOWN" in salami. A wooden table setting.

A New Home for Watertown Tourism

The ribbon cutting also introduced the public to Visit Watertown’s new location, designed to improve visibility, accessibility, and community engagement. Staff members welcomed guests, shared updates on upcoming tourism initiatives, and highlighted the momentum heading into the summer travel season.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support tourism in Watertown,” Visit Watertown shared in its announcement. “We’re excited for what’s ahead.”

Awards displayed on a wooden table with text for "Watertown Visitor Industry Award." Red balloons and a sign in the brick-walled background.

About National Travel & Tourism Week

National Travel & Tourism Week is celebrated annually to recognize the contributions of the travel industry to local economies. In Watertown, tourism supports jobs, strengthens small businesses, and drives year‑round activity across retail, dining, lodging, and recreation.