27 Fun & Best Things to Do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls might be a smaller city, but there’s plenty to do if you know where to look. Luckily, we do – so let us share our detailed list of the best things to do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Situated in the Midwest, Sioux Falls is an underrated gem that tourists often overlook. The city, which has a long and interesting history, started as a small trading post in 1856 — and things have changed a lot since then.

South Dakota was a United States territory granted statehood in 1889, creating the current borders for this area. Sioux Falls became the largest city in South Dakota, far outstripping Pierre, the state capital.

While Sioux Falls is a modern city in every way now, it’s managed to retain much of its history. If you travel here for a vacation, don’t miss out on places like the South Dakota Battleship Memorial or the Old Courthouse Museum.

The city is known for its beautiful scenery and many activities for adventurous peeps. Since it’s not so prominent on the radar, your choices of top tourist attractions in Sioux Falls may not be obvious.

But once you get started, you’ll likely fall in love with the area. If you plan to stay for a day or two, get on Booking today to find a hotel near the best city attractions.

You might be looking for romantic things in Sioux Falls or places to explore with your kids. Or perhaps you’re on the hunt for Sioux Falls freebies. Whatever your preference, let us talk you through the best and most fun things to do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

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Things to Do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls is a busy little city! From cultural activities to natural views, there’s such a wide range of attractions, you’ll feel spoiled for choice. And don’t forget to fill up at some of the many diverse eateries downtown.

1. Falls Park

Address: 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

When in Sioux Falls, you have to visit Falls Park – after all, the waterfalls gave the city its name. The triple cascade is an impressive sight that will live long in memory. What’s more, the park’s free to visit. 

Besides viewing the cascades at Falls Overlook, there are lots more to do, including the Big Sioux River Greenway – 19 miles of attractive bike trails. Most people like to visit the visitor information center to shop for South Dakota gifts. And you have to grab the views from the top of the 5-story observation tower (don’t worry – there’s an elevator). 

There are tons of picnic spots, or you can watch for salmon leaping the falls while refueling at the Falls Overlook Cafe. Don’t miss the historic Queen Bee Mill on the banks of the Big Sioux. There’s more history on display at the Sioux Falls Stockyards Ag Experience in an antique barn. 

Though Falls Park is lovely in the summer, the waterfalls are at their most powerful in the spring. If you’re here on a Saturday, May through October, you can pick up some great local produce and artisanal goodies at the Farmers market. And wintertime brings the magical light display in the Falls Park Winter Wonderland.

See Related: Things to Do in Custer State Park

2. Butterfly House & Aquarium

Address: 4320 S Oxbow Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

If you’re looking for fun family activities in Sioux Falls this weekend, head down to South Oxbow Avenue for a double treat. Like the 800+ butterflies who live in the Butterfly House here, you can bask in the constant 80-degree heat. Buy a feeding flower, and you can have the butterflies eating out of your hand. 

Then head next door to the Dakotas’ only public saltwater aquarium to see hundreds of different species of fish and corals. Watch Princess Parrotfish do their thing in their cozy marine cove. And in the Discovery Den and Pacific Tide Pool, kids can explore the Moon Jellyfish life cycle and get hands-on with some amazing rock-pool residents. 

In line with the Butterfly House rules, visitors must leave a few things outside. These include strollers, outerwear, hats, big bags, food, and drink (except water). 

3. Washington Pavilion of Arts & Science

Address: 301 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

If you like to get educated during your vacays, don’t miss the Washington Pavilion, the region’s arts and science hub. In this historic building, you can find many shows and exhibitions.

The Pavilion’s also home to the Kirby Science Discovery Center. And if you visit on the first Friday of the month, it’s free.

The Pavilion has two performing arts centers that offer recitals, live concerts, and Broadway shows. Plus, you can go to the Wells Fargo CineDome to catch a movie. Look out, too, for the state-of-the-art planetarium.

The Visual Arts Center’s art galleries have works from international, national, and local artists. While many pieces are permanent, there’ll always be something new to admire the next time you visit.

For some interactive science exploration, head to the Kirby Science Center. Here, you can enjoy more than 100 hands-on science-related activities. Some of the most popular exhibits are the dinosaurs, quarry dig, and immersive water experiences.

See Related: Things to Do in Rapid City, South Dakota

4. Old Courthouse Museum

Address: 200 W 6th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

When you hear someone say that Sioux Falls is a multifaceted tourism hub, believe them – the city certainly has something to offer historians. Start with a visit to the Old Courthouse Museum, the one-time Minnehaha County Courthouse.

Completed in 1893, the courthouse is an imposing architectural statement from local architect Wallace L. Dow. The building was used as a courthouse until 1962, when the authorities planned to demolish it. But after local citizens rallied to save it, the courthouse took on a new identity as one of the Siouxland Heritage Museums. 

If you love ornamentation, you’ll enjoy stained glass windows, tiled fireplaces, slate stairs, and granite pillars at the Old Courthouse Museum. The courthouse also boasts 16 massive murals. And to help you relive your childhood, there’s a display of vintage toys.

5. Cathedral of Saint Joseph

Address: 521 N Duluth Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Visiting a cathedral might not usually be on your travel itinerary, but this is no ordinary church. The Cathedral of Saint Joseph was completed in 1919 and is still one of the most magnificent buildings in the city.

It’s equally impressive both inside and out. From the free-standing altar (inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome) to the French stained glass windows, there’s much to marvel at in the cathedral. It’s a must-visit for people who love culture, architecture, and art.

Saint Joseph’s Cathedral is open for self-guided tours from 9 – 11.30 a.m. and 1 – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. It also has a tradition of world-class sacred music. Try to catch one of the free choral or organ recitals.

See Related: Things to Do in Deadwood, South Dakota

6. Sculpture Walk Sioux Falls

Address: 300 S Phillips Ave l104, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

New to Sioux Falls? There’s no better way to get to know the city than on the Sculpture Walk. Starting at the Washington Pavilion, you’ll take in 50+ artworks as you walk the prescribed route, which changes yearly. The city also encourages people to vote for their favorite sculptures.

While touring downtown Sioux Falls to marvel at these installations, you can stop for a bite at one of the many eateries en route. Josiah’s Coffee does a great line in brunch, including its signature Josiah’s English Muffin Sandwich. For the Famous Falls Philly, where you can eat on the terrace overlooking the Big Sioux River, visit the Falls Landing bar inside the Country Inn & Suites.

If you love to shop, the downtown area, especially Phillips Avenue, has tons to offer. Zandbroz Variety is a great place for gifts and quirky art. And kids will love Childs Play Toys and the Candy Cloud Factory.

7. Good Earth State Park at Blood Run

Address: 26924 480th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108, United States

Blood Run, a National Historic Landmark, is a hugely significant site of long-term human habitation in the United States. It’s long been known as a gathering space for people from indigenous cultures.

Today, it’s part of Good Earth State Park, one of South Dakota‘s best state parks, showcasing the rich culture of the Oneota. If you are passionate about green spaces, history, and community – this is for you.

At the visitor center, you can learn all about the Oneota and their tribal descendants. Stride out on one of the excellent walking trails, and enjoy spectacular views of the Big Sioux River. You can also hire binoculars, hammocks, and lawn games.

It’s just a few dollars for a day’s outing here, or you can buy an annual ticket through the Good Earth State Park official website.

8. The Outdoor Campus

Address: 4500 S Oxbow Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

If you’re a city-dweller with a longing for some outdoor adventures, the Outdoor Campus is for you. This is a learning center run by the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department. They aim to share their expertise and demystify the worlds of hunting, fishing, and survival techniques.

Check out their program of courses here. You can learn prehistoric hunting, campfire cooking, and kayaking. There are classes on how to tie-dye using natural materials and even how to pack a backpack. And there are some beautiful walking trails on-site, too.

Child-friendly activities abound, especially for older kids, but adults might like the Bugs and Brews session. This is when the Outdoor Campus joins forces with Spearfish Brewing Company. You’ll learn how to tie fly-fishing flies while sampling some of the brewery’s best ale.

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9. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial

Address: 2705 W 12th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

It’s not uncommon to go into a quiet town or city and stumble upon a memorial. In Sherman Park, Sioux Falls, the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is pretty special.

The USS South Dakota, launched in 1941, was a veteran of some horrific Second World War battles. With her Navy Unit Citation and 13 battle stars, she was the most decorated battleship of World War II. She was even called “Battleship X” to prevent the enemy from identifying her. 

Now a dramatic full-size outline acts as both a memorial and a museum. Inside are artifacts from the ship, together with letters from the crew. 

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10. Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS)

Address: 47914 252nd St, Sioux Falls, SD 57198, United States

If your kids are intrigued about how Google Maps works or how your phone can track where you are (and you know you’re intrigued, too), you’ll get your answers here.

The Earth Research Observation and Science Center, known as EROS, houses a geological research center. It’s the only national center that handles Landsat satellite data from NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey. It also owns one of the world’s biggest civilian archives of land images.

Experts chose this to be the designated center thanks to limited radio and air interference locally. Visitors are welcome free of charge Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with guided tours available between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

Don’t forget to bring your government-issued identification to gain entry.

11. Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum

Address: 805 S Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Another fun thing to do in Sioux Falls if you’re traveling with kids is to visit the zoo. Actually, it’s two for the price of one, as Great Plains Zoo also includes the Delbridge Museum of Natural History. And you’ll only be paying 50% of the full ticket price if you’re a member of an Association of Zoos & Aquariums partner zoo.

The zoo houses over 1,000 animals, including tigers, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. You can feed rare breed animals such as Jacobs Sheep at the Hy-Vee Face-to-Face Farm. 

There are also special animal encounters to enjoy, such as meeting the bison or feeding the black rhinos. And you can feed yourself at the ROAR cafe.

If the zoo’s 45,000 acres seem daunting, take one of the 25-minute private cart tours that depart every half hour. For a truly immersive Great Plains Zoo experience – and if you have your tent – you can participate in the zoo’s Camp Outs. 

See Related: Things to Do in Pierre, South Dakota

12. Veterans’ Memorial Park

Address: 1021 W. Bailey St. Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Veterans’ Memorial Park commemorates Sioux Falls citizens who served in the military. The park, a former U.S. Army Air Corps site, now has a formal garden, an accessible walking trail, and a small amphitheater.

Serene and meticulously manicured, the park is a thought-provoking place to spend some quiet moments. As well as sculptures and poignant stone stars, there are historic displays and military memorials. And look out for the slabs of local Sioux quartzite stone onto which the names of eight conflicts are carved.

13. Sample Some Local Craft Beers

One for the adults, here – we’re talking Sioux Falls nightlife. In particular, the thriving craft beer scene. With ten or more local brewers in the city, there are plenty of ales to try out. 

A good place to start is East 8th Street. This is where you’ll find both Covert Artisan Ales & Cellars (known for its Operation Dreamsicle ale) and Remedy Brewing, famous for the Pina Colada Kickball. And if you’re staying nearby in a Vrbo vacation rental or a hotel such as the Hilton Garden Inn, driving won’t even be an issue.

Across Falls Park is Severance Brewing Company where you’ll get great views of the park. Other local brewers of note are Woodgrain Brewing Company and Fernson Brewing Company.

For a complete sensory overload, head to Look’s Marketplace on East 69th Street. Not only can you get a burger and a home-brewed beer, but there’s also a totally tempting deli and food market. 

14. Baseball Game at The Birdcage (Sioux Falls Stadium)

Address: 1001 NW Avenue Service Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

The Sioux Falls Canaries, AKA the Birds, are the local baseball team, much beloved in the city. Their home, suitably enough, is the Birdcage, otherwise known as Sioux Falls Stadium. It’s one of the oldest ballparks in the country.

Although it’s not as flashy as some other stadiums, the 4,462-seater Birdcage has much going for it. It has a long history, a competitive atmosphere, and a fantastic vibe. If you’re a sports fan, get yourself a Tweety Wrap or Wings from Wingology (they love their bird references) and find a seat in the stands.

The Sioux Falls Canaries’ first season game is usually scheduled for April. If possible, try to get an evening game ticket – the atmosphere is electric.

Two hotels are especially handy for the Birdcage. The Ramada by Wyndham has an on-site waterpark, great for little kids. And the slightly pricier Sheraton Sioux Falls is less than a  mile from Elmwood Golf Course.

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15. Big Sioux Recreation Area

Address: 410 W Park St, Brandon, SD 57005, United States

The beautiful Big Sioux Recreation Area is located beside the Big Sioux River east of the city. Its 270 acres include prairie, forest, and wetland, and are a haven for wildlife. Look out for bald eagles, wild turkeys, and waterfowl nesting on the banks of the Big Sioux River.

The park is popular for canoeing, hiking, disc golf, and archery. You’ll also find a couple of fun Sioux Falls bike trails here. And in winter, there’s cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

Stay at one of the recreation area’s three cabins or 50 campsites for close contact with nature.  If you’re stopping in Sioux Falls on your RV trip, you can also park your vehicle here, with access to showers and restroom facilities.

If you’re looking for more comfort, the GLō Best Western Dawley Farms in Sioux Falls is handy for both the recreation area and Huset’s Speedway stock car racetrack.

See Related: Best Things to Do in South Dakota

16. Wild Water West Waterpark

Address: 26767 466th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

Situated west of the city, Wild Water West Waterpark is the biggest water attraction in South Dakota. It’s chock-full of fun activities; one pass gives you access to them all. If you want to save money, opt for the 4-8 p.m. evening slot when prices are 35% cheaper than the full-day tickets.

Popular features include Tornado Alley, a 55-foot tube slide with a funnel in the middle. There’s South Dakota’s only wave pool, plus Caribbean Falls with its water cannons and net crawls. Or why not just drift down the lazy river?

While the kids enjoy the water activities, adults can relax at the swim-up bar. There’s a baby pool for the wee ones to beat the heat, and even better, under-2s go free.

You don’t even have to get wet. Land-based fun includes mini golf, batting cages, and go-karting. 

If you want to make a week of it, you can camp onsite or have an RV delivered there. Or you can pick a family holiday rental like this one that’s handy for both the water park and the city.

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17. Terrace Park

Address: 1100 W 4th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

South of the Veterans’ Memorial Park, you’ll find Terrace Park, a beautiful green lung for the city. Its tranquil Shoto-Teien Japanese Gardens, the perfect spot for unwinding, are something of a hidden gem. Among the Sioux quartzite stone pagodas and lanterns, you’ll find shaded seating areas with lovely views of Covell Lake.

Terrace Park is also a great place to visit in Sioux Falls with kids. Its aquatic center has a family pool with zero-depth entry, multiple slides, and a sand play area. The park also has playgrounds, a walking trail, and tennis courts. 

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18. Dinner At The Carnaval Brazilian Grill

Address: 2401 S Carolyn Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

A Sioux Falls Food Tour will inform you about the city’s exciting and tasty food scene. But for a one-of-a-kind Falls experience, head to Carnaval, the city’s only Brazilian eatery.

As its name suggests, you’re in for a food fiesta here. Come hungry, is the advice.

The restaurant offers a memorable dining experience with its holiday atmosphere and vibrant decor. The traditional Brazilian roasting and tableside carving techniques mean the rotisserie meats keep coming. There’s also fun flipping your colored token to say you’re full – or you want more!

Small eaters – don’t be put off. Pick something tasty off the a la carte menu or stick to the salad bar. In addition, there’s the signature papaya cream dessert, not to mention the Caipirinha, Brazil’s national drink. 

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19. Great Bear Recreation Park

Address: 5901 E. Rice St., Sioux Falls, SD 57110, United States

No matter the time of year, visitors will always find plenty to do at Great Bear Recreation Park. Just minutes from Downtown, the 220 beautiful acres offer a range of seasonal and year-round activities.

In particular, Great Bear Recreation Park is a fabulous place for winter sports. There are 14 downhill skiing and snowboarding trails, snowshoeing trails, a terrain park, and the Kirby Family Tubing Park. You can also go skinning (uphill skiing) some days of the week.

During the summer, Great Bear offers a 4-mile trail system that winds through the hills. There are hard surfaces for leisurely walkers and deer trails for that wilderness feel.

  20. Pettigrew Home

Address: 131 N Duluth Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

One of two Siouxland Heritage Museums (the other is the Old Courthouse Museum), the Pettigrew Home & Museum has fascinating tales to tell. It was bought for $12,000 by Richard Franklin Pettigrew, South Dakota’s first Senator, in 1911. Pettigrew used his home to tell the story of Sioux Falls, turning part of it into a museum.

Here Pettigrew displayed his collections of items relating to the region’s settlement. There are also Native American clothes, natural history specimens, stone tools, guns, and arrowheads. And when Pettigrew passed away, he left his home for the city.

The house looks much as it did in Pettigrew’s day.  Exhibit galleries tell the story of Pettigrew’s terms in office, where he championed the rights of farmers, women, and ordinary workers. Best of all? Admission to the Pettigrew Home is free!

  21. Visit the Phillips Avenue Diner

Address: 121 S Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

With its cozy booths and bar stools, there’s nothing more appealingly retro than a vintage diner. Phillips Avenue Diner, created from a silver Airstream trailer, is the perfect example. It’s also a highly-rated eatery and a must-visit venue if you want to eat out in downtown Sioux Falls. 

The diner offers all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You’ll find classic diner specialties, chef-inspired creations, and some serious nostalgia. Customers rave about the malts and shakes, the jambalaya, and the chili, to name a few dishes — not to mention the great service.

  22. Enjoy Live Classical Music at the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra

Address: 301 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra is the musical pride of Sioux Falls. At its main home in the Washington Pavilion, it performs a full range of classical music concerts, from Mozart to The Beatles. The orchestra also tours South Dakota and performs chamber music in local churches.

Don’t feel like changing into formal attire after a full day? Never fear! Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to wear a ballgown or tux to attend a symphony concert. Smart casual wear will be just fine.

Children are welcome at all performances, but it’s generally recommended that only kids five years of age and up attend orchestral performances.

  23. Take in a Free Concert at Levitt at the Falls

Address: 504 N Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Yep, you heard it right. One of the best things to do in Sioux Falls, a summer concert at the futuristic Levitt Shell amphitheater, is completely gratis. The aim is to build the community through music, meaning 50 free professional concerts per summer, with space for an audience of 5,000 each time.

No tickets are required; you can bring your own blankets and lawn chairs or rent chairs on-site. And you can fix a picnic or visit one of the many food and beverage trucks at the venue.

Featuring talented musicians across the genres, the 2023 lineup includes country, contemporary, and swing music. There’s a special place for jazz and blues ever since the demise of the much-loved Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society, which gifted Levitt at the Falls $55,000. 

For more live music nights out, check the events calendar at the Denny Sanford Premier Center, a few miles southwest of Sioux Falls Airport.

  24. Eastbank Block Parties

A great way to soak up the city vibe is at one of the summertime Eastbank Block Parties on the first Friday of every month throughout June, July, and August.

The party’s held in downtown Sioux Falls Eastbank at the 8th & Railroad Center parking lot. You can expect an attendance of 2,000 to 3,000 people for live music, yummy food trucks, and a variety of yard games for kids.

Plus, the first Friday of every month is celebrated all year with sales in surrounding Downtown stores. You can’t go wrong with being in Sioux Falls on the best day of the month!

  25. Take a Dip in a City Pool

Almost every community has a pool or two – but how many cities do you know that have eight? If you’re looking for family activities in Sioux Falls, it’s good to know you’re never far from one of the great city pools.

Most are outdoor facilities, but there’s also Midco indoor swim center at Spellerberg Park. Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center has its lazy river; at Laurel Oak, there’s a dino and floating frogs. 

For littlies, there’s a free wading pool in McKennan Park. And it’s not a pool, but at Pine Street and Jessica Avenue, there’s Pioneer Spray Park. Who could resist its 60 spray nozzles and water cannons?

Admission is generally not more than $6 for a one-day pass. Plus, if you plan on visiting often, you can get a swim pass to make frequent swimming even cheaper.

26. Sioux Empire Medical Museum

Address: 1305 18th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, United States

Medical matters touch everyone at some point in their lives, and boy, does this museum make you glad you didn’t live back in the day!

On display in the Sanford Health main campus are contraptions that our great-grandparents might have known. There’s a 1940s iron lung and a mock-up of an operating room from 1912. You can also see how medical uniforms have changed over the years.

The museum is free to visit and open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you’re visiting the hospital, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Sioux Falls Sanford Medical Center is a stone’s throw away. And just across the street is the slightly more affordable Valley Inn Sanford Medical Center. Both hotels are also super-convenient for the University of Sioux Falls.

27. Find a One-of-a-kind Souvenir Artwork

Address: 431 N Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

A piece of unique artwork makes the perfect gift or memento. The city has some great local art galleries, and you’re sure to find something that suits your taste and budget. And, of course, browsing around an art gallery is a very satisfying way to spend your time.

In The Cascade at Falls Park, you can visit Rose and Eugene Presents, a 500-square-foot art gallery with new exhibitions every 2-3 months. Rehfeld’s Art & Framing on Phillips Avenue has a stunning range of artwork for sale, including ceramics, oils, and mosaics. Just across the river is Eastbank Art, a gallery co-op promoting local and regional artists.

You might find that special piece at Antiques on 18 or Booth 202, two antique shops in central Sioux Falls. Just north of the city is the Knotty Gnome, crammed full of quirky one-offs. And at Color Me Mine, a little north of Oxbow Park, you can paint your ceramic souvenir.

Sioux Falls has a plethora of attractions that cater to all types of interests. With so many options at your fingertips, this guide can assist you in planning your next excursion with ease.

We hope this takes some of the stress off your plate because traveling can get hectic — especially when kids are involved! If you want to fly off to Sioux Falls on the next plane, get a deal from Going.

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