30 Must Visit Places In Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip, but this hidden gem in South Dakota has plenty to offer. From stunning natural landscapes to rich history, this city has something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Sioux Falls won't disappoint. With its beautiful parks, vibrant arts scene, and unique attractions, you'll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this charming city. Ready to explore? Here are 30 must-visit places in Sioux Falls that you won't want to miss!
Discover the Best of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a hidden gem in the Midwest. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Sioux Falls has plenty to offer. Let's dive into the top 30 must-visit places in this charming city.
Embrace Nature's Beauty
Sioux Falls is home to some breathtaking natural attractions. Here are the top spots to soak in the beauty of the great outdoors.
Falls Park The heart of Sioux Falls, Falls Park features the city's namesake waterfalls. With over 123 acres of green space, walking trails, and scenic views, it's perfect for a relaxing day out.
Great Bear Recreation Park This park offers year-round fun with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in winter, plus hiking and bird-watching in summer. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sertoma Butterfly House & Marine Cove Explore the wonders of nature at this unique attraction. Walk among hundreds of butterflies in a tropical environment and discover marine life in the interactive touch pools.
Good Earth State Park One of South Dakota's oldest sites, this park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Big Sioux River. It's a great spot for history and nature lovers alike.
Arrowhead Park Named for its arrowhead-shaped lake, this park is ideal for fishing, picnicking, and bird-watching. The serene environment makes it a perfect escape from city life.
Dive into History
Sioux Falls has a rich history waiting to be explored. These historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the past.
Old Courthouse Museum Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, this museum showcases the history of Sioux Falls and Minnehaha County. Exhibits range from Native American artifacts to pioneer life.
Pettigrew Home & Museum Step back in time at the home of Richard F. Pettigrew, South Dakota's first senator. The museum offers a fascinating look at life in the early 1900s.
USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial This outdoor memorial honors the USS South Dakota, one of the most decorated battleships of World War II. It's a must-visit for history buffs.
St. Joseph Cathedral This stunning cathedral, built in the early 20th century, features beautiful architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It's a peaceful place for reflection.
Siouxland Heritage Museums Comprising the Old Courthouse Museum and the Pettigrew Home & Museum, this organization preserves and shares the history of the region through engaging exhibits and programs.
Enjoy Family Fun
Sioux Falls offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that promise fun for all ages. Here are the top spots to visit with kids.
Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum of Natural History Home to over 1,000 animals, this zoo offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. The museum features an impressive collection of mounted animals from around the world.
Wild Water West Beat the summer heat at this water park, which features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There's also mini-golf, go-karts, and batting cages for added fun.
Washington Pavilion This cultural center offers hands-on science exhibits, an art gallery, and live performances. It's a great place for kids to learn and play.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park Jump into fun at this indoor trampoline park. With activities like dodgeball, foam pits, and a ninja warrior course, it's perfect for burning off energy.
Thunder Road Family Fun Park Enjoy go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and an arcade at this family-friendly amusement park. It's a great spot for a day of fun and excitement.
Savor Local Flavors
Sioux Falls boasts a vibrant food scene with a variety of dining options. Here are the top places to satisfy your taste buds.
Carnaval Brazilian Grill Experience the flavors of Brazil at this popular steakhouse. Enjoy a variety of meats cooked over an open flame and served tableside.
Minervas A Sioux Falls institution, Minervas offers a diverse menu featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta. The elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for a special night out.
Phillips Avenue Diner This retro diner serves up classic American fare with a twist. Don't miss their famous milkshakes and hearty breakfast options.
Sanaa's 8th Street Gourmet Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine at this cozy eatery. The menu features fresh, healthy dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
CH Patisserie Indulge your sweet tooth at this French-inspired bakery. From macarons to croissants, their pastries are a treat for the senses.
Explore Arts and Culture
Sioux Falls has a thriving arts scene with galleries, theaters, and public art installations. Here are the top cultural attractions to check out.
SculptureWalk This outdoor exhibit features over 50 sculptures displayed throughout downtown Sioux Falls. It's a great way to enjoy art while exploring the city.
Washington Pavilion Visual Arts Center This gallery showcases contemporary art from local and regional artists. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Sioux Empire Community Theatre Catch a live performance at this community theater, which offers a variety of shows throughout the year. From musicals to dramas, there's something for everyone.
Orpheum Theater Center This historic theater hosts concerts, plays, and other live events. Its beautiful architecture and intimate setting make for a memorable experience.
Levitt at the Falls Enjoy free outdoor concerts at this state-of-the-art amphitheater. With a diverse lineup of performers, it's a great way to experience live music in a relaxed setting.
Shop Till You Drop
Sioux Falls offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local boutiques to large malls. Here are the top places to shop.
Empire Mall The largest shopping center in the region, Empire Mall features over 140 stores, including popular brands and local shops. It's a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
Downtown Sioux Falls Explore unique boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores in the heart of the city. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind items and support local businesses.
The Bridges at 57th This shopping center offers a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and services. It's a convenient spot for a day of shopping and dining.
Jones421 This urban marketplace features a variety of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to gourmet food. It's a great place to discover local talent and products.
Shoppes at Lake Lorraine This open-air shopping center offers a mix of national retailers and local boutiques. With beautiful lake views and a variety of dining options, it's a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.
Sioux Falls: A Hidden Gem
Sioux Falls offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and modern attractions. From the stunning Falls Park to the vibrant Downtown Sioux Falls, there's something for everyone. Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House & Aquarium are perfect for family outings. Art lovers will enjoy the SculptureWalk and Washington Pavilion. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Good Earth State Park. Foodies will find a variety of dining options, from local favorites to international cuisine.
Whether you're into history, nature, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Sioux Falls has it all. Its friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination. Pack your bags and experience the charm of Sioux Falls for yourself. You won't be disappointed!
