Things to do in Sioux Falls

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Sioux Falls
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Sioux Falls Attractions

In a state recognized for its corn fields to the east and sprawling ranches to the west, longtime South Dakota residents refer to Sioux Falls as the Gateway to the Plains. Indeed, while South Dakota may be home to the pine-blanketed Black Hills around Mount Rushmore and grasslands where buffalo have been known to roam, there are plenty of things to do in the city of Sioux Falls itself. A bustling downtown sprinkled with upscale delis and white-tablecloth restaurants plus a vibrant arts scene make Sioux Falls—the state’s most populous city—a Midwestern destination with charms to appeal to every type of traveler.


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What to do in Sioux Falls

Free Things to Do in Sioux Falls

Taking a break in Sioux Falls on a budget? The following can be experienced for nothing.

Pettigrew Home and Museum - Jam-packed with intriguing objects and exhibits, this place is a paradise for knowledge-hungry minds.

The Outdoor Campus - Make this place among your first stops for a dash of fun during your break.

Sanford USD Medical Center - Soak up some of the historical background of the area through this attraction.

Center for Western Studies - If you're eager to check out a few of the more important or interesting places in the community, this place is worth a visit.

St. Joseph Cathedral - Connect with your spiritual side or just savor the tranquil atmosphere at this site of worship.

Veterans' Memorial Park - No matter if you can tell your cacti from carnations, it's not hard to find beauty in this magnificent display.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Sioux Falls

Located on the banks of the Big Sioux River, Sioux Falls beckons with big-city attractions and a small-town vibe. Much of Sioux Falls' activity happens in and around Downtown, where up-and-coming enclaves like Uptown and Eastbank appeal to locals and visitors alike.

Downtown

In the geographic heart of the city, Downtown delights with its shops, restaurants, and public art. The SculptureWalk traces a loop through Sioux Falls’ central business district, while mouthwatering restaurants tempt customers with some of the region’s tastiest food (think grass-fed burgers and tacos with tortillas made from local corn).

Uptown

North of Downtown's humming commercial zone, independent coffee shops and savory sandwich joints sprout up beside contemporary condo buildings in Uptown. Sites of interest include the Museum of Visual Materials and the Old Courthouse Museum, which documents the history of South Dakota.

Eastbank

As Downtown crosses the Big Sioux River it becomes Eastbank, where galleries, gourmet shops, and yoga studios abound. Walk or jog less than a mile north on the Sioux Falls Bike Trail and find yourself at Falls Park, where a gushing waterfall and historic outbuildings attract thousands of visitors each year.

Things to See in Sioux Falls

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the history of the region or appreciate the city's community theater, there are a bevy of things to see in Sioux Falls. Begin at the Falls Park Visitor Information Center, where a trek to the top of a five-story viewing tower offers an unobstructed look at the rapids. On Saturdays in summer, the park hosts the Falls Park Farmer’s Market, where purveyors sell everything from heirloom tomatoes to fragrant geraniums. Looking to see a live show during your visit? Consider heading to the Sioux Empire Community Theatre to catch a regional play, or check out the Orpheum Theater Center for concerts hosted by the Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society. For mainstream acts, the Washington Pavilion or the Denny Sanford Premier Center are your best bet.

Sightseeing in Sioux Falls

A 10-minute drive from the Sioux Falls Regional Airport lands you in the heart of Sioux Falls, where there are endless attractions and things to do. History lovers savor the chance to visit the Pettigrew Home and Museum, where South Dakota's first state senator amassed an extensive collection of artifacts including Native American clothing, guns, and items related to the settlement of Sioux Falls. Art aficionados might like to pay a visit to the Eastbank Art Gallery, which showcases masterpieces by the area's artists. Or, soak up the natural wonders at nearby Palisades State Park, where towering quartzite spires are a mecca for rock climbers. Likewise, endless adventures await for those traveling with children. South of downtown, the Butterfly House & Aquarium introduces little ones to more than 800 free-flying butterflies from around the world, while Wild Water West is an exhilarating water park and a favorite among families in warmer months. Finally, those in search of a premier retail experience can head to the Empire Mall, a recently renovated shopping center with the area's hottest boutiques.

Things to Do in Sioux Falls with Kids

Sioux Falls has plenty of close by fun things to do for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the gang happy for hours.


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Sioux Falls

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Sioux Falls

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Downtown Sioux Falls

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While visiting Downtown Sioux Falls, you might make a stop by sights like Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and Old Courthouse Museum.

Downtown Sioux Falls
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Pettigrew Heights

Though Pettigrew Heights might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and St. Joseph Cathedral.

Pettigrew Heights
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All Saints

While All Saints isn't home to many top sights, Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and Michelangelo's David are some notable places to visit nearby.

All Saints
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Folsom's Addition

When in Folsom's Addition, you can plan a visit to Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and St. Joseph Cathedral, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Folsom's Addition
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McKennan Park

While McKennan Park isn't home to many top sights, Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and Center for Western Studies are some notable places to visit nearby.

McKennan Park
Explore the fascinating life of South Dakota's first U.S. Senator R. F. Pettigrew, who was also an explorer and collector of artifacts and archaeology from across the globe. Beautiful Victorian home and a museum of his collections and contributions to the development of Sioux Falls.

Cathedral

While visiting Cathedral, you might make a stop by sights like Pettigrew Home and Museum and St. Joseph Cathedral.

Cathedral

 

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Popular day trips from Sioux Falls

Frequently asked questions

Is Sioux Falls worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of fun things to do in Sioux Falls. Make sure to enjoy the area's mix of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Sioux Falls?
Great Plains Zoo and Wild Water West are two excellent places to begin your getaway adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Sioux Falls while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sioux Falls?
The top tourist attraction in Sioux Falls is Great Plains Zoo, so make sure to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Sioux Falls?
Three days in Sioux Falls is enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travelers book for two days on average. Great Plains Zoo, St. Joseph Cathedral and Sertoma Butterfly House are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like Tea.
Is Sioux Falls a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your style of vacation, Sioux Falls is an ideal destination. Find major attractions, like Great Plains Zoo, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Folsom's Addition, a hip neighborhood located about 0.6 miles from the city center.
What are some activities to do in Sioux Falls with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Sioux Falls with kids.
What to do in Sioux Falls for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Sioux Falls for adults including Denny Sanford Premier Center and Sioux Falls Convention Center.
Are there free things to do in Sioux Falls?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Sioux Falls is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. St. Joseph Cathedral is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.