Welcome to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or art lover, Sioux Falls has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll showcase the top places to visit in Sioux Falls, including must-see attractions and fun activities.
Key Takeaways
- Sioux Falls is a city with a blend of history, natural beauty, and culture.
- The city has several top-notch attractions that cater to different interests.
- Historic Downtown, Falls Park, Great Plains Zoo, Washington Pavilion, Butterfly House & Aquarium, SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, outdoor recreation, and specialty museums are some of the top places to visit in Sioux Falls.
Falls Park
If you’re visiting Sioux Falls, Falls Park is an absolute must-see attraction. Located in the heart of the city, the park features stunning waterfalls, unique rock formations, walking trails, and picnic areas. The park is free to enter and offers plenty of activities for all ages, making it one of the most popular Sioux Falls attractions.
Falls and Walking Trails
The main attraction at Falls Park is the stunning waterfall that drops 100 feet over pink quartzite rock formations. Visitors can view the waterfall from several vantage points, including a pedestrian bridge that spans the falls. The park also offers several walking trails that allow visitors to explore the area and discover hidden waterfalls. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, making them accessible to all visitors.
Picnic Areas
Falls Park also has several picnic areas scattered throughout the park. These areas offer a picturesque setting for a family picnic or gathering with friends. With plenty of shade from mature trees, stunning views of the falls, and easy access to the walking trails, Falls Park is the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon picnic.
Historic Downtown
If you’re looking for a charming and historic area to explore, look no further than Historic Downtown Sioux Falls. This area is dotted with unique shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Take a stroll down Phillips Avenue and admire the stunning architecture of the historic buildings that line the street. Stop in at Woodgrain Brewing Co. for a locally-brewed beer and some delicious snacks, or head to CH Patisserie for a delectable pastry or dessert.
Shopping in Historic Downtown
Shop ’til you drop in Historic Downtown Sioux Falls. The area boasts a variety of unique shops, including Zandbroz Variety, a quirky store that carries everything from books to gifts to home decor. Stop by Sticks and Steel for beautiful handmade jewelry and accessories, or check out the vintage finds at Urban Archaeology.
Restaurants in Historic Downtown
Looking for a delicious meal? Historic Downtown Sioux Falls has got you covered. Head to The Market for farm-to-table cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients, or grab a burger at JL Beers. Craving sushi? Try Ode to Food and Drinks for some of the best rolls in town.
Great Plains Zoo
For a family-friendly adventure in Sioux Falls, head to the Great Plains Zoo. With over 1,000 animals from around the globe, this attraction is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
| Exhibits | Interactive Experiences | Educational Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Asia | Petting Zoo | ZooCub Classes |
| Africa | Giraffe Feeding | Conservation Camps |
| North America | Kangaroo Walkabout | Field Trips |
Some of the most popular interactive experiences at the Great Plains Zoo include the giraffe feeding and the kangaroo walkabout. Visitors can also get up close and personal with some of the animals at the petting zoo.
The zoo also offers educational programs for all ages, including ZooCub classes for young children and conservation camps for older children and teens. Field trips are also available for schools and other groups.
Be sure to check out the Asian cat exhibits, the African Savannah, and the North American animal habitats during your visit to the Great Plains Zoo.
SculptureWalk Sioux Falls
One of the most unique attractions in Sioux Falls is SculptureWalk Sioux Falls. This outdoor art exhibit features over 50 sculptures scattered throughout the downtown area, showcasing a variety of styles and media.
Each year, SculptureWalk invites artists from around the world to submit their work for consideration. The chosen pieces are then displayed on the sidewalks of downtown Sioux Falls for a year-long exhibition.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour or join a guided walking tour to learn more about the sculptures and the artists behind them. Make sure to bring your camera, as these stunning works of art make for great photo opportunities.
The significance of SculptureWalk Sioux Falls
SculptureWalk Sioux Falls is not only a celebration of art but also an economic development initiative. The program was created to bring more visitors to downtown Sioux Falls and boost the local economy.
The sculptures are available for purchase, with a portion of the sales going to support the program and its mission. In addition, SculptureWalk has helped to revitalize the downtown area, making it a more vibrant and attractive destination for both tourists and locals.
Washington Pavilion
The Washington Pavilion is a must-see destination for lovers of arts and culture. This impressive facility houses several theaters, art galleries, and performance spaces, making it the ultimate destination for experiencing live entertainment. The facility also offers educational programs to visitors who want to broaden their horizons and learn more about various art forms.
The Visual Arts Center
The Visual Arts Center is an integral part of the Washington Pavilion, housing several art galleries that showcase works by local and national artists. The galleries feature exhibits that highlight various art forms, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. Visitors can also participate in art classes and workshops hosted at the center.
The Wells Fargo CineDome
The Wells Fargo CineDome is a state-of-the-art theater that features a 60-foot dome screen. The theater presents a variety of educational and feature films, as well as planetarium shows that provide visitors with an immersive experience of the universe.
The Mary W. Sommervold Hall
The Mary W. Sommervold Hall is the largest performance space at the Washington Pavilion, with a seating capacity of 1,800. The hall features a proscenium stage, orchestra pit, and state-of-the-art sound system, making it the perfect venue for everything from Broadway shows to symphony concerts.
The Husby Performing Arts Center
The Husby Performing Arts Center is a smaller theater space that provides a more intimate setting for live performances. The space features a flexible seating arrangement that can accommodate up to 300 guests, making it the ideal venue for hosting small recitals, comedy shows, and other events.
Butterfly House & Aquarium
The Butterfly House & Aquarium is a unique indoor attraction in Sioux Falls, offering visitors the chance to experience the beauty of butterflies and the wonder of aquatic life. The facility is home to over 800 free-flying butterflies from all around the world, with a variety of species and colors that will amaze and delight visitors of all ages.
Additionally, the Butterfly House & Aquarium has a wide range of aquatic exhibits that showcase different species of fish, reptiles, and other aquatic creatures. The interactive touch pools allow visitors to get up close and personal with different aquatic creatures, while the underwater tunnel provides a unique perspective on the marine life in the aquarium.
Butterfly Exhibit
| Species | Number | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Monarch | 200 | Orange and black |
| Blue Morpho | 50 | Blue |
| Painted Lady | 100 | Orange, black, and white |
The butterfly exhibit is a stunning display of color and beauty, with hundreds of butterflies fluttering around in a lush, tropical environment. The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitat of butterflies, with a variety of flowering plants and trees that provide both food and shelter for the butterflies.
Aquatic Exhibits
The Butterfly House & Aquarium has a wide range of aquatic exhibits that showcase different species of fish, reptiles, and other aquatic creatures. Some of the exhibits include:
- The coral reef exhibit, which features a diverse array of tropical fish and live coral
- The touch pool exhibit, where visitors can touch and interact with starfish, crabs, and other marine life
- The octopus exhibit, which showcases the intelligence and agility of these amazing creatures
Visitors can also take part in educational programs and interactive experiences, such as feeding the fish and interacting with the aquarium’s knowledgeable staff. The Butterfly House & Aquarium is a must-see attraction in Sioux Falls, providing a fascinating look at the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
Outdoor Recreation
Sioux Falls offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it easy for visitors to connect with nature and stay active during their stay. Whether you prefer biking, hiking, or simply taking a leisurely walk, the city has something for everyone.
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| Biking | Siouxtreme Bike Park, The River Greenway Trail, Big Sioux Recreation Area |
| Hiking | Gitchie Manitou State Preserve, Great Bear Recreation Park, Sertoma Butterfly House & Marine Cove |
| Parks | Yankton Trail Park, Falls Park, Terrace Park |
Sioux Falls’ bike trails are highly recommended, as they offer scenic views of the city’s rivers and parks. The River Greenway Trail spans 26 miles along the Big Sioux River and takes bikers through beautifully landscaped parks and historic landmarks. Siouxtreme Bike Park is a haven for thrill-seekers, featuring jumps and obstacles that cater to all skill levels.
For those who prefer hiking, Sioux Falls boasts several beautiful trails that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty. Gitchie Manitou State Preserve features a 640-acre nature preserve with hiking trails that take visitors through prairies and wooded areas. Great Bear Recreation Park has hiking and biking trails that provide stunning views of the falls and the surrounding forests.
In addition to biking and hiking, visitors can also enjoy a relaxing stroll through one of Sioux Falls’ many parks. Yankton Trail Park is a popular destination for picnics and outdoor activities, while Falls Park boasts stunning views of the falls and a tranquil walking trail. Terrace Park is another great option for those who want to spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature.
With so many outdoor recreation opportunities available, Sioux Falls is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those who want to stay active while on vacation.
Specialty Museums
Sioux Falls is home to several specialty museums that offer a unique perspective on history, art, and culture. These museums are perfect for those who want to dive deeper into the city’s rich heritage and learn more about its past and present.
Old Courthouse Museum
The Old Courthouse Museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Sioux Falls and the surrounding region. The museum features exhibits that showcase Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the city’s growth over time. Visitors can explore the restored courtroom, jail cells, and other areas of the historic courthouse.
South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance
The South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance is a museum that pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of military members from South Dakota. The museum features exhibits that showcase military artifacts, vehicles, and equipment, as well as a library and archives for research. Visitors can also attend events and programs that honor veterans and educate the public about military history.
Pettigrew Home & Museum
The Pettigrew Home & Museum is a historic house that belonged to South Dakota’s first senator, Richard F. Pettigrew. The museum showcases the senator’s life and legacy, as well as the history of Sioux Falls and the surrounding region. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored home and learn about the senator’s contributions to politics, agriculture, and education.
Great Plains Native American Museum
The Great Plains Native American Museum celebrates the culture and history of Native American tribes from the Great Plains region. The museum features exhibits that showcase traditional artifacts, clothing, and art, as well as contemporary works by Native American artists. Visitors can learn about the tribes’ history, beliefs, and way of life, and gain a greater appreciation for their contributions to our society.
Conclusion
Sioux Falls is a hidden gem in the heart of South Dakota. With its stunning natural attractions, vibrant downtown, and family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city.
From the breathtaking Falls Park to the unique shops of Historic Downtown, visitors can experience the rich culture and history of Sioux Falls. The Great Plains Zoo, Butterfly House & Aquarium, and SculptureWalk offer engaging and interactive experiences that the whole family will love.
For those who love the outdoors, Sioux Falls offers an abundance of options for hiking, biking, and exploring nature. And for culture enthusiasts, the Washington Pavilion and specialty museums provide a glimpse into the art, history, and local culture of the city.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover Sioux Falls and all that it has to offer. From thrilling adventures to peaceful escapes, this city is sure to create unforgettable memories for every visitor.
FAQ
Q: What are the top places to visit in Sioux Falls?
A: The top places to visit in Sioux Falls include Falls Park, Historic Downtown, the Great Plains Zoo, SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, the Washington Pavilion, the Butterfly House & Aquarium, outdoor recreation areas, and specialty museums.
Q: What attractions can I find at Falls Park?
A: Falls Park offers stunning waterfalls, walking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
Q: What can I expect to find in Historic Downtown Sioux Falls?
A: Historic Downtown Sioux Falls is known for its unique shops, local restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a must-visit area.
Q: What does the Great Plains Zoo offer?
A: The Great Plains Zoo is a family-friendly attraction that features various animal exhibits, educational programs, and interactive experiences.
Q: What is SculptureWalk Sioux Falls?
A: SculptureWalk Sioux Falls is an outdoor art exhibit that showcases stunning sculptures throughout the city, contributing to the city’s public art initiative.
Q: What can I experience at the Washington Pavilion?
A: The Washington Pavilion is a hub for arts and culture in Sioux Falls, offering art galleries, theaters, and live performances.
Q: What attractions are available at the Butterfly House & Aquarium?
A: The Butterfly House & Aquarium is an indoor attraction that showcases beautiful butterflies and a variety of aquatic life through its exhibits, educational programs, and interactive opportunities.
Q: What outdoor recreation opportunities are there in Sioux Falls?
A: Sioux Falls offers biking trails, hiking spots, and parks where visitors can engage in outdoor activities and enjoy nature.
Q: Are there any specialty museums in Sioux Falls?
A: Yes, Sioux Falls is home to various specialty museums that focus on specific themes such as history, art, and local culture.
