Sioux Falls is the biggest city in South Dakota. It borders Iowa and Minnesota and is located at the banks of the Big Sioux River.
There’s so much to do in Sioux Falls that you might not know where to start! This handy guide will take you through 17 of the best things to do in Sioux Falls.
Sioux Falls is the biggest city in South Dakota. It borders Iowa and Minnesota, and is located at the banks of the Big Sioux River. There’s so much to do in Sioux Falls that you might not know where to start! This handy guide will take you through 15 of the best things to do in Sioux Falls.
1. The Big Sioux River Falls
For an amazing view of glorious rushing water on beautiful rock formations, head down to The Big Sioux River Falls. There’s a lush park surrounding it which could take you an entire day to explore. Check out the horse barn, Queen Bee Mill, the alluring river, and of course Seney Island.
2. Check out the SculptureWalk
SculptureWalk is a fantastic annual exhibit that showcases public art sculptures. You can join the SculptureWalk and try to locate all of the sculptures, and more sculptures are chosen to appear as time goes on!
3. Shoto-Teien Japanese Gardens
For a breathtaking collaboration of gorgeous waterfalls, koi ponds, lanterns and pagodas, definitely check out the Shoto-Teien Japanese Gardens, which has over 200 trees and was designed by Koichi Kawana, an architect from the 1980s.
4. Sioux Empire Fair
This fun-filled fair is held once a year during the Summer for 10 days. It’s full of funky carnival rides, animal shows, and art activities, so it’s a great place to go for some family entertainment.
5. Hiking, Climbing and Skiing
Whether you’re hitting the slopes at the Great Bear Recreation Park, or throwing yourself bravely from the 50 ft quartzite cliff tops in Palisades State Park, there’s something for every adventurer in Sioux Falls.
6. Sioux Falls Michelangelos
Moses and David are the Michelangelo sculpture recreations that are a must-see if you’re visiting Sioux Falls.
7. Good Earth State Park at Blood Run
This is the newest park in South Dakota, and is classified as a National Historic Landmark. With an abundance of hiking trails to choose from and some idyllic views, this park is a definite visit for nature explorers.
8. Washington Pavilion Visual Arts Center
If you’re visiting Sioux Falls, you absolutely have to indulge in some Native American history. The Washington Pavilion Visual Arts Center is filled with amazing artefacts and big-name artists such as Andy Warhol.
9. Buffalo Ridge 1880 Cowboy Town
To continue your journey back to the wild west, Buffalo Ridge 1880 Cowboy Town has animated mannequins, farm equipment, and antiques which bring the American Frontier vividly to life.
10. Pettigrew Home
If you’re a history buff, check out this beautiful Victorian home, which was built for Thomas and Jennie McMartin in 1889.
The first Senator of South Dakota, Richard F. Pettigrew, bought the house in 1911 and it has been referred to as the Pettigrew House ever since. Richard F. Pettigrew was an archaeologist and collector, which you will see from the plethora of Native American artefacts and memorabilia displayed around the home.
11. The Wild Water West Waterpark
The Wild Water West Waterpark is a family fun centre that combines a water park and theme park to provide the ultimate Sioux Falls day out. With a big wave pool, lots of slides, go-karts, paintball, and mini-golf, there’s so much fun to be had for all ages.
10. The Ancient Burial Mounds
There is a cemetery in Sioux Falls that is over 1600 years old. It was discovered that the cemetery contains the remains of Woodland Indians from over a thousand years ago, so definitely worth checking out.
11. Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum of Natural History
This zoo and natural history museum combo feature more than a thousand different animals, 24 species of which are endangered, and lots of close-up views so families with children can get right in the action.
12. WoodGrain Brewing Company
WoodGrain Brewing Company is a top-tier microbrewery that provides high-quality handmade beers and a warm welcome for adults, kids, and pets alike.
13. Butterfly House and Aquarium
With over 800 free-flying butterflies, vivid marine life, and a Pacific Tide Pool, this amazing centre provides a relaxing and interactive learning experience for the whole family.
14. St. Joseph Cathedral
If you’re into sightseeing, don’t miss this architectural masterpiece in Sioux Falls. With a breathtakingly grand interior and detailed stained glass, it’s recently been restored to its historic glory.
15. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial honors one of the most significant battleships of World War II. It’s definitely worth a visit if you love experiencing a sense of history and examining World War II artefacts that are also positioned in the ship.
What To Do In Sioux Falls – Summary
Sioux Falls is the most heavily populated city in South Dakota, and for good reason! The city is stooped in amazing history, and there’s so much to do for visitors and locals alike.
Whether you want to travel back in time to the wild west, explore the beauty of nature, or dive into some exciting outdoor activities, Sioux Falls is bound to provide an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for all.
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