State: South Dakota
Population: 200,000
Sioux Falls is the largest city in the U.S. state of South Dakota. It is the county seat of Minnehaha County, and also extends into Lincoln County to the south. Sioux Falls is the 47th-fastest-growing city in the United States and is quickly approaching a population of 200,000 people. The falls of the Big Sioux River give Sioux Falls its name (from French: les chutes du Sioux). Historically, the falls were created by a massive flash flood at the end of the last ice age about 14,000 years ago. The spectacular geology can still be seen today at places like Falls Park and through river cruises that take visitors underneath the falls.
The city has grown rapidly since the late 19th century, when it was founded as a railroad town on the Big Sioux River. Today, Sioux Falls is a thriving metropolis with a diverse economy and plenty to offer visitors. The city is home to several museums and parks, as well as a vibrant nightlife and dining scene. There are also many things to do outdoors in Sioux Falls, from golfing and hiking to visiting one of the city’s many lakes.
Top 10 Things to Do in Sioux Falls, SD
Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Sioux Falls has something for everyone. Check out our list of the top 10 things to do in Sioux Falls below.
1. Take a riverboat cruise
The Sioux Falls riverboat cruise is a great way to see the city from the water. You can relax on the deck and enjoy the view, or go inside and explore all the different decks. There is also a bar and restaurant on board so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while you cruise. The Sioux Falls riverboat cruise is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening.-
2. Visit Falls Park
See the city’s namesake waterfall up close. Then, walk or bike the scenic River Greenway that winds through town. Nearby, take in a show at the historic Orpheum Theater, then explore interesting shops and exhibits at TheWashington Pavilion. For thrills, visit Great Bear Recreation Park for downhill skiing in winter or alpine slides and zip lines in summer. No trip to Sioux Falls is complete without a stop at Falls Park to see the city’s namesake waterfall up close. This park is also a great place to walk or bike along the River Greenway that winds through town.
3. Explore the Sioux Falls History Museum
The Sioux Falls History Museum is a museum in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The museum was founded in 1964 and is located in the former Great Western Railroad Depot. The museum features exhibits on the history of Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. The museum also has a research library that contains books, newspapers, and other materials about the history of Sioux Falls.
4. See the sculptures at the John A. Day Gallery
The John A. Day Gallery is a local art gallery in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The gallery specializes in contemporary art and has been open since 2004. In addition to showcasing local artists, the John A. Day Gallery also offers art classes and workshops for adults and children. The gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free. The John A. Day Gallery is a great place to view contemporary art in Sioux Falls, SD. If you’re looking to take some art classes or workshops, this is also the place for you! The gallery is open Tuesday-Saturday with free admission – be sure to check it out next time you’re in town!
5. Go hiking or biking in one of the city’s many parks
Go hiking or biking in one of the city’s many parks or take a walk or run on the River Greenway. Visit Falls Park to see the city’s namesake waterfalls, or explore the Sioux Falls Downtown Historic District to learn about the city’s history. For a unique experience, visit The Sculpture Walk, which features over 50 sculptures by local, regional, and national artists. And don’t forget to check out one of Sioux Falls’ many museums, including the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds & Expo Center and the Museum of Visual Materials. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing day spent exploring new sights, Sioux Falls has something for everyone.
6. Play a round of golf at one of Sioux Falls’ many courses
The Country Club of Sioux Falls – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The perfect place to host your next special event! With a variety of menu options, our experienced staff can help you create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. The Country Club of Sioux Falls is proud to offer a variety of spaces to accommodate your event needs. Our Main Dining Room is perfect for larger groups and can accommodate up to 250 guests. For more intimate gatherings, we have several private dining rooms that can accommodate up to 60 guests. No matter what type of event you are planning, The Country Club of Sioux Falls will make it one to remember! Contact us today to start planning your event.
Visit their website: The Country Club of Sioux Falls
Minnehaha Country Club – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The Minnehaha Country Club is a private country club located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The club was founded in 1898 and has been consistently ranked as one of the top 100 private clubs in the United States by Golf Digest magazine. The club’s 18-hole championship golf course was designed by legendary architect Donald Ross and has been host to numerous USGA and PGA events over the years. In addition to golf, the club also offers tennis, swimming, dining, and social activities for its members.
Visit their website: Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls Municipal Golf Course, Sioux Falls, SD
This course is located in Sioux Falls and offers 18 holes of golf. The course is a par 70 and is open to the public.
Highland Hills Golf Course & Banquet Facility: Located in Sioux Falls, this course features 18 holes of golf as well as a banquet facility that can accommodate up to 300 people. The course is a par 72 and is open to the public.
7. Visit the Great Plains Zoo
The Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History is a zoo located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States. It opened in 1977 as the Sioux Falls Zoological Society’s regional museum and zoo. The park covers over 80 acres (32 ha) and is home to more than 1,000 animals representing 150 species from around the world. The zoo also features a variety of highly interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
One of the most popular attractions at the Great Plains Zoo is the Journey to Africa Exhibit which opened in May 2010. This exhibit features three African lions, meerkats, red river hogs, Ostriches, Warthogs, an African rock python, and other animals native to Africa. The Journey to Asia Exhibit is home to tigers, red pandas, Komodo dragons, and other animals native to Asia. The Discover Center is an interactive exhibit where visitors can learn about the zoo’s animals and their habitats.
The Great Plains Zoo also offers a variety of education programs for all ages. These programs include behind-the-scenes tours, classes, camps, and more. The zoo also has a gift shop and a café on site.
8. Shop til you drop at the Empire Mall
The largest shopping mall in South Dakota. Opened in 1974, it is currently anchored by JCPenney, Macy’s, Scheels All Sports, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. It is located just off of I-29 on 41st Street in Sioux Falls.
The mall originally opened with Sears, Target, and Younkers as its anchor stores. A fourth anchor store, Herberger’s, was added in 1977. In 1990, the mall underwent a significant expansion that added a food court and new stores. The expansion also resulted in the closure of an existing Yougners store and the addition of a new one elsewhere in the city.
9. Sample the local cuisine at one of Sioux Falls’ many restaurants
The Machine Shed, Sioux Falls, SD
The Machine Shed is a family-style restaurant that serves American cuisine. The restaurant is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Machine Shed is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
O’Charley’s, Sioux Falls, SD
O’Charley’s is a chain of restaurants that serve American cuisine. The restaurant is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. O’Charley’s is open for lunch and dinner.
Texas Roadhouse, Sioux Falls, SD
Texas Roadhouse is a chain of restaurants that serve American cuisine. The restaurant is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Texas Roadhouse is open for lunch and dinner.
10. Catch a show at the Orpheum Theater
The Orpheum Theater is a historic theater in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The theater was built in 1915 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The theater is currently used for live theater, movies, and concerts.