Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Sioux Falls, South Dakota. #Top Attractions

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Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a lot to its visitors! Look at our carefully selected list of top Sioux Falls, South Dakota attractions below on the best thing to do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that aspires to disrupt the travel industry.

Arc of Dreams Monument

Arc of Dreams, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Arc of Dreams Monument is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

The Arc of Dreams Monument is one of the top attractions in South Dakota.

Admire or get inspired by the amazing Arc of Dreams Monument!

All tourists to the Sculpture Walk in Sioux Falls should observe the Arc of Dreams Monument.

This breathtaking masterpiece is truly a beautiful sight.

Dale Claude Lamphere, a South Dakota artist, came up with the idea for the giant stainless-steel artwork.

It was erected as a monument to all who have ever dreamed big.

A 15-foot gap in the huge artwork spans the Big Sioux River and rises over 80 feet over the riverbanks.

It symbolizes the leap of faith every person must take to see their visions materialize and become a reality.

The Arc of Dreams is a stunning sight at any time of day, but at night it takes on an especially magical beauty.

This is one of the best monuments in Sioux Falls.

If you’re in Sioux Falls this weekend, stop by the monument!

Address: Arc of Dreams, Sioux Falls, SD 57103

Butterfly House and Aquarium

Butterfly House and Aquarium, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Butterfly House and Aquarium is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

The Butterfly House and Aquarium is one of the best things to do in  South Dakota.

Wait for a butterfly to land on you or watch the fishes swim around you in the Butterfly House and Aquarium!

The Butterfly House and Aquarium, situated on S Oxbow Ave., is a tourist destination with many informative displays.

For the nearly 1000 butterflies and the tropical landscape, the 3,600-square-ft Butterfly House is maintained at 80 degrees.

In addition to Asia and Africa, the butterflies hail from all throughout South and Central America. 

One of the most enjoyable activities available in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a visit to the Butterfly House and Aquarium.

If you’re looking for fish and corals, go no further than the Marine Cove or Pacific Tide Pool.

Shark & Stingray Touch Pool is where kids can get up close and personal with southern stingrays, bamboo sharks, and horn sharks while discovering marine life.

If you’re traveling to Sioux Falls with your kids, give the Butterfly House and Aquarium a visit!

Address: 4320 S Oxbow Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

Making travel plans to South Dakota? Hop over to our travel guides in Rapid City and Pierre. See through the fascinating things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota, and the best things to do in Pierre, South Dakota!

Camille’s Sidewalk Café

Camile's Sidewalk Café, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Camille’s Sidewalk Café is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Looking for a hearty meal before you start your adventures?

Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe is the place to go!

Camille’s Sidewalk Café is a healthy food restaurant situated in Gilrich Village Mall.

It has a light and airy inside area and a large outside terrace for use when the conditions allow.

Pan pizzas, sandwiches, mouthwatering gourmet wraps, and fresh salads are all on the menu here, in addition to various other items.

Their smoothies are produced with yogurt and fresh fruits, which may be customized to your liking.

Morning tortilla sandwiches are served all day at Camille’s. They provide a variety of spicy tortillas, including jalapeno-cheddar and herb-garlic.

Using these tortillas, you can prepare grilled hot wraps like Michelangelo.

Moreover, you can also put barbecued chicken breast topped with red onions, rosemary, grilled red peppers, thyme, and mozzarella.

In addition to providing nutritional information for each meal, the restaurant offers a wide variety of gluten-free choices. 

During your visit to Sioux Falls, this restaurant is a must-visit!

Address: 1216 W 41st Street, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Carnaval Brazilian Grill

Carnaval Brazilian Grill, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Carnaval Brazilian Grill is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Bring your significant other to Carnaval for a romantic date night!

One of South Dakota’s most famous dining establishments, Carnaval boasts an inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and the best steaks in the state.

The bright blue ceiling, adorned with brightly colored paintings and plants, creates a carnival-like ambiance.

The Gaucho Meal is a buffet of slow-roasted meats served at the table.

Moreover, its salad bar, which has over 50 options, is the restaurant’s most well-known food spot.

Some of the most popular items on the à la carte menu are sandwiches, pizza, seafood, and burgers.

Carnaval can accommodate big parties and romantic dinners for two, thanks to its spacious terrace and frequent weekend live music performances.

Guests must make an appointment in advance for Carnaval’s cuisine and wine pairing events, which take place once a month.

Carnaval is an excellent location to visit if you are searching for some ideas for a romantic evening out with a special someone in Sioux Falls!

Address: 2401 S Carolyn Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

Arranging a trip to South Dakota? Aberdeen and Watertown are places you should not miss when in this state! Have a fun time on your vacation! Look out for more terrific things to do in Aberdeen, South Dakota, and the best things to do in Watertown, South Dakota.

Cathedral of Saint Joseph

Cathedral of Saint Joseph Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Cathedral of Saint Joseph Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

Test your faith or just admire the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph! 

An important Catholic church in Sioux Falls is the Cathedral of St. Joseph.

One of Sioux Falls’ most well-known landmarks, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, was built in 1881.

Renowned architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray planned the exquisite limestone, but he perished before the church could be completed.

Several additional modifications were made to the cathedral after it was finished in 1919.

Both the high marble altar and the Kilgen pipe organ were erected throughout the years 1935 and 1946, respectively.

In addition to its Renaissance Classic design, colored glass panels, and exquisite ornamentation, this church should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

In addition to public organ performances and a sequence of lectures on issues of interest to non-Catholics, the cathedral hosts various other events.

If you’re in Sioux Falls this weekend, be sure to visit the cathedral!

Address: 521 N Duluth Ave, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Falls Overlook Cafe

Falls Overlook Cafe Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Falls Overlook Cafe Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Gabe Classon / Flickr

Looking for a view that is worth a thousand bucks?

Go to Falls Overlook Cafe!

Situated on the rugged side of the Big Sioux River in Falls Park, this little Cafe is bordered by beautiful flora and a succession of cascading, untamed falls.

It is located in a 1900s quartzite structure that served as a hydroelectric power station for the Sioux Falls Light and Power Company.

However, it was closed in the 1970s.

Tourists go to the Cafe to rest, take in the scenery, and fuel up on tasty food while at the beautiful park.

The café includes both indoor and outdoor seating and offers a limited menu of freshly prepared sandwiches, soups, and salads.

Visitors to the café may also find a variety of artifacts from the structure’s rich history.

If you’re visiting Sioux Falls this weekend, don’t forget to stop by the Cafe and try their specialties!

Address: 825 N Weber Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57103

Falls Park

Falls Park Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Falls Park Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Royal Broil / Flickr

The Falls Park is one of the best places to visit in  South Dakota.

Falls Park is an attraction that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Sioux Falls!

It has 123 acres and is situated around the waterfalls on the Big Sioux River that are responsible for giving the city its name.

Locals have relied on these magnificent waterfalls and their surrounding natural beauty for ages.

One of the city’s most well-known landmarks is the Queen Bee Mill.

Moreover, this seven-story structure was built in the 1880s on the eastern bank of the river, which has become the Falls Overlook Café.

A nearly 20-mile walking, hiking, and biking track circles the city from the park.

Falls Park is transformed into a breathtaking snow paradise during the winter months.

For many couples visiting Sioux Falls, a walk around Falls Park is the perfect way to spend quality time together in nature.

If you’re in Sioux Falls, stop by Falls Park for an unforgettable visit!

Address: 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Good Earth State Park

Good Earth State Park, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Good Earth State Park is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Be one with nature in the Good Earth State Park!

In addition to being a significant historical landmark, the Good Earth State Park also offers visitors a chance to take in the wonderful South Dakota’s natural landscape.

This state park has a glistening river, wandering animals, beautiful foliage, and a visitor center.

Certainly, it is a perfect place to spend time studying history while having fun.

In the warmer months, you can go fishing, bicycling, geocaching, hiking, and bird-watching.

In the cold season, you can go snowmobiling in this vast natural recreational park that was once major commerce and economic hub for ancient residents.

Don’t forget to stop by the tourist center.

Furthermore, you can carry a lunch with them to consume at the designated picnic spot, which has covered picnic areas and tables.

A visit to Sioux Falls isn’t complete if you forgot to stop by the Good Earth State Park!

Address: 26924 480th Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57108

Great Bear Recreation Park

Great Bear Recreation Park, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Great Bear Recreation Park is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Adventures in the winter?

The Great Bear Recreation Park is the place to go!

The municipality of Sioux Falls owns the ski resort at Great Bear Recreation Park.

It is located in the eastern part of the town and is commonly known as simply “Great Bear.”

At its inception, the ski resort had a total of only two slopes and a single ski lift.

In later years, a cabin was constructed, as well as additional tows and runs.

After a few years of development, there are now twelve lines at the park.

Moreover, there are many ways to access them, such as using a magic carpet, quad chairlift, and handle tow.

Terrain Park is a place where skiers may try out acrobatic stunts.

For those with greater skill, there is cross-country skiing.

In the summer, tourists may explore the park’s eight-mile walking paths, which provide stunning vistas of the surrounding area.

If you’re looking for winter activities in Sioux Falls, the Great Bear Recreation Park is just the place!

Address: 5901 East Rice Street, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History

Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Taking the young ones with you?

Take them to the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History!

Both a museum and a zoo, the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History span 45 acres and can be found on South Kiwanis Road.

You may talk to zookeepers, touch several of the animals, and board the tiny train, as well as meet creatures from all around the globe.

Over 1,100 species, including tigers, giraffes, and monkeys, may be seen at the zoo, which first opened its doors in 1963.

Museum exhibits include rare African rhinos, flamingoes, bugs, amphibians, birds, and Asian cats.

Additionally, there is a place named the Hy-Vee Face-to-Face Farm, where visitors may interact with animals by feeding and petting them.

Scout Programs, ZooCub courses, ZooCamps, and other learning programs are available.

In addition to that, there is a carousel for the children to enjoy while they are here.

Overall, mounted animals from 150 different species may be seen in the Delbridge Museum, including 38 that are believed to be extinction-threatened.

If you’re going to visit Sioux Falls this weekend, don’t forget to stop by the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History!

Address: 805 South Kiwanis Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Old Courthouse Museum

Old Courthouse Museum Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Old Courthouse Museum Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

History buffs visiting Sioux falls shouldn’t skip the Old Courthouse Museum!

The Old Courthouse Museum, on West Sixth Street, is a historical structure that formerly functioned as the original courtroom of Minnehaha County.

The structure was designed and constructed by a regional architect, Wallace L. Dow.

Between the years 1889 and 1893, he used native Sioux quartz rock, which was a well-liked local construction resource in the late 1900s.

Colored glass panels, marble fire pits, granite columns, and slate steps are just a few of the eye-catching details of the historic courtroom.

In addition, there are 16 big paintings in the halls depicting childhood memories and the natural environment.

After the construction of a new courtroom in the 1960s, the old courtroom was to be demolished.

But residents rallied to rescue the historic structure, and it is now open to the public for tours.

If you’re going to be in Sioux Falls, don’t forget to add the courthouse to your itinerary!

Address: 200 West Sixth Street, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Pettigrew Home & Museum

Pettigrew Home & Museum Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Pettigrew Home & Museum Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

If you love mansions that have historical significance, you’ll love the Pettigrew Home & Museum!

This historical location, Pettigrew Home & Museum, has been preserved as a museum. It can be found on North Duluth Avenue.

The mansion was erected in the 1890s for Thomas and Jenny McMartin. Still, it was purchased by Senator Richard Franklin Pettigrew in the 1900s.

Later, Pettigrew built a gallery in the rear of his home to hold the numerous artifacts he collected while traveling.

Natural history samples, native American garments, stone instruments, and artifacts from the area’s past are just a few examples.

Several relics from Pettigrew’s home are on display today.

Moreover, there are renovated home that exactly looks like the twentieth century, thanks to his bequest.

If you are a history aficionado visiting Sioux Falls, you’ll definitely want to check out the Pettigrew Home & Museum!

Address: 131 North Duluth Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

SculptureWalk

SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, South Dakota
SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

Admire the works or try to snatch some of the prizes in ScupltureWalk!

Each year, the central business district of Sioux Falls is transformed into an outdoor art gallery that does not have any walls.

World-renowned artists from every continent are welcome to exhibit their works in the town for a whole year.

Voting is open to everyone in the city, including citizens, visitors, and bystanders.

Every sculptor is allowed to present up to 4 works and compete for one of fourteen prizes for a sum of $15,000!

A wide range of creative genres is welcomed, from abstract to realistic.

The dimensions might also differ substantially. Since its inception in 2003, the outdoor sculpture show has been a huge success.

All of the sculptures on display may be purchased. Check out their website to see if there are any upcoming events.

If you are an art enthusiast visiting Sioux Falls, try to purchase some of the works displayed in the SculptureWalk!

Address: 300 S Phillips Ave, Suite L104, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls Bike Trails

Sioux Falls Bike Trails, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls Bike Trails, Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Missy Kitzman / Flickr

Travel around the city pollution-free in the Sioux Falls Bike Trails!

Sioux Falls is home to an extensive network of bike trails known as the Sioux Falls Bike Trails. 

These trails may be seen winding through the city’s parks and other open areas.

Sioux Falls’ extensive bike path system is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and morning runners looking for solitude and tranquility.

The city is home to over 75 public parks and green spaces.

All of the city’s public parks are linked to Falls Park through bike routes, making it a key location.

Rotary Park, Westward Ho Park, and 57th Street are all within the boundaries of the trail system’s north, south, east, and west borders.

Walkers, bicyclists, and runners can enjoy the more than 20 miles of concrete multi-use routes that are available in this area.

If you want to be active while in Sioux Falls, try to make use of the routes available in the city!

Address: 60th Street N, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Sioux Falls Stadium – The Birdcage

Sioux Falls Stadium - The Birdcage, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls Stadium – The Birdcage is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

If you are a baseball fan, you should definitely check the Birdcage!

Situated on Northwest Ave, The Sioux Falls Stadium is a multifunctional arena in Sioux Falls.

Moreover, Sioux Falls Canaries is a major league baseball club that plays in the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball.

Sioux Falls Stadium had given the moniker The Birdcage in 1993 preseason when it started hosting Canaries’ home matches.

Its tiny stature and bright green grounds flanked by bench seating and old-school big screens are part of what makes it so special.

The stadium, which seats more than 4,000 people, was first built in the 1940s and remodeled many times since 2000.

Additionally, children may participate in a variety of fun activities at the stadium, like the Play Ball Announcer.

If you are tagging along with the young ones during your stay in Sioux Falls, they can be entertained while you watch the game in the Birdcage!

Address: 1001 Northwest Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Terrace Park

Terrace Park Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Terrace Park Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

Searching for a spot that has a little bit of everything?

Terrace Park is the place you’re looking for!

The Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation Department manages Terrace Park, a city-owned green space on West Fourth Street.

The park features a variety of attractions and activities.

You can use their basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields, and a variety of recreational amenities.

Kayaking, fishing, and canoeing are just some of the activities that may be done at these access spots.

The splendor of this park is accentuated by a number of statues as well as Japanese gardens and traditional gardens.

Playgrounds and picnic shelters equipped with power are available for use by individuals, families, and large groups.

Likewise, Terrace Park Family Aquatic Center has a water slide that loops around, water slides that drop down into the pool, and a big water park.

The Terrace Park is a must-visit if you’re in Sioux Falls this weekend!

Address: 1100 West 4th Street, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

The Outdoor Campus

The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Jerry / Flickr

A spot for a family day out?

The Outdoor Campus has a lot to offer!

South Oxbow Avenue is home to the Outdoor Campus, a place where students may study in the great outdoors.

The South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department run this facility, which offers a wide range of outdoor hobbies and activities.

Also, it includes gardening, cross-country skiing, and fishing.

The institution makes available, for both children and adults, a comprehensive selection of educational and recreational activities.

Participation in community activities by adults is possible both individually and collectively, such as in a religious group.

Elementary kids, homeschoolers, and preschoolers, as well as middle school students, are all eligible for courses.

Furthermore, kayaking, fishing, and getting up and personal with turtles, fish, and frogs are just some of the free events for families at the university. 

If you’re with your kids in Sioux Falls, the Outdoor Campus should be on the top of your list!

Address: 4500 South Oxbow Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial

USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial Sioux Falls, South Dakota
USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Tomás Del Coro / Flickr

Look into the past of a legendary battleship in the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial!

The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial, on West 12th Street, has a collection of artifacts from the famous warship.

Visitors can observe the relics as well as several artifacts relating to the ship’s history while walking around the stone outlines of the ship’s hull.

The construction of the ship began in 1939 and continued until 1942, when it was finally put into service.

When it came to World War II naval combat, the USS South Dakota was the undisputed leader of its group.

The Second Naval Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands were both parts of military engagement.

Components of the ship that were salvaged after it was scrapped were used to build this monument.

If you are a history enthusiast visiting Sioux Falls this weekend, the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is a must-visit!

Address: 2705 W 12th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science

Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science Sioux Falls, South Dakota / Michel Curi / Flickr

Music, science, and art aficionados come together in the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences!

One of South Dakota’s most prominent cultural landmarks is the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences.

The facility, which debuted in 1999, includes a large-format theater, a scientific museum, a music hall, and a gallery.

The Washington High School, a neoclassical structure with a front built of Sioux quartz, has been refurbished to serve as the organization’s new home.

Moreover, Graham Academy Preschool and the Dakota Academy of Performing Arts are just a few of the academic organizations housed at the complex.

Likewise, Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society, the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, and a number of other groups are affiliated with the facility in some capacity.

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences in Sioux Falls is a must-visit attraction if you love music, art, and science!

Address: 301 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

Wild Water West

Wild Water West, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Wild Water West is one of the best places to go in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Beat the heat with fun water activities in Wild Water West!

Sioux Falls is home to a water park known as Wild Water West.

It’s been more than two decades since Wild Water West, South Dakota’s biggest water park, opened its doors.

Try the Tornado Alley, which is a 55-foot-long tunnel slide that is one of the water attractions at the facility. 

If you’re feeling a bit extra, try the Waterslide Complex, a 65 feet high water slide that has 4 drops. 

If you want to relax, the Wave Pool has waves that may reach heights of up to 6 feet.

Adults may unwind with a drink at the Swim-up Bar, while families with kids will appreciate the baby pool and activity pool.

Go-karts and batting cages are other activities that guests may enjoy at the park.

If you feel warm during your stay in Sioux Falls, cool down at Wild Water West!

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

You haven’t made up your mind to go to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, yet, have you? Click here for all the reasons to visit Sioux Falls, South Dakota, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 26767 466th Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

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