Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Science, Symphonies & River Trails

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, probably isn’t the first place you’d jot down for a vacation, but honestly, it packs a punch. There’s a surprising mix of things to do here—think city waterfalls, quirky museums, trails, and plenty of local flavor. Whether you’re into art, nature, history, or just want a chill day exploring, you’ll find a little of everything.

Some of the best things to do in Sioux Falls? Check out Falls Park for those iconic waterfalls, wander through public sculptures, and hit up the Washington Pavilion for shows and events. You’ll stumble across great food, places to unwind, and if you’re here in winter, you can even go skiing nearby. The city blends outdoor stuff and cultural spots in a way that makes it easy to enjoy.

If you’re not sure where to start, this guide should help you find both the big names and a few local secrets. Sioux Falls is easy to get around, has plenty of charm, and—maybe surprisingly—is ready to welcome you with a lot to see and do.

Experience Falls Park and the Big Sioux River

Falls Park is one of those places you just have to see if you’re in town. The Big Sioux River slices right through, so you get a mash-up of waterfalls, old stone buildings, and green space. You can watch the water crash down, wander the trails, and pick up a bit of local history along the way.

Visit the Iconic Waterfalls

The waterfalls at Falls Park are basically the city’s calling card. Every second, about 7,400 gallons of water drop nearly 100 feet, roaring over pink quartzite rocks that give the falls their color. It’s pretty wild to see up close.

You can catch the view from a few different spots, including an observation tower that overlooks the river and downtown skyline. The sound of the water is oddly calming, and it’s a favorite place for photos or just zoning out for a bit. Since it’s right by downtown, you can swing by whenever you feel like it.

Explore the Queen Bee Mill and Historic Sites

Check out the Queen Bee Mill ruins near the river. Built back in 1881, it was supposed to help local farmers mill wheat without shipping it away. The mill didn’t last long, but what’s left tells a story about early Sioux Falls industry.

Not far from there, you’ll see the old Sioux Falls Light and Power Company building. It’s a reminder of when hydroelectric power first showed up in the city. Exploring these ruins adds a cool, time-travel vibe to your park visit.

Enjoy Walking Trails and Scenic Views

Falls Park stretches over 120 acres with easy paths, picnic spots, and plenty of green to wander. The River Greenway trail runs nearby and links up with other parks, so you can go for longer walks or bike rides if you’re feeling energetic.

Along the way, you’ll find quieter corners with smaller waterfalls and interesting rock shapes. The combination of trees, rushing water, and history makes it a spot you’ll probably want to come back to—whether you’re after a workout or just a peaceful stroll.

Discover Downtown Sioux Falls

Downtown Sioux Falls has a good energy—lots of art, walkable streets, and places to kick back. You get a mix of old and new, with murals, sculptures, and plenty of spots to grab a drink or snack. It’s the kind of downtown that’s fun to just wander without a plan.

Stroll Phillips Avenue

Phillips Avenue is the main drag downtown. As you walk, you’ll pass shops, restaurants, and historic buildings that give the area its character. It’s a lively spot and easy to explore at your own pace.

Pop into a boutique for something unique, or grab a meal at one of the local restaurants. On weekends and holidays, you might catch some live music or a street event—it’s got that small-city buzz.

Take in the SculptureWalk

SculptureWalk is an outdoor art show that runs right along the downtown streets. You’ll spot over 50 sculptures from artists all over, and each piece has its own backstory. It really adds something extra to a simple walk.

The sculptures rotate every year, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll likely see something new. The whole thing blends with the city’s creative side and keeps downtown feeling fresh.

See the Arc of Dreams

The Arc of Dreams is hard to miss—a huge steel arc spanning the river near downtown. It’s meant to symbolize hope and chasing big ideas, which is a pretty cool message for a city landmark.

Standing by it, you get a great view of both the sculpture and the river. It’s a popular photo spot or just a nice place to pause and take in the scenery.

Enjoy Local Breweries and Cafés

If you’re looking to relax, downtown has some solid options. Remedy Brewing is a favorite for local craft beer and a laid-back vibe. It’s a good place to wind down after a day of exploring.

More of a coffee person? There are cafés with fresh brews and snacks, perfect for meeting up with friends or just hanging out with a book. The atmosphere is welcoming—no need to rush.

Engage in Arts, Culture, and Science

Sioux Falls might surprise you with its creative side. There are places to dive into art, catch live shows, get hands-on with science, or even watch a movie in a dome. It’s not just museums; it’s a whole mix of experiences.

Washington Pavilion Highlights

The Washington Pavilion brings together performing arts, visual arts, and science in a single spot. Right downtown, this historic building hosts concerts, Broadway shows, comedy, and more.

You’ll find classes and camps for all ages throughout the year. The Pavilion isn’t just a museum—it’s a gathering place for the community, with something going on pretty much all the time.

Kirby Science Discovery Center

Inside the Pavilion, the Kirby Science Discovery Center is a hit for hands-on learning. With over 100 interactive exhibits, it makes science approachable—even fun—for everyone.

Kids especially get a kick out of it, but there’s plenty for grown-ups too. You can experiment with energy, physics, and nature in a bright, friendly space.

Experience the Wells Fargo CineDome

The Wells Fargo CineDome gives you a different kind of movie experience, with a giant dome screen and planetarium shows that wrap around you.

Catch science films or space shows that make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. It’s a cool pick for families or anyone who’s a little curious about space.

Explore the Visual Arts Center

Also inside the Pavilion, the Visual Arts Center rotates art exhibitions from all over—local, national, and international artists show their work in eight galleries.

Nearby, the Eastbank Art Gallery focuses on local talent and community projects. These spots let you see different styles and stories, making the art scene here more interesting than you might expect.

Explore Family-Friendly Attractions

Sioux Falls has a bunch of spots that are great for families—think animals, nature, and water fun. Each place has its own thing going, and there’s plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained.

Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History

At the Great Plains Zoo, you’ll see animals from all over—tigers, snow leopards, zebras, you name it. It’s a solid spot for kids to learn about wildlife and conservation in a fun way.

The Delbridge Museum of Natural History, right inside the zoo, displays skeletons, fossils, and animal mounts. It helps explain how different creatures live and adapt, which is pretty fascinating.

There are keeper talks, a playground, and picnic areas, so it’s easy to spend a full day here without feeling rushed.

Butterfly House & Aquarium

The Butterfly House & Aquarium is a favorite for younger kids. You can walk through a warm room filled with butterflies flying everywhere—it’s a bit magical, honestly.

The aquarium side has stingrays, sea stars, urchins, and little fish. Touch pools let kids (and grown-ups) get hands-on with some of the creatures. It’s interactive and makes learning about nature a lot more fun.

They focus on conservation and education, so you’ll pick up some tips on caring for our planet along the way.

Have Fun at Wild Water West

Wild Water West is the go-to water park in Sioux Falls. There are big slides for thrill seekers, plus wave pools and lazy rivers for anyone who just wants to float around.

Splash pads and play areas keep the younger crowd happy for hours. On hot days, this is the place to cool off and let loose a bit.

Lifeguards are on duty, and the park’s kept clean, so you can relax while the kids burn off some energy. If you’re after a classic summer day, this is it.

Uncover Sioux Falls’ Rich History

Sioux Falls has a deeper history than you might expect, from Native American roots to the early days of city life. You can dig into these stories at well-kept sites that show how the city grew and who helped shape it. Each place offers a different angle, with artifacts and buildings you can actually step inside.

Tour the Old Courthouse Museum

The Old Courthouse Museum, built in 1893, is a real step back in time. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on local culture, early settlers, and Native American history—lots of old photos, antiques, and artifacts that bring the past to life.

Exhibits change up now and then, so there’s usually something new. And honestly, just walking through the old sandstone building is worth it if you appreciate architecture. You could easily spend a couple hours here getting a feel for the city’s roots.

Step Inside Pettigrew Home & Museum

The Pettigrew Home & Museum was once home to Richard F. Pettigrew, one of the city’s first senators. The house is beautifully kept, full of Victorian-era furniture, and gives you a real sense of what life was like in the late 1800s.

Inside, you’ll see Pettigrew’s collection of Native American artifacts and learn about his efforts to protect tribal culture. The museum mixes stories about early Sioux Falls with the life of a pretty interesting guy. It’s a personal way to connect with local history.

USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial

The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial honors the ship and its crew from World War II. It’s outdoors, and you can see a chunk of the ship while learning about its history and missions.

Plaques and displays share stories about the crew and the ship’s role in the war. It’s a spot that mixes local pride with national history, and you can’t help but feel a bit of respect for those who served.

Enjoy Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Experiences

Nature lovers will find plenty to do in Sioux Falls. There are long riverside trails, peaceful gardens, and even some historic state parks nearby. Whether you’re into biking, just want a green space to relax, or feel like learning a little local history, you’ll find a spot that fits.

Walk the Big Sioux River Recreation Trail

The Big Sioux River Recreation Trail draws locals and visitors alike. This paved route runs for over 34 miles, hugging the Big Sioux River as it goes. People walk, jog, bike, or even rollerblade here, soaking up the river views and the green parks along the way.

You’ll wander past city parks like Falls Park, where the waterfalls are the big showstopper. No bike? You’ll spot a few rental shops nearby. The trail’s mostly flat and easygoing, so you can take it slow or push for a longer workout—whatever fits your mood.

Relax in Terrace Park & Japanese Garden

Terrace Park sits quietly in the city, offering a peaceful break from the usual rush. There are open lawns, plenty of shade, and spots that practically beg you to sprawl out with a picnic or just zone out with a book.

Inside the park, the Japanese Garden waits with its winding stone paths, traditional plants, and gentle water features. The whole place feels calm and a little magical—ideal for snapping a few photos or just letting your mind wander for a while.

Visit McKennan Park

McKennan Park, one of Sioux Falls’ oldest, still draws plenty of families and visitors. There’s loads of green space, a playground, and a lovely old pavilion. When it’s warm, you might catch a concert or a community event here—it’s got that classic park energy.

Shady paths lined with big old trees wind through the park, making it a pretty great spot for a slow walk or a lazy afternoon. It’s also close to downtown, so you don’t have to go out of your way to swing by.

Adventure at Good Earth State Park

Good Earth State Park blends nature with history along its winding trails. You’ll find paths for all moods—some are easy strolls, others have a few gentle hills to keep things interesting.

The lookout points here share stories of early Native American life connected to this land. If you’re curious, swing by the visitor center for a peek at artifacts and a deeper dive into the area’s past. There’s something about the mix of scenic views and old stories that makes wandering around here feel special.

Looking for a calm walk that actually teaches you something? Good Earth might just be your spot.