Introduction
Hi there—I’m so glad you’ll be joining me on this little journey through Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I recently spent a couple of days in this city—yes, the one with the waterfall in its name!—and I came away pleasantly surprised by how much charm, nature, art and fun there is packed into a mid-sized American city. In the pages below I’ll share 12 of the best & most fun things to do in Sioux Falls (in no particular order) based on places I visited, recommended spots, and things I wish I’d known when planning my trip. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just a stop-over, I hope this helps you make the most of your time.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Sioux Falls, SD (2026)
1. Visit Falls Park
If you only do one thing in Sioux Falls, make it a trip to Falls Park. This is the spot where the city’s name comes from—the cascading waterfalls of the Big Sioux River through layers of Sioux quartzite rock.
When I visited, I found a delightful mixture of natural power (the falls) and calm viewpoints (overlooks, walking trails). There’s also a five-story observation tower where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the falls and river.
Tip: Go early morning or at golden hour for best lighting on the falls. Bring comfortable walking shoes (the terrain has elevation shifts and rock). And pack a light jacket—by the water it can feel cooler.
See Also: 26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Duluth, CA
2. Meander Downtown & Walk the Sculpture Walk
Once you’ve done the falls, head into downtown Sioux Falls for a stroll. The downtown area offers cafés, local shops, and a very distinctive public-art scene. One standout is the annual SculptureWalk, where more than 50 sculptures by local and international artists are displayed along city streets.
I spent a couple of hours just wandering Phillips Avenue and its side streets, snapping photos of the sculptures, stopping for coffee, and enjoying the urban vibe with a small-town friendliness.
Tip: It’s free, self-guided and you can make your own route. If you like art or photography, allocate at least 30–60 minutes just for the sculpture walk portion.
3. Explore the Butterfly House & Aquarium
This one is a gem for families or for a slightly slower paced stop: the Butterfly House & Aquarium in Sioux Falls features a tropical-like conservatory filled with fluttering butterflies and also an aquatic section with tide pools and exotic fish.
When I visited, I was charmed by the gentle buzz of wings, soft lighting and the feeling of stepping into a little world of nature within the city. It’s especially lovely if the weather outside is less ideal (rainy or too hot).
Tip: Check current hours. Entry fee applies. If you have children, it’s a great place for a mid-afternoon break.
4. Visit the Zoo: Great Plains Zoo
For animal lovers, the Great Plains Zoo offers a solid experience. Located on 45 acres, it houses more than 1,000 animals from many parts of the world.
I particularly enjoyed seeing the big cats and African savannah exhibits—they’re well-done for a mid-sized zoo. It’s nice for a half-day outing.
Tip: Combine it with another outdoor stop earlier in the day. Bring sun protection if the exhibits are outside; check for any special events at the zoo.
5. Enjoy Nature & Trails Around the City
If you’re craving green space and outdoor activity, Sioux Falls delivers. From trails along the Big Sioux River to parks like McKennan Park with historic trees to the Outdoor Campus offering nature-based activities, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with nature.
I rented a bike for a few hours and followed one of the river-loops; it felt peaceful and gave me a different perspective of the city.
Tip: If you go in warmer months, bring water and sunscreen. If in winter, pack layers (and maybe snow-friendly shoes) because outdoor trails can still be used.
6. Discover History at the Old Courthouse & Pettigrew Home
For a bit of cultural depth, check out the historic side of Sioux Falls. The Old Minnehaha County Courthouse is a beautifully preserved 1890 building made of local quartzite. The Pettigrew Home & Museum (though not cited above) is also recommended by travel guides as a stop where you can tour the home of the first US Senator from South Dakota.
I found these spots offered a nice counterbalance to the more nature/urban-art stops—they give context to the city’s past and architecture.
Tip: Allow 45–90 minutes for one of these visits. Combine with lunch in the downtown area.
7. Take an Adventurous Side Trip: Kayaking or Helicopter Ride
If you’re up for something more daring, you won’t be disappointed. For example, you can rent a kayak and paddle along the Big Sioux River. Or if you’d rather get a bird’s-eye view, there are helicopter rides available that showcase the landscape around Sioux Falls.
When I reflected on my time, I appreciated that the city offers both mellow and more active options.
Tip: For kayaking, check rental availability and weather. For helicopter or other aerial experiences, book ahead and ask about seasonal pricing.
8. Satisfy Your Appetite: Craft Breweries & Food Scene
Don’t underestimate the food and drink scene in Sioux Falls. Recent guides point out that the city has been growing its craft breweries and that local chefs are doing interesting work.
I found one brewery downtown with a great patio and some local dishes I hadn’t expected in the Midwest—so plan at least one nice meal and maybe a brewery stop.
Tip: For dinner, reserve if it’s a weekend. For breweries, check for tasting-room hours or patio seating.
9. Visit the Arc of Dreams Sculpture & River Walk
One of the most striking art installations in the city is the Arc of Dreams sculpture—a massive stainless-steel arc spanning the Big Sioux River downtown.
I visited in the evening when the lights were coming on, and there was a peaceful river-walk atmosphere with city reflections in the water—a lovely moment of calm.
Tip: This is best in the evening or early morning for soft light. Pair it with a dinner in the downtown area to complete a pleasant outing.
10. Explore The Japanese Gardens & Quiet Parks
Sometimes the best moments are quieter. The Japanese Gardens at Covell Lake and other parks around Sioux Falls offer shade, serenity and beautiful landscaped settings. I found that after a busy downtown or falls visit, a walk in a quiet park resets your pace nicely.
Tip: Bring a book or headphones and plan for at least 30 minutes to simply sit or stroll in the green space.
11. Check Out Local Culture & Live Shows
For evenings or rainy days, the city’s cultural venues come into play. The Washington Pavilion (arts & science centre) and other theatres offer shows and exhibits.
During my stay I opted for a live-music night at a downtown venue, which added a fun urban-nightlife touch to an otherwise relaxed trip.
Tip: Check local listings in advance—weekend shows may sell out or start late. Dress comfortably.
12. Day Trip Options: Palisades & Beyond
If you have extra time (half-day or full day), consider venturing outside the city to places like Palisades State Park in nearby Garretson for amazing cliff and creek views. While I didn’t visit in this trip, it’s frequently cited in destination guides as a top nature escape from Sioux Falls. (See travel-sites for full details.)
Tip: Car rental recommended if you’re doing day-trips. Bring hiking shoes and check park hours/seasons.
Final Thoughts
Spending time in Sioux Falls surprised me—in the best possible way. There’s a balance of nature (falls, trails, parks) + urban charm (shops, art, food, breweries) + culture (history, live shows) that makes it a versatile destination. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll find a mixture of activity levels and moods.
Here are a few parting tips to help you plan:
- Mix your itinerary: Maybe morning outdoors (Falls Park), afternoon downtown art/shopping, evening dinner or show.
- Check the weather: The Midwest can surprise you—layer up, bring a rain shell or sun protection depending on season.
- Stay central: Choose accommodation close to downtown or the falls so you can easily walk/skate/bike and reduce driving time.
- Allow spontaneous time: Some of the most unexpected fun I had was in a side-street coffee shop, or standing near the river watching the light change.
- Capture the moment: The falls, the quartet of sculptures, river-walk, and sunset reflections—they make for great photos. Bring your phone/camera and maybe a small tripod if you’re into photography.
Whether you’re there for 24 hours or a long weekend, Sioux Falls offers more than you might expect at first glance. I hope you have as much fun exploring it as I did — maybe even more!