Things to do in Sioux Falls
Augustana College Department of Music
The Augustana College Department of Music provides educational experiences for students of the performing arts and serves as an integral part of Sioux Falls’ artistic community. Vocal and instrumental performances include solo and ensemble recitals, festivals, concerts and seasonal offerings. Most events are free. Call 605-336-5451 for more information.
2001 S. Summit Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Buffalo Ridge, Cowboy Ghost Town
This attraction is offered for amusement as well as history and educational purposes. It was created by a former South Dakota and American West history teacher and offers over 50 exhibits (some animated) depicting life in and history of the regional area and the American West. As you walk around the Ghost Town, you'll find something for all ages, from a buffalo herd to the area's largest souvenir and fireworks store. Be sure to stop by the coffee shop for a buffalo burger. Buffalo Ridge proves learning can be fun. Open summer sunrise - sunset. Located 5 miles west of Sioux Falls on I-90, exit 390. Call 605-528-3931 for more information.
Center for Western Studies
Housed in the Fantle Building on the Augustana College Campus, the Center for Western Studies is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and cultures of the northern plains. The center serves as a repository for more than 200 archival collections and maintains a library of some 35,000 volumes concerning the American West. You will also find that the center holds an extensive art and artifact collection, as well as sponsoring annual events such as the annual history conference, the Boe Froum, and the Artists of the Plains Show. Open Monday - Friday 8am – 5pm; Saturday 10am – 2pm; closed Holiday’s. Call 605-274-4007 for more information.
2001 S. Summit Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Country Apple Orchard
Head out for a day in the country. The orchard features over a dozen apple varieties, you pick them or get them bagged and washed. There are also pony rides, children’s barn, gift shop and Veda's homemade apple pie. This orchard is located five miles south of Sioux Falls on Minnesota Avenue. Hours are seasonal. Call 605-743-2424 for more information.
Delbridge Museum of Natural History
Located at the Great Plains Zoo, the Delbridge Museum of National History features one of the country’s most fascinating collections of mounted wildlife exhibited in naturalistic dioramas. Composed of bird and mammal species from five continents, the exhibit offers museum visitors a close encounter with the world’s most exotic wildlife. Call 605-367-7059 for more information.
805 S. Kiwanis Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Eide/Dalrymple Gallery
Affiliated with Augustana College, this gallery specializes in paintings and sculpture. The permanent collection features local artists, as well as original prints by artists such as Chagall, Goya, Miro, Rouault, and Homer. Exhibits are featured daily September – May; open Tuesday – Sunday 12 – 5pm; June - August Tuesday - Saturday 1 – 5pm. Admission is free; located at 29th Street & Grange Avenue. Call 605-274-4609 for more information.
Empire/Empire East
The Empire/Empire East is one of Sioux Falls’ top attractions. Featuring 180 retail shops and restaurants, anchored by Marshall Field’s, JCPenney, Younkers, Sears, Kohls, and Target, The Empire/Empire East is arguably the regions largest and best shopping center between Denver and Minneapolis. The Empire/Empire East is located just east of I-29, exit 77, on 41st Street and is within walking distance of several hotels and restaurants. Call 605-361-3300 for more information.
Falls Park Visitor Information Center and Observation Tower
The friendly and helpful staff are enthusiastic ambassadors, ready to assist guests seeking information about the Park or the city services, amenities and points of interest that Sioux Falls has to offer. Unique Sioux Falls shirts, art prints and memorabilia are available for purchase at the Visitors Center. Attached to the Falls Park Visitors Information Center is a tall, attractive enclosed viewing tower with an outdoor observation deck. Equipped with an elevator, the Viewing Tower provides a breath-taking 360-degree panoramic vista of the falls and the city skyline. The Facility is open from 9am – 9pm daily April 15 - September 30; 9am – 5pm Saturdays & Sundays October 1 - April 14. The Viewing Tower is open to the public during the hours when the Visitors Center is operating. Call 605-367-7430 for more information.
Galleries on Fortieth / Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery
The Galleries on Fortieth is the area’s leading décor and custom frame gallery showcasing America’s top artists including Thomas Kinkade and Terry Redlin. Call 605-334-8420 for more information.
3132 S. Minnesota Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Grand Fun Alley
Grand Fun Alley offers lots of safe, indoor, family fun. The Soft Adventure Playground has things to climb, towers to explore, slides to slide and more. Grand Fun Alley also has indoor mini-golf, an arcade and refreshments. Visit Grand Fun Alley for fun and excitement for the whole family. Call 605-362-7201 for more information.
4101 W. 34th Street, Sioux City, SD
Great Bear Recreation Park
A great place to ski and snowboard. This facility offers full service rental shop with downhill and cross country equipment, ski lifts and 7 runs for beginner to advanced skiers. Snow boarders will find our Olympic size half pipe great; this is South Dakota's only snow tubing park. Certified instructors are available and the facility is fully lighted for night skiing. Located 2 miles east of I-229 on Rice Street. Call 605-367-4309 for more information.
Great Plains Zoo
Located in the heart of the city, the Great Plains Zoo exhibits nearly 400 animals representing some 70 species from around the world. The 45-acre site features open-terrain viewing enters that allow visitors to view animals in simulated natural habitats, such as the new flamingo aviary, penguin pool, primate complex, Australian outback, birds-of-prey island, children's zoo and Asian cat area. The zoo hosts special family events throughout the year as well. Call 605-367-7059 for more information.
805 S. Kiwanis Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Historic Downtown Sioux Falls
Main Street Sioux Falls invites you to experience the perfect mix of carefree spirit, cultural celebration and refined style. From museums to a unique selection of eating establishments and specialty shops to a full calendar of events and activities - there's always something happening downtown Sioux Falls. You may be interested in a new dining experience, an extraordinary gift, a gallery walk or a get-together with friends. One thing is certain - downtown Sioux Falls has what you're looking for. Call 605-338-4009 for more information.
230 S. Phillips Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Horse Barn Arts Center
This is a new artists’ cooperative, housed in the historic horse barn north of the Visitors Information Center. The building was rehabilitated by the City in 1998 and opened to the public in 1999, in cooperation with the Sioux Empire Arts Council. The upper level serves as an art gallery, featuring works of fine art produced by local talent. Various artists of the Sioux Empire occupy individual stalls in the lower level of the building. The works of the artists are displayed in the stalls, and during peak visitation times in the summer one can watch the artists at work. The unique works of art are available for purchase by visitors. The Horse Barn Arts Center is open Saturdays 10am – 5pm; Sundays noon – 5pm. Call 605-367-7391 for more information.
Husby Performing Arts Center at the Washington Pavilion
The Husby Performing Arts Center features the 1,800-seat Great Hall, the multi-use Schulte Rehearsal Room, and the Belbas Theater. The Great Hall offers a wide variety of touring Broadway productions, symphonic and other musical concerts, national and international dance tours and more. The Husby Performing Arts Center is also the home of the South Dakota Symphony and is located at 11th St. and Main Avenue. Call 877-WASHPAV for more information.
Huset's Speedway
Huset's Speedway sizzles with summer racecar action. The speedway features late-model stock cars, International Motor Cotest Association (IMCA) modified cars, IMCA sprints, and Outlaw sprints, and is a host of the World of Outlaws tour. Races are held Sundays and holidays, May – September; located 5 miles east of Sioux Falls on Madison Avenue. Call 605-582-3536 for more information.
Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion
Kirby Science Discovery Center is home to more than 80 exciting, hands-on science experiences. Visitors can fly the space shuttle, touch a tornado, dig up a dinosaur, launch a hot air balloon, or meet Stan, the 65-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus Rex. Our giant-screen Wells Fargo Cinedome Theater will surround you with a movie so real you'll feel like you're part of the action! The center is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Call ahead for hours and admission prices; located at 11th Street & Main Avenue. Call 877-WASHPAV for more information.
Main Stage Ballet & Dance Academy
Main Stage Ballet & Dance Academy has helped hundreds of students of every age find a future in dance. Visitors are welcome, so call today for class and schedule information. Call 605-333-9816 for more information.
123 S. Main, Sioux City, SD
Mears Library Gallery
Located on the University of Sioux Falls campus, the Mears Library Gallery exhibits artwork from students and professional artists year-round. Call 605-331-6660 for more information.
1101 W. 22nd Street, Sioux City, SD
Northern Plains Gallery
A division of American Indian Services, Northern Plains Gallery displays original art by American Indians from the northern plains, including beadwork, painting, sculpture, woodworking and quilts. Four shows per year feature national and local exhibitors and artists; authentic pieces are available for purchase. Call 605-334-4060 for more information.
817 N. Elmwood Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Old Courthouse Museum
This restored, 1890’s Richardsonian Romanesque building, constructed of native pink quartzite, is a National Historic Landmark. Featuring an 1893 clock tower, a restored circuit courtroom and law library, and 16 wall murals painted from 1915 to 1917. Opened as a museum in 1974, the building houses permanent and changing exhibits focusing on the natural and cultural histories of the Siouxland region. Free admission; free parking; open daily. Call 605-367-4210 for more information.
200 W. 6th Street, Sioux City, SD
Outdoor Campus
The Outdoor Campus is a great place to get acquainted with South Dakota's natural amenities via the campus' huge stream-bank aquarium or its ongoing classes on fishing, hunting, canoeing and camping. The Outdoor Campus is a joint project of the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the City of Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation Department. Located at 49th Street & Oxbow Avenue at Sertoma Park. Call 605-362-2777 for more information.
Pettigrew Home and Museum
Richard F. Pettigrew, South Dakota’s first full-term U.S. Senator, purchased this 1889 Queen Anne home in 1911 and arranged for the building to be donated to the city upon his death in 1926. Tour the restored home and attached museum, with galleries that detail the area’s natural and cultural histories. A research library in the home’s basement contains Pettigrew’s personal papers and a 5,000-volume library. Free admission; free parking; open daily. Call 605-367-7097 for more information.
131 N. Duluth Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Pioneer Lane
An authentic train depot and caboose, an old-time log cabin, a country schoolhouse, and a church adorn Pioneer Lane at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, maintained by the Sioux Valley Restoration Society. Pioneer Lane is open by appointment only, except during the Sioux Empire Fair held every August. Each spring, the society hosts a tour by approximately 1,000 of the city's third graders. Call 605-332-0786 for more information.
Prairie Fired Pottery
Representing one of the fastest-growing retail trends in the nation, Prairie Fired Pottery offers entertainment as well as shopping. The studio is available for private parties of adults or children, or for the simple enjoyment of creating a personalized treasure. Call 605-335-5743 for more information.
401 E. 8th Street, Sioux City, SD
Prairie Star Gifts & Gallery
Prairie Star Gifts & Gallery features American Indian sculpture, paintings, quill and beadwork, star quilts, fine and casual jewelry, dolls, pottery and porcelain. Open 10am – 6pm Monday – Saturday. Call 605-338-9300 for more information.
207 S. Phillips Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Rehfeld's Art & Framing
Offering a full range of art, sculpture and gift items, Rehfeld showcases original artwork from some of the area’s finest artists. The West 41st Street location offers a large selection of prints from nationally known artists. Call 605-336-7073 for more information.
210 S. Phillips Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Self-Guided Historic Walking Tours
Falls Park is the foundation of the community’s heritage; it is the most significant historical site in the city. The story of Sioux Falls is intimately entwined with Falls Park, and the history to be found here is both broad and deep. A system of ten large interpretive panels is distributed across the park and include full color graphics and many early vintage photos provided by the Siouxland Heritage Museums System to convey the fascinating story of Falls Park.
Sertoma Butterfly House
The Sertoma Butterfly House loves butterflies, bugs and kids too. Bring your family and explore the amazing habitat of neo-tropical butterflies from around the world. Some 700 or more butterflies will be free flying within the "Flight Room." Come meet our scorpions, tarantula, millipedes and much more. Located at 4320 Oxbow Avenue at Sertoma Park. Call 605-334-9466 for more information.
4320 Oxbow Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Empire Medical Museum
Housed at Sioux Valley Hospital, this museum includes displays relating to medical history from the early 1900’s through today’s advanced technology, providing visitors with an appreciation of medical progress. Nursing uniforms, equipment and photographs depict the legacy of medical changes and advancements. Groups of 15 or more please call ahead for a scheduled visit. Open Monday -Friday 11am - 4pm; located at 1100 South Euclid Avenue at the Sioux Valley Hospital. Call 605-333-6397 for more information.
1100 South Euclid Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Arena
Concerts, conventions, pro basketball, indoor football and hockey- the arena hosts them all, year-round. Home to the Sioux Falls SKYforce (Continental Basketball Association), Sioux Falls Stampede (United States Hockey League), and Sioux Falls Storm (National Indoor Football League), the 7,000-seat arena also hosts concerts, family shows, rodeos, graduations and NCAA and South Dakota High School Activities Association athletic competitions. Call 605-367-7288 for more information.
1201 N. West Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Canaries
The Northern League’s Sioux Falls Canaries baseball team just completed its seventh season, playing home games at the Sioux Falls Stadium. The Canaries’ season runs from late May through early September. Call 605-333-0179 for more information.
1001 West Avenue N., Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Community Concerts Association
Established more than 70 years ago, this nonprofit organization works to provide world-class entertainment to the area at an affordable price. Call 605-339-2582 for more information.
2008 S. West Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Convention Center
Opened in 1997, the state-of-the-art Sioux Falls Convention Center holds national, regional and state conventions and trade shows. Call 605-331-0100 for more information.
1201 N. West Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Ice & Recreation Center
Outdoor skating is available at many of the city's numerous park facilities. SFIRC is home to local all-age hockey teams and also hosts indoor open skating. Managers are on duty and a skate cop is also on the ice during open skate times. Concessions and general and private parties are also available. Call 605-338-5765 for more information.
Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society
This nonprofit organization works to increase awareness of jazz and blues music in the Sioux Falls community. JazzFest, typically held the third Saturday in July, brings some 10,000 jazz and blues fans together for an all-day extravaganza at Yankton Trail Park. Enjoy the best in jazz and blues music, food, crafts, kids activities, fireworks and more. Call 605-330-7979 for more information.
Sioux Falls Municipal Band
After more than 75 years, the Sioux Falls Municipal Band is still going strong, delighting music lovers with various instrumental numbers and themed concerts. The band performs more than 30 concerts each summer at Sioux Falls’ parks and area neighborhoods. The season runs from May through August, and performances are free of charge. Call 605-367-7290 for more information.
Sioux Falls SKYforce
The Sioux Falls SKYforce features nonstop, high-powered fun in the family-friendly Sioux Falls Arena. As part of the CBA (Continental Basketball Association), the SKYforce is strictly professional, with all of the high-flying, fast-breaking action and national halftime acts you expect from the big leagues. The SKYforce brought professional basketball to Sioux Falls in 1989 and took home the CBA Championship in 1996. Locally owned, the SKYforce plays from November - April. Call 605-332-0605 for more information.
2101 W. 41st Street, Suite 39, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls SpitFire
The Sioux Falls SpitFire brings Big Time Soccer and Big Time Family Fun to the Sioux Falls area. There is something for everyone including high-level soccer action, half-time shows and in-game entertainment, a Kids Fun Zone, and more. The SpitFire is part of more than 40 teams across the country in the PDL of the United Soccer Leagues. Home games are played at McEneaney Field at O'Gorman High School during May, June, and July. Call 605-336-7486 for more information.
401 W. 39th Street., Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Stampede
The Stampede are a member of the United States Hockey League (USHL), a Junior "A" hockey league. The Stampede name and buffalo mascot were chosen from a name-the-team contest to identify with South Dakota’s heritage. Throughout the season, the Stampede team participates in community events and hosts various game-night promotions and special events. Call 605-336-6060 for more information.
230 S. Phillips Avenue Suite 104., Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Storm
The Storm joined the Sioux Falls sports scene in 2001. They play at the Sioux Falls Arena as part of the National Indoor Football League. The season runs April – July. Call 605-332-4225 for more information.
200 N. Phillips Avenue, Sioux City, SD
Sioux Falls Trolley
Designed in the style of Streetcars that operated in Sioux Falls in the early 1900s. Look for the Trolley Stop banners in Historic Downtown Sioux Falls and at Falls Park. The free Trolley operates Monday - Saturday April – September; Saturday only October - April. Call 605-367-7183 for more information.
Sioux Valley Genealogical Society
The Sioux Valley Genealogical Society Research allows you to trace your ancestral heritage in our staffed library. Extensive South Dakota records and many from other states and countries are available. Handicapped accessible.
South Dakota Symphony Orchestra
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra makes its home downtown at the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science. Each season (September - May), the orchestra, which is made up of more than 90 talented members, features classical and pops concerts, along with internationally renowned guest artists. The group features its own Dakota String Quartet and Dakota Wind Quintet as well. Call 605-335-7933 for more information.
300 N. Dakota Avenue., Sioux City, SD
St. Joseph Cathedral
This 1916-1919 Romanesque and French Renaissance structure is one of South Dakota's largest cathedrals. Call 605-336-7390 for more information.
523 N. Duluth Avenue., Sioux City, SD
Sticks & Steel Gallery
This gallery of handcrafted artworks features items such as freeform organic furniture and metal artwork. Cupola Coffee and Tea, which offers light lunches and specialty coffees, is located in the rear of the gallery Call 605-335-7349 for more information.
401 E. 8th Street., Sioux City, SD
Sturdevant's I-90 Speedway
Sturdevant's I-90 Speedway provides the area with fast dirt track racing on a three-eighths-mile track. Races are held every Thursday & Saturday April - September. Call 605-528-6380 for more information.
Thunder Road Family Fun Park
The track features banked corners, hairpin turns and endless racing fun; for even more speed power, check out the karts on the Oval track. This polished slick track features driving excitement at every turn. The adventure in fun continues by playing a round of golf at the 18-hole Viking Fjord Miniature Golf Course. This Viking themed course is accented by rippling streams, waterfalls, fountains and colorful landscaping. Thunder road offers exceptional guest service for all groups, from large corporate outings to children's birthday parties. No admission charges and free parking. We specialize in group events for businesses, schools, churches and sports teams. Call 605-334-4181 for more information.
201 N. Kiwanis., Sioux City, SD
Underground Productions
This production company, famous for the dinner theatre "Tony & Tina's Wedding," performs shows in numerous Sioux Falls venues and across the state utilizing a local cast. Call 605-335-5935 for more information.
University of Sioux Falls Music Department
USF’s vocal and instrumental programs feature a wide variety of concerts from such performing groups as Jazz Ensemble, Opera Workshop, and Wind Ensemble, Madrigal dinners, held each December, are a festive beginning of the holiday season. In the spring, Vinnie’s Place provides a fun and energetic musical theater performance. Call 605-331-6637 for more information.
1101 W. 22nd Street., Sioux City, SD
University of Sioux Falls Theater Department
This theater department performs major plays and musicals in both the Meredith Auditorium and the Jeschke Fine Arts Center's Arena Theater. Call 605-331-6709 for more information.
Located at 1101 W. 22nd Street., Sioux City, SD
USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
Having participated in every major battle in the Pacific from 1942 through 1945, the USS South Dakota is the most decorated battleship of World War II. The U.S. Navy memorial in Sherman Park was built to honor those who served on the vessel and the 42 people who died while aboard. A museum housing historical memorabilia is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Visual Arts Center at the Washington Pavilion
Washington Pavilion's Visual Arts Center brings the visual arts to children and adults through exhibitions, education and collections. Six galleries feature changing exhibits, and the Children's Studio allows children to explore art through hands-on activities. The permanent collection features works by regional artists such as Robert Aldern and Signe Stuart. Call 877-WASHPAV for more information.
W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
The annual Sioux Empire Farm Show in January and the Sioux Empire Fair in August are held here. The fairgrounds and the recently remodeled Expo Building host ongoing activities and events, including outdoor concerts, indoor soccer, hockey, flea markets and horse, dog and livestock shows. Call 605-367-7178 for more information.
4000 W. 12th Street., Sioux City, SD
Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science
The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science is the region's newest cultural, educational, and entertainment facility featuring the Husby Performing Arts Center, Kirby Science Discovery Center, Wells Fargo CineDome Theater, Visual Arts Center, Discovery Store gift shop, and Leonardo's Cafe. Call 877-WASHPAV for more information.
Wells Fargo CineDome Theater
The Wells Fargo CineDome Theater features incredibly realistic giant-screen movies on our 60-foot domed screen. Ride the rapids, explore the depths of ancient Egyptian tombs, dive into oceans and climb mountaintops. Different films are featured every season. Films last about 45 minutes and are shown hourly-Friday and Saturday night shows, too. Children ages 3 and older must occupy a purchased seat. Cry room and special needs seating available. Call 877-WASHPAV for more information.
Wild Water West Waterpark & Family Amusement Park
Wild Water West is South Dakota's largest water park and family amusement park. The water park includes a 65 foot tower complex featuring four thrilling slides, a lazy river, activity pools, sand volleyball, concessions, lockers, shower facilities and much more. Enjoy riding go-karts, play miniature golf, hit balls at the All Star batting cage complex or try your skill at Commando paintball! Open Memorial Day - Labor Day. Call 605-361-9313 for more information.