Touring Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is right by the Big Sioux River, a tributary of the Missouri River.

Falls Park is home to the magnificent triple waterfall the city was named after Sioux Falls. Created by the Big Sioux River the waterfall makes a wonderful natural display.

Besides the waterfall, other interesting things to do in the park are to see the ruins of the historic Queen Bee Mill. There is also an information center with a five-story observation tower. When you want to relax you can head for the Overlook Cafe serving lunch and dinner and offering live music on Fridays.

The 19-mile Big Sioux River and Recreation Greenway stretches in both directions from Falls Park. Within the park are sculptures and historic displays as well as playgrounds, beaches, and a water fountain. On Saturdays, you'll find a Farmers Market between May and October with fresh produce and artesian crafts.

Sculpture Walk stretches through downtown Sioux Falls. The artistic installations continually rotate and you can find over 50 new sculptures each year. You can also explore the fine shops, restaurants, and hotels in this area. Take the time to look through the art galleries and antique shops too.

The Butterfly House & Aquarium in Seratona City Park offers a hands-on experience with plenty of butterflies and aquatic life. There are many interesting exhibits like the Butterfly House, the Shark and Stingray Touch Pool, and others. There are special tours available.

The Old Courthouse Museum has found its home in a building from the 19th century. The displays help you to learn about the history of the region, There are larger-than-life murals on the walls and many different artifacts, You can take part in events like the concert series, Halloween parties, and Victorian tea lectures.

Good Earth State Park is located 10 miles southeast of downtown Sioux Falls. It is part of the larger Blood Run National Landmark and one of the country's oldest sites of human habitation. For hundreds of years, indigenous cultures and local tribes would gather at Blood Run and trade goods. This is one of the best state parks in South Dakota. It has interpretive trails. There is an information center with a lot of information about the local area. The hiking trails are scenic and offer great views of the Big Sioux River.

The Great Plains Zoo has over 1,000 animals. You can enjoy seeing such animals as snow monkeys, Amur tigers, and Eastern black rhinos, You can have a ride on the Sandord Carousel or visit the exhibits at the Delbridge Museum of Natual History, The zoo is open all year with different activities each season, You can take a break and relax at The Maasai Market Cafe.

The Big Sioux Recreation Area is located ten miles east of Sioux Falls on the banks of the Big Sioux River, You can enjoy rolling prairies and woodlands, Visitors can hike the woodland trails or even play a round of golf at the 18-hole disc golf course. You can have overnight adventures at any of the 50 campsites or three cabins, There is a place to set up a tent or park an RV. Amenities include restrooms and hot showers.

The U.S.S. South Dakota Battleship Memorial commemorates the widely decorated WW II battleship. Visitors can see the various exhibits and get interpretive information, The grounds are nice to visit with features that have been made to resemble a naval vessel, The memorial is open from May to September.

The Cathedral of Saint Joseph looms over the Sioux Falls skyline, The cathedral attracts many visitors, and self-guided and guided tours are available. There are scheduled times for Mass. Its magnificence will astound you.