South Dakota, located in the heart of the American Midwest, is a state rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota and a great place to visit for a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical sites.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, began as a settlement favored for its location along the Big Sioux River, attracting Native American tribes and European settlers in the mid-19th century. The city’s growth was propelled by industries like milling and meatpacking, bolstered further by the arrival of railroads. Today, Sioux Falls thrives as a regional hub for healthcare and finance, blending its historical roots with a dynamic modern economy and cultural offerings.
Both the Dinks and the Family visited during a cross-country road trip and were only in the city a short time.
The Same
Both the Family and the Dinks enjoyed similar experiences in Sioux Falls, including visits to Falls Park, the sculpture walk, and exploring the local food scene.
Falls Park
When we visited Sioux Falls, it seemed almost obligatory to check out the iconic Sioux Falls waterfall, and we’re so glad we did. Falls Park, a sprawling 123-acre park, is home to this breathtaking waterfall, where the Big Sioux River cascades 74 feet over quartzite rock. The sight and sound of the water rushing over the series of jagged rock formations were mesmerizing, and we couldn’t help but stop and admire the view at every vantage point. Whether it was from the viewing platforms or the walking paths, we had plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of the falls from different perspectives.
As we explored the park, we discovered that it offers more than just a beautiful natural setting. The history of Sioux Falls is also intertwined with the park, and we were fascinated by the historical landmarks scattered throughout. One of the standout sites is the Queen Bee Mill, a restored 19th-century flour mill. We had the chance to wander through the mill’s ruins and imagine what life was like during its industrial heyday. Learning about its significance to the local economy and its role in the city’s growth gave us a deeper appreciation for the area’s heritage.
In addition to the historical landmarks, Falls Park is a haven for outdoor activities and relaxation. We took advantage of the scenic walking paths that wind through lush greenery, offering us not only beautiful views of the falls but also a peaceful atmosphere. Whether we were walking at our own pace or simply sitting on a bench, the tranquil environment was the perfect escape. For a more leisurely experience, the picnic areas provided a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, and we noticed plenty of families and friends gathering to enjoy the day together.
SculptureWalk
During our time in Sioux Falls, we took the opportunity to explore SculptureWalk, one of the largest annual public sculpture exhibits in the country. With over 60 sculptures on display throughout downtown Sioux Falls, it was impossible not to be impressed by the diversity and creativity of the artwork. As we strolled through the city, we encountered an eclectic mix of sculptures, each showcasing a unique artistic vision.
The variety of sculptures was astounding—ranging from abstract pieces that sparked our imagination to more realistic depictions that told stories through form and texture. The artwork spanned a wide range of mediums, including bronze, steel, glass, and wood, each piece offering its own charm and appeal. We were especially drawn to how the sculptures interacted with the environment, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape while also standing out as striking works of art.
What made SculptureWalk even more enjoyable was the opportunity to experience it at our own pace. As we wandered through downtown Sioux Falls, we found ourselves stopping frequently to take in the intricate details of the sculptures and to appreciate the creativity that went into each one. The pieces were displayed in various public spaces, including sidewalks, parks, and open areas, which allowed us to immerse ourselves in an outdoor gallery experience.
SculptureWalk wasn’t just an exhibition—it was an interactive experience. The artwork invited engagement and conversation, and we couldn’t help but discuss our favorite pieces with each other and with fellow visitors. Some sculptures encouraged us to get up close, touch, and even pose for pictures, making it feel like we were part of the artwork itself.
It was a wonderful way to experience the artistic side of Sioux Falls, and it really gave us a deeper appreciation for the vibrant cultural scene in the city. SculptureWalk is a must-see for anyone visiting Sioux Falls, offering an enriching experience that blends art, nature, and the charm of downtown.
Local Cuisine
Sioux Falls, South Dakota offers a delicious blend of Midwestern comfort food and unique regional specialties. Whether you’re savoring Native American specialties, enjoying hearty comfort foods, or indulging in sweet treats, South Dakota’s cuisine is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
- Buffalo/Bison: Similar to its neighbor Montana, South Dakota has a rich tradition of bison ranching. Bison meat, lean and flavorful, is often served in various forms, including steaks, burgers, and stews.
- Native American Fare: The state’s Native American heritage is celebrated in its cuisine, with dishes such as Indian fry bread, wojapi (a type of berry sauce), and pemmican (a mixture of dried meat, fat, and berries).
- Chislic: This iconic South Dakota dish is a must-try! Chislic is skewered, cubed lamb or mutton (sometimes beef) that’s deep-fried or grilled. It’s typically served with a side of ranch dressing or malt vinegar for dipping.
- Trout: South Dakota boasts some fantastic freshwater fishing, and trout is a local favorite. You’ll find trout prepared in a variety of ways, such as pan-fried, grilled, or baked.
- Walleye: Another popular freshwater fish, walleye is often served breaded and fried, or prepared in a fish fry. But we enjoyed it sauted.
The DINKs
We had limited time in Sioux Falls but in addition to the above we found this Japanese Garden.
The Terrace Park Japanese Gardens
The Terrace Park Japanese Gardens in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, are a beautiful and tranquil spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Not what you would expect to find in South Dakota but so glad we did. The Japanese Gardens are located within the historic core of Terrace Park, on the eastern side of Covell Lake. The gardens were constructed in the late 1920s by caretaker Joe Maddox, who had studied landscape design. They feature exotic flowers, entrance arbors, trees, pagodas, and lanterns, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. The design incorporates elements of traditional Japanese gardens, with rocks, gravel, and water features creating a sense of harmony and balance. Many of the plants and trees are native to Japan, while others are well-suited to the South Dakota climate.
The Family
We visited Sioux Falls as part of a cross-country road trip so we didn’t have a ton of time in any one place. Get the full details on this portion of our trip at AffordableFamilyTravel.com.
More on South Dakota
Be sure to check out our blog on Things to Do: Western South Dakota Including Badlands, Custer State Park & Mount Rushmore
Summary
During our brief visit to Sioux Falls, we discovered its charm through key attractions like Falls Park and SculptureWalk, which showcased the city’s natural beauty and artistic spirit. Both the DINKs and the Family made sure to indulge in local cuisine, savoring flavors unique to the region. The DINKs added a touch of tranquility to their experience with a visit to the Terrace Park Japanese Gardens, enhancing their exploration of this vibrant city. Although our time was limited, Sioux Falls left a lasting impression with its blend of natural landscapes, artistic endeavors, and culinary delights, making it a memorable stop on our journey.
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