7 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is an ideal destination for traveling families due to the abundance of attractions and activities that are great for kids. Here are seven ideas that will keep your kids smiling from ear to ear.

Say Hi to Your Favorite Animals

The Great Plains Zoo is home to hundreds of friendly faces from around the world like lions, rhinos, penguins, bears, and so many more. Let the kids feed the goats in the farm area and then run wild at the splash pad. 

If your kids are fans of lizards, snakes, and turtles then you will certainly want to add a stop at the Reptile Adventure Zoo to your itinerary. See a wide range of reptilian species from across the globe including chameleons, bearded dragons, pythons, and more. 

Hands-On Science

The Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion is the perfect place for curious kids who are always asking questions and wanting to learn. There are three floors full of over 100 interactive science exhibits and play spaces to learn about things such as space, weather, and dinosaurs. There is even an onsite café and ice cream shop to fuel up before, during, or after your exploration.

South Dakota's Largest Playground

Since its opening in 2025, Jacobson Plaza in Downtown Sioux Falls has been a huge hit for families. Spanning over 26,000 square feet, this all-inclusive, accessible space is the largest playground in the state. You can also roller skate on the ribbon or go ice skating during the winter months.

Paradise for Fun

Thunder Road is a true one-stop-shop when it comes to entertainment. Push the pedal to the metal on the go-kart as you zip around the track, putt your way to a top score on the mini golf course, and soar high with Euro Bungy. But that’s not all! Head indoors for more fun where there’s Hyper Bowling, arcade games, laser tag, virtual reality, and more.

Make a Splash

Wild Water West Waterpark is an iconic summer destination in Sioux Falls. With multiple large slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, this is one you won’t want to skip. Like Wild Water West, Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center also has a lazy river and a tube slide for those that are looking for a water park experience on a smaller scale and close to Downtown Sioux Falls. Visiting during the winter? The Midco Aquatic Center is the perfect escape from the cold weather.

Try an Outdoor Activity

For the nature-loving kids who enjoy hands-on experiences, plan a visit to the Outdoor Campus. Throughout the year the knowledgeable staff at the Outdoor Campus offer various classes to try things like kayaking, fishing, archery, and more. Best of all, it’s free!

Jump Around

Let the kids burn off some energy at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. As a facility lined with trampolines, you can jump around freely, play on the air court, compete against others in a game of dodgeball, or plunge into a giant foam pit. The sky is the limit here when it comes to fun.