Sioux Falls Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Sioux Falls for the first time and wondering what to do? We’ve got you covered! While some of these are seasonal, this list should at least give you a good place to start.

Falls Park

One of the first stops you make in Sioux Falls, if not the first stop, should be to our city’s namesake, Falls Park. Explore the expansive green space while taking in the beauty and awe of the water of the Big Sioux River rushing over the pink Sioux quartzite. Be sure to make your way to the top of the observation tower to see the view of the entire park from five stories up.

If your travel dates fall between May and October, head to the Falls Park Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, just a short distance north of the observation tower. Browse a wide range of vendors selling organic produce, baked goods, art, and much more. Get yourself a coffee and a breakfast sandwich to enjoy while you wander.

SculptureWalk

As the largest annual exhibit of public sculptures in the world, SculptureWalk has consistently been rated as one of the top things to do in Sioux Falls year after year. You will find over 80 sculptures scattered throughout downtown that are on display year-round, with them being replaced by a completely new set of sculptures each spring. Don’t miss seeing the capstone of SculptureWalk, the Arc of Dreams!

Phillips Avenue

Phillips Avenue in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls is the best spot to soak up the energy of this city as you begin your downtown adventure. Phillips Avenue is lined with a long list of fantastic restaurants, shops, cocktail bars, and breweries. Afterwards, check out the other great areas of downtown like the Washington Square area off of Main Street, The Steel District, Cherapa Place, and the Eastbank neighborhood near 8th & Railroad Center.

Levitt at the Falls

Did someone say free concerts? Levitt at the Falls is the place to be on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings during the summer. Offering 50 free concerts throughout the summer along with food trucks and adult beverages onsite, it’s easy to see why this outdoor venue has skyrocketed up everyone’s list of favorites.

CH Patisserie

While you’re in Sioux Falls you absolutely need to try some of the incredible desserts and pastries at CH Patisserie. As a winner of Food Network’s “Top Chef: Just Desserts” and a James Beard Award nominee, owner Chris Hanmer takes immense pride in the quality and presentation of his culinary creations.

Look's Marketplace

For when you need something a little more filling, visit Look’s Marketplace on the south side of the city. Look’s features a restaurant, grocery store, butcher shop, bakery, and brewery all in one location, making it an ideal foodie destination. 

Butterfly House & Aquarium

While it’s a great activity for kids, the Butterfly House & Aquarium is enjoyed by people of all ages. Roam the indoor haven where hundreds of butterflies flutter freely throughout the space. You can also get an up-close view of marine life at the aquarium side where you will find jellyfish, corals, nurse sharks, and stingrays.

Shopping

Sioux Falls has become a fantastic shopping destination over the years, with everything from trendy boutiques to children’s toys. Yet while there are new shops constantly popping up, The Empire Mall and SCHEELS have remained as popular options among both locals and visitors alike. Find some of your favorite and top brands at The Empire Mall, while at SCHEELS you will find apparel, sports equipment, grilling accessories, food options, and even a Ferris wheel.