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Originally Posted On: https://www.movinginsiouxfalls.com/blog/2022/07/06/getting-to-know-the-area-9-things-to-do-in-sioux-falls

 

As of the 2020 census, The Sioux Falls, South Dakota metropolitan area has a population of under 277,000. Yet, remarkably the region welcomed over 1.6 million visitors through its borders in 2021. With the global pandemic slowly ending, those numbers look set to grow.

It might seem a shock that so many people visit this small city every year. But with so many attractions and things to do in Sioux Falls, it’s no surprise. From children to grandparents and everyone in between, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

If you’re planning to move to the area, you’ll want to feel at home as soon as possible. Luckily, you came to the right place.

So sit back, relax and get ready to discover the best fun things to do in Sioux Falls!

1. Explore Good Earth State Park

Mount Rushmore State is known for its natural beauty. And a visit to Good Earth State Park lives up to that reputation.

This outdoor paradise is only 10 miles southeast of the downtown area and takes just 20 minutes to reach by car. The 650 acres of land are home to woodlands, historical sites, flowing rivers, and much more.

There are numerous activities to keep you entertained while you’re here. If you like relaxing outdoors, you’ll enjoy fishing and wildlife watching. Thrill-seeking might appreciate other activities such as off-roading, hunting, and swimming.

During the winter, the park turns into a winter wonderland. That allows you to join in on seasonal activities here. The most popular are snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

2. Admire Falls Park

No trip to Sioux Falls is complete without taking a journey through Falls Park.

The unique park is only a 10-minute walk from downtown Sioux Falls. But while you’re here, you feel like you’re in the wilderness.

Around 7,400 gallons of water flow through the park every second. You can watch and listen to the gushing water from several observation decks. One of them is a cafe where you can relax and take in your daily caffeine fix.

Once you recharge, you can rent a bike and cycle the 19-mile loop of this urban oasis. Or take a stroll with friends or family.

3. Take in the Vibrant Downtown Area

The Sioux Falls downtown area is one of the most vibrant places across the state.

It doesn’t possess the glitz and glamour of the New York skyline. But it does have city charm, historical buildings, and an upbeat atmosphere. Something that every hometown should have.

The streets are lined with independent stores and cozy bars and restaurants. Perfect for when you want a cool drink on a warm day or to take shelter from the rain in winter.

If you don’t like sitting around, there are still plenty of theatres and museums you can explore.

4. Take a Journey Through Arrowhead Park

Arrowhead Park got its name from an arrowhead-shaped granite quarry, one of three in the park. Due to Sioux Falls weather, you will enjoy a visit at any time of the year.

In July, daily temperatures are around 84°F.

It’s a perfect time for picnics at one of the many tables and benches dotted around the park.

January is the coldest month when temperatures have a daily low of only 10°F.

The park comes alive with bright lights and vibrant colors to help you get in the festive spirit!

Don’t forget to charge your camera as you’ll be taking plenty of landscape photos here!

5. Experience the Butterfly House and Aquarium

This non-profit establishment is the only public saltwater aquarium in South Dakota. It’s a perfect day out for any nature or animal lovers.

You can withness 800 free-flying tropical butterflies throughout the butterfly house. The house is surrounded by thick green trees and plants where you’ll find the flying insects basking in the sunshine.

Inside the 10,000 gallons of the aquarium, you can snap photos of the colorful coral reefs and the sea life. You will also learn interesting facts such as the widest point of the Pacific is wider than the moon!

6. Party at the Jazz Festival

Jazz Fest is a music festival in Sioux Falls. People come from across the nation to party in the bars and streets to the sound of jazz.

For a whole weekend in the summer, the festival shows off the best local and international jazz stars.

Even if you don’t like the music genre, you should join in with the fun and laughter around town.

7. Visit the Old Courthouse Museum

A visit to The Old Courthouse Museum will make you feel closer to your new community.

The museum is open seven days a week. Times vary throughout the week, but you can find more information here.

The museum is housed in a restored 19th-century building. Inside, you can learn about the history of the city over three floors of exhibits. And admire the fantastic murals, tiled fireplaces, and stained glass windows.

The best part about visiting the museum is its free entry!

8. Venture Through the Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum of Natural History

If you like getting your money’s worth, you’ll enjoy The Great Plains Zoo & Museum of Natural History. One ticket covers the entry fee for two fascinating attractions.

The zoo opened to the public in June 1963 but has grown since then. Today, it’s home to over 1,000 animals, 137 species, and 45 acres of land. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, with the zoo receiving around 240,000 annual visitors.

The natural museum section has 150 mounted animals and live animal exhibits. If you decide to buy a home in Sioux Falls, you can save tons of cash by purchasing a membership if you plan to visit often.

9. Have a Splash at Wild Water West Waterpark

If you want an action-packed day with friends, look no further than Wild Water West Waterpark. The Local Best named it the number one place in Sioux Falls.

During the hot South Dakota summers, you can make this your base for relaxing and cooling off.

Of course, there are plenty of swimming pools and water slides here. But you can also enjoy activities like go-karting, paintballing, and mini-golf.

The park will make you feel like a child again!

Enjoy the Best Things to Do in Sioux Falls

By now, we hope you know how exciting it can be to live here. It doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a visitor. There are endless fun things to do in Sioux Falls.

Now you know the best of what Sioux Falls has to offer. So, all that’s left is to start searching for your dream home!

To help kickstart your house hunt, contact us today, and we’ll be more than happy to help you find the right property