Why go
Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakotas and for many travelers forms the eastern starting point or end point of a round trip through the state. Although it is often perceived as a stopover, the city surprises with a successful mix of nature, modern architecture, lively gastronomy and an attractive waterfront promenade.
At the heart of the city are the impressive waterfalls of the Big Sioux River, which plunge over pink Sioux Quarzit in the middle of the city centre. There are also numerous parks, museums, bike paths and a charming downtown with restaurants, breweries and small boutiques.
If you want to spend a relaxing day before or after the National Parks, Sioux Falls is the perfect place to complete your trip through South Dakota.
At a glance
Category | Information
Inhabitants | approx. 220-000
Ideal stay | 1 day
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gastronomy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
If Park
Falls Park is the city's landmark. The Big Sioux River falls here in several cascades over the characteristic pink quartzite and forms an impressive natural spectacle.
Wooden bridges, bridges and viewing terraces allow different perspectives on the waterfalls.
Photo Tip
Shortly after sunrise, the park is often still in fog. Especially in autumn, atmospheric photos are produced here.
If Park Observation Tower
The former mill tower serves as a viewing point today.
From above you have a magnificent view over the waterfalls and the skyline of Sioux Falls.
SculptureWalk Downtown
Every year, the city centre transforms into an outdoor gallery with over 80 changing sculptures by international artists.
A walk through downtown becomes a varied discovery tour.
Insider tip
No exhibition is like the other. Even if you have already visited Sioux Falls, you will discover new artworks every year.
Old Courthouse Museum
The historic courthouse from the 19th century is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
Inside, exhibitions tell the story of South Dakota and the early settlers.
Admission is free of charge.
Great Plains Zoo
A modern zoo with over 1,000 animals and a focus on species of the North American prairie.
Ideal for families with children.
Walk along the Big Sioux River
Several well-developed paths connect Falls Park with the city centre and other parks.
Ideal for a leisurely walk or bike tour.
Explore Downtown
The city center offers:
Small boutiques
Galleries
Breweries
Cafés
local shops
Especially in the evening there is a relaxed atmosphere.
Cycling
The more than 45 km long Sioux Falls Bike Trail System runs around the city once and connects parks, river banks and sights.
Shopping
Sioux Falls offers numerous possibilities for shopping.
Especially recommended are:
The Empire Mall – largest shopping mall in South Dakotas
Downtown Boutiques
local art and gift shops
Outdoor shops
If you want to fill up your supplies for the road trip, there are also large supermarkets and camping shops.
Phillips Avenue Diner
A classic American diner with nostalgic ambience.
Especially popular:
Pancakes
Burger
Milkshakes
Breakfast
Minervas Restaurant
One of the city's most traditional restaurants.
Known for:
Steaks
Fish dishes
Regional specialities
Fernson Downtown
Popular brewery with modern cuisine.
Ideal for:
Craft Beer
Burger
Pizza
relaxed evening mood
Tower Campground
One of the city's most popular RV parks.
Benefits:
Full Hook-up
Large pull-through pitches
good connection to the Interstate
Ideal for Fifth Wheels.
Sioux Falls KOA Journey
Modern campsite with:
Pool
Washing possibilities
Full Hook-up
Spacious pitches
Perfect for a stopover.
Yogi Bear-Jellystone Park Camp Resort
Especially popular with families.
Many leisure activities for children.
RV tip
Sioux Falls is ideal for shopping and providing before or after a longer trip. Use the stay to fill up food, camping accessories and fuel.
Photo Tip
The waterfalls in Falls Park are atmospherically illuminated in the evening. Especially during the blue hour impressive photos are produced.
Insider tip
Visits Falls Park both during the day and after dark. The lighting gives the waterfalls a completely different atmosphere.
Avoid frequent errors
Plan enough time for downtown – many visitors only see Falls Park and then continue.
In summer, Falls Park can be well visited during the day. Early in the morning or towards evening it is much quieter.
Parking spaces for large campers are available, but limited in the city center.
If you start or finish your trip here, a final purchase is worthwhile as the selection is much larger than in the smaller places of Black Hills.
Our recommendation
Sioux Falls is far more than just a stopover along the Interstate. The combination of impressive waterfalls, well-kept parks, lively downtown and excellent infrastructure makes the city an ideal place to enjoy some urban life after several days in nature.