5 Free Things To Do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
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A list of free things to do in the eastern South Dakotan gateway city.
Free Things to Do in Sioux Falls: (Jump To)
Falls Park
Map: Google Maps
The namesake Sioux Falls should be the obvious first stop on your visit. Falls Park includes paved trails, bridges, and overlooks that give you the chance to see the falls from every possible angle.
The Falls Park Visitor Information Center includes a well-stocked gift shop and a five-story observation tower for yet another view of the falls under the backdrop of the modest Sioux Falls skyline.
As you explore the park’s walkways you’ll encounter sculptures, statues, and historical markers with information about the fall’s rich history. You’ll also see the standing brick wall ruins of a water mill that was destroyed by fire in the 1950s.
Old Courthouse Museum
Map: Google Maps
A real gem of a free museum, the Old Courthouse Museum (as the name would suggest) is housed in a 19th Century Courthouse. Inside you’ll find three floors of exhibits that will enhance your understanding of the region.
The building itself is worthy of a visit for art and architecture lovers. The massive staircase and numerous restored painted murals engender a grander time for the city. From the outside, you can admire the clock tower.
Statue of David
Map: Google Maps
If you can’t make it to Florence, stop by Fawick Park. Here, quite strangely, you’ll find a replica of David, Michelangelo’s masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture.
In the summer, I would imagine the park is also a lovely place to relax along the Sioux River.
Zandbroz Variety
Map: Google Maps
Upon entry, Zandbroz Variety is a very cool bookstore with various gifts and paper goods. You can easily get lost among the well-curated offerings. When you reach the far end of the store look for an arched entrance to the antique section of the store. Here you’ll find some spectacular surprises. This area is filled with furniture pieces, knickknacks, vintage games, posters, and pop art. The prices are surprisingly reasonable, even if you’re just not sure where you would put something so random and cool once you got it home.
City Walk
Map: Walk Sioux Falls
Probably the best way to see all of the above attractions, and to get a full feel for the city of Sioux Falls is to take the Walk Sioux Falls self-guided tour. Park for free at Falls Park and take the approximately 2.5 miles (4km) walk around the city.
In addition to the above-listed stops the walk will follow the Sioux River giving you the chance to enjoy the well-kept riverwalk. The Arc of Dreams will greet you at the halfway point in the river. The arc spans the river. It’s a relatively new landmark in the city created by a South Dakotan artist.
You’ll also have the chance to view other important landmarks in the city including the State Theatre and the Washington Pavilion. As you walk along Phillips Avenue you’ll find many interesting shops and plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.
Free Things to Do in Sioux Falls, SD:
Falls Park/Sioux Falls
Old Courthouse Museum
Statue of David
Zandbroz Variety
Walk Sioux Falls - self-guided tour
