17 Things To Do in Sioux Falls This Weekend for Adults

Published April 28, 2025

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Sioux Falls is among the most famous cities in South Dakota State that provides various options for enjoyment.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate its stunning gardens and parks, while its unusual snacks and gourmet dining will delight food enthusiasts.

Are you prepared to begin your tour of this top South Dakota destination?

Discover 18 things to explore in Sioux Falls this weekend for adults!

1. Carnaval Restaurant

Carnaval stands as a restaurant inspired by Brazilian culture that allows you to explore the globe without departing from South Dakota.

Alongside its too menu, it additionally provides an energetic social ambiance that renders it ideal for romantic evenings, thus it is one of Sioux Falls's top romantic activities for couples.

A portion of its celebratory ambiance stems from its vividly colored walls and internationally-influenced art pieces.

Then, another aspect is its live music frequently performed by local musicians along with its seating options both indoors and outdoors.

However, a very standout aspect of this restaurant is its cuisine.

It offers slow-roasted meats prepared to perfection together with a variety of Brazilian seasonings and sauces.

You’ll be savoring every bite while you’re dancing to the tunes or giggling with your companion from across your table.

So, make a reservation here to enjoy the genuine culture of South America located at Sioux Falls's heart.

2. Arrowhead Park

Looking at the stars is among South Dakota's top activities.

Given that a significant portion of this land remains uncommercialized and undeveloped, it remains untouched by light pollutions, and dazzling star layers can be observed alongside sporadic planets or meteor showers.

You can stargaze inside Sioux Falls, and an ideal location to accomplish this is Arrowhead Park.

Although it remains within the city's boundaries, it's sufficiently distant from downtown where you can look up at the sky and observe what is beyond.

Numerous regional astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts have been recognized to employ it for their center of operation.

This park is likewise a delight during the day with stunning paths to keep track of and nearby features such as an old-fashioned, historic barn.

However, this park is most enjoyable when visited at nighttime.

It ranks among Sioux Falls's best spots for stargazing, so prepare to tally the constellations and get your binoculars.

3. Ghost Town

This Ghost Town inhabited by animatronics is one of Sioux Falls's most distinctive activities.

It’s a "ghost town" with a theme of the Wild West, and it's populated with robotic animatronics.

Quirky hardly captures the essence of Buffalo Ridge's Ghost Town.

It was constructed in the ‘60s as a reproduction of the 1800s lifestyle.

Numerous structures here possess a clearly dilapidated appearance featuring dusty, soiled, and gritty features extending from flaking paint to corroded steps and blinds.

Whether you're observing bizarre taxidermied creatures or an assortment of worn and weathered mannequins positioned like cowboys, you'll feel the urge to take photos of everything here simply to demonstrate that it truly exists.

Certain particularly horrific ones may even linger in your nightmares, however, you shouldn't worry about that.

It’s secure for guests of every age group who can value what it aims to convey.

In fact, it’s difficult to surpass this place as an unusual roadside attraction.

So, if you’re traveling via South Dakota, and seeking unforgettable pauses en route, slow down for this unusual location.

4. Sioux Falls Downtown

This place, packed with tourist destinations, is a key feature of Sioux Falls, to the extent that you might effortlessly devote your whole holiday exploring the stores, coffee shops, eateries, galleries, and theaters here spanning several square blocks.

Also, if you feel hungry, you can savor a meal at places ranging from laid-back eateries to elegant restaurants and pastry shops.

Then, if you are feeling like experiencing some culture, attend a ballet, live theater performance, or orchestra.

Also, if you would like to shop until you can’t anymore, go ahead and shop at nail salons, boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, and gift shops.

Additional activities here consist of brewery visits, trolley excursions, museums, and seminars.

Then, once you’ve finished enjoying yourself, rest at any of the numerous hotels around the region.

Among all the Sioux Falls activities to enjoy, taking a walk downtown remains one that must not be overlooked.

If you have time just for a brief journey, ensure that you make it a priority.

5. Jazz Fest

Are you aware that the city of Sioux Falls hosts a vibrant jazz scene?

In April, they celebrate the Jazz Appreciation through jazz festivals, jazz crawls, and jazz performances, and they additionally devote a weekend each summer to Jazz Fest, an enjoyable and family-amiable homage to the genre.

Attendees at JazzFest can experience various stages featuring both national and local talent.

Also, there's an abundance of food and beverages to accompany the tunes, and numerous people even establish booths to sell merchandise related to jazz.

This entire event is arranged by Sioux Falls's Jazz & Blues Society, and they are additionally the minds responsible for it.

So, if you appreciate jazz, think about coming in April in order to experience numerous music camps, performances, and workshops too.

6. Butterfly House & Aquarium

This place stands out as one of Sioux Falls's most distinctive locations to explore.

It's a mix of zoo, sanctuary, and tourist spot, and is very enjoyable.

Lots of butterflies reside in their butterfly house here, and guests can stroll among them just like figures in a storybook.

The species encompass not only the South Dakota indigenous ones but also globally.

Also, on the complex's opposite side lies a marine cove and aquarium where marine life prevails.

Here, you can observe stingrays and sharks swim gracefully through the waves, and there are also tidal pools where one can feel sea stars, echinoids, and corals.

So, if you're searching for fun activities to enjoy in Sioux Falls this weekend, think about a getaway to this place.

It’s accessible daily, meaning its doors remain consistently prepared to welcome new visitors who have a sense of adventure and a love for animals.

7. Great Bear SkiValley

Skiing is among Sioux Falls's best activities to enjoy, and at this place, you can enjoy a fantastic experience both off and on the slopes.

You're free to begin by leasing equipment and scheduling a lesson together with the personnel if you have no prior experience.

Then, once you feel confident on your ski, you can challenge yourself on over a dozen paths, a few of which can only be reached by a journey on a ride to exhilarating altitudes.

Also, crosscountry skiing is another choice for those with more experience.

Additional activities available at this park are snowboarding and tubing, so when you feel prepared to try an indy or an ollie, why not do that at this terrain park?

There is nothing comparable to the sensation of gliding down the inclines with the breeze in your hairs and the surroundings fading at the edge of your gaze.

So, go ahead and purchase tickets for this stunning place, and you might find yourself embarking on this winter escapade this weekend.

8. SculptureWalk

If you seek a Sioux Falls spot that won't break the bank, think about taking a walk around SculptureWalk.

It provides an enjoyable, engaging experience rich with creativity, and being a free venture, it will not cost you anything.

Here, there isn't a defined route for your walk, rather, you simply roam the downtown district and constantly search for creations made of metal, wood, glass, and stone that vary from butterflies and avian species to horticultural shapes and spaces.

You can then conclude your tour by visiting the Arc ofDreams, an arching structure symbolizing the entrepreneurial spirit of the city and spanning the river.

So, if you're searching for free activities to enjoy during your vacation, check out the SculptureWalk.

It is a standout feature not just for Sioux Falls City but for South Dakota as a whole.

9. Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum

Home to over 1000 animals, this place is an excellent place to visit for individuals who have a love for animals.

Here, you can observe a lot of animals from stunning, large giraffes to snow leopards, and you will additionally have the opportunity to observe uncommon and threatened species.

Navigating this zoo is simple and there's also a red vibrant train that'll guide you through the displays.

Also, additional activities and attractions available at this zoo include carousels, dining options, booths, pet feeding sessions, conversations with zookeepers, and a “zoo movie theater” where children can view their reflections on a large display with different creatures.

Enthusiasts of animals will definitely appreciate the zoo.

This is not just any of the top destinations for observing wildlife in close proximity, it also offers many lessons about zoology, geology, and various other fields of science.

It's a highly informative place that will educate your kids while they enjoy themselves.

10. Candy Cloud

This factory began as a little store in the city center of Sioux Falls, featuring just one candy cotton machine.

However, currently, it has transformed into a spectrum of tastes and colors, numerous of these coming as exceptionally imaginative delights.

For instance, their “magical taco” consists of a candy shell together with ice cream scoops within.

Then, their "jumbo cake" features six vibrant layers of cotton candy piled atop one another resembling the unicorn gradient.

Also, standard fluff can be found in plastic containers and bags here, along with possible flavor pairings that encompass a range from bubblegum and banana to piña colada and rosy vanilla.

I know that you may not have added any cotton candy spots to your itinerary list, however, at this factory, you will have so much fun.

It will be an enjoyable, vibrant, and completely unforgettable experience that'll provide you with an excellent story to share about the city of Sioux Falls.

11. Museum of Visual Materials

When you seek awesome sights to explore, nothing surpasses this museum.

The enjoyable, family-oriented attraction is brimming with various forms of artwork that will have you beam with wonder during your time exploring Sioux Falls.

Also, this museum is not exclusively focused on the visual, notwithstanding its title.

It engages all 5 senses through a diverse array of crafts and arts.

You and your children can feel, smell, press, prod, shade, and construct with various items ranging from dolls and blocks to glitter adhesive and construction paper.

This museum is likewise a favored location for events and meetings, thus if you are coordinating a convention, organizing a wedding, or planning a reunion, this venue is worth considering.

So, to enjoy time with all family members, include this museum in your activities to explore in and around Sioux Falls.

12. Big Sioux Recreation Area

This is among the most incredible locations to take a trip in the whole northern USA.

It is located directly on Big Sioux River's shores, and it provides all varieties of outdoor activities such as camping, kayaking, trekking, cycling, and snowmobiling.

Here, you can rest beneath the stars, you can ride horses across the meadows, and you can also take archery classes or hire gear for golfing.

That being said, you don't need to be one of the adrenaline seekers to appreciate this recreation area.

It’s a lovely spot, and it’s completely feasible to simply rent cabins in the forest and appreciate nature according to your preferences.

So, if you're seeking excitement in Sioux Falls, this place can certainly supply them.

From tracking wildlife in the woods to paddling along the river, you will experience a lifetime holiday at this getaway in Sioux Falls.

13. Bike Trails of Sioux Falls

Featuring stunning gardens, parks, and waterfalls, exploring the bike trails is among Sioux Falls's most favored activities.

Numerous individuals opt to discover here on foot or even drive, yet another more energetic choice is renting a bicycle and exploring the biking paths.

Spanning nearly 30 miles altogether, the cycling paths consist of a succession of systematic, skilled routes that circle the whole city.

Numerous of the trails meander through the 3178 acres comprising Sioux Falls's park network, and others are managed by boutiques, coffee shops, shopping centers, and galleries.

You can enter the trails at various locations; notable access points consist of key tourist sites such as Falls Park.

Hiking, running, and walking dogs are also permitted on the bike trails, therefore you don't need to be an expert cyclist to benefit from them.

Taking all these into account, these bike trails definitely rank among the optimal methods to explore the city.

You will observe beautiful attractions, breathe in fresh air, and have the opportunity to veer off the trails to pursue fleeting whims.

14. Strawbale Winery

Although situated just beyond Sioux Falls boundaries in Renner City, South Dakota, this winery is located within a short drive from the downtown area.

It is a winery constructed using straw - the structure was constructed and insulated using compressed straw panels.

Even the wood flooring and framing have been highlighted with stylishly straw rustic art.

Even, outside, the winery appears more classic, it resembles something directly from Napa Valley.

Nonetheless, its aesthetic remains charming and quirky.

From the dark slate chalkboard list to the vibrant lawn seats utilized for outdoor gatherings, it is a homey, family-operated type of business.

Anybody can go to an upscale winery, but Strawbale Winery provides a unique and unforgettable adventure with its charming, rural appeal.

So, whether you’re searching for romantic activities or enjoyable, unique selfies that'll garner numerous social media likes, this location will check off the boxes.

15. Falls Park

The city of Sioux Falls derives its name from a waterfalls chain that cascades over stone compositions.

Releasing around 7,400 water gallons each second, they’re a few of the finest locations to savor the untamed grandeur and unrefined strength of the natural scenery of South Dakota.

These waterfalls are Falls Park's primary draw, and they are observable from various vantage points, such as a 5-story structure that observes the peak of the flowing waters.

Paths for biking and walking are available here for those who wish to enjoy near enough to sense the mist on their faces.

Also, additional attractions within the park include a deserted mill from late 1800s and a stunning quartzite museum.

There’s even a cafe located in the remains of an ancient light and electric utility facility.

So, go ahead and explore Falls Park to enjoy stunning vistas that have motivated tourists since its initial establishment in 1856.

16. Wild WaterWest Waterpark

When considering Sioux Falls activities, you likely don't consider the water.

However, you can enjoy some exciting summer activities when you explore this waterpark.

This amusement park features rides, go-karts, games, and much more continuous entertainment for guests of every age.

Toddlers can play in the infant pools; bigger children can climb on water towers and slides; and adolescents can visit the bump boats or batting cages.

Also, there are spots here for parents to enjoy a drink, even a distinctive swimup bar situated next to their lazy river.

In fact, this waterpark ranks among the top 10 spots not only for Sioux Falls City but South Dakota as a whole.

So, whether you’re into games, drinks, fun activities, rides, or simply thorough family enjoyment, it is the spot to dive in.

17. Denny Sanford Center

Are you a fan of fairs, concerts, festivals, and other major events?

If that's the case, you will likely be referred to this place at a certain moment.

It is South Dakota's biggest indoor facility and is situated directly in Sioux Falls Center.

Numerous Sioux Falls functions take place at this place, which is additionally linked to Sioux Falls's Convention Center along with Sioux Falls's Arena.

Smaller events often occur at alternative locations, whereas larger events take place at this venue, capable of accommodating an impressive 12000 spectators.

Regarding what takes place at this place, the schedule is quite active and diverse.

There is everything from after-dark shows by Slipknot to Kidz Bop sing-alongs.

Also, athletics are likewise favored here as well - basketball matches, indoor soccer championships, hockey competitions, and even one or two bull-riding events have occurred here.

In fact, numerous attractions in Sioux Falls will lead you to this center and the venues around it.