9 Ideas for a Winter Weekend in Sioux Falls

Don’t just tolerate winter—celebrate it! There are so many things to love during the winter season, from stunning outdoor scenes to delicious seasonal flavors, here are nine ideas for things to do during your winter weekend in Sioux Falls.

Visit a Local Coffee Shop

Stay warm as you sip on a tasty latte, cappuccino, espresso, or whatever your go-to coffee order is. With local coffee shops spread across the city, you’ll always be just a few minutes away from your favorite comfort drink.

Butterfly House & Aquarium

Walk into the sanctuary that is the Butterfly House & Aquarium. Get a dose of summer weather inside the Butterfly House where you will see hundreds of beautiful butterflies from around the world roaming freely throughout. Rent a butterfly feeder when you arrive to attract the butterflies right to your hand. Be sure to also see the marine life in the aquarium, including rays, seahorses, coral reefs, and many other tropical fish.

Art Galleries & Exhibits

There’s no shortage of arts in Sioux Falls. Explore rotating art galleries and exhibits at places like the Washington Pavilion which has housed award-winning and national exhibitions, or at Rehfeld’s Modern Fine Art & Framing and Eastbank Art Gallery where you will find works of local artists that can be purchased.

Indoor Attractions at Thunder Road

While Thunder Road got its reputation as a family fun destination because of its go-carts and mini golf, it has quickly become a winter favorite among locals because of its indoor attractions. Take your pick of laser tag, bowling, virtual reality, bumper cars, 7D theater, or arcade games. As soon as you enter through the doors at Thunder Road it will be easy to see how you could spend hours there competing with your family and friends to see who can set the highest score.

Hit the Slopes

Feel the thrill as you race down across the snow at Great Bear. Strap on the snowboard and skis and get ready for fun. Take the easy and relaxing route or give yourself a challenge on some of the more advanced trails. Snowboard and ski rentals are available.

If you’re looking for something the kids will enjoy snow tubing is your answer! Gliding across the snow on the large tubes is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

South Dakota Symphony Orchestra

Take in the harmonious sounds of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra. This talented group of performers plays everything from Beethoven classics to seasonal favorites. With the triumphant music flowing through the Mary W. Sommervold Hall at the Washington Pavilion, there’s not a bad seat in the house.

Dine Out at Grille 26

Enjoy a comfort dish at Grille 26, a neighborhood restaurant that has a strong reputation for its quality and consistency. While there are always staples on the menu like the Detroit pizza or steak and gorgonzola penne, pay particular attention to the seasonal features menu which is full of flavorful entrees that are a perfect pair with winter.

Treat Yourself to Dessert

Satisfy your sweet tooth craving with crème brûlée or chocolate cake at Crawford’s for an after-dinner treat. The taste of these delectable desserts in this swanky downtown restaurant will have you feeling on cloud nine.

Winter Wonderland

Experience the magic and joy of Winter Wonderland at Falls Park from mid-November to early January each year. Each night, see the city’s namesake decked out with hundreds of thousands of holiday lights. Best of all, the park is free to enter!