The Visitor Beat
Welcome to The Visitor Beat, the monthly newsletter of Experience Sioux Falls. Stay up-to-date on what's going on locally in the travel industry, as well as what's trending nationally.
Request access to view an interactive dashboard of Sioux Falls visitor statistics.
Heritage Clubs International Conference & FAM Tour
Experience Sioux Falls Sales Manager, Jackie Wentworth, recently attended the Heritage Clubs International Annual Conference in Sioux City, IA where she met with bank travel planners just days after hosting a group of these travel planners in Sioux Falls for a familiarization (FAM) tour. Bank travel planners organize group travel packages for the loyalty members of a particular bank.
While in Sioux Falls the group toured attractions like the McCrossan Boys Ranch Robert L. Nielsen Visitor Center, Washington Pavilion, Falls Overlook Café, and more.
Due to the group’s satisfaction of their time in Sioux Falls, during the annual conference in Sioux City Wentworth saw a high level of interest in one-on-one appointments to learn more about including Sioux Falls in packaged itineraries.
Meet the Team Series
In this monthly series you’ll get to know a little about everyone that makes up the Experience Sioux Falls (ESF) team. This month, meet Jay Kaltenbach!
Jay Kaltenbach
Title: Sales Manager
Has worked for ESF for: 15 years
- What do you enjoy most about your career?
My career allows me to meet so many people, so I think interacting with people and hearing about their organizations is what I enjoy most. Being able to build one-on-one relationships with industry partners and clients around the country is fulfilling. - What does a typical Saturday look like for you?
I usually start my day by going to the gym for a workout, followed by running any errands that I need to do. The second half of my day is spent with family and friends and going out for dinner. - What's your favorite restaurant in Sioux Falls?
One of my absolute favorites is T.C.’s Referee. While I think everything on their menu is great, I really enjoy the steak tips. - What's one of your favorite places to visit in Sioux Falls?
I love spending time at McKennan Park. The park is always beautifully maintained, making it the perfect spot for a walk or just to sit down and relax.
South Dakota Tourism Secretary Appointed to U.S. Travel Association Executive Board
Travel South Dakota recently announced Secretary of Tourism, Jim Hagen, has been appointed to serve on the executive board for the U.S. Travel Association.
The U.S. Travel Association advocates for the $2.8 trillion travel industry, promoting policies and initiatives that drive tourism growth and economic impact across the U.S. As a board member, Hagen will contribute to advancing the association’s mission to shape, support, and advocate for the future of travel.
“Secretary Hagen has elevated South Dakota’s tourism industry to new heights with his visionary leadership and strategic expertise,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “We are proud to have him shaping the future of national travel and representing South Dakota and the broader western region in this prestigious role.”
AVCA First Serve Coming to Sioux Falls
The Sanford Sports Complex recently announced the 2025 AVCA First Serve will include a stop in Sioux Falls at the Sanford Pentagon on August 25. The AVCA First Serve will feature 10 DI women’s volleyball teams, with matches in both Lincoln, NE and Sioux Falls. Playing at the Sanford Pentagon will be Minnesota vs Texas A&M and last year’s NCAA Volleyball Champion, Penn State, vs Kansas.
Stockyards Ag Experience Expansion
In case you missed it, the Stockyards Ag Experience unveiled new artist renderings of its expansion plans during its recent annual fundraiser. As the organization pushes forward in fundraising, these new renderings will help potential donors have a better understanding of the end goal, which is to have a new building offering year-round exhibits and educational programming, along with a new outdoor plaza that will offer interactive gardening and nature experiences.
