During our South Dakota road trip, we made a brief but unforgettable one-hour stop at Falls Park in Sioux Falls, a perfect destination for families traveling with kids. This beautiful park, centered around the cascading waterfalls of the Big Sioux River, was part of our journey east toward Wisconsin to visit family. We thought Sioux Falls was a great overnight stop, and we visited Falls Park with kids in the morning before continuing on our road trip. With its rich history, stunning views, and family-friendly activities, Falls Park offered the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for our family. Here’s what made our visit so special.
A Historical Landmark
Falls Park has been a significant site for centuries. The falls themselves have been a natural gathering place, first for Native American tribes and later for settlers drawn by the promise of water power and industry. Remnants of the city’s industrial past can still be seen around the park, including the ruins of the Queen Bee Mill, a historic flour mill that once symbolized the city’s aspirations. Walking through the park, it’s easy to feel connected to the rich history of Sioux Falls and the people who built their lives around this natural wonder.
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Falls Park Location
Falls Park
131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Exploring the Pathways and Bridges
The park’s well-maintained walkways and bridges offer some of the best vantage points for viewing the falls. We started with a leisurely stroll along the paths, stopping at various spots to take in the sights and sounds of the rushing water. The bridges are especially picturesque, providing both close-up and panoramic views of the falls. Each turn of the path seemed to offer a new perspective, making the short walk feel like a true adventure.
Falls Park with Kids
Our kids were thrilled to explore the rugged pink quartzite rocks that line the river. Scrambling over these formations gave them a sense of freedom and adventure while allowing us to appreciate the raw beauty of the area. They loved getting as close as safely possible to the water and watching the falls cascade over the rocks. It was the perfect balance of fun and discovery for little ones with endless energy.
The Observation Tower
A highlight of our visit was climbing the observation tower. This elevated spot offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of the falls, the river, and the surrounding park. From up here, we could fully appreciate the scale and beauty of Falls Park. The kids enjoyed pointing out the spots they had just explored on the ground, and it was a great moment to pause and soak in the scenery.
Why Falls Park With Kids is Worth the Stop
Even with just an hour to spare, Falls Park left a lasting impression on our family. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, take in some natural beauty, and enjoy a bit of local history. Whether you’re on a long road trip or just passing through Sioux Falls, this park is a destination worth making time for.
Falls Park is free to visit and conveniently located near downtown Sioux Falls, making it an easy and rewarding stop for families and travelers of all ages. For us, it was a brief but meaningful pause on our journey, a chance to connect with nature and history before continuing east to Wisconsin to visit family. If you’re planning a trip through South Dakota, don’t miss this gem of a park!
