Sioux Falls
Dates
Embarking on a camper van trip to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a journey into the heartland of America's remarkable landscapes and rich history. Sioux Falls, named after the cascading falls on the Big Sioux River, is the largest city in South Dakota, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Let's start with the city's namesake attraction. Falls Park is a must-visit destination, encompassing 123 acres with a stunning view of the city's namesake waterfalls. Trails wind around the park, offering multiple viewpoints of the rushing water. The park is home to the Queen Bee Mill ruins and an observation tower, which provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. For history enthusiasts, the Old Courthouse Museum and the Pettigrew Home & Museum are must-sees. The Old Courthouse Museum, featuring beautiful 19th-century architecture, details the region's history through various exhibits. The Pettigrew Home & Museum, the former residence of South Dakota's first senator, exhibits local history in an intimate setting. Sioux Falls also boasts a vibrant arts scene, best represented by the SculptureWalk. Here, visitors can take a leisurely stroll downtown and find over 50 sculptures displayed on the city streets. These sculptures - all for sale - are replaced every year, making each visit a new experience. For the outdoor enthusiast, head to Great Bear Recreation Park, perfect for all seasons. In the winter, the park offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while the summer months are perfect for hiking and bird watching. The Butterfly House & Aquarium is a fantastic stop for families. It houses over 800 free-flying butterflies from around the world and an array of marine and freshwater species in its aquarium. Lastly, no camper van trip to Sioux Falls would be complete without a visit to the Palisades State Park, just a 20-minute drive from the city. Known for its quartzite cliffs and scenic views, it's a perfect place for hiking, camping, and fishing. Thus, a camper van trip to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a smorgasbord of experiences, from vibrant urban attractions to stunning natural beauty. The city's welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a perfect destination for an unforgettable camper van adventure.
Sioux Falls was named after the waterfall of the Big Sioux River. The falls were created about 14,000 years ago during the last ice age.
Sioux Falls is one of the 50 fastest growing cities in the United States due to its booming economy and low unemployment rate.
A replica of Michelangelo's David can be found here in Fawick Park. It is one of only a few bronze castings made from the original.