Free & Cheap Things to Do in Sioux Falls

Parks & Nature

The roaring pink quartzite waterfalls of the Big Sioux River cascade through the center of this stunning 123-acre free park right in downtown Sioux Falls. A free observation tower, walking paths, historic ruins of the 1870s Queen Bee Mill, and a visitor center make this one of the most impressive free city parks in the Midwest.

Address: 300 N Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Tip: Climb the free observation tower for the best bird's-eye view of the falls. Open daily 5am–midnight. The falls are dramatically lit at night and just as beautiful after dark.

Arts & Culture

The largest annual outdoor sculpture exhibit in the world, with 80+ rotating sculptures by artists from across the country displayed year-round along a mile-long stretch of downtown Sioux Falls — all completely free to view. Each year's new lineup is unveiled in the spring, keeping the experience fresh for return visitors.

Address: Phillips Ave, Downtown Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Tip: The sculptures run from the Washington Pavilion all the way north to Falls Park — combine with a Falls Park visit for a full free afternoon in downtown. A free visitor center at the Washington Pavilion has maps and information.

History & Culture

The beautifully preserved 1889 Queen Anne Victorian home of South Dakota's first U.S. Senator, Richard Pettigrew, now serves as a free city museum with exhibits on Sioux Falls history, Native American culture, and Great Plains natural history. One of the hidden gems of downtown Sioux Falls.

Address: 131 N Duluth Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Tip: Open Tuesday–Saturday. A compact museum that rewards slow exploration — the Victorian architecture of the house itself is as interesting as the exhibits inside. Just a few blocks from Falls Park and SculptureWalk.