A Local's Guide to Sioux Falls

• Ride the Sioux Falls bike trails: The roughly 29-mile recreational trail loops around the city and follows the scenic Big Sioux River, connecting parks, downtown, and Falls Park in one seamless route. It’s one of the best ways to experience Sioux Falls like a local—active, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful.

• Hiking at Great Bear Ski Valley: Located just northeast of town, Great Bear offers wooded hiking trails in warmer months and skiing and snowboarding in winter. The rolling hills provide beautiful seasonal views and a quick outdoor escape without leaving the city.

• Movies at Fawick Park: Fawick Park is home to the iconic Arc of Dreams sculpture and frequently hosts outdoor movie nights and community events. It’s a lively downtown gathering space where art, culture, and local energy come together along the river.

Breakfast & coffee

• MB Haskett Delicatessen: A beloved downtown breakfast and lunch spot known for creative, locally sourced dishes and exceptional pastries. The cozy, community-focused atmosphere makes it the perfect slow morning stop.

• Bagel Boy: A Sioux Falls staple serving fresh-made bagels and hearty breakfast sandwiches for decades. It’s casual, nostalgic, and always satisfying.

• Queen City Bakery: Charming and inviting, this downtown bakery specializes in scratch-made pastries, cakes, and comforting breakfast classics. It’s a must for anyone who appreciates small-batch baking done exceptionally well.

• CH Patisserie: An award-winning French pastry shop founded by world-class pastry chef Chris Hanmer. From delicate macarons to stunning entremets, it’s a refined culinary experience right in the Midwest.

• Coffea Roasterie: A modern coffeehouse serving expertly roasted beans and craft beverages in a bright, relaxed setting. It’s a favorite remote-work and meet-up destination for locals.

• Josiah’s Coffeehouse & Café: A lively downtown café offering coffee, breakfast, and baked goods in a spacious, welcoming environment. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting a casual and reliable option.

Lunch

• Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen: Known for inventive, globally inspired sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. It’s quick, creative, and consistently one of downtown’s most talked-about lunch spots.

• Mama’s Ladas: Serving comforting Mexican-inspired dishes with standout enchiladas and vibrant flavors. It’s approachable, colorful, and a downtown favorite for something satisfying and casual.

Dinner

• Sushi Masa: A stylish sushi restaurant offering fresh rolls, sashimi, and Japanese specialties in an intimate atmosphere. It brings big-city sushi quality to Sioux Falls’ growing culinary scene.

• Minerva’s: A long-standing fine dining destination known for steaks, seafood, and classic American cuisine. Its elegant setting and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for visitors.

• Maribella Ristorante: An intimate Italian restaurant focused on house-made pastas and traditional recipes. The warm hospitality and cozy atmosphere create a true neighborhood trattoria feel.

• Dahlia Kitchen + Bar: A chef-driven restaurant blending Latin influences with modern American cuisine. Its vibrant dishes and stylish interior make it perfect for an energetic evening downtown.

• Cascata Italian Cuisine: An elevated Italian dining experience featuring refined pasta dishes, seafood, and handcrafted cocktails. It’s a polished option for those wanting a more sophisticated dinner setting.

Drinks & nightlife

• Fernson Downtown: A local brewery taproom offering craft beers brewed in Sioux Falls. The relaxed vibe and rotating taps make it a great casual stop before or after dinner.

• Highball: A chic cocktail lounge known for inventive craft drinks and stylish décor. It’s perfect for a date night or a refined evening cocktail.

• The Treasury: Located inside a historic former bank, this upscale cocktail bar delivers dramatic architecture and expertly crafted drinks. The atmosphere alone makes it worth the visit.

• Carpenter Bar: A moody, intimate craft cocktail bar emphasizing quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation. It’s ideal for those who appreciate detail-driven mixology.

• The Hello Hi: A fun, energetic downtown bar known for creative cocktails and a lively crowd. It’s a great late-night stop to experience Sioux Falls’ youthful spirit.