1. Having Conversations With Total Strangers
What’s a trip to the bank or a quick run to the grocery store without chatting to the person in line behind you? Outsiders may find Sioux Falls friendliness strange at first, but like the locals, they’ll grow to love the community vibe of the city.
2. Sipping On A Local Brew At Monks House Of Ale Repute
Monks is the perfect afterwork oasis. You can kick back with friends, enjoy a slice of pizza, and pick from the awesome selection of craft beers on tap. Plus, Monks is home to Sioux Falls only microbrewery, Gandy Dancer.
3. A Winter Coat Fit For Antarctic Expeditions
When temperatures drop to -20 degrees, the people of Sioux Falls are prepared. Those new to the city might mock the puffy coat look in November, but by December they’ll be rocking their own.
4. Beer, Brats, And Plenty Of Lederhosen At Germanfest
If the beer and brats don’t sell you, the lederhosen certainly should. Sioux Falls locals would hate to do without this awesome slice of German culture.
5. Cheering On The Sioux Falls Storm
The Sioux Falls Storm is Sufu’s professional indoor football league. The best part about cheering on the Storm? They actually win—eight titles as of 2014.
6. The Best Cheap Burgers At JL Beers
Forget Five Guys. Everyone in Sufu knows JL Beers is the place to go for burgers on a budget. You can add as many extras (including patties) as you want, so some locals come to reenact Man Vs. Food style challenges.
7. Random Sightings Of The Bikini Book Lady
Source: Twitter user Bikini Lady
The bikini book lady is Sioux Fall’s own cult icon. Like a quirky character straight out of “Gilmore Girls” or “Twin Peaks,” she treks through the city, bikini top on and book in hand. She’s nothing short of legendary.
8. The Mind Blowing Kirby Science Discovery Center
Some people say the Kirby Science Discovery Center is a great place for kids. Those people are only half right. Admit it, you’ll still hip check a seven year old if they try cut in line to touch a tornado or fly the space shuttle simulator.
9. The Incredible Waterfall In The Middle Of The City
How many cities are named after a real waterfall running right through the center? Residents take advantage of the scenery by kicking back in in Falls Park.
10. Sculptures That Give Sioux Falls An Extra Dose Of Charm
SculptureWalk showcases original art in the streets of downtown Sioux Falls. The diverse subjects and styles make for an exciting walking tour, and the yearly rotation keeps the experience fresh.
11. Noshing On The Best Local Produce From Farmers Markets
In Sioux Falls, it’s easy to satisfy cravings and support local farmers. Localvores can stock up on the best produce, fresh bread, meat, cheese, and preserves at Sioux Empire Farmers Market or Falls Park Farmers Market.
12. Having A Blast At The Sioux Empire Fair
The Sioux Empire Fair is ten gloriously fun days of carnival rides, fried foods, live music, and 4-H fairs. There’s a reason the fair attracts up to 10,000 guests a year.
13. Corn Mazes You Can Get Completely Lost In
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park has the most ridiculous corn maze of all time. Dedicated corn maze experts will study the layout ahead of time, but spontaneous Sioux Falls residents jump right in. No matter your method, you’re sure to get lost.
14. The Gorgeous Architecture Of St. Joseph Cathedral
It’s hard not to gasp at the stained glass and marble pillars of St. Joseph cathedral. Whether you come to pray or enjoy the beauty of the building, you’re sure to have some kind of spiritual experience.
15. Grabbing A New Record Or Going To A Show At Total Drag
Total Drag is a record store and venue that hosts bands from all over the country. The big bonus for Sufu music lovers under 21? It’s open to all ages.
16. Hy-Vee, Aka The Best Grocery Store Ever
This employee owned grocery chain is king in Sioux Falls. It’s fresh, affordable, and most of all, it’s not hoity-toity Whole Foods.
17. Cool Music On A Hot Summer Day At JazzFest
There’s a reason the annual Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Festival drew audiences of up to 25,000 people in 2014. Headliners Gary Clark Jr. and Gov’t Mule pull in residents of all ages who come out to get their groove on.
18. Comfort Food At Bob’s Carryout And Delivery
Bob’s is not just a restaurant in Sioux Falls. It is a lifestyle. Great service and the best chicken, biscuits, and ribs will forever cement Bob’s as destination dining.
19. Strolls Through The Beautiful Cathedral Historic District
When St. Joseph just isn’t enough, Sufus who dig local architecture love walking by these gorgeous historic homes.
20. Becoming One With Nature
There are plenty of places around Sioux Falls to get in touch with nature. Blue Mounds State Park is a quick drive, and Newton Hill’s hiking trails satisfy Sufu’s outdoorsy types.
21. Something Sweet From Queen City Bakery
Honestly, it’s surprising a riot hasn’t broken out over the last tender butter scone yet. It’s been close.
22. Moaning About The Constant Construction
Sioux Falls streets seem to be under constant construction in the warmer months. Residents logically know this is because of the harsh winter, but there’s a certain camaraderie in complaining about something together.
23. Going Out To Sushi Masa With All Your Friends
Sushi Masa proves there’s still awesome fresh fish in the landlocked Midwest. It’s where you go to treat yourself.
24. A Daily Caffeine Fix At Coffea Roasterie
Never mention Starbucks to a Coffea Roasterie fan. They have tasted heaven in a latte, and they are not going back.
25. The First Forty-Degree Day At The End Of Winter
In this city, the first forty-degree day means one thing: time to break out the shorts and flip flops!
What’s something in Sioux Falls you can’t live without? Tell us in the comments below!
