Winter Family Fun in Sioux Falls

It’s no secret, South Dakota closely resembles a snow globe come the winter season. But that doesn’t mean your family needs to go crazy with cabin fever for months on end, because Sioux Falls has an abundance of wintry fun for the entire family!

So sharpen your ice skates and enjoy a cheery winter season at our favorite spots for family fun in the snow.

Winter Sports

Tuthill Park
Tuthill Park has been a longtime family favorite for sledding, ice skating, and cross­ country skiing. Listen to the holiday tunes, play some family games on the ice, and polish the night off with a tasty treat from the concession stand.

Great Bear Recreation Park
At Great Bear, there’s an activity for everyone. Skiers, snowboarders, tubers, and even the occasional snowshoer can enjoy fourteen downhill trails, a terrain park, a lift, and 6,000 feet of groomed trails. And with a beginner area for those just starting out, it’s the perfect choice for all skill levels.

Scheels IcePlex
Any hockey players in the family? Then the IcePlex is your go-­to place. Parents and kids can hone aspects of their game. Not a hockey player? No problem! Open skate is your family’s chance to swoop around the IcePlex’s smooth rinks.

Fun­ Filled Learning Activities

Washington Pavilion
What’s more fun than seeing your kids’ faces light up in wonder? The Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion boasts more than 100 hands-­on exhibits, dazzling scientific demonstrations, and a tornado you can touch! That sounds like too much fun to pass up, if you ask us.

Butterfly House & Aquarium
We hate to snow on anyone’s parade, but old man winter won’t be leaving any time soon. Thankfully, the Butterfly House & Aquarium preserves a bit of paradise for us all. Wander along serene trails in the conservatory with over 800 butterflies flitting from flower to flower. Or, if your family is up for an adventure, pet sharks and stingrays in the touch pool!

Museum of Visual Materials
Join for an arts and crafts class at the Museum of Visual Materials take a ride on your creative side. Classes are offered for both kids and adults. There’s truly something for everyone in this beautifully renovated, historic building in the heart of Sioux Falls.

Great Plains Zoo
The Great Plains Zoo is sure to be a hit with your kiddos with exciting encounters with furry animal friends and more. View the wide variety of animal exhibits spread throughout the zoo, or stay inside and marvel at the collection in the Delbridge Museum of Natural History.