Relaxing in Sioux Falls

Recently rated the second best pastry shop in the whole of the United States by MSN.com, this South Dakota sweets shop gives any fancy NYC bakery a run for their money. At C.H. Patisserie, expect sophisticated European-style pastries, including their signature french macarons, as well as more innovative menu items, like their renown loaded brownies and brioche breakfast croissants.

On top of the Big Sioux River running directly through the property, the publicly owned Falls Park features an observation tower, the remains of the historic Queen Bee Mill, and a full-service cafe housed in the city’s historic former Light and Power Company building. Visitors can gaze at the city’s namesake waterfalls, share instagram-worthy photos taken on the Millrace Dam viewing landing, and picnic in complementary shaded, open-air areas near the local farmer’s market.

For the past two years, this hidden gem has been named one of the Top 100 Outdoor Stores in the U.S. by Outdoor USA Magazine. For decades, the Great Outdoor Store has served downtown Sioux Falls as the spot to grab name brand and local quality gear to prepare for any South Dakota adventure. Whether you’re preparing to rock climb, white water raft, or just take a hike with the family, this store and it’s local, knowledgeable staff has got you covered.

A local hotspot, Fernson’s Brewing offers tasting at multiple taproom locations throughout the city. Expect local, handcrafted beer ranging from ale to lager. The venue also hosts local folk music festivals and sells Dot’s Pretzel’s hailing from North Dakota, should you need a savory fix mid-pint.

Whether you’re a hard-to-please beer-lover or a die-hard foodie, your whole group will enjoy Sioux Fall’s JL Beers. Contrary to the name, JL offers an extensive menu featuring all-american burgers made with local red meat, signature “beertail” mixed drinks, and fries and chips prepared in cholesterol-free soybean oil for good measure. Choose from two locations in Sioux Falls, and be sure to take home an item from their locally-renown “beerware” shop.

If you’re looking for a true “local” experience, riddle us this: Where else can you buy a shirt that proudly states “Reality is an illusion caused by lack of good beer,” while washing down blue cheese fries with a hoppy local IPA?