Sherman South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sherman, South Dakota.
1. Sherman Park
NATURE AND HISTORY COMBINED
Sherman Park spans 205 acres and serves as home to multiple attractions including the Great Plains Zoo and the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial. The park features nine lighted softball diamonds, children's play areas, and scenic open spaces perfect for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities including winter ice-skating and hockey rinks, as well as a wedding gazebo for special occasions.
2. Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History
WILDLIFE AND EDUCATION
The Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History offers visitors an opportunity to observe diverse wildlife and learn about natural history. Located within Sherman Park, this educational attraction combines live animal exhibits with museum displays. Families can spend hours exploring the various habitats and engaging with the interactive educational programs offered throughout the year.
3. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
MILITARY HISTORY MONUMENT
The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial pays tribute to the WWII battleship and those who served aboard her. This impressive monument serves as a remarkable backdrop for photos and a place for reflection on America's naval history. Visitors can learn about the ship's significant contributions during World War II through informational displays and preserved artifacts.
4. Indian Burial Mounds
ANCIENT SACRED SITE
The Indian Burial Mounds at Sherman Park date back approximately 1,600 years according to radiocarbon testing. These five ancient burial mounds sit at the top of Sherman Bluff, offering panoramic views of north Sioux Falls. The site represents an important archaeological and cultural landmark containing physical remains of Woodland Indians who once inhabited the area.
5. Cherry Rock Farms
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Cherry Rock Farms offers visitors a chance to experience a working farm and purchase locally grown produce. This family-friendly attraction provides seasonal activities including pick-your-own fruits and vegetables depending on the time of year. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, educational programs about sustainable agriculture, and a farm store featuring fresh products.
6. Drifters Bar & Grille
CASUAL DINING EXPERIENCE
Drifters Bar & Grille serves up hearty American fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring everything from classic burgers to regional specialties that showcase local flavors. Patrons can enjoy a full bar with craft beers and cocktails while taking in the casual, friendly ambiance that makes it a local favorite.
7. All Day Cafe by Minervas
BREAKFAST AND BEYOND
All Day Cafe by Minervas delights diners with its extensive menu served in a cozy, welcoming environment. This popular eatery specializes in breakfast classics and innovative lunch options that keep locals and visitors coming back. The restaurant prides itself on quality ingredients, attentive service, and dishes that cater to various dietary preferences throughout the day.
8. South Dakota Softball Hall of Fame
SPORTS HISTORY TRIBUTE
The South Dakota Softball Hall of Fame honors the achievements and contributions of notable softball players and coaches from the state. Located within Sherman Park, the hall showcases memorabilia, photographs, and information about inductees throughout South Dakota's softball history. Sports enthusiasts can appreciate the legacy of softball in the region while visiting this dedicated memorial to the sport.
9. Falls Park
ICONIC NATURAL WONDER
Falls Park features the natural beauty of the Big Sioux River cascading over pink quartzite rock formations that gave the city its name. Spanning 123 acres, the park offers viewing platforms, walking trails, and historic buildings including the remains of the Queen Bee Mill. Visitors can enjoy the five-story observation tower providing panoramic views of the falls and downtown Sioux Falls, especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
10. Black Hills National Forest
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Black Hills National Forest encompasses over 1.2 million acres of forested hills, mountains, and grasslands in western South Dakota. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing across diverse ecosystems. The forest provides access to iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial while offering solitude and natural beauty throughout its vast expanse.
11. Washington Pavilion
ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER
The Washington Pavilion serves as the region's premier arts and science center housed in a historic building that was once Washington High School. Visitors can explore interactive science exhibits at the Kirby Science Discovery Center, view artwork in the Visual Arts Center, and attend performances at the Wells Fargo CineDome and Husby Performing Arts Center. The facility offers year-round programming for all ages, making it a cultural hub for education and entertainment in Sioux Falls.
12. Good Earth State Park
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
Good Earth State Park preserves the site of a historic Oneota Indigenous Peoples settlement that existed from 1300-1700 AD. The park features interpretive displays, educational programming, and hiking trails that showcase both cultural history and natural beauty. Visitors can learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the area's original inhabitants while enjoying scenic overlooks of the Blood Run Creek and Big Sioux River valley.
13. Empire Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Empire Mall stands as the largest shopping center in South Dakota, featuring over 140 specialty stores and restaurants under one roof. Shoppers can explore major department stores, unique boutiques, and a diverse food court offering various dining options. The mall hosts special events throughout the year and provides amenities like comfortable seating areas, family restrooms, and a children's play area.
14. Butterfly House & Aquarium
TROPICAL BUTTERFLY EXPERIENCE
The Butterfly House & Aquarium immerses visitors in a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world. The facility also features marine aquariums showcasing colorful coral reef ecosystems and fascinating aquatic creatures. Educational programs and interactive exhibits provide learning opportunities about butterfly life cycles, marine conservation, and the importance of protecting diverse ecosystems.
15. SculptureWalk
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
SculptureWalk displays an ever-changing collection of outdoor sculptures throughout downtown Sioux Falls, creating an accessible public art experience. New sculptures are installed each May, with visitors encouraged to vote for their favorites and the most popular pieces sometimes becoming permanent fixtures in the city. This free attraction transforms the downtown area into an open-air gallery that showcases diverse artistic styles and subjects while enhancing the urban landscape.