Sioux Falls might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of gay travel, but this charming Midwestern city has a lot to offer. With a surprisingly bustling downtown, a welcoming LGBTQ+ scene, and stunning natural beauty, Sioux Falls is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you're here for a quick stop or a longer stay, this guide has everything you need to know about where to stay, what to do, and where to eat and drink in South Dakota's largest city.
And for us, Sioux Falls holds a unique place in our travel journey—every five years, we return for a night to maintain our long-term traveler residency credentials. So, we've had plenty of time to explore and uncover the best of what this city has to offer!
Welcome to Sioux Falls
Overview
Downtown is the place to be, with its walkable streets lined with top-rated restaurants, stylish cocktail bars, and unique shops. There’s no reason to stay by the airport (or the DMV)—our favorite hotels are all in the heart of the action, less than three miles away and just an eight-minute Uber or Lyft ride.
Even if you're only in town for a night, we highly recommend making the most of your visit! From exploring Falls Park and the Arc of Dreams to sipping cocktails at chic lounges and experiencing the city’s one and only gay bar, Sioux Falls has plenty to offer.
SIOUX FALLS TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Sioux Falls? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it! SafetyWing offers super affordable travel insurance with straightforward pricing and flexible extensions—even if your trip is already underway. Protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and travel mishaps while you explore Sioux Falls and beyond.
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Hotel on Philiips
Where to Stay
Sioux Falls has several LGBTQ+ friendly hotels, but if you’re looking for the best mix of comfort, style, and convenience, these are our top picks:
Hotel on Phillips – Best Luxury Stay in Downtown Sioux Falls. Easily the best place to stay in town, Hotel on Phillips is a boutique hotel set inside a beautifully restored historic bank. The stylish rooms, luxurious amenities, and unbeatable downtown location make it our go-to choice. The hotel’s private gym is a nice perk, and The Treasury, the speakeasy-style bar located downstairs, is a must-visit. You’re also within walking distance of Falls Park and all the downtown attractions.
Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown – Best Modern Boutique Stay. For a stylish and contemporary stay in the heart of downtown, Canopy by Hilton is a fantastic option. This boutique-inspired hotel features sleek, modern rooms with local touches, a cozy lobby lounge, and an excellent on-site bar. Guests love the hotel's convenient location within walking distance of Falls Park, downtown restaurants, and nightlife. If you’re looking for a trendy and comfortable stay with a touch of luxury, Canopy is a great choice.
AeroStay Hotel – Best for Airport Convenience. If you're just passing through or need a quick overnight stay near the airport, Aerostay Hotel is a solid option. It’s attached to the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, making it incredibly convenient for early morning flights.
Sioux Falls may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to sights and attractions. Whether you’re into nature, architecture, or just exploring a new city, here are the top things to do while you’re here.
Falls Park – No visit to Sioux Falls is complete without stopping by Falls Park. The city's namesake waterfalls are the highlight of this beautiful urban park, which offers scenic walking paths, viewing platforms, and even a historic mill. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, the falls are stunning year-round.
Arc of Dreams – Spanning the Big Sioux River, the Arc of Dreams is a striking stainless-steel sculpture that has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s especially beautiful at night when it's illuminated, making for a great photo op.
Cathedral Historic District
Explore the Cathedral Historic District – For lovers of architecture and history, the Cathedral Historic District is worth a stroll. The standout here is St. Joseph Cathedral, a stunning piece of Gothic Revival architecture that towers over the city. The surrounding neighborhood is full of historic homes and picturesque streets, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Check Out Local Breweries – Sioux Falls has a growing craft beer scene, and downtown is home to several great breweries. Whether you're into IPAs, stouts, or sours, a brewery crawl is a fun way to experience the local flavor. Some of the best spots to check out include Fernson Downtown and WoodGrain Brewing Company.
Perch Neighborhood Kitchen
Where to Eat and Drink
Sioux Falls’ food scene is an unexpected delight, with a mix of cozy cafés, upscale eateries, and craft cocktail bars. Here are our favorite places to eat and drink while in town:
PerchNeighborhood Kitchen – Best Brunch Spot.Perch is the go-to brunch spot in Sioux Falls, and it’s worth the hype. Locals rave about their cinnamon rolls, but we’re equally obsessed with the fried chicken and gravy biscuits.
🌟 Pro tip – Add your name to the waitlist ahead of time via the Toast app to avoid a long wait. They’re also expanding with a gorgeous outdoor space featuring glass fire pits and heaters—perfect for chilly mornings!
R Wine Bar and Kitchen – Best for Wine & Live Music. With incredible service and a warm, inviting atmosphere, R Wine Bar and Kitchen is a must-visit for wine lovers. We had an amazing experience at the bar, where the ricotta appetizer and pomodoro pasta blew us away. Bonus points for their creative touch—when you leave, you get to add a wine cork to their artwork, even if you only ordered by the glass! They also host live music, which makes for a great date night or relaxed evening out.
The Carpenter Bar
The Carpenter Bar – Best for Craft Cocktails. If you’re looking for an upscale cocktail experience, The Carpenter Bar is the place to go. This stylish bar serves expertly crafted drinks in a cozy yet sophisticated setting. It’s also very LGBTQ+ friendly, making it a popular choice for a night out with friends.
The Treasury – Best Speakeasy Vibes. Tucked inside Hotel on Phillips, The Treasury is a speakeasy-style bar with fantastic cocktails and a luxe, intimate atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a nightcap after exploring downtown.
Club David
Best Gay Bars & Clubs
While Sioux Falls doesn’t have a huge gay nightlife scene, it does have one standout LGBTQ+ venue that’s been the heart of the community for years.
Club David – Best Gay Bar & Club in Sioux Falls.Club David is the go-to gay bar in Sioux Falls, and it has something for everyone. This multi-level venue features a rooftop patio, a pool table, and a friendly upstairs bar. On special nights, the downstairs level hosts live bands and themed events—on our visit, five bands were playing! Whether you’re looking to dance, grab a drink, or meet locals, Club David is the best gay bar in town.
Enjoying Falls Park in Spring
When to Go
Sioux Falls is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from late spring through early fall when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer is especially great, with bustling patios, lively downtown events, and plenty of opportunities to explore the city's parks and trails.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Sioux Falls Pride in June is the highlight of the year, bringing a parade, festival, and community celebrations that make for an unforgettable visit. Fall offers crisp air and stunning foliage, while winter transforms the city into a cozy retreat—just be prepared for cold temps and potential snow if visiting between November and March!
Sioux Falls Regional Airport
How to Get Here
By air – Sioux Falls Regional Airport (airport code: FSD) is the main gateway to the city, with direct flights from major hubs like Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, and Dallas. The airport is just a short 10-minute drive from downtown, making it easy to reach your hotel via Uber, Lyft, or rental car.
By car – If you’re road-tripping, Sioux Falls is conveniently located along I-29 and I-90, making it easily accessible from cities like Omaha, Minneapolis, and Des Moines. Driving is a great way to explore nearby attractions like the scenic Palisades State Park or even take a detour into the Black Hills.
Exploring Downtown
Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips
Is Sioux Falls LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes! While Sioux Falls is a smaller city, it's surprisingly welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. Downtown is the most inclusive area, with places like Club David providing a safe and fun environment for the local queer community.
When is the best time to visit Sioux Falls?
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with mild weather and beautiful scenery. Summer is great for outdoor activities, while winter can be quite cold, but the city’s holiday lights make it a magical time to explore.
What's the best way to get around?
Downtown Sioux Falls is very walkable, and most attractions are within a short distance of each other. If you’re venturing beyond the city center, renting a car is your best bet, as public transportation is limited.
What should I pack for my trip?
If visiting in the winter, bring warm layers—it gets seriously cold! In the summer, lightweight clothing and sunscreen are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are a must year-round, especially if you plan on exploring Falls Park.
Outside the Sioux Falls DMV
Final Thoughts
Sioux Falls may not have the LGBTQ+ scene of a big city, but it more than makes up for it with its welcoming vibe, great food, and unique attractions. Whether you're here for a night or two (like us, every five years!) or a longer stay, you'll find plenty to love about this charming Midwestern city.
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