32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Sioux City (IA)

Looking for the best and fun things to do in Sioux City, IA?

Sioux City is a city in Woodbury and Plymouth counties in the northwestern part of Iowa, United States, with a population of about 85,791 according to the 2020 census, making it the fourth largest city in Iowa.

The city is a regional hub for employment industries, retail trade, business, medical care, educational opportunities, and various tourist attractions.

Experience exciting sporting activities like the American Association Baseball, Iowa’s 2019 Outstanding Tourist Attraction championship, Champions Indoor Football League, USHL Hockey, and many more.

The town is host to one of the largest outdoor music shows around the Upper Midwest; other events include cultural/ traditional activities at the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra.

Also, the city boasts of top fun attractions like LaunchPAD children’s Museum, award-winning Art Center, the Siouxland Expo Center, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and an interactive Public Museum for interested individuals.

Let’s explore the top things to do in Sioux City, IA.

Things to do in Sioux City

1. Visit Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is the best place to visit for those looking for entertainment. The casino has many slot machines, as well as numerous tables to gamble at.

There are also three restaurants and an outdoor pool, and more than 50 rooms that have a theme of rock and roll in the casino.

You can have an alcoholic drink and then watch the performance of a band while at this attraction.

Although the experience is quite expensive, it’s worth it if looking for things to do in Sioux city for entertainment.

Address: 111 3rd St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

2. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

 Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is located on the right side of the Missouri River and is easy to access.

The center’s animating and interactive display of the journey to the west of Lewis and Clark, which means you will be able to engage in a variety of entertainment while learning about the history of the area and more.

It’s one of the most fun ways to teach children about the development of the nation. The dog barks and wails its tail.

The center also has an outdoor garden as well as an outdoor picnic area, and its Staff is welcoming and friendly.

Address: 900 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

3. Sioux City Railroad Museum

Sioux City Railroad Museum
Credits: J.L. Nelson / Flickr
Sioux City Railroad Museum

Sioux City Railroad Museum is situated at the site of an operating train yard that has been converted into a museum.

The museum is home to preserved rail lines as well as repair shops. While in the museum, you can explore the caboose, a passenger car, a dining car, which has a kitchen, and a variety of steam engines.

The visitors can picture the lives of the early railway workers. The history of the railway spans more than 100 years and is fascinatingly explained by volunteers.

A short train ride is also offered by the museum, so do well to add this to your list of things to do in Sioux city if you have an interest in the railroad.

Address: 3400 Sioux River Rd, Sioux City, IA 51109, United States

4. Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center
Credits: Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center / Facebook
Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

One of the best fun things to do in Sioux city for nature lovers is visiting the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center.

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center is situated on a stunning site that offers both outdoor and indoor spaces for visitors to view wildlife.

The center also features indoor classes, an amphitheater with outdoor seating as well as gardens and oaks.

The park has a long hike with unbeatable views and the song of birdlife as the BGM.

They have a variety of live animals and stuffed ones. It is also possible to watch turkeys and other birds getting fed.

A play area for children is also featured in the center. This is an attraction worth visiting, and it is suitable for individuals of all ages.

Address: 4500 Sioux River Rd, Sioux City, IA 51109, United States

5. Palmer Candy

Palmer Candy
Credits: Nataliia Pyzhova / Shutterstock

If you are looking for things to do in Sioux City with kids, add a visit to Palmer Candy to your checklist.

The shop products include twin Bings and pretzels, bark, as well as chocolates and toffees.

You can also try free samples before purchasing products. In this shop, you will find numerous varieties that you have not heard of before.

There are also tons of old candy machines with details on the ways they were utilized. You can indulge your sweet tooth and feel like you’re 12 once more in this attraction.

6. Sioux City Public Museum

Sioux City Public Museum
Credits: Djh918 [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Sioux City Public Museum
One of the best fun things to do in Sioux City is spending some time in the Sioux City Public Museum, which archives many historical exhibits.

The Sioux City Public Museum was established in 1938 for the purpose of educating interested individuals on the culture and history of the city.

The museum accommodates virtual tours for college students, researchers, and educationals. Entertains its guest with a free 12-minute orientation film on the “corn palace theatre.”

Experience a serene environment in the Sioux City Public Museum, which houses many classrooms for guest rentals and offers a wide range of fun activities such as family scavenger hunts, Self-guided walking tours, and many more.

Additionally, the museum provides free access to its facilities, and all fun activities are open to everyone, no separation – no segregation, offers educational opportunities to interested individuals.

Address: 607 4th St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

7. Riverside Park

Riverside Park
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Riverside Park

Located on the banks of the River Sioux, Riverside Park is a large park that with courts for different games.

The park has two tennis courts, six volleyball courts, a soccer field, and more. It also has a pool and pads for youngsters, along with a children’s play area.

A variety of picnic spots with grills are also featured in this beautiful park. It’s almost like an amusement park that everyone can enjoy themselves.

Do well to add a visit to Riverside Park to your checklist of things to do in Sioux City, Iowa, for some fun time.

Address: 1301 Riverside Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51109, United States

8. Fourth Street Historic District

One of the best fun things to do in Sioux City is a trip to the Fourth Street Historic District, a busy, friendly, and ancient district with lots of fun activities to engage in and many beautiful things to view.

The district has housed a large number of commercial buildings since the 1880s, one of the largest in Sioux City, making it one of the top attractions in town.

The lovely district is popularly known for a unique building style called the Richardsonian Romanesque style, a popular architectural design in the 1800s.

Boast of a concentration of about fifteen late-nineteenth-century buildings around the

Iowa Streets and The Virginia buildings with an ancient history of 1889 to 1915.

Additionally, the Fourth Street Historic District hosts many local centers such as specialty shops, restaurants, and lots of drink centers.

Address: 1002–1128 Fourth St., Sioux City, Iowa, United States

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9. Trinity Heights

Trinity Heights
Credits: Caleb Jones Photo / Shutterstock
Trinity Heights

Trinity Heights is a huge church that has a tranquil atmosphere. It is home to a 30 feet sculpture of the holy heart of Jesus, The Last Supper, Carmel Mary, and many other stunning sculptures.

There is plenty of space for walking around and benches to sit and contemplate. The area is located in a beautiful setting surrounded by numerous plants, birds, and even gardens.

It can help you re-energize your spirit. Also, they offer a mass in the morning, and the chapels are open all the time.

Make sure to check out the store; they have a variety of items that you can add to your collection or even gift a family member or friend.

Address: 2509 33rd St, Sioux City, IA 51108, United States

10. Chief War Eagle Monument

Chief War Eagle Monument
Credits: Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Chief War Eagle Monument

The Chief War Eagle Monument has evolved from being just a hill to a place to stay for the family to a burial site and now a history-filled area.

This is the site for one of the first settlements by whites. War Eagle represented his tribe and also worked with white Americans.

The place where he was buried is named after him. It offers a stunning perspective over The Sioux river merging into that of the Missouri River.

The Chief War Eagle Monument is one of the most beautiful places to walk around in the sun on a summer afternoon.

Address: Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

11. Sergeant Floyd Monument

Sergeant Floyd Monument
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Sergeant Floyd Monument

Enjoy your vacation this season with a trip to the Sergeant Floyd Monument and view one of the most remarkable edifices in the city, a perfect addition to your list of best fun things to do in Sioux City.

The Sergeant Floyd Monument takes its spot on the Missouri River and serves as an honorarium for Charles Floyd, who died in 1804 on the upstream voyage and was buried there also.

The magnificent structure was constructed within a year from May 29, 1900, to August 20, 1900, which corresponds to the ninety-sixth death anniversary of Charles Floyd.

The monument was built in an Egyptian-style obelisk and had an estimated 100 feet high with a Kettle River sandstone, making it one of the city’s most expensive and rare structures.

The site is open for everyone who wishes to experience the natural environment, reflect on creative ideas, take beautiful pictures, and get aquatinted with the history and heroics of legendary Charles Floyd.

Address: 2601 S Lewis Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

12. Floyds Bluff

Floyds Bluff was the final resting ground of Floyds. Bluff is linked to Lewis and Clark, and Floyds was the only one to die in the course of the expedition.

A hill to Sioux City’s south, overlooking the Missouri River, is named Floyds Bluff and has historical significance.

The view from the summit at the top of Floyd’s Bluff is one of its kind. The tranquil and serene ambiance makes this spot suitable for a quiet walk.

13. Mercy Field

Mercy Field
Credits: Shane Lantz / Facebook
Mercy Field

Explore the beautiful, all-green Mercy field for your best outdoor experience and view exciting sporting activities, a superb addition to your list of things to do in Sioux City.

Mercy Field is located at the famous Lewis & Clark Park; it was officially opened in 1993, which coincided with the opening of the Explorers.

The field features interesting views ranging from the view from down the first baseline, view from behind the home plate at Lewis & Clark Park, views from the third baseline, views from the grandstand as seen from the left-field corner, and many more.

Enjoy the best of baseball games around the city in the Mercy field and host the Sioux City Explorers (the independent American Association) 2017 season.

The field is one of the famous top attractions in Sioux city; it has hosted a lot of popular crowds attracting sporting events ranging from baseball, hockey, some mini soccer, and even serves as a children’s playground.

Address: 3400 Line Dr, Sioux City, IA 51106, United States

14. Anderson Dance Pavilion

Anderson Dance Pavilion
Credits: JD Gordon / Flickr
Anderson Dance Pavilion

Anderson Dance Pavilion is open to visitors throughout the year. The ideal time to visit the pavilion is during summer.

In summer, the place is packed with vibrant colors and sweet-smelling flowers that visitors will love.

They also organize private events, including concerts, weddings, and celebrations. The pavilion is surrounded by wooden benches and circular walkways, grassed terraces, and others.

The pavilion has a view of the bridge and river, a beautiful sight that you should not miss out on.

Address: Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

15. The Sergeant Floyd River Museum

The Sergeant Floyd River Museum
Credits: Oasis Studios And Art Gallery / Facebook
The Sergeant Floyd River Museum

Sergeant Floyd River Museum is one of the best museums around the globe, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Sioux City.

It’s located on a ship that has been transformed into three floors of a museum. It served as a working house for the Missouri River.

The museum displays a variety of things from the Lewis and Clark expedition associated with the river.

Sergeant Floyd was among the most prominent participants of this Lewis and Clark expedition.

The views from the deck are stunning from the deck. There’s also a small gift shop with many unique items, and entry is free.

Address: 1000 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

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16. Jolly Time Museum and Koated Kernels Shop

Jolly Time Museum and Koated Kernels Shop
Credits: Taylor Hopkins-Shaw / Facebook
Jolly Time Museum and Koated Kernels Shop

Experience a wonderful time out in the beautiful Jolly Time Museum and Koated Kernels

Shop, a perfect addition to your list of things to do in Sioux City.

It is a place to get inspired for future business owners from the excellent history of the homegrown family business and how it continues to survive and gain dominance in the food industry.

The museum boasts beautiful exhibits ranging from the historic 100-year-old Jolly Time Pop Corn, Koated Kernels Popcorn Shop, and the Jolly Time vintage packaging.

Features many fun activities for visitors like; events, shows, competitions, personal artifacts from the company’s founding family, and timeless celebrity endorsements.

With one of the best environments around the city of Sioux, the Jolly Time Museum and Koated Kernels Shoppe allow visitors to host family time out, get-togethers, and a perfect place for business meetings.

Address: 1717 Terminal Dr, Sioux City, IA 51105, United States

17. Bacon Creek Park

Bacon Creek Park
Credits: Charity Gamble / Flickr
Bacon Creek Park

Bacon Creek Park has a lake, as well as an enormous area for activities such as fishing, biking, hiking, and walking.

The park is extremely large and is dotted with numerous trees. It is a beautiful landscape that will certainly inspire you to showcase your photography abilities.

It also provides one of the best options for kayaking. There is also a spot for picnics and an area for children to play.

Bacon Creek Park is the perfect spot to spend time with children, family members, or colleagues, and it is worth adding to your checklist of things to do in Sioux City.

Address: 5015 Correctionville Rd, Sioux City, IA 51106, United States

18. Sioux City Art Center

Sioux City Art Center
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Sioux City Art Center

Are you an art lover? If yes, add a visit to the Sioux City Art Center to your checklist of things to do in Sioux City.

Sioux City Art Center is an elegant glass-finished three-story structure with beautiful elevators and stairs.

The center is home to about 1200 permanent paintings that cover all kinds of art. They offer classes. They also encourage local artists and other people to showcase their work.

There’s always an exhibition taking place. There’s a wood mural painted on the 3rd floor.

There are also many sculptures and open spaces in the center. Admission is free, and if you’re an art lover, this is the perfect location to visit.

Address: 225 Nebraska St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

19. Orpheum Theatre

Orpheum Theatre
Credits: Nagel Photography / Shutterstock
Orpheum Theatre

One of the best fun things to do in Sioux City is to visit the magnificent Orpheum Theatre and view the latest billboard movies, watch live programs, and many more.

Orpheum Theatre is owned by the city’s local business man Arthur Sanford, and it was constructed in 1927 as an integral part of the Orpheum Circuit, designed by the famous Chicago firm of Rapp & Rapp.

The theatre stands as one of the largest in the city, with an estimate of about a three-story large auditorium completed, 2,650 seats, preparatory rooms, lots of guest rooms, and many more.

Over the years, Orpheum Theatre has been one of the top attractions in the city, hosted ballet shows, symphony performances, and enjoyed the best entertainers around such as Katharine Hepburn, Fred Astaire, Tallulah Bankhead, and Tallulah Bankhead.

Additionally, Orpheum Theatre is a beautiful place to spend some time out in Sioux city with an excellent view of the stage from any seat of your choice and wonder settings and screenplay.

Address: 528 Pierce St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

20. Cone Park

Cone Park
Credits: Cone Park Sioux City / Facebook
Cone Park

Cone Park is open all year long and is perfect for family-friendly outings. There are a variety of fun-filled activities this park boast which includes Ice skating, tubing, and a fire pit during winter.

The splash pad and the trail pool are both open in the summer. Even old people can take pleasure in their beverages and snacks in the room of their lodging while their grandchildren and kids are enjoying activities outdoors.

If you’re looking to have fun, this is one of the top attractions that should be added to your list of things to do in Sioux City, Iowa.

Address: 3800 Line Dr, Sioux City, IA 51106, United States

21. McCook Lake

McCook Lake
Credits: McCook Lake Association / Facebook
McCook Lake

McCook Lake is a beautiful lake formed of the Missouri river. The lake is U-shaped which makes it one of Oxbow lakes created naturally.

The lake is a vast and deep lake, which is ideal for fishing and boating. It is home to a variety of fishes, including crappie pike, bass, catfish, bluegill, walleye, and more.

The lake is located in a secluded area surrounded by several trees that provide beautiful views while fishing or boating.

People can also stroll around the lake and interact with the natural surroundings.

McCook Lake is a perfect attraction to visit for nature lovers, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Sioux City, Iowa.

22. Stone State Park

Stone State Park
Credits: Ken Schulze / Shutterstock
Stone State Park

Stone State Park, as the name implies, is the state park of Iowa and a visit here is worth adding to your list of things to do in Sioux City.

Located near the Sioux River and Dorothy Peacaut Nature Center, the park has many interesting features, including an area for picnics with tables and grills.

The park is also a perfect location for hikes as it has several neatly connected trails and also several camping options.

You can spot deer, red foxes, turkeys, butterflies, coyotes as well as other wild creatures while in the park.

The park is filled with Oak trees which makes it seem as if you’re in the middle of the forest.

Be sure to come along with a camera to capture the beautiful views this park has to offer.

Address: 5001 Talbot Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

23. America Museum of Aviation and Transportation

America Museum of Aviation & Transportation
Credits: Mid America Museum of Aviation & Transportation / Facebook
America Museum of Aviation & Transportation

Mid America Museum of Aviation and Transport displays their collection, which includes a diverse assortment of old-fashioned automobiles, including bicycles, a fire engine, and even full-size airplanes.

The park is among the most effective places to find out about the progress of the transportation system in general.

The museum boasts a car show that features many vintage vehicles on display. The garden is dedicated to the victims who died in the Flight 232 accident.

Do not forget to come along with a camera to take beautiful photos close to the vintage automobiles.

Address: 2600 Expedition Ct, Sioux City, IA 51102, United States

24. Chris Larsen City Park

Chris Larsen City Park is an open-air park that has biking and walking trails. It is a great place to have a picnic or walk with a great view.

Sometimes, in winter, the park can be flooded, so the most suitable time to visit the park is during the summer.

The park also features three playgrounds for youngsters. There is also the Flight 232 Memorial, a massive air crash in which over a hundred victims perished.

 Address: 1280 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, United States

25. LaunchPAD Children’s Museum

LaunchPAD Children's Museum
Credits: Tony Webster / Flickr
LaunchPAD Children’s Museum

Are you looking for things to do in Sioux City with kids? If yes, add a visit to the LaunchPAD Children’s Museum to your checklist.

LaunchPAD Children’s Museum is an indoor museum for children. It is the ideal spot for your child to play.

The museum is lively with different activities for children, including the Block wall and the build zone, the water zone, flight zone, market and cafe, Air tunnels, Agriculture, and the infant-toddler zone.

While the place is filled with children all day long and it’s very neat and tidy. Stop by this wonderful attraction if you are in Sioux City with kids.

Address: 623 Pearl St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

26. Southern Hills Mall

Southern Hills Mall
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Southern Hills Mall

Enjoy the best shopping experience in the Southern Hills Mall, which hosts a large number of local businesses; visiting the mall is one of the fun things to do in Sioux City.

The well equipped Southern Hills Mall finds its spot in the Morningside neighborhood of the Sioux, which serves as the shopping host to western Iowa, northeastern Nebraska and southeastern South Dakota.

After a wonderful shopping experience, eat and enjoy a delicious meal at the Iron Hill Bar & Grill and even see a movie at the AMC Theatres, which is within the mall with a lot of parking space for car owners.

The mall hosts a wide range of about 100 favorite specialty retailers, including Bath & Body Works, Scheels All Sports & JCPenney, Victoria’s Secret, Buckle, and many more.

Southern Hills Mall presents just what everyone needs for everyday life, from various clothing centers, beauty plazas, outdoor events, eateries, and many more for interested individuals.

Address: 4400 Sergeant Rd Ste 317, Sioux City, IA 51106, United States

27. Crystal Cove Park

Crystal Cove Park
Credits: Ali Eminov / Flickr
Crystal Cove Park

Crystal Cove Park is located to the south end of Sioux City. It has a Lake, although shallow, it features numerous varieties of fish.

The park boast fishing, boating, and also hiking and biking on several trails located in the area.

There is a path to walk around the lake, and there are benches for resting. The lake also features the disc golf course, which is 18 holes golf course that is perfect for golfers of all skill levels.

Crystal Cove Park also hosts a variety of birds as well as other animals. It is among the most relaxing places in Sioux to unwind.

Address: W 39th St, South Sioux City, NE 68776, United States

28. Grandview park

Grandview Park
Credits: Rahma Hassan / Shutterstock
Grandview Park

Take a real view of the magnificent city from the highest points in The Grandview Park and experience the beautiful nature of the place, a perfect and excellent addition to your list of best fun things to do in Sioux City.

The Grandview Park takes its spot at the center of the city hills, which occupies about

Grandview Park sits on 32 acres, surrounded by 24th street to the south, McDonald to the west, Douglas Street to the east, and Stone Park Boulevard to the north.

The park’s unique design is a testimony of hard work, covered with colored paintings and street art, making it one of the city’s best canvases for street art competitions.

Since 1908, the park has been open to interested individuals to explore and enjoy the colorful views, make creative paintings, learn professional artwork, and many more.

Additionally, The Grandview Park is a place to spend your vacation with your family, friends, co-workers, and even a sports team and enjoy a wonderful outdoor experience.

Address:24th & Grandview Sioux City, IA 51104, United States

29. Oscar Carl Vineyard

Oscar Carl Vineyard
Credits: Alexandr Vorobev / Shutterstock

Since 1989, Roy & Melanie Olsen, locals and residents of Sioux City and childhood sweetheart, have lived on a 15-acre land. 

They finally decided to start a vineyard in the middle of their home after years of thinking and researching how to use the mountainous area. 

Roy and Melanie built a unique structure to house the vineyard processes that consist of a wine-tasting room, a special location for different meetings, a terrace facing the early vineyard and pond, and a closed-in patio just a few steps from the grapevine to help boost your experience 

Admiring the sunset from the wide patio that faces the vineyard and the pond or the 100-year-old window panes is a lovely thing to do while at Oscar Carl Vineyard 

An extraordinary experience is waiting for you when you go to Oscar Carl Vineyard, so what are you waiting for? 

Address: 1473 Buchanan Ave, Sioux City, IA 51106, United States

30. Jackson Street Brewing

Jackson Street Brewing
Credits: Nejron Photo / Shutterstock

Jackson Street Brewing is a tiny craft brewery in Sioux City. Dave and Tia Winslow, the owners, grow numerous local ingredients to manufacture the beer. 

Jackson Street Brewing specializes in barrel-aged beers, German lagers, and sours. 

All the beers at Jackson Street Brewing are brewed on-site. Jackson Street Brewery serves beers in pints, flights, and growlers; you can come along with yours, and they will fill it and can it for you. 

The brewery also has root beer for kids as well as some games. Although food is not served here, you can bring your food inside or order for delivery. 

So come here and sample their craft beer produced with local ingredients in their tasting room and see this small but powerful brewery. 

Address:607 5th St, Sioux City, IA 51101, United States

31. The Long Lines Family Rec Center Climbing Wall

Long Lines Family Rec Center Climbing Wall
Credits: BearFotos / Shutterstock

The Long Lines Family Rec Center Climbing Wall is a top-tier 53-foot wall. 

This top-level climbing destination in Sioux City features over 5,000 square feet of top rope climbing and bouldering. 

The facility has a yoga studio, a lounging area, and a coffee shop. Also, people can partake in open climbing all day or join a yoga class for free. 

The Long Lines Family Rec Center has many areas that can be rented, including sports courts, meeting rooms, the climbing wall, and battling cages. 

Address: 401 Gordon Drive, Sioux City, IA 51102, United States 

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Start Planning your Trip to Sioux City

Sioux City is a lovely city in the northwestern part of Iowa and an exciting place to go for a vacation, and there is always something to do and places to visit in Sioux City.

The city has a unique point of interest for everyone. The city is a top attraction center to several cultural activities, with places like the Sioux City Art Center, Sergeant Floyd Monument, and Sioux City Public Museum, which serves as a Historic Landmark.

Sioux City is home to excellent parks, historical museums, arts, crafts, theatres, antiques, shopping malls, lakes, fun and engaging outdoor activities, and many more.

The places listed above are some of the best places to visit in Sioux City. Start now to plan your next trip to Sioux, Iowa.