Dog-Friendly Falls Park: The Perfect Paws for Traveling Pet Parents
Did you know that dog-friendly Falls Park is the reason Sioux Falls even exists in the first place? The powerful waterfalls created by the Big Sioux River made this area a natural gathering place and trade hub back in the day.
This spot later became home to the Queen Bee Mill, which was built to harness the river’s power to fuel Sioux Falls’ industrial growth. When the mill was no longer useful, Falls Park turned back into a public space where locals and tourists now go to enjoy the outdoors and relax.
This guide to Falls Park is for my fellow dog owners. I’m sharing everything you need to know to plan a stress-free visit with your favorite furry travel buddy at one of Sioux Falls’ most iconic spots!
Is Falls Park Dog Friendly?
Falls Park is a very dog-friendly park. Not only are there tons of trails and grassy areas to relax with your pup, but there’s even a dog-friendly cafe where you can grab a snack or drink. Your furry friend will need to stay on leash while you are there, and you will need to pick up after them.
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What to Expect When You Visit Falls Park in Sioux Falls
Falls Park is a 123-acre park just north of downtown Sioux Falls and is widely known for their scenic waterfalls. The park has plenty of trails that will take you by sculptures, what’s left of the historic Queen Bee Mill, an observation tower, a visitor center, and a cafe.
Falls Park Price and Hours
Falls Park is a free public park that’s open every day from 5 am to midnight. The hours of The Falls Overlook Cafe, as well as the visitor center and gift shop, depend on the time of year you visit and special events that may be happening.
Parking at Falls Park
This park has its own free parking lots, which makes it super easy to visit, especially since it’s so close to downtown.
Are there Bathrooms at Falls Park?
The park does have public restrooms, which are always convenient.
Where to Stay When Visiting Dog-friendly Falls Park
Falls Park is just north of downtown Sioux Falls, with plenty of options when it comes to finding a pet-friendly place to stay. Take your pick of Airbnb’s, campgrounds, hotels, and motels. Just be sure to double-check current pet policies or restrictions before making your final selection.
Visiting Falls Park with Your Dogs
Falls Park is one of Sioux Falls’ most visited landmarks, and believe me, this city park has it all. Spend your day walking your dog along scenic paths, grab a bite to eat, and relax in the sun on a blanket. Don’t forget to take some Insta-worthy photos and pick up a souvenir to remember your day.
Falls Park Visitor Center and Observation Tower
As a frequent stop for both locals and tourists, Falls Park has its own visitor center and gift shop near the parking lots. This is where you can go for maps of the park and the surrounding area. You can also sign their guest book. Their gift shop has all the typical souvenirs like shirts, hats, postcards, and coffee mugs.
The building is also home to an observation tower. You can go up via the elevator or get your steps in by using the stairs. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of the park.
Pets are not allowed in this building, but they do have numerous covered benches outside where you can take turns with your fellow human travelers.
Falls Overlook Cafe at the Falls
The Falls Overlook Cafe is in its own building in the park. Their hours do change depending on the time of year you go and special events that the park has scheduled. In fact, when we were there, they were closed that day for a private event.
The restaurant is dog-friendly. There’s even a sticker on the door, so there’s no doubt. Once inside, their menu has everything from to-go snacks to burgers and sandwiches. They even have ice cream and pup cups for dessert!
Falls Park Waterfalls, Trails, and More
The heart of Falls Park is definitely the waterfalls. Imagine over 7,000 gallons of water from the Big Sioux River cascading over pink quartzite rocks as it travels through the park. It’s beautiful and incredibly photogenic.
The Queen Bee Mill provides a gorgeous backdrop to the falls, and its remains can still be seen in the park. Most of what’s left is protected behind a black metal fence, but they did leave enough space between the bars so you can still get some great photos. There is a section of the mill right off the water that is not blocked off if you are hoping to use part of it for your pictures.
Multiple paved trails wind around the park for ease of use. These trails lead to several overlooks and plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and get plenty of amazing, beautiful photos of your pup. If you go off the trails, you will find some areas are a bit muddy after rain, and the wet rocks closer to the falls can be slippery.
While walking around the park, you’ll also pass several sculptures that make for a wonderful mix of art and nature. And if you bring a blanket, there are plenty of grassy spaces where you can relax and lie out to enjoy the sun with your canine companion.
Anytime I pass through Sioux Falls, I stop by Falls Park, especially when I’m traveling with our dogs. Being able to grab some food, walk a few miles, and take family photos around the park is exactly what I need in the middle of a cross-country road trip.
Depending on the time of year you are passing through, you might be able to catch one of the Falls Park’s special events. This city park hosts a seasonal Farmer’s Market in the summer and a holiday decoration and light display called Winter Wonderland in December.
Tips for Bringing Your Dog to Falls Park
One of our first stops in South Dakota is always at Falls Park. Here are a few tips to make your visit fun, safe, and stress-free:
- No swimming or wading. Keep an extra close eye on your canine companion and don’t let them get close to the water. The rocks can be slippery, and the water itself has strong currents and hidden underwater rocks that can trap people and pups underwater despite the calm surface.
- Watch your footing. The rocks are slippery when wet, and a few other areas in the park can get slick after it rains.
- Bring a blanket to rest on. Lying next to your dog on a blanket is much more relaxing than on a bench. Eat, read, or cuddle in comfort.
- Bring a waterbowl. The water in the river and waterfalls is off limits; you will want to provide your own. There are water fountains to fill your bowl in the visitor center, as well as the restaurant and restrooms.
Nearby Attractions to Falls Park
For ideas of more places to visit in Sioux Falls, check out these stops:
Attractions near Falls Park
- Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History
- Butterfly House & Aquarium
- Siouxland Heritage Museums
- USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
Dog-Friendly Attractions near Falls Park
- US Ghost Adventures (affiliate link) Sioux Falls Ghost Tour
- Sculpture Walk
- Corn Palace
- Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village
For a more complete list, check out our dog-friendly Sioux Falls post
Falls Park: The Perfect Road Trip Stop with Your Dog
Falls Park is one of those rare, perfect stops that offers everything you and your furry sidekick could want on a road trip: walking paths to stretch your legs, photogenic scenery for memorable vacation pics, and even a dog-friendly cafe so you can grab a bite to eat. The only thing that makes this stop better is that it’s free AND has its own parking.
If you are passing through Sioux Falls, South Dakota, or it’s your final destination, I hope you add this amazing park to your itinerary! And who knows, you might see me and my pack there if we happen to be traveling out west!
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