3 Best Places To See in Sioux Falls, SD

“Great Plains Zoo is committed to promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. The zoo strives to encourage greater knowledge and conservation efforts through its dedication to awareness, restoration, recreation, and exploration. Great Plains Zoo is an official affiliate of the Zoos and Aquariums Association. The zoo operates the facility, manages the animal collection, and maintains the grounds within the exhibit. The zoo is a 45-acre facility that is home to over 1,000 creatures of 137 species, including 24 endangered species. Great Plains Zoo also holds the Delbridge Museum of Natural History, a unique array of 150 mounted animals, including 38 extinct or endangered species. Great Plains Zoo is open 361 days a year. Great Plains Zoo offers free admission for infants under 2.”

“Butterfly House & Aquarium aims to create connections and inspire the conservation of wild species and spaces. The Butterfly House & Aquarium is home to exotic butterflies from all around the world. The Butterfly House & Aquarium has over 800 free-flying butterflies in its tropical conservatory. Butterfly House & Aquarium showcases hundreds of types of fish and coral in over 10,000 gallons of aquariums. They begin their lives on butterfly farms, and as soon as they form their chrysalides, they move to their new home, where they emerge as beautiful butterflies. Butterfly House & Aquarium creates a fun environment for discovery and learning. With unique total-immersion exhibits like the Discovery Den, you can learn about insects, marine life, and conservation. Annual attendance grew from 45,000 when they displayed only butterflies to 87,000 guests experiencing both the butterfly and aquarium habitats today.”

“Washington Pavilion is a historic cultural venue that features art galleries, hands-on science exhibits, and theater performances. The center includes the Visual Arts Arena, the Kirby Technology Education Center, the Wells Fargo CineDome Theater, and the Husby Performing Arts Center. The Visual Arts Center is adding exhibits of leading state, national, and foreign artists to its eight expansive galleries. Washington Pavilion has over 100 hands-on interactive science exhibits in the Kirby Science Discovery Center and regional and national exhibits that range from South Dakota artists to notable national and international artists in the Visual Arts Center. The center is accredited by the American Association of Museums and is dedicated to building, preserving, and conserving its collections for both South Dakotans and audiences worldwide. Washington Pavilion creates opportunities for all to explore and experience the arts and science. The center provides a wide variety of enjoyable and informative programs for all ages.”