The name Sioux Falls is taken from the waterfalls of the Big Sioux River and its early settlers which are the Sioux Tribe of American Indians. The waterfalls which can be found just a few miles from today’s downtown district remain to be a famous tourist attraction and local landmark in the city. Most of the buildings in Sioux Falls that were constructed in the past were made of pink quartzite which serves as proof of their hard work as well as their total commitment to the community. Prior to the Civil War in 1856, the early settlers managed to live on the banks of the Big Sioux River. By 1880, its population grew to 2,100. In 1876, the village of Sioux Falls was established. Later on, in March 1889, it was declared a city. During the turn of the century, the city has grown rapidly and its population has reached more than 10,000. From then on, the population of Sioux Falls has grown by more than 10,000 every decade. In fact, in 2009, it reached 150,000. To know more about the history of Sioux Falls, be sure to visit the Old Courthouse Museum and the Pettigrew Home & Museum.

No matter what the season is, there are a plethora of great outdoor activities that you can find in Sioux Falls. During the winter, you can snowboard or ski at Great Bear Recreation Park. Or you could go ice fishing at Catfish Bay. Otherwise, if the weather is warmer, then you can go for a swim at the Terrace Park pool, play disc golf at Tuthill Park, or bike at the Big Sioux River Greenway. In McKennan Park, you can watch outdoor concerts, while in Fawick Park, you can enjoy the Moonlight Movie series.

In the southwest portion of the city is where you can find the Empire Mall, which houses some of the largest national chain stores and restaurants. Shops and restaurants are also lined up in the streets of Central Downtown. They also have an outdoor shopping center known as "The Bridges." On the east side of the city is where you can find its major commercial development, also called Dawley Farm Village.