10 things to add to your summer bucket list in Sioux Falls

School is out. The sun is up, and the mercury is rising. It’s officially summertime.

Whether you’re looking for ways to get out and enjoy the heat or if you just want a place to cool down, we’ve got a summer bucket list curated just for you.

Here are 10 things to check out in and around Sioux Falls this summer:

If you feel like being part of a crowd again: Downtown is the place to be. Check out the July and August Eastbank Block Parties for live music, food and drinks at 8th & Railroad.

If you want to drink on a patio: Boy, is this the town for you! You can find outdoor drinks and dining in all corners of the city from PAve’s rooftop patio downtown to Blue Rock Bar & Grill on the northwest side, The Barrel House on the southeast side to The Willows on the east side, and Look’s Marketplace on the south side to Shenanigan’s on the west side. And that barely scratches the surface of all available options.

If you want to get some exercise: Sioux Falls is surrounded by a number of state parks like Newton Hills, Good Earth and Palisades, all of which have hiking trails. If you want to stay in the city limits, take a walk, bike or rollerblade around the bike trails. Or, you can do a round of disc golf at Tuthill Park.

If you want to get some exercise and be on the water: Try a guided kayak tour of the Big Sioux with Sioux Falls Kayak rental. You also can test your balance and flexibility with a yoga on the water class at Flow and Paddle at Lake Lorraine.

If you want to be in water without exercising: After the pandemic closed city pools last summer, they’re open again. You can find the one nearest you here. Wild Water West also has fun for kids (and adults. Hello, swim-up bar).

If you’re feeling artsy: The new SculptureWalk pieces were installed downtown in May, and, if you want to see sculpting in action, the Falls Art Market at BronzeAge Art Casting is scheduled for the fourth Saturday of each month.

If you want some live music: Levitt at the Falls will have dozens of concerts throughout the summer. You also can find live music downtown every Friday and Saturday throughout the summer. Check out that schedule here.

If you need a family-friendly outing: The Washington Pavilion will continue its Free First Friday events throughout the summer. Downtown Sioux Falls also hosts Moonlight Movies for free every Saturday night at Fawick Park.

If you’re feeling hungry: Check out the local food truck scene. You can also tour local restaurants via Sioux Falls Food Tours. And, if you’re looking for a Saturday morning outing for some fresh local produce, check out the Falls Park Farmers Market every Saturday starting at 8 a.m.

If you’re craving air conditioning: Skip the outdoor patios, and head to the movies instead. If you’re really feeling nostalgic, you can check out a show at the newly renovated State Theatre or grab a beer and catch a cheap-seats show at West Mall 7.