My 605: Maddie Peschong

What’s home unless you make it your own? My 605 takes you inside the lives, loves and little secrets of those who call South Dakota – area code 605 – home.

This week’s My 605 is from Maddie Peschong, commercial and personal branding photographer and the owner of pigeon Midge.

My home in the 605 is: An older two-story on the west side of Sioux Falls. Our location is great — right off the interstate and close to everything.

The biggest reason I live in the 605 is: Close proximity to family. All the benefits of living in a “city” with a small-town feel.

After home, I spend the most time here: My photography studio, White Space.

When I need to get away, you’ll find me: West River! We love to travel outside South Dakota but have recently found that just journeying a little farther west feels like such an amazing retreat without a long car or plane ride. Plus, the vibe out there can’t be beat. There’s something so magical about it.

The best meal I ever ate in the 605 was at: Chef Lance’s — this place has been blowing my mind lately. Everything he makes is incredible. It’s my favorite date-night spot right now!

My go-to coffee shop is: The Source. I went to high school with the owners, and I’m so proud of what they’ve built. Their innovative menu, incredible aesthetic and friendly staff are the best in the business.

My favorite place to grab an adult beverage in the 605 is: The Treasury makes me feel like someone fancy from the 1920s, and I am here.for.it. Plus, the bartenders are so fun to talk to.

The spot I’d recommend for a date is: Chef Lance’s or Ode for dinner and CH Patisserie for dessert, of course.

The best pizza in the 605 is: Breadico/Pizza di Paolo is my favorite! I miss the downtown location but LOVE that we can still enjoy their awesome pizza.

When my friends and I get together, you’ll probably find us: Meeting up for drinks downtown or hanging out at each other’s houses with all our kids.

The place you never can go wrong taking kids is: We love taking our kids to Josiah’s for pancakes on Saturday or Sunday. The food is so good, the atmosphere is great, and I don’t worry about them being too loud or the baby crying. Everyone is so friendly and accommodating!

When I need to experience the great outdoors, you’ll find me: Does wine on a patio count!? I crave summer for patio season, but I also love skiing in the winter or renting a cabin and enjoying the quiet — after the kids go to bed. There’s nothing like it.

My best memory in the 605 is: I have so many! COVID has made me really miss all the festivals and events. I miss seeing people! And I can’t not mention that we brought all our babies home to the 605 — that’s pretty sweet!

The one thing I’m least crazy about in the 605 is: I can’t think of a thing. I never thought that I’d grow up here and live here as an adult, but I don’t see myself leaving anytime soon. Although, I guess I could do without the long winters!

And finally, life in pictures. Here are the top three photos that most sum up My 605: