Need a last-minute gift? Your downtown shopping guide is waiting

This piece is sponsored by Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.

Check off what remains of your holiday shopping with a trip to downtown Sioux Falls, where dozens of local retailers are ready to help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

“This is such a critical time for our downtown businesses — and supporting them really is a win-win,” said Brandon Hanson, CEO of Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.

“You’re going to find high-quality, often one-of-a-kind gifts throughout our downtown businesses. Often, the owners themselves or their expert team members are going to be the ones helping you find exactly the right gift for whoever is left on your list.”

We caught up with four downtown retailers for an inside look at what you’ll find in their businesses.

For the outdoor enthusiast 

If you haven’t visited Great Outdoor Store lately, you’ll find a fresh mix of high-quality outdoor gear, cold-weather apparel and everyday adventure staples from the best outdoor brands as well as new Great Outdoor Store-branded apparel designed by staff member Avery Meuhler.

“This year, we’ve seen a lot of excitement around cozy sweaters, durable travel bags and practical stocking stuffers that feel thoughtful without the guesswork,” marketing manager Kelsey Johnson said.

“Warm insulated apparel, technical fleece and trail-ready footwear are some of our top sellers this season.”

Here are some of her top gift ideas.

Discover ultimate quality

Craftsmanship and design combine at Combine, which offers apparel and accessories for men and women in addition to home decor and furnishings.

The store is open inside The Bancorp Building at Cherapa Place, bringing a shopping experience that originated in the Twin Cities to downtown Sioux Falls.

Plus, buy a Downtown Gives coupon book and receive 20 percent off your whole purchase.

Here are a few of gift ideas courtesy of co-owner Anne Haber.

For the woman who wants to update her wardrobe: “It’s cozy season, and we have incredible knitwear and scarves. Also, our denim is pretty fabulous.”

For the guy who’s hard to buy for: The original tech gloves by EVOLG or a handsome flannel shirt or shaket!

For the person you want to surprise with something they won’t be expecting: Sheepskin rugs to sling over chairs or to warm the floor. Alora Ambiance diffusers make a space smell amazing too.

“Ben Suga pottery also makes a stunning gift. It’s handmade, one-of-a kind and so very usable.”

Beyond footwear

At 605 Running Co., “even though we’re a running store, most of our customers are walkers, hikers, travelers or people simply looking for comfortable, supportive footwear,” owner Greg Koch said.

“We do personalized shoe fitting, and we also carry winter apparel, accessories, socks, recovery tools and practical gear for our unpredictable South Dakota weather. People can expect a friendly, helpful staff and a low-pressure environment.”

Plus, buy a digital gift card and earn bonus dollars:

• $100 digital gift card earns $20 bonus.
• $75 digital gift card earns $15 bonus.
• $50 digital gift card earns $10 bonus.

Here are some of his gift picks:

For someone who wants the latest and greatest: Go with the Brooks Shield Hybrid Jacket for men or Brooks Canopy Jacket for women. If you’re looking for footwear, Koch suggests the Altra Experience Flow 2 or Experience Wild 2 shoes.

For a new runner getting serious in 2026: Koch’s picks are Yaktrax Spikes to provide winter traction or a Nathan Neutron Fire Headlamp. You also can’t go wrong with a 605 Running Co. gift card so the new runner can be properly fit for shoes.

For someone you want to surprise: Give an unexpected gift from 605 Running Co. with an On Merino Beanie or packable weather-resistant jacket from Nike. You’ll even find small recovery tools like massage rollers that are perfect for stocking stuffers.

Curated women’s selections

Find an updated look to send you into 2026 in style at Threads, a women’s boutique at 8th & Railroad Center offering a curated mix of clothing, accessories, handmade leather bags and shoes.

“We focus on unique pieces that fit seamlessly into your current style while also encouraging you to try something new and step a little outside your comfort zone,” owner Serena Reta said.

“You’ll also find top brands like Free People, Gola and Steve Madden throughout the store. Our goal is to create a warm, welcoming shopping experience where you leave feeling confident and inspired.”

Watch for daily specials and fun offers through Dec. 24.