Light and Power Hydro Electric Plant, Sioux Falls

The Light and Power Company Building is a historic structure that once served as a hydroelectric power plant, harnessing the natural energy of the Big Sioux River. Built in 1908 and designed by A.M. Byllesby and E.C. Braun, the building was constructed to meet the city's increasing demand for electricity.

Strategically located near the Falls of the Big Sioux River, it utilized water power to generate electricity for the rapidly growing community. As Sioux Falls continued to expand, the facility was expanded in 1920 to accommodate the increasing need for power, becoming a key component of the city’s early industrial infrastructure.

As technology evolved and electrical generation methods changed, the hydroelectric plant was decommissioned and its operations ceased. Rather than letting the building fall into disrepair, the city opted for adaptive reuse, transforming it into a café and visitor attraction within Falls Park. Today, this beautifully restored historic structure serves as the Falls Overlook Café, offering visitors a place to relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the scenic views of the waterfalls.

In 1993, the Light and Power Company Building was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. The building's sturdy brick construction, industrial design, and connection to the early development of Sioux Falls' power grid make it an essential part of the city's heritage.