Sertoma Park, Sioux Falls

Sertoma Park, located in Sioux Falls, stands as a premier recreational destination known for its expansive play and picnic facilities, rich natural landscapes, and diverse attractions. Spanning 42 acres, the park features five distinct playpods that surround one of the largest picnic pavilions in the state. The park hosts the Game, Fish, and Parks Department, the Butterfly House & Aquarium, and the Outdoor Campus, offering interactive exhibits, hands-on classes, and scenic trails for visitors.

Sertoma Park links to the city’s Bike and Nordic Ski Trails, offering year-round recreation. Its TRACK Trail follows the 0.72-mile Riparian Trail, winding through wetlands and woodlands between an oxbow lake and a pond. Wildlife like geese, ducks, herons, and beavers thrive here, with interpretive signs providing ecosystem insights.

Sertoma Park, established in the late 1990s by the Sioux City Sertoma Club, evolved from undeveloped land into a community favorite. Once home to the city's Cardboard Sled Races, it remains popular for sledding and cross-country meets. The park’s 18-hole disc golf course is currently closed for the construction of 10.5 miles of mountain biking trails, set to open by May 15, 2024, featuring an intermediate skills trail and a progressive jump zone.

Sertoma Park's water tower, painted with lyrics from the 1945 hit Sioux City Sue, stands as a local landmark. The park also features a Veterans Memorial, added in the late 2010s, honoring fallen heroes. With its rich history and outdoor amenities, it remains a vital community hub in Sioux Falls.