Insider's Guide
After two successful Open Streets events and thousands of visitors, Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF) is looking forward to the final two Open Streets experiences of the summer.
Open Streets events are designed to transform Downtown blocks into vibrant, people-focused gathering spaces. Each event features a local sponsor and a special theme: May “Art & Wine Walk” sponsored by AARP SD; June “Mini Golf” sponsored by Architecture Inc.; July “Celebrating America’s 250th!” sponsored by Koch Hazard; and August “Wags and Wine” sponsored by P&M Steel.
DTSF intentionally calls these events “Open Streets” because that is exactly what they are: open to people.
“Too often, we describe streets only from the perspective of vehicles,” said Brandon Hanson, CEO of Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. “If cars can’t pass through, we say a street is closed. But downtown streets are more than corridors for traffic. They are public spaces. They are front doors to small businesses. They are places where people meet, linger, explore, and connect.”
That philosophy is the foundation of Open Streets. Rather than simply changing traffic patterns for an evening, the events create opportunities for people to experience Downtown Sioux Falls in a different way.
“Downtown Sioux Falls belongs to all of us,” Hanson said. “It’s the family pushing a stroller, the artist sharing their work, the business owner opening their doors, the visitor discovering Sioux Falls for the first time, the nearby neighbor walking in, and the longtime resident remembering why they love this city.”
DTSF encourages visitors to take advantage of Downtown’s parking ramps, which are free on nights and weekends. Park once, then enjoy the evening on foot while exploring everything Downtown has to offer.
At its core, DTSF’s work is rooted in the belief that a strong downtown strengthens the entire region. As Sioux Falls’ cultural and economic center, Downtown generates value far beyond its boundaries through thriving storefronts, active sidewalks, new development, local jobs, memorable experiences, and civic pride.
Open Streets is one visible example of that mission in action. By creating people-first experiences, DTSF helps drive foot traffic to local businesses while encouraging residents and visitors to see Downtown as a destination, not simply a place to pass through.
As Sioux Falls continues to grow, DTSF believes Downtown should accommodate more than vehicles alone. Cars will always have a place downtown, but so should pedestrians, cyclists, outdoor patios, public art, trees, slower traffic, and safe connections between surrounding neighborhoods.
That vision is why DTSF continues advocating for complete street design concepts in future city projects. These investments are not simply about roads. They are about creating a Downtown that is welcoming, walkable, economically productive, and accessible in multiple ways.
Looking Ahead to the July and August Open Streets Events
While the first half of the season has already delivered memorable moments, there is still plenty to look forward to.
The remaining Open Streets events will continue transforming Downtown blocks into car-free community gathering spaces filled with:
- Local vendors and makers
- Live music and entertainment
- Family-friendly activities
- Outdoor seating and street games
- Food trucks and Downtown dining
- Interactive art and hands-on experiences
Whether you’re returning after attending one of the first events or planning your first visit of the season, DTSF invites everyone to experience what makes Downtown Sioux Falls special. The success of the first two Open Streets events has shown just how much people enjoy gathering in shared public spaces. As the final two events approach, DTSF looks forward to opening those spaces once again for the community to gather, connect, and experience Downtown Sioux Falls together.
