Adventure awaits you in South Dakota’s largest city. Sioux Falls is teeming with nature, arts & culture, delicious bites, and tons of family fun. So load up the car with the kiddos and get an early start on the road. It takes about nine hours to get to Sioux Falls from St. Louis, but we’ve got you covered with everything to see and do along the way to make this a trip you’ll never forget. Order your Vacation Guide before hitting the road to discover even more South Dakota adventures.

Out of St. Louis, you’ll head west on I-70 for about 3.5 hours. Stop in Kansas City, MO for a bite at Café Trio. This casual restaurant features an eclectic menu sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Dig in to favorites such as the garden risotto, Tuscan flatbread and seafood lasagna. If you’re vegan, try tasty smoothies and plates from Café Gratitude’s fully plant-based menu.

If you have time, visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Take a self-guided tour to learn the storied history and impact of African American baseball as well as the leagues’ legendary players like Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson.

If you plan to break up your trip, Omaha is the perfect spot to rest for the night. Book your stay at the Magnolia Hotel Omaha. The guest rooms of this boutique hotel take on a modern design with vintage details sprinkled in, including premium amenities and custom Magnolia bedding to ensure a comfortable yet stylish stay.

Looking to hit the town? Explore the cobblestone streets of The Old Market District. In Omaha’s most historic neighborhood, you can tour fine arts galleries, shop local makers and grab dinner from a handful of delicious restaurants. We recommend Twisted Fork Grill & Bar. With dishes like Buck’s fried pickle burger, twisted tater tots and Pitchfork Ranch meatloaf-n-mac, “The Fork” offers comfort food classics with a cowboy twist.

When you get back on the road, continue north on I-29. About 1.5 hours into your drive, you’ll come upon Sioux City, IA. Stretch your legs by touring the fabulous artwork and exhibits at Sioux City Art Center or by touring the historic Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center.

Welcome to Sioux Falls! You’ve traveled through four states and over 600 miles to get here. Now the real adventure begins.

Check into your room at ClubHouse Hotel & Suites (2320 S Louise Ave.). Here, you’ll find the comforts of home while still feeling pampered. Each room is equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker and free WI-FI access. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast every morning until 10 a.m., and signature Italian fare from Johnny Carino’s Italian Restaurant (2310 S Louise Ave) can be delivered directly to your room.

Looking for other options? Opened in 2018, The Hotel on Phillips (100 N Phillips Ave.) is a luxurious boutique hotel filled with historical charm. Book a room, floor or the entire lavish guest home at the Historic Victorian Inn (117 N Duluth Ave.) or enjoy a quaint, rural stay at Steever House Bed & Breakfast (46850 276th St, Lennox), located just southeast of the city.

We’re willing to wager that you’re pretty hungry after such a long journey. No worries. Sioux Falls is home to more than 650 restaurants.

Sample chef-inspired dishes, such as the butternut squash risotto, teriyaki steak stir-fry and angus meatloaf at Grille 26 (1716 S Western Ave.). What more can you ask for than burgers, fries and dozens of beer options? That’s exactly what you’ll find at JL Beers (323 S Phillips Ave.). From French toast to chicken-fried steak, the menu at Phillips Avenue Diner (121 S Phillips Ave.) is full of classic diner-food favorites and all-day breakfast. Dig in to mouthwatering, wood-fired creations (think baby back ribs and rotisserie chicken – yum!) at ROAM Kitchen + Bar (4525 W Empire Place).

Now that you’re checked into your hotel and your belly is full, it’s time to get out and explore Sioux Falls.

With public art, a farmers market and seasonal events – not to mention the iconic waterfalls –Falls Park (131 E Falls Park Dr.), the city’s namesake, is full of must-see attractions. Kids love the 800 free-flying butterflies, Shark & Stingray Touch Pool and other interactive exhibits at the Butterfly House & Aquarium (4320 S Oxbow Ave.). Tour the Pettigrew House & Museum (131 N Duluth Ave.). A visit to the Queen Anne-style home of South Dakota’s first U.S. senator, Richard Pettigrew, is a must for history buffs.

Explore the Big Sioux River waterfront at Beadle Greenway Park (421 S 8th Ave.). The park also features bike trails, a basketball court and a playground.

Don’t worry, outdoors enthusiasts. There are ample state parks and recreation areas in the Sioux Falls area. Palisades State Park (25491 485th Ave.), Good Earth State Park (26924 480th Ave.), Lake Alvin State Recreation Area (27225 480th Avenue, Harrisburg), Big Sioux State Recreation Area (410 W Park St, Brandon) and Beaver Creek Nature Area (48351 264th St, Valley Springs) will all give you plenty of room to get out and play.