Day Trips from Sioux Falls
← All Sioux Falls day tripsDay Trips from Sioux Falls: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Sioux Falls, SD. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Sioux Falls
Glacial Trail Scenic Byway
Peterson, IA 51047
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Sioux Falls, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook - Ponca State Park
Ponca, NE 68770
Just 1 hr 33 min from Sioux Falls, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Missouri River Overlook Standing Bear Bridge
SD 57062, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Burke, SD 57523
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
Oak Ave, Moorhead
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.8 stars by 127 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Murray Hill Scenic Overlook
Little Sioux, IA 51545
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.8 stars by 122 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook
Decatur, NE 68020
Just 1 hr 57 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
3 State Overlook
NE 68770, USA
Just 1 hr 32 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mulberry Bend Overlook
Newcastle, NE 68757
Just 1 hr 8 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.7 stars by 264 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackbird Scenic Overlook
NE 68020, USA
Just 1 hr 57 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
North Mankato, MN 56003
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.3 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Pickstown, SD 57335
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Sioux Falls, rated 4.3 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Sioux Falls
What are the best scenic drives near Sioux Falls, SD?
The best scenic drives near Sioux Falls include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Sioux Falls?
Most scenic drives near Sioux Falls range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Sioux Falls?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Sioux Falls, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Sioux Falls?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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