Photo: Zentravan
Photo: The Empire Mall
Photo: Zentravan
The Empire Mall
★4.2(6,399 reviews)$Shopping
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Younger children will enjoy the soft play areas and watching the mall train, while tweens appreciate the variety of stores, entertainment options like the movie theater, and independence to explore with supervision.🧡 Saved by 300+ families
About
The Empire Mall in Sioux Falls is South Dakota's premier indoor destination for families seeking shopping, entertainment, and dining all under one roof. With dedicated play areas to keep kids entertained, a wide variety of family-friendly stores, and plenty of dining options, it's the perfect spot when you need an all-weather activity that keeps everyone happy.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor children's play areas with soft climbing structures for active play
- ✓Scheels sporting goods store with aquarium, ferris wheel, and interactive displays
- ✓Food court with multiple kid-friendly options all in one convenient location
- ✓Movie theater for family-friendly films
- ✓Seasonal events including visits with Santa and Easter celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Park near the north entrance by Scheels for easiest access to the children's play area and family restrooms with nursing stations
- 2.Visit weekday mornings right when they open for the quietest shopping experience and easy access to play areas before crowds arrive
- 3.Bring hand sanitizer and socks for kids if using the play areas, as socks are often required
- 4.Check out the Scheels store itself,it's a destination with an aquarium, ferris wheel, and animatronic displays that kids find fascinating
- 5.Download the mall app ahead of time to locate family restrooms, find specific stores, and check for special family events or promotions
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10 AM-12 PM) are ideal for families with young children,you'll beat the crowds and have easier access to play areas and restaurants. Avoid weekends during the holiday season (November-December) when the mall is busiest.
What to Know
Parking is free and plentiful with designated family parking spots near main entrances. The food court and sit-down restaurants offer diverse options from quick bites to full meals, and the entire mall is stroller-accessible with elevators throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with extended hours during the holiday shopping season (November-December). Special family events include Halloween trick-or-treating, holiday photos with Santa, Easter Bunny visits, and summer activities. The indoor climate-controlled environment makes it especially valuable during harsh South Dakota winters.
Nearby Eats
The mall's extensive food court includes favorites like Chick-fil-A and Panda Express, while sit-down options include Famous Dave's and Texas Roadhouse within the complex for a more relaxed family meal.
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