Photo: Billy B
Photo: Joe H
Photo: Stephanie Entringer
Washington Pavilion
★4.7(1,972 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 2.5-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Preschoolers love the hands-on discovery areas with age-appropriate interactive exhibits, while elementary-aged kids dive deeper into STEM concepts and art projects. The variety of programming means multiple age groups can enjoy the museum simultaneously.🧡 Saved by 29 families
About
The Washington Pavilion is Sioux Falls' premier cultural destination, combining hands-on science exhibits, visual arts galleries, and performing arts all under one roof. Kids can explore interactive STEM activities, discover natural phenomena through engaging displays, and unleash their creativity in multiple gallery spaces designed specifically for young learners.
Highlights
- ✓Kirby Science Discovery Center with hands-on STEM experiments and interactive displays
- ✓Visual Arts Center featuring rotating exhibitions and creative spaces for kids
- ✓Wells Fargo CineDome theater showing educational large-format films
- ✓Live performances at the Husby Performing Arts Center including family-friendly shows
- ✓Dedicated areas for preschoolers with age-appropriate sensory and discovery activities
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when doors open at 10:00 AM on weekdays to beat school groups and have the interactive exhibits to yourselves
- 2.Check their event calendar before visiting,the Pavilion hosts special performances, visiting exhibitions, and hands-on workshops that require separate tickets
- 3.The on-site café is convenient for snacks, but consider bringing water bottles as kids will work up a thirst moving between active exhibits
- 4.Parking is available in nearby lots and street parking,the lot directly east of the building offers the closest access with stroller-friendly entrances
- 5.Combine your visit with the outdoor SculptureWalk right outside the building for a free extension of your art experience
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday through Thursday mornings (10:00 AM - noon) offer the quietest experience, as weekends and Fridays can be crowded with local families. Summer weekday mornings are ideal before seasonal camps arrive in the afternoon.
What to Know
General admission covers access to the Kirby Science Discovery Center and Visual Arts Center, with separate tickets needed for theater performances and movies. The building is fully accessible, and the café provides kid-friendly meal options for extended visits.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Holiday breaks and summer months may feature special programming and camps. The museum is closed Mondays, so plan accordingly for long weekends.
Real Experiences
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Nearby Eats
Phillips Avenue Diner (4 blocks north) offers classic American comfort food with a great kids menu, or head to Grille 26 (2 blocks away) for upscale casual dining with children's options in a family-friendly atmosphere.
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