10 Fun Things To Do Near Hartford, South Dakota (Minnehaha County)
Looking for laid-back, small-town vibes with big attractions just down the road?
Hartford, South Dakota is a friendly community only about 10–15 minutes west of Sioux Falls, and it makes a great base for exploring some of the best things to do in eastern South Dakota.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a weekend getaway, or just passing through on I‑90, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Hartford, SD that locals love and visitors remember.
1. Stroll Downtown Hartford & Visit Local Shops
You don’t have to drive far to start exploring—just head into
downtown Hartford itself.
You’ll find a small but charming main street with local businesses, places to eat, and that friendly Midwestern feel you only get in a town where people still wave from their front porch.
- Pop into a local bar & grill for a burger and a cold drink.
- Check out any seasonal events or sidewalk sales.
- Take a walk in the surrounding neighborhoods to get a feel for everyday life in Minnehaha County.
If you like quieter, less touristy spots, Hartford is a nice change of pace from busy cities. It’s the kind of town where you can actually hear the crickets at night.
2. Enjoy the Outdoors at Hartford City Parks
Hartford has several parks that are perfect for stretching your legs, letting the kids run, or just relaxing under a big South Dakota sky.
Popular parks in and around Hartford include:
- Turtle Creek Park – Great for walking, picnics, and letting kids burn off energy.
- Jameson Park – Often used for community events, sports, and outdoor fun.
- Local ball fields & playgrounds – Baseball, softball, and swings for the little ones.
Pack a simple picnic, toss a football around, or just grab a bench and enjoy a slow afternoon. On a warm summer evening, you’ll often see families out walking dogs or kids biking around the neighborhood.
3. Explore Wall Lake for Swimming, Fishing & Boating
Just southeast of Hartford,
Wall Lake is a local favorite when the weather warms up. It’s close enough to feel like a quick trip but far enough to feel like a mini escape.
At Wall Lake you can:
- Swim at the designated beach area.
- Launch a boat or kayak.
- Try fishing for bass, bluegill, and other local species.
- Enjoy a lakeside picnic with a view.
On hot summer days, the lake becomes a social spot, with families grilling, kids splashing, and people sunbathing on beach towels. If you’re traveling with kids or teens, this is an easy win.
4. Take a Day Trip to Downtown Sioux Falls
One of the best things about Hartford is how close it is to
Sioux Falls—only about 15 minutes away by car. So you get small-town peace with big-city options right next door.
In downtown Sioux Falls, you can:
- Walk along Phillips Avenue and browse boutiques and coffee shops.
- Check out local breweries and restaurants.
- Look for street art, sculptures, and murals.
If you’re staying in Hartford, spending an afternoon or evening in Sioux Falls gives you more choices without dealing with downtown traffic every night. Then you can head “home” to your quieter base.
5. Visit Falls Park – A Must-See Waterfall in the City
If you only pick one big attraction near Hartford, make it
Falls Park in Sioux Falls.
Just a short drive from Hartford, this 123‑acre park surrounds a series of natural waterfalls on the Big Sioux River. It’s one of the most photographed spots in South Dakota—and for good reason.
What you can do at Falls Park:
- Walk the paths and get close (but safe) views of the falls.
- Climb the observation tower for panoramic city views.
- Explore historic markers and the remains of the old Queen Bee Mill.
- Visit the visitor center and gift shop.
It’s beautiful year-round, but especially pretty at sunset. If you enjoy easy walks and scenic views, Falls Park should be near the top of your Hartford trip list.
6. Discover the Great Plains Zoo & Butterfly House & Aquarium
Traveling with kids? Need something everyone can enjoy? Head east from Hartford into Sioux Falls and visit the
Great Plains Zoo and the connecting
Butterfly House & Aquarium.
At the zoo, you’ll find:
- Lions, tigers, giraffes, rhinos, and more.
- Interactive learning exhibits about wildlife and conservation.
- Seasonal events and special programs.
At the Butterfly House & Aquarium:
- Walk through a warm, glass-enclosed room filled with free-flying butterflies.
- See colorful fish, coral, and marine life up close.
It’s an easy half‑day trip from Hartford and a nice break if you’ve been driving the interstate for hours.
7. Step Back in Time at the Old Courthouse Museum
Want to learn more about
Minnehaha County and the Sioux Falls area? Visit the
Old Courthouse Museum in downtown Sioux Falls, just a short drive from Hartford.
The building itself is impressive, with tall stone walls and a clock tower. Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on pioneer life and early settlers.
- Displays about Native American history.
- Artifacts from local businesses, schools, and daily life.
Admission is usually free, which makes it a budget‑friendly outing. If you enjoy local history or just want to understand the area beyond the highway, this is a great stop.
8. Hike, Bike, or Stroll the Sioux Falls Bike Trail
If you like being outside but don’t want anything too intense, check out the
Sioux Falls Bike Trail system. It loops around the city and follows the Big Sioux River, and it’s an easy drive from Hartford.
You can:
- Walk short sections for a relaxed stroll.
- Bike longer stretches if you have (or rent) a bike.
- Use it as a scenic way to connect different parks and viewpoints.
Parts of the trail go right by Falls Park, so you can combine both into one outing. It’s paved, mostly flat, and family‑friendly.
9. Enjoy Local Events & Festivals in Hartford
One of the best ways to experience a small town is to visit during a
local event or festival. Hartford and the surrounding Minnehaha County communities often host:
- Summer festivals with food trucks and live music.
- Holiday parades and Christmas lights.
- Community fundraisers, 5K runs, and car shows.
Dates change from year to year, so it’s smart to check the
City of Hartford or local chamber of commerce website before your trip. If your timing lines up, you might find yourself enjoying fireworks, live bands, or a small-town parade you didn’t even know you needed.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Minnehaha County
Sometimes the best thing to do near Hartford is simply…drive.
Eastern South Dakota has wide-open views, big sunsets, and long, quiet roads. From Hartford, you can take a scenic drive through
Minnehaha County and nearby rural areas:
- Head north or south of town to find rolling fields and classic farmsteads.
- Watch for old barns, windmills, and big red tractors at work.
- Time your drive for sunset to see the sky light up in orange and pink.
If you’re coming from a big coastal city, the open space might feel almost unreal—like a movie backdrop made of cornfields and sky.
Tips for Visiting Hartford, South Dakota
To make the most of your time in and around Hartford:
- Rent a car – You’ll want your own wheels to easily explore Sioux Falls, Wall Lake, and other nearby spots.
- Check seasonal hours – Attractions like the zoo, butterfly house, and some parks may change hours depending on the time of year.
- Pack for the weather – Summers can be hot, winters can be cold and snowy. Layers are your friend in South Dakota.
- Ask locals – Don’t be shy. People in Hartford are usually happy to suggest their favorite places to eat, fish, or watch the sunset.
Final Thoughts: Small-Town Base, Big Experiences Nearby
Hartford, South Dakota may look like a simple dot on the map, but it’s a handy, down‑to‑earth base for exploring some of the best
things to do in Minnehaha County.
From
waterfalls and zoos to
quiet lakes and scenic drives, you can fill a weekend—or a full vacation—without driving far. And at the end of the day, you get to come back to a small town where life moves just a little slower.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Hartford Area Spots!
Have you spent time in or near Hartford, SD?
- Do you have a favorite local restaurant or bar?
- Is there a hidden fishing spot or park you love?
- Did you discover a fun event or festival during your visit?
Drop a comment below and share your tips, stories, and questions.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends and family planning a road trip through South Dakota or looking for things to do near Sioux Falls. Your shares and comments help more travelers discover Hartford and the surrounding area.
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