10 Fun Things To Do Near North Sioux City, South Dakota (Union County Guide)
Looking for things to do in and around
North Sioux City, South Dakota?
You’re in a great spot. This small town in
Union County sits right on the border of South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa, which means you’ve got big-city attractions, river adventures, and peaceful countryside all within a short drive.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a road trip stop, or you just moved to the area, here are
10 fun things to do near North Sioux City that are easy to reach and worth your time.
1. Relax by the Water at McCook Lake & Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve
Just a few minutes west of North Sioux City sits
McCook Lake, a quiet escape for anyone who loves being near the water.
On the north side of the lake, you’ll find
Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, one of the most peaceful spots in Union County.
- Walk or bike miles of easy, flat trails.
- Watch bald eagles, deer, and waterfowl along the Missouri River.
- Explore historic farm buildings that show what life was like here over 100 years ago.
If you like slow mornings, this is the place to bring a cup of coffee, go for a calm walk, and just breathe.
In the summer, the area around
McCook Lake is popular for:
- Fishing
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Picnics along the shoreline
Parking is easy, the trails are family-friendly, and it’s close enough that you could visit more than once during your trip.
2. Play, Shop, and Dine at Dakota Dunes
Just south of North Sioux City is
Dakota Dunes, a planned community along the Missouri River with parks, restaurants, golf, and walking paths.
Some fun ways to enjoy the area:
- Grab lunch or dinner at a local bar and grill or family-style restaurant.
- Hit the Dakota Dunes Country Club if you’re into golf.
- Walk the neighborhoods and small parks for an easy, low-key afternoon.
If you’re staying in North Sioux City, Dakota Dunes is close enough that it almost feels like part of the same town, and it’s an easy way to add more dining and recreation options to your trip.
3. Try Your Luck or Catch a Show at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City
Looking for nightlife near North Sioux City? Head just across the river to
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City in Iowa, about a 10–15 minute drive from Union County.
You’ll find:
- Slots, table games, and poker
- Live concerts and events
- On-site restaurants and bars
Even if you’re not big on gambling, the
entertainment alone makes this a great night out:
- Check the events calendar ahead of time for concerts or comedy shows.
- Plan a date night with dinner and live music.
It’s a nice contrast to the quieter feel of North Sioux City and Union County.
4. Spend a Day at the Great Plains Zoo & Bear Country in Sioux Falls (Day Trip)
If you don’t mind a bit of driving,
Sioux Falls makes an excellent day trip from North Sioux City (about 80–90 miles north). One of the top family-friendly spots there is the
Great Plains Zoo & Bear Country.
Here you can:
- See lions, rhinos, tigers, and more.
- Visit the museum area to learn about the Great Plains.
- Let the kids burn off energy in play areas and open spaces.
Why include this in a North Sioux City travel guide? Because the region is fairly spread out, and it’s common for visitors staying in North Sioux City or Union County to plan one or two day trips.
If you’re building a long weekend itinerary, a zoo day in Sioux Falls pairs well with quieter days exploring nature near McCook Lake and the Missouri River.
5. Explore Downtown Sioux City, Iowa: Museums, Food, and Riverfront
North Sioux City might be small, but
downtown Sioux City, Iowa is just across the state line and has a lot to offer.
Top spots to check out:
- Sioux City Public Museum – Free admission, kid-friendly exhibits on local history.
- Sioux City Art Center – Rotating exhibits, regional artists, and a calm, modern space.
- Promenade Cinema – Catch a movie after a day of exploring.
There are also plenty of bars, coffee shops, and local restaurants.
If you like to stroll, the downtown area is walkable, and you can combine it with the nearby riverfront for a full day out.
6. Walk or Bike Along the Missouri Riverfront
The
Missouri River runs right past the region, and both the South Dakota and Iowa sides offer places to enjoy the views.
On the Iowa side, near downtown Sioux City, look for:
- Riverfront trails for walking, jogging, and biking.
- Green spaces for picnics and photos.
- Public art and seasonal events.
On the South Dakota side, around Union County, you’ll find:
- Access points for fishing and boating.
- Quieter stretches where you can just sit and watch the water.
If you like simple, no-fuss activities, a sunset walk along the river is one of the best (and cheapest) things to do near North Sioux City.
7. Hit the Greens: Golfing Around North Sioux City and Union County
If you travel with your clubs, you’re in luck. The North Sioux City–Union County area has several golf courses within a short drive.
Popular options include:
- Two Rivers Golf Club (near North Sioux City) – Local favorite with a friendly vibe.
- Dakota Dunes Country Club – More upscale, with a highly rated course layout.
- Other regional public courses in the greater Siouxland area.
Course conditions change with the seasons, but spring through fall is usually a good window for playing.
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, many people enjoy:
- Driving range sessions
- Casual 9-hole rounds
- Clubhouse food and drinks with a view
8. Enjoy Local Eats and Small-Town Flavor in North Sioux City
One of the simple joys of traveling is trying local spots you can’t find anywhere else.
In and around
North Sioux City
Casual diners with hearty breakfasts.
Bars and grills with burgers, wings, and cold beer.
Comfort-food restaurants perfect for a laid-back dinner.
Ask locals what they recommend. People in small towns are usually happy to point you to:
- The best place for pie
- The “hidden gem” taco joint
- The bar that’s most lively on Friday nights
If you’re on a road trip, North Sioux City makes a great food stop right off the interstate, especially if you want something more unique than fast food.
9. Discover Union County’s Scenic Drives and Country Roads
Sometimes the best thing to do near a small town is simply…drive.
Union County and the land around North Sioux City offer:
- Rolling farmland with wide open views.
- Seasonal color changes – bright green in spring, golden fields in late summer, and fall colors in October.
- Quiet backroads that feel a world away from busy highways.
If you like photography, this area is great for:
- Sunset shots over the fields.
- Barns and rural landscapes.
- Misty morning scenes on cooler days.
Put on a playlist, grab a coffee, and just go exploring. That’s often how you find small-town parks, local cafes, and viewpoints that don’t show up in travel brochures.
10. Catch Local Events, Festivals, and High School Sports
To really get a feel for life near North Sioux City and in Union County, try to time your visit with a local event.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Community festivals and fairs
- Farmers markets with local produce and crafts
- High school football or basketball games
- Holiday parades or fireworks
Small-town events may not be huge, but they’re friendly and genuine.
If you’re coming from a big city, you might be surprised at how fun it is to:
- Cheer with the home crowd at a Friday night game.
- Chat with local vendors at a market.
- Enjoy simple traditions like pie auctions or church dinners.
Check city and county websites, social media pages, or even flyers at gas stations and grocery stores to see what’s happening while you’re in town.
Planning Your Trip to North Sioux City, South Dakota
To make the most of your time near North Sioux City and in Union County, South Dakota:
- Mix city and country: Pair quiet days at McCook Lake or Adams Homestead with city time in downtown Sioux City or a night at the Hard Rock Casino.
- Think regionally: You’re at the heart of three states—South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska—so you can easily explore all three in one trip.
- Watch the seasons: Summers are great for the river and lake, fall brings beautiful colors to the countryside, and winter has its own cozy charm.
North Sioux City might not be a huge tourist hotspot, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a practical, comfortable base with easy access to rivers, trails, small-town life, and nearby city attractions.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Things to Do Near North Sioux City
Have you been to North Sioux City or somewhere else in Union County, South Dakota?
- What was your favorite place to eat?
- Did you find a hidden trail, park, or viewpoint?
- Do you have a go-to spot for fishing or watching the sunset?
Drop your tips, stories, and questions in the comments.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends, fellow road trippers, or anyone planning a visit to the Siouxland area. Your shares and comments help other travelers discover fun things to do near North Sioux City, South Dakota.
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