McKennan Park

A Piece of Sioux Falls History

There's something special about walking through McKennan Park, the oldest developed green space in Sioux Falls and one of the most beloved parks in the city. This historic park has never seen the plow - its land preserving the essence of the natural prairie that once covered this region.

As you stroll through, you'll encounter a replica of the Statue of Liberty standing proudly among the trees. Nearby, the "Pillars of the Nation" memorial tells a fascinating story. Erected in 1941 as the world was engulfed in conflict, these four stone pillars at the park entrance contain rocks from what were then all 48 contiguous states - a powerful symbol of American unity during tumultuous times.

Blooms and Beauty

The Mediterranean Sunken Gardens might make you forget you're in South Dakota for a moment. These formal gardens add an unexpected elegance to the park's natural landscape. Throughout the seasons, the well-maintained flower beds display colorful blooms, with some flowers persisting even into October's cooler temperatures.

Shaded paths wind beneath mature trees, great for a morning jog or an evening walk. Open grassy areas invite you to spread out a blanket for impromptu picnics, while the magnificent old trees offer patches of cool shade on hot summer days.

Play and Performance

Music and entertainment have a home here in the form of a beautifully restored 1926 bandshell, where summer concerts, theatrical performances, and community events bring the park to life with sound and celebration.

If you're looking to get active, you'll find plenty of options: well-lit tennis and pickleball courts for evening matches, basketball courts for pickup games, and even tournament-grade horseshoe pits for those who appreciate this classic pastime.

Kids haven't been forgotten - the modern playground offers swings, climbing structures, and an old-school teeter-totter that delights children of various ages. When summer temperatures climb, the free wading pool becomes a neighborhood favorite with its walking bridge and spray features, all supervised for safety.

Heart of the Community

McKennan regularly brings together Sioux Falls residents throughout the year. The park hosts festivals, storytelling events, and family celebrations. The covered picnic shelter - which you can reserve for your own gatherings - has been the site of countless birthday parties, reunions, and community meetings.

The park offers spaces for both energetic activities and quiet contemplation, whether you want to play basketball or find a peaceful bench to read a book.

Natural Charms

Beyond its manicured gardens and recreational facilities, McKennan Park offers simple natural pleasures. Playful squirrels dart between trees, often bold enough to approach visitors with curious interest. The expansive green spaces and towering trees create a tranquil escape from urban life despite being nestled in the heart of the city.

Dog lovers will appreciate that four-legged friends are welcome across the park, provided they're leashed. You'll come across waste disposal bags and bins conveniently placed along the paths - a thoughtful touch that helps keep this historic green space beautiful for everyone to enjoy.