Terrace Park

A Walk Through History

Located on the shores of Covell Lake in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Terrace Park covers 52 acres along the shores of Covell Lake and has been a city fixture since 1916. The park gets its name from the dramatic terraces that cascade about 30 feet from the upper park down to the lakeshore. These terraces are lined with Sioux quartzite, with the distinctive stonework extending across the park's walls, paths, and staircases.

Nature's Playground

The heart of the park is Covell Lake, an oxbow lake formed when a branch of the Big Sioux River was cut off from its main flow. Walking and cycling paths wind through the park and around the lake, offering an ideal backdrop for your morning jog or afternoon stroll. Good news if you're pushing a stroller or using a wheelchair - the trails are accessible for everyone.

The lake is home to a community of ducks that are always happy to greet visitors (especially those bearing snacks). Fishing is also popular here, but you'll want to be careful about properly disposing of any fishing materials to keep the park beautiful for everyone.

Tranquility in the Japanese Garden

A highlight of Terrace Park is the Japanese garden on the eastern side of Covell Lake. The garden blends Japanese elements with Great Plains vegetation. Black Hills spruce mingles with cherry trees, while honeysuckle, silverweeds, cranberries, and hydrangeas add splashes of color throughout the seasons.

The garden features locally sourced Sioux quartzite walls, decorative stones, wooden pergolas and pagodas, stone lanterns, and archways. Don't miss the stone teahouse or the wooden bridges that cross over small stone-lined pools. If you're looking for a moment of peace in your busy day, the gentle sound of waterfalls and the scenic views here make it an ideal spot for quiet reflection.

Fun for Everyone

When the temperatures rise, the swimming pool and water park area become the place to be. With slides suitable for everyone from toddlers to thrill-seeking adults and vigilant lifeguards on duty, it's a safe way to cool off. Dog lovers take note: at the end of swimming season, your four-legged friends get their turn with a special dog swim event.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the baseball fields, basketball court, and tennis courts, while the amphitheater hosts various community events year-round. Got kids? The well-maintained playground features various structures designed for different age groups, ensuring hours of entertainment for your little ones.

Comfort and Convenience

Regardless of whether you're planning a family reunion or just a casual lunch outdoors, you'll find plenty of picnic shelters and benches scattered throughout the grounds. Clean restrooms are available when nature calls, and abundant shaded areas provide welcome relief during those hot South Dakota summer days.

The park's open grassy areas invite impromptu games of frisbee or simply lounging with a good book. And you don't have to leave Fido at home - the entire park is dog-friendly, but your furry friend will need to stay leashed in most areas.

A Legacy Preserved

The park you see today is the result of major construction that took place between 1922 and 1937, however it's continued to evolve and improve over the decades. In 2015, Terrace Park and its Japanese Gardens earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the park's significant contribution to Sioux Falls' development.

Well-maintained by the city, Terrace Park remains an important Sioux Falls green space where history, nature, and recreation come together in the heart of the city.