With free indoor exhibits for kids — including a walk-through giant smallmouth bass — this Sioux Falls attraction offers a fun and free stop near the Sertoma Butterfly Garden and Marine Cove. Run by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department, it’s a great source for information on fishing spots, campgrounds and birdwatching hikes, along with classes on everything from making bird feeders from empty two-liter bottles and learning about campfire cooking to guided kayak workshops on the Big Sioux River.

Head outdoors to the picnic area, let kids run and explore Sertoma Park’s playpods or borrow a free compass and maps to try the permanent orienteering course. Admission is free.

Hours
It’s open Monday through Friday, 8 to 5, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.