Memorial Day at USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial

On Memorial Day, the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial in Sioux Falls turns its riverside grounds into a precise tribute. Along the Big Sioux River, hundreds of American flags mark the exact 680-foot scale outline of the historic battleship, giving you a clear sense of its size from a calm city park setting. You can follow the perimeter on foot and take in the Pacific theater legacy during the morning program.

Plan to arrive by 9:00 AM if you want to attend the formal ceremony and improve your chances of parking near the entrance. The atmosphere stays respectful and quiet, and you will hear speakers and music as the community gathers to honor those who served. Afterward, step into the on-site museum for artifacts and original USS South Dakota pieces, then head to the elevated viewing areas near the museum entrance for the best look at the full flag outline.

Admission to the memorial and museum is free, with donations welcomed for preservation. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for the river greenway, and know that paved paths support visitors with limited mobility. If rain moves in, the ceremony may shift to a sheltered area, while the flags typically remain on the lawn. Service animals are welcome, and for other pets you should check local park ordinances. There are no food vendors on the grounds, but downtown Sioux Falls is under five minutes away by car.

To round out your holiday, we recommend a short trip to Falls Park for the waterfalls or a walk through the downtown SculptureWalk. For lodging, choose downtown Sioux Falls if you want easy access to dining and galleries, or consider vacation rentals near the Big Sioux River or the southern residential areas for a quieter base. You can search regional stays through Lake.com to match your group size and travel style.