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Riverside Park: Sioux City's Historic Green Oasis

Explore Sioux City's historic Riverside Park: recreation, history, and natural beauty along the Missouri River.

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Riverside Park, established in the late 1800s, is a 100-acre park in Sioux City, Iowa, offering a blend of recreation and history along the Missouri River. Once home to an amusement park and the Interstate Fair, it remains a popular destination with diverse amenities.

A brief summary to Riverside Park

  • Monday 7 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-11 pm
  • Friday 7 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for peaceful walks and stunning views of the river.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's many picnic tables and shelters.
  • Bring your camera to capture the beautiful gardens and seasonal flowers throughout the park.
  • Check the local events calendar for festivals, concerts, and other activities happening at the park.
  • If visiting with children, don't miss the mini-golf course and the Miracle Field complex.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Martin Luther King Jr. Transportation Center in downtown Sioux City, head north on Nebraska Street, then turn left onto 3rd Street. Continue west on 3rd Street, then turn right onto Riverside Boulevard. Walk north on Riverside Boulevard; the park will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Sioux City Transit operates bus routes that serve Riverside Park. From the Martin Luther King Jr. Transportation Center, check the interactive route map or the Passio GO app for the most convenient route and schedule. Several routes pass near the park. A one-way fare is $1.80.

  • Driving

    From I-29, take the Riverside Boulevard exit. Head north on Riverside Boulevard. The park will be on your left. There are multiple parking lots within the park. Parking is free. Limited parking may be available during peak hours or special events.

Unlock the Best of Riverside Park

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Discover more about Riverside Park

Riverside Park, a sprawling 100-acre green space in Sioux City, Iowa, has been a focal point of community life since its establishment in the late 19th century. Situated along the banks of the Missouri River, the park boasts a rich history, evolving from a recreational hotspot with an amusement park and the Interstate Fair to a modern hub offering diverse amenities. In its early days, Riverside Park was a major regional attraction, featuring an amusement park with a roller coaster, picnic grounds, baseball fields, and even racing tracks. The Sioux River, wider and more picturesque than today's channelized version, was a central draw, offering opportunities for swimming, canoeing, and steamboat rides. The park also hosted the Interstate Fair, which grew to become the largest privately-owned fair in the nation during the 1920s. Today, Riverside Park continues to be a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore Bruguier's Cabin, the oldest structure in Sioux City, which was moved to the park and serves as a reminder of the area's early settlement. The park also features a municipal pool, the Sioux City Community Theatre, and the Miracle Field, an inclusive complex with adaptive play equipment. With picnic areas, playgrounds, sports facilities, and scenic trails, Riverside Park offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the river, a fun-filled family outing, or a glimpse into Sioux City's past, Riverside Park provides a welcoming and engaging experience.

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