Sioux Falls: The Heartbeat of South Dakota

• HelloHau
  [how]
• GoodbyeTȟáŋka
  [tahn-kah]
• YesHehá
  [hey-hah]
• NoHą́
  [hahn]
• Please/You're welcomeAŋpétu kiŋ lé
  [ahn-pay-too keen lay]
• Thank youPilamayaye
  [pee-lah-mah-yah-yay]
• Excuse me/SorryHehá, hą́
  [hey-hah, hahn]
• How are you?Hečhelé kiŋ lá
  [heh-chay-lay keen lah]
• Fine. And you?Hečhelé. Kiŋ lá
  [heh-chay-lay. keen lah]
• Do you speak English?Iya ištáwíčhayay English?
  [ee-yah eesh-tah-wee-chah-yah-yay English?]
• I don't understandWíyayawapi kiŋ lé
  [wee-yah-yah-wah-pee keen lay]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseWíyawapi kta kaga, tȟaŋka
  [wee-yah-yah-wah-pee kah-gah, tahn-kah]
• I don't eat meatHą́ na ištá kiŋ lé
  [hahn nah eesh-tah keen lay]
• Cheers!Skál!
  [skahl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseWíyawapi kta kaga, tȟaŋka
  [wee-yah-yah-wah-pee kah-gah, tahn-kah]

• Help!Wíyayayapi!
  [wee-yah-yah-yah-pee]
• Go away!Núŋkšiče!
  [noongk-shee-chay]
• Call the Police!Wíyayayapi kiŋ lé!
  [wee-yah-yah-yah-pee keen lay]
• Call a doctor!Wíyayayapi kiŋ lé!
  [wee-yah-yah-yah-pee keen lay]
• I'm lostWíyayawapi kiŋ lé
  [wee-yah-yah-yah-wah-pee keen lay]
• I'm illWíyayawapi kiŋ lé
  [wee-yah-yah-yah-wah-pee keen lay]

• I'd like to buy...Wíyawapi kta
  [wee-yah-yah-wah-pee kah]
• I'm just lookingWóiyuška
  [woh-yuh-shkah]
• How much is it?Taku kte lo?
  [tah-koo kteh loh]
• That's too expensiveHečel ċaŋté yelo
  [heh-chayl chahn-tay yeh-loh]
• Can you lower the price?Taku kte lo?
  [tah-koo kteh loh]

• What time is it?Háŋska tȟokáyapi kiŋ lé?
  [hahn-skah tahn-koh-yah-pee keen lay]
• It's one o'clockTóka akíčhiyapi
  [toh-kah ah-kee-chee-yah-pee]
• Half past (10)Naháŋ hu wíyutȟapi (10)
  [nah-hahn hoo wee-yuh-thah-pee]
• MorningIyáȟčapi
  [ee-yah-gh-chah-pee]
• AfternoonWíyutȟápi
  [wee-yuh-thah-pee]
• EveningIštáwiyayapi
  [eesh-tah-wee-yah-yah-pee]
• YesterdayHéčha
  [hay-chah]
• TodayLíla
  [lee-lah]
• TomorrowAŋpétu
  [ahn-pay-too]
• 1Waníyetu
  [wah-nee-yea-too]
• 2Tuwe
  [too-way]
• 3Tháŋka
  [tahn-kah]
• 4Topa
  [toh-pah]
• 5Zaptan
  [zap-tahn]
• 6Šakpe
  [shahk-pay]
• 7Šakowin
  [shahk-oh-wee]
• 8Šakolu
  [shahk-oh-loo]
• 9Šakpala
  [shahk-pah-lah]
• 10Waŋyápi
  [wahn-yah-pee]

• Where's a/the...?Hečéxelá?
  [heh-chay-ghay-lah]
• What's the address?Heíčha kiŋ lé?
  [hay-chah keen lay]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mapa kiŋ lé?
  [mah-pah keen lay]
• When's the next (bus)?Wíyayapi kiŋ lé (bus)?
  [wee-yah-yah-pee keen lay (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Wíyawapi kiŋ lé (....)
  [wee-yah-yah-wah-pee keen lay]

Sioux Falls was officially founded in 1856 when land speculators from the Western Town Company of Dubuque, Iowa, and the Dakota Land Company of St. Paul, Minnesota, arrived in the area. They were drawn to the region by the majestic falls of the Big Sioux River, which they believed would be perfect for developing a prosperous settlement.

The Big Sioux River has been central to the history and development of Sioux Falls. The falls were originally a gathering place for Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Sioux. The river provided water, food, and transportation routes, making it a vital resource for early settlers and indigenous peoples alike.

In 1861, Sioux Falls became part of the Dakota Territory, which was created by the United States Congress. This period saw an influx of settlers and the establishment of infrastructure such as roads and railroads, which were crucial for the growth and development of the area.

The arrival of the railroads in the late 19th century was a transformative event for Sioux Falls. The railroads connected the city to larger markets and facilitated the transportation of goods and people. This connectivity accelerated the growth of Sioux Falls, making it a significant commercial and transportation hub in the region.

Sioux Falls is known for its rich deposits of pink quartzite, a type of granite. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the granite industry flourished, with numerous quarries operating in the area. The durable and attractive stone was used in numerous construction projects, both locally and nationally, contributing to the city’s economic prosperity.

The Great Flood of 1881 was a significant event in the history of Sioux Falls. Heavy rains and melting snow caused the Big Sioux River to overflow, leading to widespread flooding. The disaster resulted in extensive property damage and loss of life, marking a challenging period for the residents of Sioux Falls.

Established in 1917, the Sioux Falls Stockyards played a pivotal role in the city’s economy for much of the 20th century. The stockyards became one of the largest livestock markets in the United States, attracting farmers and ranchers from across the region. The industry provided numerous jobs and fueled the growth of related businesses.

World War II had a profound impact on Sioux Falls. The city became home to the Sioux Falls Army Airfield, which trained thousands of radio operators for the U.S. Army Air Forces. The influx of military personnel and the associated economic activity contributed to the city’s growth and development during this period.

In recent decades, Sioux Falls has continued to grow and evolve. The city has diversified its economy, with sectors such as healthcare, finance, and retail playing significant roles. Sioux Falls has also invested in cultural and recreational amenities, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.

Sioux Falls is located in the southeastern part of South Dakota and is well-connected by air, road, and bus. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) offers flights from major airlines, making it the most convenient option for air travel. If you're driving, Sioux Falls is accessible via Interstates 90 and 29. For bus travelers, Greyhound and Jefferson Lines provide services to and from the city.

Sioux Falls offers several transportation options including rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. The Sioux Area Metro (SAM) provides public bus services across the city. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, especially with the extensive bike trail system that circles the city. For those who prefer to walk, many of the downtown attractions are within close proximity.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, so withdrawing cash is convenient. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

Sioux Falls is generally a safe city for tourists, but as with any destination, it is important to take precautions. Areas such as Pettigrew Heights and certain parts of the North End are known for higher crime rates. Avoid walking alone at night in these areas and always stay alert. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Sioux Falls has several medical facilities, including the Avera McKennan Hospital and Sanford USD Medical Center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially if you plan to explore parks and trails. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and practices. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares as the Sioux Area Metro does not provide change. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food, and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. Avoid wasting food as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sioux Falls like a local, visit the Falls Park, a favorite among residents. Explore the downtown area for local shops, cafes, and the SculptureWalk. Attend local events such as the Sioux Empire Fair or the Downtown Riverfest. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, which offers beautiful scenery and a glimpse into the area's history.