New Winter Activities Available at Sioux Falls Jacobson Plaza

If you’ve wandered through downtown Sioux Falls lately and wondered why Jacobson Plaza feels unusually lively for the middle of winter, don’t worry, you’re not imagining things. Yes, it’s technically an ice skating rink right now, but it’s also one of the hottest hangout spots in the Sioux Empire.

The skate ribbon at Jacobson Plaza has quickly become a winter magnet for locals looking to get out of the house, burn off some cabin fever, and prove once again that cold weather doesn’t scare us hearty South Dakotans, it just gives us something to complain about.

According to Pigeon 605, Jacobson Plaza has added bumper cars to the mix on Thursday nights from 6 to 8 PM through the end of February. Yes, bumper cars…on ice. For just $5, you can hop into one and spend three glorious minutes gently smashing into your friends and family. Even better, if you book a 45-minute skating session, the bumper cars are included for free. Unlimited rides, unlimited laughs, for those 45 minutes. Just make sure riders are at least 48 inches tall.

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If controlled chaos isn’t your thing, Jacobson Plaza is also rolling out curling equipment, now available in the warming house on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s a great opportunity to try the sport that looks easy on TV but quickly reminds you that good balance is, in fact, an acquired skill.

The events calendar at the plaza is packed, too.

Mascot Mondays kick off in February, featuring appearances from the Sioux Falls Stampede and Canaries mascots, plus chances to skate alongside members of the Augustana University men’s hockey team. The Pawsible Dog Park remains open all winter and will host a “Doggie Date Night” on February 3. Even your dog deserves a social life, right?

Add in a Valentine’s Day Date Skate and a Family Fun Skate on Sunday, February 22nd.

Jacobson Plaza plans to keep the ice and the fun events going through St. Patrick’s Day, assuming Mother Nature cooperates and doesn’t crank up the outdoor thermostat in the Sioux Empire before that.

For daily skating times and session details, Pigeon 605 has the full rundown here.

A Survival Guide For Winter in South Dakota

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the rest of the Sioux Empire (AKA southeastern South Dakota) are welcoming thousands of new residents every year.

Many of you new folks will be experiencing your first eastern South Dakota winter. While it doesn't usually get as bad as our Dakota friends up north, I speak from experience when I say it can get a little rough.

MORE: What Every South Dakotan Should Be Doing to Prepare for Winter

So, to help ease you into winter in Sioux Falls and South Dakota here are some winter survival tips:

Gallery Credit: RESULTS-TOWNSQUARE MEDIA SIOUX FALLS