Top Hat Bar Finds New Home In Downtown Sioux Falls

An iconic Sioux Falls bar recently sent shockwaves through the Sioux Empire after announcing plans to close its doors after more than half a century in business.

Back in March, The Top Hat, one of the legendary dive bars in Sioux Falls, located at 508 South First Avenue, said it planned to close after more than 70 years of serving some of the best damn cold beer in town. Needless to say, the news hit the Sioux Empire harder than a January wind chill on Phillips Avenue.

The reason? The lease isn’t being renewed, meaning the beloved watering hole was being forced to say goodbye to its longtime home by the end of 2026. And just like that, longtime “Top Hatters” started reminiscing about cheap drinks, unforgettable nights, and the kind of stories that probably shouldn’t be repeated in polite company.

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But before anyone could start planning a full-on farewell tour, there was a bit of news from Top Hat owners that was deserving of a celebratory round.

At the time of the announcement, owners did say they intended to search for a new location to call home in the future.

Well, good news, that day has come sooner than most expected. According to Dakota News Now, The Top Hat has already locked down a new location, and it’s heading to the former Glacial Lakes Distillery spot at West 10th Street and South Main Avenue. That puts it right in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls action, just a short stroll, or stagger depending on your condition, to some other favorite Sioux Falls haunts.

Sure, the new spot might not have the exact same worn-in charm as the original location, but let’s be honest: the magic of The Top Hat was never just about the building. It’s about the people, the vibe, and that iconic sign that somehow makes every night feel like a Friday.

What's even better, you won’t have to wait too long. Owners say the new location could open as early as later this summer, starting with beer and wine before the full liquor license transfers over to the new spot by the end of the year.

So, in the end, it wasn't really goodbye. It’s more like the next chapter, an evolution if you will, of even more great memories and fun in a brand new location that will serve to help keep the spirit of the Top Hat alive for the next half a century!

Best Bars in Sioux Falls

There is always something different to try when you visit a local Sioux Falls bar or brewery. There could be a specialty drink at one bar and a new beer recipe at the next. It's kind of like a smorgasbord of drinks to taste test. The only problem is deciding which bars are the best bars in Sioux Falls to explore with your family or friends?

This is a difficult decision just because there are so many great local options. Luckily, our friends at Yelp identified the top ten bars in Sioux Falls thanks to numerous reviews on each establishment.

The next time it's your turn to select a bar for a night out on the town, be sure to visit one of these ten bars highly reviewed by Yelp.

Gallery Credit: Christine Manika

Filed Under: Sioux Falls