Siouxland Families

Winter in Siouxland sometimes means frigid temps, arctic winds, and plenty of snow, ice, and slush, and our summers come with thunderstorms and occasional temps over 100. Not to mention storms and rainy days in spring and fall. And don't get me started on Midwest wind! But with rare exceptions when travel is dangerous like ice storms, our exciting weather doesn't mean we have to stay cooped up!  So, here are some of my top suggestions for where Sioux City area kids can play indoors when the weather outside is frightful:

Sioux City, Iowa has plenty of romantic and unique options for a special Valentine's Day celebration. Whether you're looking for an active or a more relaxed experience, there's something for every couple! ( for kid-friendly Valentine events and activities, check out this post instead! ) Here are the top 10 Valentine's Day date ideas in Sioux City, Iowa to help make this holiday extra special. Grab drinks on Historic 4th Street Sip on something special while taking in the charming atmosphere of Historic 4th Street. Try a popular eatery like SoHo Kitchen & Bar, Marto Brewing Co. or Winnie's Mocktails for unforgettable flavor. Enjoy each other's company while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most historic and vibrant sections of Downtown Sioux City. And watch for Valentine special at the 4th Street bars and restaurants. Go ice skating at the IBP Ice Center Get your heart racing and make some great memories when you enjoy this classic winter sport w...

On a recent trip to Kansas City, I had the opportunity to visit a new restaurant, The Ranch KC, and I was so impressed I wanted to share about it with all of you! My former hometown of Kansas City is one of my favorite travel destinations, not just because I love seeing my family and friends there, but also because there are great places to play, shop, eat, and explore. And The Ranch KC is definitely going on my list of great little places to eat in the KC area for future trips too! The Ranch KC is at its heart a barbeque restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and lots of kid-friendly options, so I definitely recommend it as a great way to get some KC BBQ, especially if you're visiting the area with kids.  Where is The Ranch KC? The Ranch KC is located at 17207 S US Hwy 71 in Belton, MO, in a small strip mall just a few minutes south of Kansas City itself. There is a plenty of free parking in their parking lot.  Food at The Ranch KC The food a...

Every month I bring you the best things to do in Sioux City and Siouxland, from storytimes and crafts to music festivals, streaming concerts, and holidays from silly to serious. This month, some highlights include Thanksgiving and Siouxland Christmas events like the Holiday Lights Parade and Christmas at the Homestead. It's also a great month to go for a fall hike at Stone Park  or other Siouxland parks.  I hope this event list helps you find your kind of fall fun and go make some happy memories. *This post is updated annually. 2025 update currently in progress!* Midwesty books to read in November:   Rooster by Kevin Lovegreen (early elementary chapter book) and  Company by Amy Thielen (cookbook) Navigation: Click on any of these section links to go directly to things to do in Sioux City and Siouxland in: Siouxland events November 1st through 8th, 2025 Siouxland events November 9th through 15th...

The best hot dogs in Siouxland come from a historic, family-owned diner named after another Midwest city: Milwaukee Wiener House. For more than a century, Milwaukee Wiener House has been serving up delicious hot dogs in downtown Sioux City. I'm a huge fan of this local treasure and included it in my book 100 Things to do in Sioux City & Siouxland Before You Die because it truly is a must-visit. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Siouxland, stop by Milwaukee Wiener House sometime for vintage charm and great food. Here's my full guide to Milwaukee Wiener House: Where is Milwaukee Wiener House? Milwaukee Wiener House is located at 301 Douglas Street in downtown Sioux City. There is free parking in their lot, which is connected to the Hard Rock Casino parking lots, and there is additional street parking nearby and throughout downtown, including metered street parking and a limited amount of free parking at the Sioux City Art Center....

Every month I bring you the best things to do in Sioux City and Siouxland, from storytimes and crafts to music festivals, streaming concerts, and holidays from silly to serious. This month, some of the highlights include Fall Fest and Halloween . It's also a great month to go for a hike at a local state park or to visit our local pumpkin patches !  I hope this event list inspires you to go make some happy memories with your family this month. *2025 update currently in progress!* Jump to a Week in September 2025 October 1st through 4th October 5th through 11th October 12th through 18th October 19th through 25th October 26th through 31st Recommended reads for October:   Spooky Lakes  by Geo Rutherford  (nonfiction for tweens) True North Cabin Cookbook Vol.2  by Stephanie Hansen (cozy cookbook) Stompie the Zombie by Margery Cuyler (only-slighty-spooky picture book)