Let it be known I'm a sucker for public art, and Sioux Falls is full of it. Murals, sculptures, theater, and music abound. And the Levitt Shell has shown that there is an even greater appetite within the Sioux Falls community for more. Opening summer 2019, the Levitt Shell sure has made a splash in the downtown arts scene. I've made it down for about 5 concerts for their inaugural season. 5 of 30. 30 concerts featuring local and regional PROFESSIONAL musicians. 30 concerts with professional musicians that have TOP LEVEL technical support. 30 concerts with professional musicians that have top level technical support for the price of FREE! That's right free. They do pass a bucket at every performance, and I encourage you to drop a buck or two if you can. However the point is to get outside and enjoy some incredible music.
In addition to the music they have a whole fleet of accessory things going on. Interested in something for supper? They have a rotating group of local food trucks with many options. Want a drink? Concessions are available as well as other beer/wine options for those 21+. Kids are squirrely? They have a kids area at the back of the park with building activities as well as a concrete pad up front perfect for dancing.
The Levitt shell has been in the works for Sioux Falls for over 10 years and construction kicked off in 2018. Now I will admit I was a bit skeptical of the project at first. I was also a little tweaked at all the construction traffic woes that were created while the venue was in progress. (Lane shifting into Falls Park in December when the cones are placed strangely and the lines are made up is perhaps one of the greatest joys that any Midwestener will ever feel....) However, as through all great struggles, we survived, and the toil has been worth the reward. Not only does Sioux Falls have a new amphitheater to enjoy music, but Sioux Falls has also enshrined another public park for year round utilization. Another piece of green that will be saved from parking purgatory.
They're not done yet either. I hear plans are in the works for next season that will be even bigger. I believe the goal is to eventually get to 50 concerts a summer. What an amazing feat that would be. They are also doing outreach projects throughout the community as well.
If you're looking to get to the Levitt. I highly encourage you to come early. Parking is limited in downtown Sioux Falls unless you're okay with walking a few blocks. Otherwise, skip the parking woes entirely. The Levitt Shell is just off the bike trail on 6th Street, and the local bike club, Falls Area Bicyclists, is actively pursuing permanent bike parking options beyond the temporary racks already in place.
Keep up to date with all that Levitt at the Falls is up to here.
till next time!
-Matt
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