Vergennes Falls Basin | Vergennes

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science is a multi-disciplinary cultural center located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

It houses a performing arts center, visual arts galleries, and science exhibits within a single facility.

Visual Characteristics

The building is constructed primarily of red brick and limestone. It features a prominent clock tower and arched windows characteristic of early 20th-century architecture. The interior spaces include large exhibition halls, a proscenium theater, and educational classrooms.

Location & Access Logistics

The Pavilion is situated at 301 South Main Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls. It is approximately 0.5km south of the Big Sioux River. Parking is available in the adjacent city-owned parking ramp, accessible from Main Avenue. Several public bus routes, including Line 1 and Line 3, stop within a two-block radius of the facility.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was originally constructed in 1908 as the Washington High School. It was designed by architect Joseph Schwarz and served as an educational institution until 1974. In the late 1990s, it underwent extensive renovation and repurposing to become the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science, opening in 1999.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can attend live performances in the 1,800-seat concert hall. The Visual Arts Center features rotating exhibitions from regional and national artists. The Kirby Science Discovery Center offers interactive science exhibits for all ages, including a planetarium show.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on all public levels. Seating areas and benches are provided throughout the public spaces. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the building. Food and beverage options are available for purchase at the on-site cafe.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting in the Visual Arts Center galleries, consider visiting during daylight hours. The performing arts schedule dictates evening and weekend activity. The science exhibits are accessible during regular operating hours, typically Tuesday through Sunday.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the building's history is its original function as a high school. The auditorium stage was once used for student assemblies and graduations before its transformation into a professional performance venue.

Nearby Landmarks

• Old Courthouse Museum (0.2km North)
• Falls Park (0.8km Northeast)
• Sioux Falls Convention Center (1.1km East)
• Downtown Sioux Falls shopping district (0.3km West)