
Empire Mall
South Dakota's largest mall, offering over 140 stores, diverse dining, and family entertainment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

Empire Mall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

Highlights
Must-see attractions
South Dakota's largest mall, offering over 140 stores, diverse dining, and family entertainment.
"This little mall is still alive and well, offering fun for all ages."

📱 Phone Charging Stations
Stay connected! Look for designated areas to charge your phone while you shop.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is usually available, but can be busy during peak hours and weekends.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anchor Stores
Throughout the mall
Explore major retailers like Macy's and JCPenney for a wide selection of fashion, home goods, and more.

Diverse Dining Options
Food Court & Restaurants
From quick bites in the food court to sit-down meals, find a variety of culinary choices to satisfy any craving.

Kids' Play Area & Arcade
Near the food court
Keep the little ones entertained with a dedicated play zone and a fun-filled arcade for all ages.

Animal Ride-Ons
Near the kids' play area
A fun way for kids to explore the mall, these coin-operated animal rides offer a unique experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Empire Mall
Safety and Security
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Phone Charging Stations
Stay connected! Look for designated areas to charge your phone while you shop.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is usually available, but can be busy during peak hours and weekends.
🛍️ Support Local Businesses
Beyond national brands, discover unique items at local boutiques within the mall.
🛜 Free Wi-Fi
Stay connected throughout your visit with the mall's complimentary Wi-Fi service.
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Phone Charging Stations
Stay connected! Look for designated areas to charge your phone while you shop.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is usually available, but can be busy during peak hours and weekends.
🛍️ Support Local Businesses
Beyond national brands, discover unique items at local boutiques within the mall.
🛜 Free Wi-Fi
Stay connected throughout your visit with the mall's complimentary Wi-Fi service.
🧸 Kids' Entertainment
Take advantage of the play area and arcade for family fun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Empire Mall is a significant retail hub in South Dakota, praised for its wide variety of stores and dining options that draw shoppers from surrounding states. Visitors appreciate the anchor stores, family-friendly amenities like the play area, and the overall lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. However, some reviews note a decline in the food court's offerings and a few empty storefronts, suggesting a mixed experience for some.
"I love that Sioux Falls has a mall that people will travel to from the surrounding states. There are great places to shop and eat at all the while supporting our local economy. It's still fun to go look for something cute to wear and to get a snack in the food court and for me that never gets old. Also there is a play area for kids and an arcade if you need to get out of the house. Despite the fact that many malls acrossed the country are empty and left unused this little mall is still alive and well."
Juliette Wasescha
"Sharon in the jewelry department at the JCPenney store in Sioux Falls, SD was absolutely phenomenal! She was so kind, patient, and never once rushed me while I was looking for a ring. She truly went above and beyond with her customer service and made me feel well taken care of. Thank you so much, Sharon—I truly appreciate you! I hope JCPenney sees this and gives her the recognition she deserves."
nhung vu
"Haven't been in the mall for along time to shop, but it really isn't that great. Food court has noting of great intrest to eat. 3 food stalls closed. And there was quite a few empty store fronts. Overall not very busy."
David Dather
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Empire Mall is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules for routes serving the mall.
Yes, the Empire Mall offers extensive parking facilities. It can get busy during peak shopping times and weekends, so allow extra time if you're visiting then.
The mall is typically accessed via major city roads in Sioux Falls. Consult a GPS or mapping service for the most direct route from your location.
Yes, the mall is designed to be accessible, with features like ramps and accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are designated drop-off areas for ride-sharing services and personal vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Empire Mall. You only pay for purchases made within the stores.
Mall hours can vary, but generally, the Empire Mall is open daily. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
The mall frequently hosts events and promotions. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements about sales, seasonal activities, and community gatherings.
Generally, only service animals are permitted inside the mall. Check with individual stores for their specific pet policies.
A mall directory is usually available at information desks, on the mall's website, or via interactive kiosks within the mall.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores
The Empire Mall features a wide range of stores, including national brands like Macy's and JCPenney, as well as specialty boutiques. You can find fashion, electronics, home goods, and more.
Based on available information, Nordstrom Rack is not listed as a store within the Empire Mall.
Athleta is not explicitly listed among the prominent stores at the Empire Mall. It's recommended to check the mall's directory for the most current store list.
While specific store locations can change, Verizon often has a presence in major malls. Check the mall directory or Verizon's store locator for the most accurate information.
Buckle is a common mall retailer, and it's likely to be found at the Empire Mall. Confirm its presence via the mall's directory.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Empire Mall offers a food court with various fast-casual options, as well as sit-down restaurants. However, some visitors note that several food stalls have closed.
The food court typically includes a mix of cuisines. While options vary, you can often find salads, grilled items, or other lighter fare alongside traditional fast food.
Yes, there are usually coffee shops or cafes within the mall, offering beverages and light snacks.
Beyond the food court, the Empire Mall typically hosts several sit-down restaurants catering to different tastes.
Taco John's, a long-time tenant, has closed its location in the Empire Mall food court.
📸 📸 Photography & Experiences
While not a primary tourist attraction for photography, the mall's modern design and various shops can offer interesting backdrops for casual photos.
Visitors can enjoy riding the animal-themed electric cars, often found near the kids' play area.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require permission from mall management.
Yes, the mall has hosted events for creators, including store launches and promotional activities.
The mall aims for a spacious and inviting atmosphere. It can be lively, especially on weekends and evenings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider planning your trip during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make navigating the mall easier. The food court offers a variety of quick-service options that are generally kid-approved, though some visitors have noted a decline in the number of open stalls. Remember to utilize the mall's charging stations if you need to keep devices powered up for entertainment on the go.
🛍️ Shoppers on a Budget
Consider visiting during weekday mornings when the mall is less crowded, potentially allowing for more relaxed browsing and comparison shopping without feeling rushed. While the food court has seen some closures, it generally offers more affordable meal options compared to sit-down restaurants. Look for vending machines and kiosks as well, which can sometimes offer smaller, less expensive items.
couples
Consider visiting during weekend evenings for a livelier atmosphere. If you're looking for a break from shopping, the nearby movie theater (mentioned in reviews) can be a great addition to your outing. Some cafes within the mall, like The Coffee House, offer a cozy ambiance for a coffee date.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The State of the Empire Mall Food Court
Despite these closures, the mall continues to be a significant retail destination in Sioux Falls. Visitors looking for a bite might need to explore the sit-down restaurant options or be aware that the food court's offerings are more limited than in the past. It's always a good idea to check for any new openings or temporary kiosks that might be present during your visit.
Safety and Security Considerations
While these events are concerning, it's important to note that the mall is still operational and aims to provide a safe shopping environment. Visitors should remain vigilant, follow any instructions from mall staff or security, and be aware of emergency exits. The presence of law enforcement during incidents suggests a response to ensure public safety.
Shopping Experience and Store Variety
While the mall offers a broad selection, some keywords suggest specific store interests, such as Nordstrom Rack, Verizon, Athleta, Buckle, and Hollister. It's advisable to consult the mall's official directory or website for the most current and accurate list of tenants, as store lineups can change. The mall's single-level design is also noted for creating a spacious and accessible shopping environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit