South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance, Inc.

The city of Sioux Falls is home to a unique facility—the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance. It is more than just a museum or an administrative building; it is a vibrant community center designed to bring veterans, active-duty military, and civilians together under one roof. Opened in 2019, the center quickly became a significant landmark on the USA map thanks to its mission of support and education.

The complex occupies the former Badlands Pawn building and serves as a multifunctional space. It harmoniously combines entertainment areas, memorial sites, and educational centers. As a non-profit organization, the Alliance strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone looking to pay tribute to military heritage or simply spend time in a patriotic atmosphere.

Since its founding in 2018, the Alliance has served as a place where military traditions meet modern hospitality. It is a venue where history comes alive not only through exhibition displays but also through the interaction of generations, making a visit here an essential experience for any tourist interested in the culture and community life of the region.

To plan your visit and check the details of upcoming events, you can use the following contact information. The center is always open to questions from both veterans and civilian visitors.

A rich program awaits visitors at the Military Heritage Alliance. The heart of the complex is the military museum, where you can explore historical artifacts. For those who prefer active recreation, there is a modern shooting range and interactive military games. Challenge-seekers can test their strength on an army-style obstacle course.

If you get hungry, there is a restaurant and the popular Club LOBO bar with a full kitchen. This venue is also known as a great place for concerts and community celebrations. Educational tours are often organized for families with children, and meetings regarding military careers are held for young people.

Special attention is given to veteran support: the center offers consultations on health, finances, and employment. Notably, you can become a member of the community for just $1, which entitles you to nice discounts at the bar and for center services, highlighting the openness and accessibility of this place for everyone.

Located at 1600 W Russell St, this center is situated in a strategically convenient part of Sioux Falls. Thanks to its proximity to major transportation arteries, reaching it by car is easy—simply enter the address into your GPS. Ample parking is provided for guests directly on the complex grounds.

If you prefer public transportation, it is recommended to use local bus routes that run through the central districts; however, you should check the current schedule in advance. From the city center, it is also quick and easy to arrive by taxi or use popular ride-sharing services.

The history of this ambitious project began in October 2018. The creators envisioned it as an innovative national model capable of strengthening ties between active military personnel, veterans, and civilian society. The bold concept quickly found support and was brought to life at a unique facility in Sioux Falls.

The building that houses the Alliance today has a very curious past. It was previously home to Badlands Pawn—an eclectic and massive project by Chuck Brennan that combined a concert hall with a giant shopping center. After it closed, the building stood empty for several years until the Alliance organization purchased it in November 2019 to create its multifunctional center.

Following an extensive renovation, the site was transformed into a modern complex while preserving the atmosphere of large-scale events. Today, the project is considered a model for the USA: national leaders view it as a benchmark venue for developing similar veteran and community centers in other regions across the country.

To fully appreciate the scale of the complex and take advantage of all its offerings, experts recommend setting aside at least four hours for your visit. This is enough time to explore the museum exhibits, visit the shooting range, and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the local restaurant.

If your goal is to attend one of the music concerts or special community events, plan to spend the entire evening here. The center offers such a diverse program that time flies by for both veterans and regular tourists alike.

For your convenience, the center maintains a consistent schedule throughout the week. On weekdays and Saturdays, the doors are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Sundays, visitors are welcome from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Since the complex frequently hosts special events, concerts, and private ceremonies, it is recommended to check the official website before your visit to ensure all areas of interest are accessible.

A visit to the Military Heritage Alliance can easily be combined with a visit to other interesting places in the city. The surrounding area offers many options for family recreation, cultural enrichment, and learning about the region's history.