When we were staying in Sioux Falls, we had one of those afternoons where we’d done enough sightseeing to feel productive… but not enough to just sit around.
It was one of those “we need to get out and do something” moods.
So we ended up at Thunder Road Family Park — and it turned into way more fun than we expected.
Mini Golf and Immediate Trash Talk
You already know we can’t pass up a good mini golf course. If there’s one nearby, we’re playing it.
The course there was just the right mix of fun and challenging. Nothing too wild, but enough little slopes and obstacles to keep you on your toes. We started out casually keeping score like mature adults.
That lasted maybe three holes.
After that it was:
- “Okay but that should’ve counted.”
- “You definitely moved your ball.”
- “We’re not writing down a five. No chance.”
It was one of those afternoons where you’re outside, the sun’s out, you’re laughing way more than you expected, and suddenly you don’t care what the score is anymore.
If we’d had the kids with us, it would’ve been louder and slightly chaotic — which would’ve been fun too. But just the two of us? It was easy, relaxed, and honestly kind of perfect.
Go Karts… Where It Got Competitive Fast
Then we did the go karts.
And listen — something happens to grown adults when they get in a go kart. All reason disappears.
The first lap? Smiles and laughing.
Second lap? You’re figuring out where to pass.
Third lap? It’s a full championship race and you are not losing.
We both love go karts more than we probably should, so this was the highlight. The track is smooth, the turns are fun, and you can just let yourself lean into it a little.
By the time we pulled back in, we were pretending it was “just for fun” while absolutely already planning a rematch.
Just Simple, Good Afternoon Fun
What made it great wasn’t anything over-the-top. It was just easy fun in the middle of the day. No big plans. No fancy reservations. Just mini golf, go karts, and a little friendly competition.
It would be a blast with kids. It works just as well as a casual date afternoon. Or even with friends if you’re traveling through.
Sometimes you just need to get outside, do something a little silly, and not take yourself too seriously for a couple hours.
That was our Sioux Falls afternoon — and honestly, we’d do it again.
