Arkota Ballroom

In the early 1920s, Thomas Archer surveyed Sioux Falls and recognized the need for another gathering place. At that time, ballrooms were tremendously popular. During the prohibition era, these venues served as social hubs where people could dance and connect in a world devoid of cell phones and social media. It was a place to see and be seen. Archer cleverly combined his last name with “Dakota” to create the name for his new establishment: the Arkota Ballroom.

On Wednesday, November 11, 1925, the Arkota Ballroom opened its doors, featuring an impressive 1,500-foot dance floor. Thanks to its success, the venue underwent several expansions, leading to a significant upgrade in 1950's when the dance floor was enlarged to over 6,000 square feet. Although the Arkota had a vibrant life, it closed in 1980. However, the building endured, as the Shriners acquired the property shortly thereafter, transforming it into the El Riad Shrine. Today, the 1950s dance floor is still ready for the next dance.

Throughout its heyday, the Arkota hosted renowned performers, including Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Lawrence Welk, and the Beach Boys. These venues became cultural epicenters where people gathered not only to enjoy music but also to forge connections and create cherished memories. My research revealed numerous obituaries noting that the Arkota Ballroom was the backdrop for many first dates that blossomed into lifelong marriages.

Archer continued to expand his vision by opening another ballroom in Sioux Falls, along with several others across the Midwest. While the Arkota itself may be gone, the building remains, continuing its long life on the dance floor at 13th and Phillips in Downtown Sioux Falls.