Sanford Sports Pentagon

Sanford Sports Pentagon Sioux Falls: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Sanford Sports Pentagon Sioux Falls

Nestled in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the Sanford Sports Pentagon is a distinctive five-sided sports complex that has become a beacon for athletic excellence and community engagement since its opening in 2013. As the flagship venue of the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex, the Pentagon draws athletes, fans, and families for NCAA Division I and II basketball, elite volleyball, wrestling, MMA, and a vibrant calendar of youth tournaments and clinics. Its Heritage Court, with seating for 3,250, evokes classic basketball nostalgia while offering modern amenities and intimate sightlines.

The Pentagon’s role extends beyond sports, driving economic growth and cultural vitality in Sioux Falls. With its strategic location near major highways and the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, plus onsite parking and nearby hotels, the venue is a premier destination for sports tourism. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, major events, travel tips, and local attractions to ensure you make the most of your experience at the Sanford Sports Pentagon. For current events and tickets, visit the Sanford Sports Pentagon official event page and platforms like Ticketmaster.

Origins and Development
Architectural Features and Facilities
Sporting Significance and Major Events
Economic and Cultural Impact
Visitor Information & Tips
Annual Tournament & Event Calendar
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Facility Overview & Amenities
FAQs
Further Exploration & Stay Connected
References

Origins and Development

Opened in 2013, the Sanford Sports Pentagon was established as part of the broader Sanford Sports Complex—an ambitious vision driven by Sanford Health to create a regional hub for athletics, wellness, and community gatherings in the Upper Midwest. The building’s five-sided design is both unique and symbolic, representing Sanford Health’s core values: courage, passion, resolve, advancement, and family. The Pentagon was designed to host high-profile competitions, serve local athletes, and stimulate economic and social growth in Sioux Falls (Sanford Pentagon Events).

Architectural Features and Facilities

At the heart of the venue is the Heritage Court, a 3,250-seat arena inspired by classic basketball venues and equipped with hardwood floors, vintage scoreboards, and excellent sightlines. The Pentagon features nine full-size courts, adaptable for basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and other indoor sports. Additional facilities include advanced locker rooms, medical and training areas, hospitality suites, and media spaces. The broader Sanford Sports Complex offers hotels, dining, and entertainment options for a complete visitor experience (Sanford Pentagon Venue Details).

Sporting Significance and Major Events

Basketball: National Platform

The Pentagon is renowned for hosting NCAA Division I and II games, including the Summit League Basketball Championships and NCAA Division II Elite Eight tournaments. It attracts top collegiate teams and televised matchups, such as the upcoming “Field of 68 Opening Day Showcase” in November 2025, which will feature marquee men’s college basketball programs (Field of 68 Showcase Announcement). The venue also celebrates local connections, like coach Scott Nagy’s return with Southern Illinois (Coach Scott Nagy Returns).

Volleyball: Expanding Horizons

In 2025, the Pentagon will co-host the AVCA First Serve event, welcoming nationally ranked Division I volleyball programs and broadening its reputation as a premier multi-sport facility. This partnership brings national coverage and is expected to usher in future elite volleyball events (AVCA First Serve Announcement).

Community and Youth Engagement

The Pentagon is a cornerstone for youth development, hosting camps, clinics, and tournaments through the Sanford Volleyball Academy and basketball academies. Programs are accessible for athletes of all ages and abilities, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and partnerships with local schools and organizations (Sanford Pentagon Events).

Economic and Cultural Impact

The Sanford Sports Pentagon has significantly boosted Sioux Falls’ economy by attracting thousands of visitors for nationally televised events and major tournaments. Its role as a sports tourism hub supports local businesses and hotels, while its community programming enhances civic pride and cultural identity (Sioux Falls Visitor Guide).

Visitor Information & Tips

Visiting Hours

General Hours: The Pentagon is open to the public primarily during scheduled events. Typical hours are Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM, and Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, but these may vary based on the event calendar. For the latest schedule, consult the Sanford Sports website.

Ticketing

Purchasing: Tickets are available online via Ticketmaster and at the venue box office. Advance purchase is strongly recommended for high-demand events.
Pricing: Ticket prices vary by event; group discounts and premium suite options are available.
Major Events: Secure tickets early for NCAA matchups, NBA G League games, and nationally significant tournaments (Ticketmaster).

Getting There & Parking

Location: Easily accessed from I-29 and close to downtown and the Sioux Falls Regional Airport.
Parking: Ample onsite parking, including accessible spaces. Parking is generally free, though some larger events may require a fee (Sanford Pentagon Directions).

Amenities & Nearby Attractions

Onsite: Concessions, merchandise, comfortable seating, and free Wi-Fi.
Sanford Sports Complex: Includes hotels, dining, Sanford Fieldhouse (multi-sport facility), Scheels IcePlex, Huether Family Match Pointe tennis, and Great Shots golf entertainment.
Sioux Falls Attractions: Explore Falls Park, the Great Plains Zoo, and a vibrant historic downtown (Sioux Falls Attractions).

Tips for a Memorable Experience

Plan Ahead: Check the event calendar and buy tickets early.
Arrive Early: Allow time for parking and security.
Explore: Take advantage of nearby dining, hotels, and amenities.
Stay Connected: Follow the official event page and social media for updates.

Annual Tournament & Event Calendar

Fall/Winter Highlights

Tip-Off Tournament (Nov 23)
Backboard Bash (Dec 7)
Holiday Hoops (Dec 20–21)
President’s Bowl (Dec 28–29)
Winter Slam (Jan 11)
Blizzard Blowout (Jan 25)
Rim Rocker (Feb 8)
Heat Up the Hardwood (Feb 15–16)
(Sanford Sports Tournaments)

Spring/Summer Highlights

Spring Jam (Apr 26–27)
Hardwood Challenge (Jun 6–8)
Dakota Challenge (Jun 28–29)
Summer Slam (Jul 11–13)
Falls Brawl (Jul 18–20)
Summer Classic (Jul 25–27)
(Sanford Sports Tournaments)

Collegiate and High School Championships

The Pentagon is a preferred site for collegiate and high school tournaments, including the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments (NSIC Tournament Announcement).

Accessibility and Visitor Services

ADA Compliance: The Pentagon features accessible seating, ramps, elevators, and restrooms.
Parking: Designated accessible and family parking spaces.
Family-Friendly: Spacious seating, family restrooms, and quiet zones.

Facility Overview & Amenities

Heritage Court: 3,250-seat arena with classic design.
Multipurpose Courts: Nine courts adaptable for various sports.
Suites: Game-Day, Loge, and Corner Suites for premium experiences.
Training Facilities: Home to Sanford Sports Academy for basketball and volleyball.
Onsite Dining: Concessions and catering for events.
Merchandise Store: Apparel and memorabilia available on-site and online.
Technology: High-def video boards, Hudl livestreaming, and interactive event features.

FAQs

Q: What are the Sanford Sports Pentagon visiting hours?
A: Generally open during scheduled events; check the official schedule for details.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Via Ticketmaster or at the box office. Advance purchase recommended.

Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, except during select large tournaments.

Q: Is the venue ADA accessible?
A: Fully ADA-compliant, with accessible seating and facilities.

Q: Are outside food and drinks allowed?
A: Generally not permitted, except for medical or dietary needs.

Q: Can I rent courts?
A: Yes, contact the venue for reservations.

Q: Are games live-streamed?
A: Yes, through the Sanford Pentagon video portal.

Further Exploration & Stay Connected

Virtual Tours: Available on the Sanford Pentagon official page.
Event Updates: Download the Audiala app for alerts and exclusive content.
Social Media: Follow Sanford Sports Pentagon for news, schedules, and special offers.

Summary and Final Tips

The Sanford Sports Pentagon stands as a premier destination where athletic achievement, community involvement, and economic impact converge. Its blend of historic ambiance and modern amenities, coupled with a packed calendar of major events, makes it a must-visit in Sioux Falls. Plan ahead, check for the latest hours and ticket info, and explore area attractions to maximize your experience. For all updates, visit the Sanford Sports website and the official guide.