South Dakota has such a rich history that it’s full of places that are supposedly haunted. Head to Deadwood, where almost every building has a tale to tell, and the Bullock Hotel is still haunted by its founder. Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s largest city, is yet another destination full of haunted places, and the Old Minnehaha Courthouse is one of the most haunted. In fact, it’s easily one of the most haunted places in Sioux Falls, if not the entire state. Learn more about this terribly haunted courthouse in South Dakota…if you dare!

The Old Minnehaha Courthouse is one of the most majestic old buildings in Sioux Falls.
Oliver S/Tripadvisor
Built in the Romanesque Revival style, it was completed in 1890 and served as the county courthouse until 1962. The building is absolutely beautiful and full of architectural details that make it truly special. It now operates as a museum open to the public. You’ll find it at 200 W. 6th Street in Sioux Falls.
A courthouse can be a very stressful place for the people inside.
MrsPickle/Tripadvisor
Those who work there are often under a lot of pressure to get tasks done quickly, and both judges and attorneys are dealing with life and death decisions. And, of course, some of those who are on trial are dangerous people who have committed atrocious acts. There’s so much human emotion in a courthouse that it stands to reason that it could be haunted.
Strange voices and other paranormal activity are often witnessed in the balcony.
Oliver S/Tripadvisor
Visitors and staff report hearing odd voices and whispers, and suddenly feeling a blast of cold air that quickly disappears.
It’s common for visitors to see an elderly custodian sweeping the floor of one of the courtrooms.
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Nothing seems amiss until they get closer... and he disappears into thin air.
Both staff and visitors have heard someone falling down the stairs on several occasions.
savedade/Tripadvisor
They go running to help what they think must be a badly injured person, only to find the stairwell empty.

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The water fountains here reportedly operate on their own.
Oliver S/Tripadvisor
In some cases, the fountains will abruptly quit while someone is getting a drink, then shoot water right at the person’s face. A prankster ghost, perhaps?
The courthouse has some gorgeous light fixtures, but mischievous spirits may play with them.
savedade/Tripadvisor
Reports of the fixtures rattling and lights flickering are common.
The staff has also reported that many of the items in the displays here are often rearranged when they arrive in the morning.
nowincolorado/Tripadvisor
Most of the spirits here seem harmless, and more intent on pulling pranks than scaring anyone.
The stunning clock tower stands 165 feet tall, and it’s an icon in this part of town, but it’s also the source of haunting stories.
savedade/Tripadvisor
Some people report seeing the figure of a man standing in the open-air arches above the clocks, where the bell is housed; others say that it’s a woman who’s waving her arms in distress.
The restroom is another spot in the building with paranormal activity.
savedade/Tripadvisor
Visitors report toilets flushing when no one else is there, and some have heard a woman crying.
Do you agree that this is a terribly haunted courthouse in South Dakota?
MrsPickle/Tripadvisor
Whether it is or not, it’s definitely a beautiful building, and one worth exploring. You can visit seven days a week. Admission is free!

Did you know about this haunted courthouse in South Dakota? Have you ever visited? Be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! If you enjoy learning about haunted places in Sioux Falls, learn more about the Orpheum Theater. What are some of your favorite haunted attractions in South Dakota? Feel free to share them with us by filling out a nomination form. Who knows…you may even see them featured in upcoming stories!

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haunted places in Sioux Falls

Beth C. | November 09, 2021

What are some other haunted attractions in South Dakota?

When most people think about South Dakota, visions of beautiful prairies, the dramatic Badlands, and perhaps even Mount Rushmore come to mind. And yet there's also an impressive amount of paranormal activity lurking within the state, as you might have gathered from reading the above article about the most haunted courthouse in South Dakota. And yet the old Minnehaha Courthouse is just one of many, many haunted spots throughout the state. Some other haunted attractions in South Dakota include Spirit Mound in Vermillion, Mount Marty College in Yankton, Easton Castle in Aberdeen, the Bullock Hotel in Deadwood, the Historic Homestake Opera House in Lead, Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City, Wounded Knee in Oglala Lakota County. Learn more about these notoriously chilling places when you check out our road trip to the most haunted places in South Dakota.

What's the most haunted town in South Dakota?

The prize for South Dakota's most haunted -- and unique -- town goes to Deadwood. This fascinating town is the origin of many a ghost story, and the minute you visit, you'll understand why. Perhaps the most famous ghost to roam Deadwood is W.E. Adams, the town's first sheriff who is believed to have never left. Of course, there's much more to this Wild West town than its paranormal activity. Deadwood is steeped in Gold Rush history, which you'll learn when you plan a day trip. Here's more on why you'll want to make a stop in Deadwood, South Dakota.

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Old Courthouse Museum, 200 W 6th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA