Built in 2007, the Betty Strong Encounter Center connects to the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to serve a permanent mission of commemorating a history of encounters that occurred before and after the Lewis and Clark expedition.

It hosts free photo and art exhibitions, and offers free programs, events and activities that explore themes of the land, rivers and people of the region. Themes are as diverse as agriculture, Mighty Mo fishing, heritage food and music, and Native Games days.The 10,000-square foot Encounter Center features galleries, an activity room, restrooms, an amphitheatre and areas for outdoor games and events. The Stanley Evans Auditorium hosts lectures, music and theatre programs, movies and panel discussions. A long corridor known as “The River Connection” invites visitors to encounter maps and images of the Missouri River.