Go on An Adventure in Southwest Kansas
From its “Old West” history to its scenic parks, Southwest Kansas is the home of adventure.
Your first stop? You’ll want to visit the American Bison on the Sandsage Bison Range – it’s a sight you won’t soon forget! Cimarron National Grassland encompasses more than 108,000 acres and showcases 23 miles of the Santa Fe Trail. Rumor has it you can still see the wagon ruts, and a stop at Point of Rocks brings awe-inspiring views.
Historic Lake Scott State Park and Wildlife Area near Scott City also brings the scenic and historic together. From the natural springs and canyons to the remains of El Quartelejo, thought to be the “northernmost Native American pueblo,” and 26 other archeological points of interests, it’s a stop well-worth making.
More Southwest Kansas history can be revealed to you at the Fort Larned National Historic Site, a one-time Army post during the Indian Wars. Greensburg is home to The Big Well and Museum, named among the “Eight Wonders of Kansas.” And, of course, Dodge City’s Boot Hill Museum and other nearby attractions are doing their best to give visitors a look back into the “Old West.”
Longhorn Statue in Dodge City, KS
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Explore Fort Larned National Historic Site in Kansas
Fort Larned National Historic Site was the original site of an Army post which was operational during the Indian Wars. Here, guests can interact with staff dressed in period attire, enjoy re-enactments, and explore numerous replicas and displays. Take a ranger-led tour of the 700-acre Fort, and be sure to investigate the Visitor Center museum that includes exhibits on the Indian Wars, the Civil War, the Buffalo Soldiers, and Native American heritage.
Take the Heritage of Kansas Tour
If you are looking for a unique way to see the Sunflower State, try the Heritage of Kansas Tour. Begin with the state’s largest city, Wichita. Whether you decide to visit The Wichita Art Museum, Riverfest events or the exciting basketball or baseball action of the WSU Shockers, you won’t be disappointed.
From there, motor to McPherson, home of the family-friendly McPherson Scottish Festival. Listen to some incredible music, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy the dancers before investigating the McPherson Museum.
Cruise over to explore Great Bend’s museums, including the Barton County Historical Museum & Village. Outdoors enthusiasts will want to make a stop at the Cheyenne Bottoms, a 20,000-acre wetland that has been named among the “Eight Wonders of Kansas.”
History fans will automatically recognize the next tour stop: Dodge City. Boot Hill Museum keeps that sense of the “Old West” alive, as do attractions like the Hanging Tree, Boot Hill Cemetery and the Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Dodge City Days brings the summer to a close with a fun-filled 10-day event that includes a famous rodeo.
The Tour then loops back to Wichita through Pratt (also the home of terrific rodeo action) and scenic Greensburg.
