We all know that there are plenty of things to do in Kansas. Sometimes, though, due to distance, many of us are guilty of overlooking certain portions of the state, which is a mistake because it means you’ll miss out on some of the best sites and cities in Kansas. Take, for instance, the southwest portion of the state. Once you’ve fallen in love with the southwest Kansas charm, you’ll want to make that drive over and over again. This list of lesser-known places to visit in southwest Kansas won’t disappoint unless you hate nature, history, and fun! Let’s see what you might have been missing all these years.

While you’re out there adventuring, don’t forget that there are a lot of great restaurants in Kansas to try along the way.

Looking for more things to do in Kansas? Check out Trusted Tours, where you’ll find information on all sorts of things to do in Kansas – from well-known attractions to hidden gems and the most charming cities in Kansas.

1. Cimmaron National Grassland - Morton County

Cimarron National Grassland, Westola, KS 67953, USA
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
This beautiful grassland area is littered with wildflowers and plenty of gorgeous views. You won't believe some of the beauty you'll find in the furthest corners of Kansas. Learn more about the Cimmaron National Grassland by checking out our past article.

2. Stevens County Gas and Historical Museum - Hugoton

905 S Adams St, Hugoton, KS 67951, USA
Stevens county Gas and Historical Museum Facebook
The curious Stevens County Gas and Historical Museum covers all sorts of local history as well as information behind what used to be the largest gas field in the world.

3. Grant County Historic Adobe Museum - Ulysses

Historic Adobe Museum, 300 E Oklahoma Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880, USA
Google Street View
The Grant County Historic Adobe Museum in Ulysses is something else you should see, housed in a building made from adobe bricks in the 1930s. It tells the story of the High Plains with scenes spread through the years, telling the story of so many settlers.

4. Dorothy’s House - Liberal

567 E Cedar St, Liberal, KS 67901, USA
Mando Galvan/Google
Dorothy’s House (or at least a replica) stands in Liberal, Kansas with a yellow brick road and a rainbow of its own. Have you seen the other miniature Oz in Kansas?

5. World's Largest Outdoor Municipal Concrete Swimming Pool - Garden City

504 E Maple St, Garden City, KS 67846, USA
Flatlander60/TripAdvisor
This giant swimming pool, otherwise referred to as the World's Largest Outdoor Municipal Concrete Swimming Pool, is a record-breaker, and they couldn't be prouder of it. Bear the heat and explore a Kansas feat at the same time!

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6. River Road from Coolidge to Syracuse, KS

Coolidge, KS 67836, USA
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
The River Road in Kansas is less of an attraction and more of an experience. The drive alongside the Arkansas River between Coolidge and Syracuse is one of the prettiest stretches of road in Kansas.

7. Dalton Gang Hideaway - Meade

Dalton Gang Hideout, 502 S Pearlette St, Meade, KS 67864, USA
tomorrowsantiques/TripAdvisor
With a visit to the Dalton Gang Hideout, you'll get to see the original house that the Dalton Gang's sister Eva owned. Check out pieces from their legacy and the museum nearby for a fun learning experience about bad boys in old Kansas.

8. Stauth Memorial Museum - Montezuma

Christopher B/TripAdvisor
The Stauth Memorial Museum isn't just a collection of items from across the world, it's also a detailed biography of the travels that Mr. and Mrs. Stauth experienced. These Kansas natives sure have been all over!

9. Big Basin - Ashland

Big Basin Prairie Preserve, Englewood, KS 67831, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Home to St. Jacob's Well and a large sinkhole area, Big Basin is a beautiful yet peaceful area to explore.

10. Boot Hill Museum - Dodge City

Boot Hill Museum, 500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801, USA
Chris Murphy/Flickr
Boot Hill is a well-known attraction in Dodge City, but that doesn't mean you should cross it off your list. Explore this old cow town and see for yourself why it's so fun to walk through buildings from Kansas' heyday.

While you’re out there adventuring, don’t forget that there are a lot of great restaurants in Kansas to try along the way.

Looking for more things to do in Kansas? Check out Trusted Tours, where you’ll find information on all sorts of things to do in Kansas – from well-known attractions to hidden gems and the most charming cities in Kansas.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Things To Do In Kansas

Daniella DiRienzo | November 29, 2023

What are some of the best small towns in Kansas?

Hidden gems aren’t the only secret spots worth seeking out in the state. There are also several charming small towns in Kansas, including:

  • Lindsborg: Known as "Little Sweden, USA," Lindsborg embraces its Swedish heritage with colorful Dala horses, Swedish festivals, and charming shops.
  • Wamego: This town is famous for the Oz Museum, dedicated to The Wizard of Oz. Wamego also has a historic downtown area with unique shops and a charming atmosphere.
  • Council Grove: Rich in history, Council Grove is a National Historic Landmark. The town features the Santa Fe Trail Rut Site, historic buildings, and the iconic Hays House restaurant, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants west of the Mississippi River.

 

Are there any other hidden gems in Kansas worth visiting?

Aside from the places mentioned above, there are lots of other hidden gems in Kansas, including:

  • The Cedar Mill: Nestled along the serene banks of Cedar Creek, The Cedar Mill is a hidden gem enveloped in the quiet charm of the Flint Hills. Steeped in history, this rustic mill stands as a testament to a bygone era, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural past and a tranquil escape into the heart of rural Kansas.
  • Mushroom Rock State Park: Located in the prairies of central Kansas, this state park captivates visitors with its unique geological formations, featuring whimsical mushroom-shaped rocks sculpted by centuries of natural erosion.
  • Giant Reproduction of Three Sunflowers in a Vase: Situated in the heart of Kansas, the Giant Reproduction of Three Sunflowers in a Vase stands as a vibrant tribute to the iconic works of artist Vincent van Gogh and truly captures the essence of the Sunflower State, inviting onlookers to appreciate the fusion of art and nature in a monumental and joyful display.

 

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