9 Underrated Attractions In Western Kansas You Should Add To Your Bucket List
By Clarisa|Updated on December 10, 2023(Originally published June 21, 2019)
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
We’ve known Kansans who have never ventured to the west side of our beautiful state. Some think it’s boring, others just don’t see a point in the hours of travel. We know that there’s a wealth of beauty and fun to be had out west, and we’d like to show you some key places to add to your bucket lists. These underrated attractions and things to do in Western Kansas aren’t something you’ll want to overlook for much longer. Come add these to your bucket list!
Hiding out in Meade is the Dalton Gang Hideout and Museum, formerly the home of Eva Dalton Whipple, sister to the Dalton Gang themselves. They've renovated the home to display more about the Dalton Gang, and it's become one of the most underrated spots in southwest Kansas. Learn more about the Dalton Gang Hideout, one of the most fascinating Western Kansas attractions.
Take a look at this video of the Dalton Gang Hideout by @TravelwithaWiseguy:
Outside of Dodge City, there are marks left behind by all of the wagons that made their way west so long ago, when we were taking land along the Santa Fe Trail. Learn more about the Santa Fe Trail Tracks on the National Park Service website.
Take a look at this aerial footage of the Santa Fe Trail Tracks by @MSIDigitalMedia:
Of course, any trip west isn't complete without saying hello to the mysterious Wheat Jesus. We don't have any idea why he just stands there staring, but it's a fun billboard and landmark for Colby. Learn more about the Wheat Jesus Billboard, one of the most interesting things to see in Western Kansas and one of the most photographed attractions in the state.
Just outside the other side of Colby is the famous Cooper Barn, one of the eight wonders of Kansas. It's thought to be the largest barn in the whole state, and one of the finest show cattle barns ever made. Visit the Travel Kansas website for more information on Cooper Barn.
Just southwest of WaKeeney is this beautiful rock sticking up from the ground, and the surrounding badlands also make this a beautiful place with more scenery than we're used to seeing here. Learn more about Castle Rock, one of the most unique rock formations in Kansas.
This beautiful bison range is the perfect place to get close to these majestic animals. Taking one of their tours out here is much better than seeing them at the zoo. Read more about the Friends of Sandsage Bison Range if you're looking for what to do in Western Kansas.
You might not have known if you live on the eastern side of things, but Garden City is home to an amazing indoor water park. Indoor parks are a favorite to many because they keep you out of the sun and have so many things to interact with. Read more about Parrot Cove Indoor Water Park.
There's no reason why Arikaree Breaks should be crossed off any bucket list because it's beautiful enough to keep visiting again and again. Just look at all those hills and valleys. Learn more about Arikaree Breaks, the most remarkable natural Western Kansas attraction.
This county museum is more than just a place to see old things, it's a place full of history in both the building's walls and what's kept inside the rooms. The Great White House and many of the items inside are from the early 1900s, and there are even more kept inside the museum itself. Come explore old pieces of life we've lost to time.
For more information, visit the Kearny County Museum website.
What are some of your favorite things to do in Western Kansas? Let us know! On the other side of the state near the Missouri border, there’s a kids-only amusement park just waiting for your young children or grandchildren to explore.
Looking to explore Western Kansas on a road trip? Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you hit the road, and don’t forget the snacks!
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Western Kansas
Melissa M.|December 10, 2023
What else is there to do in Western Kansas?
There are some interesting attractions in this part of the state. Here are a few additional things to do in Western Kansas:
