Traveling This Summer? There’s Something for Everyone in Western Kansas!

Jaw dropping sunsets. Beautiful topography. Unique boutiques. Local restaurants whipping up mouth-watering, regional eats…

There’s so much to do within the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (WKREDA) this spring and summer!

“In every corner of the state, there are plenty of towns buzzing with activity as the warmer weather kicks into gear,” said Ryan Russell, executive director for Stafford County Economic Development. “Whether you’re a resident or just curious to see what Kansas is all about, you’ll be amazed at what this overlooked treasure has to offer.”

Hidden Gems

Tap into an enticing array of historical, recreational and agricultural opportunities to explore in Western Kansas by clicking here! But here’s a quick highlight of some note-worthy events and points of interest:

The Dalton Gang Hideout: Don’t let this innocent looking little yellow house on the corner of Pearlette and Green Streets in Meade County deceive you. In the late 1800s, it was used as a hideout for the infamous Dalton Gang! Legend has it that the underground tunnel which connected the house to the barn was used by the outlaws as a way to go undetected by the law.

Boot Hill Museum: Re-living the glory days as Queen of the Cowtowns! Located on the original site of the Boot Hill Cemetery, you’ll get to experience creative, lively and interactive displays and activities for the whole family. From stepping back in time with a portrait taken in the Old West Photo Parlor to kicking back with a cold sarsaparilla at the Beatty and Kelley Restaurant, come enjoy a day in the life in the old wild, wild west!

Dodge City Trolley Tours: Take a trip back to the 1870s with pit stops at the original locations of the Longbranch Saloon, Gospel Hill, The “Deadline,” Front Street and more! As you tour Fort Dodge, you’ll also follow the path of the Santa Fe Trail and get to hear a few colorful stories along the way.

Millfest: The Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum will be hosting this annual, family event celebrating the area’s pioneer heritage and the history of the only working mill in the midwest still using 19th century roller mill technology. The floors rumble, the gears shake… it’s an experience you won’t forget!  

Caldwell Chisolm Trail Fest: Caldwell celebrates her reputation as the “Border Queen,” one of six original cow towns that dotted the Chisolm Trail. Told through a cattle drive on Main Street, gunfight re-enactments, tours of underground vaults and opera house shows, this is a real celebration of the town’s Wild West history!

Portraits from the Museum Collection: Long before the selfie, residents of Wichita were having their portraits rendered in paintings and sculptures for a variety of reasons: celebrating life, death and memorable events or for private, sentimental viewing. This dramatic exhibit teaches about the art of portraiture and the people it portrayed.

Annual Fort Wallace Memorial Weekend Rodeo: Hold onto your hat for one of the oldest and grittiest rodeos Kansas has to offer! Held on the last weekend of May, this annual can’t miss event has been going strong since 1955, making it the longest continually running rodeo in the state.

Walk Kansas! This statewide program celebrates its 25th year with a checklist of Wild West Walking locations throughout a handful of communities. Sponsored by Kansas State Research & Extension, you can check out a few new places while improving your mood and getting on the move!  

The Flint Hills: Imagine yourself immersed in a sea of tallgrass prairie, where forbs and grasses that can grow up to 10 feet tall stretch out across rolling hills and panoramic views. One of the largest tallgrass prairies left in the world, these unspoiled, nearly treeless expanses represent a jaw-dropping beauty that can’t be found elsewhere. Hike them. Enjoy them. Explore them.

South Central for the Seekers: From agrotourism to outdoor sports and wellness, this corner of the state offers something for visitors and thrill seekers of all ages.

Check out all of the beautiful historical, recreational and agricultural opportunities to explore in Western Kansas by clicking here!