Clay Center KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clay Center, Kansas.
1. Clay Center Murals
VIBRANT STREET ART
Clay Center Murals are part of the city's Mural Movement, bringing vibrant and picturesque art throughout the town. With more than 25 murals and several benches covered in art, this small town has become an unexpected art mecca. Visitors are often shocked by how alive and colorful the art scene is in Clay Center.
2. Utility Park & Zoo
FREE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Utility Park & Zoo is a ten-acre property featuring black bears, lemurs, exotic birds, and other animals that have been rehabilitated. The park and zoo were established during the Depression era when residents worked off their utility bills by constructing natural stone walls that still enclose the beautiful gardens and zoo today. The facility is open daily from 9am-8pm and offers free admission to visitors.
3. Clay County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Clay County Museum preserves and displays the rich history of Clay Center and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight the region's pioneer heritage and development. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of this charming Kansas community.
4. Rex Theatre
HISTORIC COMMUNITY CINEMA
The Rex Theatre is a cherished venue in Clay Center with seating for 299 people, serving as both a movie house and community gathering space. Over the years, the theatre has evolved to meet the needs of different time periods and now even offers space for activities when school is dismissed early. Under the passionate management of Renee, the Rex Theatre continues to be an important cultural cornerstone for Clay Center residents.
5. Clay Center Carnegie Library
HISTORIC LITERARY HAVEN
Clay Center Carnegie Library provides a wealth of resources and mentally stimulating activities for visitors of all ages. Adjacent to the Windows to Literacy area, it's an excellent place to bring children for educational enrichment and exploration. The library stands as a testament to the community's commitment to knowledge and literacy.
6. Clay Center Aquatic Park
SUMMER FAMILY FUN
Clay Center Aquatic Park offers refreshing summer entertainment for the whole family in the heart of Kansas. With various pools, water features, and recreational areas, it's a perfect destination for cooling off during the hot summer months. Visitors consistently rate it as an excellent place for family-friendly activities.
7. Tasty Pastry Bakery & Coffee Shop
LOCAL MORNING DELIGHT
Tasty Pastry Bakery & Coffee Shop is the prime spot in Clay Center for morning coffee and fresh donuts. The bakery offers a selection of homemade pastries and baked goods that have made it a local favorite. Visitors and residents alike start their day with the warm, inviting atmosphere of this charming establishment.
8. Miss Marie's Diner
HOMETOWN COMFORT FOOD
Miss Marie's Diner serves up delicious comfort food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has established itself as a local favorite for lunch and dinner options in Clay Center. Diners can enjoy classic American fare made with care and served with small-town hospitality.
9. 15-24 Brew House
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HUB
15-24 Brew House offers a selection of craft beers and hearty meals in a relaxed setting. Named after the nearby highways K-15 and US-24, this establishment has become a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The brew house provides a contemporary dining experience while maintaining the friendly atmosphere Clay Center is known for.
10. Java Junkies
COZY COFFEE RETREAT
Java Junkies creates an enjoyable and relaxing vibe that surprises many visitors to this small Kansas town. The coffee shop serves up specialty beverages and treats in an atmosphere that defies small-town expectations. Many patrons comment that the café's ambiance makes them forget they're in a rural setting.
11. Happy Hippie Studios
CREATIVE ART SPACE
Happy Hippie Studios offers a unique creative space where art and community come together in Clay Center. The studio provides a relaxing environment that many visitors find surprisingly sophisticated for a small town. Artists and art enthusiasts alike appreciate the studio's contribution to Clay Center's vibrant cultural scene.
12. Milford State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Milford State Park is located just a few miles southeast of Clay Center, offering extensive outdoor recreation opportunities on the shores of Kansas' largest lake. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking throughout the park's beautiful natural setting. The park's proximity to Clay Center makes it a perfect day trip for those looking to experience Kansas' outdoor beauty.
13. Mayo's
LOCAL SHOPPING FAVORITE
Mayo's is a beloved local shopping destination that offers a variety of goods for Clay Center residents and visitors. The store maintains the charm and personal service that characterizes Clay Center's specialty shops. Shoppers appreciate the unique selection and hometown atmosphere that makes Mayo's a must-visit retail spot.
14. Idle Hour
RELAXING COMMUNITY SPACE
The Idle Hour provides Clay Center with a welcoming space for community members and visitors to gather and unwind. This establishment embodies the friendly, laid-back atmosphere that makes Clay Center such a charming destination. Patrons can enjoy good company and conversation in this quintessential small-town venue.
15. Clay Center Windows to Literacy
INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
Windows to Literacy is an interactive educational space adjacent to the Clay Center Carnegie Library. The facility offers engaging activities designed to promote literacy and learning for children and families. Visitors consistently recommend this as an excellent destination for mentally stimulating experiences in Clay Center.