Coffeyville KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Coffeyville, Kansas.
1. Dalton Defenders Museum
INFAMOUS OUTLAW HISTORY
The Dalton Defenders Museum preserves the dramatic story of the Dalton Gang's failed bank robbery in Coffeyville in 1892. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the townspeople's courageous defense, the Dalton brothers, and the town's broader history. Authentic artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays make it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
2. Brown Mansion
GILDED AGE LANDMARK
The Brown Mansion is a lavish 16-room mansion built in 1904, showcasing early 20th-century elegance and technological innovation. Guided tours reveal beautiful woodwork, period furnishings, and stories of the influential Brown family. The mansion is a testament to Coffeyville's prosperous past and architectural grandeur.
3. Aviation Heritage Museum
LOCAL AVIATION LEGACY
The Aviation Heritage Museum highlights Coffeyville's contributions to aviation history, featuring exhibits on local pilots and significant aircraft. Visitors can view memorabilia from World War II and learn about the city's role in the aviation industry. The museum provides a unique blend of local heritage and aeronautical education.
4. Elmwood Cemetery
HISTORIC RESTING PLACE
Elmwood Cemetery is renowned as the burial site of several members of the infamous Dalton Gang. The cemetery's historic markers recount the fateful events of the Dalton Raid and honor those who defended the town. It offers visitors a reflective spot to connect with Coffeyville's storied past.
5. Perkins Building
SITE OF DALTON RAID
The Perkins Building stands as a key site in Coffeyville's history, being the location where the Dalton Gang's bank robbery culminated in 1892. Today, visitors can see markers and learn about the dramatic shootout and its consequences. The building's preservation helps tell the gripping tale of frontier justice.
6. Hillcrest Golf Course
CLASSIC PUBLIC GOLF
Hillcrest Golf Course, designed by renowned architect Perry Maxwell, offers a scenic and challenging 18-hole experience. The public course features well-maintained fairways, a driving range, and practice greens. It's a perfect venue for both local golfers and visitors seeking outdoor recreation.
7. Historic Murals
DOWNTOWN PUBLIC ART
The Historic Murals of Coffeyville, painted by artist Don Sprague, colorfully depict pivotal moments and figures from the town's history. Located throughout downtown, these vibrant works bring local stories to life and enhance the city's cultural landscape. A self-guided mural tour offers a creative way to engage with Coffeyville's heritage.
8. Midland Theater
1928 MOVIE PALACE
The Midland Theater is a restored 1928 movie house that continues to operate as a hub for movies and live events. Its historic charm, beautiful architecture, and community spirit make it a cultural centerpiece in Coffeyville. The theater also hosts special film screenings and local gatherings.
9. Walter Johnson Park Campground
FAIR AND RODEO VENUE
Walter Johnson Park Campground is well known for hosting the annual Inter-State Fair and Rodeo, one of the area's largest events. The park offers camping facilities, sports fields, and playgrounds, making it a popular family destination. Throughout the year, it serves as a site for gatherings, festivals, and outdoor activities.
10. Dalton Defenders Plaza & Death Alley
OUTLAW SHOWDOWN SITE
Dalton Defenders Plaza & Death Alley marks the precise location where the legendary Dalton Gang raid unfolded. The site features commemorative plaques, art installations, and informative signs describing the deadly confrontation. Visitors can walk the alley where history was made and learn about the townspeople's heroic resistance.
11. Old Condon Bank
BANK HEIST LANDMARK
The Old Condon Bank is famously tied to the Dalton Gang's attempted robbery and is preserved as a key historic site in downtown Coffeyville. Interpretive displays outline the daring heist and the townsfolk's successful defense. The building offers a glimpse into the tumultuous days of the American frontier.
12. Old City Jail
FRONTIER JUSTICE RELIC
The Old City Jail is a tangible reminder of Coffeyville's law enforcement history during the wild days of the Dalton Gang. Visitors can tour the quaint brick structure and see the original cells used to house notorious outlaws. The jail is a fascinating stop for those interested in Old West justice.
13. Isham's Hardware
HISTORIC GENERAL STORE
Isham's Hardware is one of the oldest continuously operating businesses in downtown Coffeyville, offering a wide range of goods since the late 1800s. The store's historic atmosphere and classic facade evoke the small-town commercial spirit of a bygone era. Shoppers step back in time while browsing tools, gifts, and local products.
14. The Yoke Bar & Grill
CASUAL LOCAL DINING
The Yoke Bar & Grill is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors seeking hearty American fare and friendly service. Known for its burgers, drinks, and relaxed atmosphere, the restaurant is a staple of downtown Coffeyville's dining scene. It regularly features live music and community events.
15. Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
FAMILY FUN OUTING
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo, located in nearby Independence, offers a picturesque park setting with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a charming zoo. The zoo is home to a variety of animals and provides educational programs for all ages. It's a beloved regional destination for family recreation and animal encounters.