El Dorado KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near El Dorado, Kansas.
1. El Dorado State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
El Dorado State Park is a premier venue for outdoor enthusiasts featuring 4,500 acres of parkland and 1,100 campsites. The park offers well-maintained trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding throughout its expansive grounds. Visitors can enjoy water sports, camping, and an equestrian campground complete with arena and corrals.
2. Kansas Oil Museum
LOCAL PETROLEUM HERITAGE
The Kansas Oil Museum allows visitors to step back in time and relive the extraordinary period of oil exploration in Butler County. Located at 383 E. Central, this museum commemorates the discovery of oil at the Stapleton#1 oil well on October 6, 1915, which brought significant changes to El Dorado and forever altered its history. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Butler County's oil industry and its impact on the region.
3. Coutts Memorial Museum of Art
FINE ART COLLECTION
The Coutts Memorial Museum of Art features special rotating exhibits in addition to its impressive permanent collection. Art enthusiasts can explore various artistic styles and periods represented throughout the museum. The museum serves as a cultural centerpiece in El Dorado's thriving art community.
4. World War II History Center
MILITARY HISTORY PRESERVATION
The World War II History Center in El Dorado preserves the important legacy of the Second World War for future generations. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, and personal stories from this pivotal period in world history. The center provides educational opportunities about the war's impact on Kansas and the nation as a whole.
5. Walnut River Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Walnut River Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere in downtown El Dorado. Beer enthusiasts can sample a variety of handcrafted brews while enjoying the laid-back environment. The brewery has become a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality craft beverages.
6. El Dorado Main Street Sculpture Program
DOWNTOWN PUBLIC ART
El Dorado's Main Street Sculpture Program features sixteen artistic sculptures adorning the downtown area. These public art installations enhance the cultural landscape of the city while providing aesthetic enjoyment for pedestrians. The sculptures represent various styles and themes, creating an outdoor gallery experience throughout the downtown district.
7. Butler Community College Fine Arts
PERFORMANCE ART VENUE
Butler Community College Fine Arts offers top-notch visual arts exhibits and performance arts to the community. The venue hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, showcasing both student and professional talents. Visitors can enjoy performances ranging from theater productions to musical concerts in this cultural hub.
8. Grizzly Bowl
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Grizzly Bowl provides a fun bowling experience for families and friends in El Dorado. This entertainment venue offers multiple lanes, arcade games, and refreshments for a complete recreational outing. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the lively atmosphere and friendly competition at this popular local attraction.
9. BG Products Veterans Memorial Sports Complex
MODERN ATHLETIC FACILITY
The BG Products Veterans Memorial Sports Complex serves as a premier athletic facility hosting various sporting events throughout the year. The modern complex features well-maintained fields and amenities for both participants and spectators. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy high school and college competitions in an impressive venue that honors veterans.
10. Prairie Rose Chuckwagon
WESTERN DINING EXPERIENCE
The Prairie Rose Chuckwagon near Benton offers an authentic western dining experience with hearty frontier-style meals. Guests can enjoy live entertainment featuring cowboy music and storytelling while dining. This unique attraction provides a glimpse into Kansas' western heritage through food, music, and atmosphere.
11. Frisco Water Tower Festival
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Frisco Water Tower Festival takes place each June in Beaumont, celebrating the town's unique railroad heritage. Visitors can enjoy various activities, food vendors, and entertainment during this lively community event. The festival highlights the historic Frisco Water Tower, a landmark structure that once served steam locomotives passing through the area.
12. Sedgwick County Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
The Sedgwick County Zoo in nearby Wichita is home to thousands of animals, including their newest attractions - baby elephants. As Kansas' most-visited outdoor attraction, the zoo offers immersive exhibits organized by geographic region. Visitors can observe diverse wildlife while learning about conservation efforts and animal habitats.
13. Local El Dorado Dining
AUTHENTIC CULINARY EXPERIENCES
El Dorado offers authentic dining options featuring everything from mouth-watering pulled pork to specialty sandwiches. Local establishments serve up tasty Tex-Mex fare including salsa, queso, chips, and margaritas for those craving southwestern flavors. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy specialty lattes and coffees at charming cafes throughout the city.
14. El Dorado Specialty Shopping
UNIQUE RETAIL THERAPY
El Dorado features upscale, one-of-a-kind shops specializing in women's fashion and home decor. These boutique stores offer unique merchandise not typically found in large retail chains. Shoppers can discover distinctive items while supporting local businesses in the downtown area.
15. Baseball Hall of Fame
LOCAL SPORTS HERITAGE
The Baseball Hall of Fame in El Dorado celebrates the rich baseball tradition in the region with memorabilia and historical exhibits. Visitors can learn about notable local players, teams, and significant moments in the area's baseball history. The museum preserves the sporting heritage that has been an important part of the community's culture.