Lucas KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lucas, Kansas.
1. Garden of Eden
BIBLICAL CEMENT SCULPTURES
The Garden of Eden is an 11-room 'log' cabin surrounded by biblical sculptures created by S.P. Dinsmoor who began building this unique attraction in 1907 at the age of 64. For 22 years, Dinsmoor sculpted 113 tons of cement into this remarkable art environment, which includes a mausoleum where he is laid to rest in a glass casket. Guided tours of the house interior and access to the Mausoleum are offered Thursday through Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
2. Bowl Plaza
AWARD-WINNING ARTISTIC RESTROOM
Bowl Plaza is a unique art environment that doubles as a public restroom and was voted the '2nd Best Restroom in America.' In 2018, this quirky attraction won the 'International Toilet Tourism Award' for quirkiest experience. The artistic restroom welcomes hundreds of visitors each year who come to appreciate this unusual blend of functionality and creativity.
3. Grassroots Art Center
SELF-TAUGHT ARTIST EXHIBITS
The Grassroots Art Center exhibits work by self-taught artists who typically create during their retirement years, often using recycled materials. The center features remarkable pieces such as Inez Marshall's limestone sculptures, Ed Root's glass-embellished concrete monuments, and Leroy Wilson's painted mosaic walls. Lucas was officially declared the 'Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas' by the governor in 1996 and ranks first for the best small town art scene in the United States.
4. Miller's Park
OUTDOOR GRASSROOTS ART
Miller's Park is one of the top attractions in Lucas, showcasing outdoor grassroots art installations. The park provides visitors with the opportunity to experience folk art in a natural setting. It exemplifies Lucas's commitment to preserving and promoting grassroots art throughout the community.
5. Post Rock Scenic Byway
HISTORIC STONE LANDSCAPES
The Post Rock Scenic Byway offers travelers a journey through Kansas's unique limestone post landscape. The route showcases how early settlers utilized native limestone for practical purposes as well as 'ornamentation beyond necessity.' The Post Rock Courtyard behind the Grassroots Art Center displays various examples of this distinctive regional architecture including posts, stone blocks, and arch construction.
6. Brant's Market
HISTORIC ARTISAN MEAT MARKET
Brant's Market is one of the oldest meat markets in the country, handcrafting bologna and sausages since 1922. Named one of the '8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce,' this historic establishment continues to offer fresh meats, cheese, and a variety of local products. The market represents an important piece of Lucas's commercial heritage and attracts food enthusiasts seeking authentic, traditionally prepared meat products.
7. World's Largest Things, Inc.
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS
World's Largest Things, Inc. celebrates the quintessential American roadside attraction phenomenon of oversized objects. This unique museum documents and preserves information about the world's largest things while creating mobile replica versions. Visitors can experience the charm and novelty of these roadside curiosities all in one location.
8. Deeble Sculpture Garden
OUTDOOR ART INSTALLATION
The Deeble Sculpture Garden features an eclectic collection of outdoor art pieces in a peaceful garden setting. Visitors can wander among various sculptures created by grassroots artists, providing a serene environment for art appreciation. The garden represents another facet of Lucas's vibrant grassroots art scene.
9. Fork Art Park
WHIMSICAL OUTDOOR GALLERY
Fork Art Park is a whimsical outdoor gallery featuring creative sculptures and art installations. The park provides another venue for experiencing Lucas's rich tradition of folk and grassroots art. Visitors can enjoy these artistic creations in an accessible public space that celebrates the town's unique artistic heritage.
10. Lucas Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Lucas Park offers residents and visitors a pleasant community recreation area with various outdoor amenities. The park provides a relaxing environment for picnics, gatherings, and outdoor activities. It serves as a central green space for the town of Lucas, complementing the community's artistic attractions.
11. Wilson Lake
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Wilson Lake is a beautiful reservoir located near Lucas offering multiple recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and swimming. Known for its clear blue waters and limestone outcroppings, the lake provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding area.
12. Kansas Originals Market and Gallery
LOCAL PRODUCTS SHOWCASE
Kansas Originals Market and Gallery showcases products made exclusively by Kansas artists, craftspeople, and food producers. Located in nearby Wilson, this market offers visitors the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and gifts that represent authentic Kansas culture. The gallery features a wide variety of items including artwork, crafts, food products, and books by Kansas authors.
13. World's Largest Hand Painted Czech Egg
CULTURAL FOLK ART
The World's Largest Hand Painted Czech Egg stands as a tribute to Wilson's rich Czech heritage. This impressive oversized egg represents the traditional folk art of egg painting that Czech immigrants brought to Kansas. Located in Wilson, the 'Czech Capital of Kansas,' this attraction connects visitors to the cultural traditions that continue to influence the region.
14. Atlas F Missile Silo
COLD WAR HISTORY
The Atlas F Missile Silo, now known as Atlas Ad Astra Adventure Resort, offers visitors the rare opportunity to tour an abandoned Cold War missile facility near Wilson. This unique attraction provides insight into America's nuclear history and the strategic importance of these installations during the Cold War era. Visitors can explore the underground complex and learn about the missile systems that once stood ready for launch.
15. Switchgrass Bike Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN BIKING
Switchgrass Bike Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a premier mountain biking experience with miles of scenic routes around Wilson Lake. The trail system features varied terrain suitable for different skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Bikers can enjoy spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscape while navigating this well-maintained trail network.