Nashville KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nashville, Kansas.
1. Rhea Antique Pump Organs
HISTORICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Rhea Antique Pump Organs is a specialty museum in Nashville that showcases a collection of historical pump organs. Visitors can admire these beautifully preserved musical instruments that were once common in American homes and churches. The museum offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and cultural significance of these instruments from a bygone era.
2. Medicine Lodge Stockade
PIONEER HISTORY MUSEUM
Medicine Lodge Stockade is a specialty museum that preserves the frontier history of the region. The stockade reconstructs pioneer life and commemorates the significant 1867 Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty signed with Plains Indian tribes. Visitors can explore historical exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of early settlement in Kansas.
3. Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
STUNNING RED ROCK FORMATIONS
Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway offers travelers breathtaking views of the region's distinctive red rock formations and mesas. The route winds through the rugged landscape of south-central Kansas, providing numerous photo opportunities and pullouts for visitors to enjoy the scenery. Nature enthusiasts can witness the changing colors of the hills throughout different times of day and seasons.
4. Strataca
UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM
Strataca is an extraordinary underground museum located 650 feet below the earth's surface in a working salt mine. Visitors descend into the mine to explore vast caverns and tunnels that showcase the history and process of salt mining in Kansas. The museum offers unique experiences including a train ride through portions of the mine and displays of equipment and artifacts.
5. Garden of Eden
WHIMSICAL CONCRETE SCULPTURES
The Garden of Eden is a unique attraction featuring concrete sculptures created by artist S.P. Dinsmoor that blend religious and political themes. This artistic wonderland has stood for nearly a century, showcasing Dinsmoor's imagination and craftsmanship through its whimsical concrete creations. Visitors can explore the sculptural garden and uniquely designed concrete-clad house while learning about the artist's vision through self-guided tour materials.
6. Brandt's Meat Market
HOMEMADE SAUSAGE SPECIALISTS
Brandt's Meat Market is a beloved local establishment known for its flavorful house-made sausages and meat products. Visitors to Lucas often stop by this traditional butcher shop for tasty snacks during their exploration of the town's artistic attractions. The market represents the culinary heritage of the region and offers authentic Kansas flavors.
7. Lucas Public Restroom
GIANT TOILET MOSAIC ART
The Lucas Public Restroom is an unexpected artistic attraction featuring giant toilet mosaics that exemplify the town's quirky art scene. This functional art piece has become a must-see stop for visitors exploring the creative culture of Lucas. The elaborate mosaic work transforms an ordinary facility into an extraordinary example of public art.
8. Old Cowtown Museum
LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE
Old Cowtown Museum is an immersive living history attraction that recreates a cattle town from the 1870s with over 50 historic and reconstructed buildings. Visitors can experience pioneer life through interactions with costumed interpreters demonstrating period crafts and activities. The museum brings the Wild West era to life through its authentic exhibits and regular historical reenactments.
9. Exploration Place
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE CENTER
Exploration Place is a cutting-edge science center offering interactive exhibits that make learning engaging for visitors of all ages. The distinctive building, designed by Moshe Safdie, houses displays on flight, Kansas geography, and numerous hands-on science activities. Families particularly enjoy the immersive experiences that combine education with entertainment in this popular Wichita attraction.
10. Kansas State Capitol Building
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT ARCHITECTURE
The Kansas State Capitol Building is an architectural masterpiece featuring a stunning dome and elaborate interior decorations, including murals by John Steuart Curry. Visitors can tour the historic structure to learn about Kansas government and history while admiring the craftsmanship that went into its construction. The building's observation deck offers panoramic views of Topeka for those willing to climb to the top.
11. The Keeper of the Plains
ICONIC NATIVE AMERICAN SCULPTURE
The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot tall steel sculpture standing at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers, created by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin. This iconic symbol of Wichita represents the spiritual connection between the earth, air, water and fire, with ceremonial fire pots lit at night. Visitors can access the statue via pedestrian bridges and explore the surrounding plaza that includes educational displays about Plains Indian culture.
12. INTRUST Bank Arena
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
INTRUST Bank Arena is a state-of-the-art entertainment facility hosting major concerts, sporting events, and shows in Central Kansas. The venue features modern amenities and excellent acoustics that attract nationally touring performers and productions throughout the year. Visitors to Wichita often check the arena's schedule to catch performances by popular artists and entertainers during their stay.
13. Miniatures Museum
TINY ARTISTIC WONDERS
The Miniatures Museum in Lucas showcases an impressive collection of meticulously crafted miniature art pieces and dioramas. Each tiny creation demonstrates remarkable attention to detail and artistic skill, contributing to Lucas's reputation as a center for unique folk art. Visitors are amazed by the precision and creativity displayed in these small-scale artworks that often represent scenes from everyday life and fantasy.
14. McConnell Air Force Base
MILITARY AVIATION FACILITY
McConnell Air Force Base serves as an important military installation that occasionally offers public tours and hosts air shows featuring impressive aerial demonstrations. The base is home to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing and plays a vital role in aerial refueling operations for the U.S. Air Force. Visitors with proper arrangements can learn about military aviation history and see various aircraft that have been stationed at this strategic facility.
15. Wichita State University
EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS EXPERIENCE
Wichita State University features a beautiful campus with notable attractions including the Ulrich Museum of Art and its outdoor sculpture collection. Visitors can explore the grounds to see works by renowned artists like Joan Miró and enjoy cultural events held throughout the year. The university serves as an educational and cultural hub for the region, offering public lectures, performances, and sporting events.