Oswego KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oswego, Kansas.
1. Oswego Golf Course
HISTORIC NINE HOLE COURSE
Oswego Golf Course offers a nine-hole experience steeped in local history. Visitors can enjoy cart rentals, food, and drinks while playing through the scenic course. The course is located at 12086 Wallace Road and provides a great recreational option for both locals and tourists.
2. Riverside Park
HISTORIC BLUFFTOP RECREATION
Riverside Park is a historic recreational area situated on the bluff above the Neosho River with over 80 acres of land. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the pool, playing at the playgrounds, picnicking, and renting the Shelter House for events. The park offers stunning blufftop views and serves as a central gathering place for community activities.
3. Oswego Historical Society Museum and Genealogy Center
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Oswego Historical Society Museum and Genealogy Center preserves and showcases the rich history of Oswego. The museum has relocated to 805 Barker Drive, offering visitors access to historical artifacts and genealogical resources. Staff can direct visitors to many other historic places around Oswego.
4. Oswego Public Library
HISTORIC CARNEGIE LIBRARY
Oswego Public Library has been a Carnegie Library since 1912, serving as a cultural landmark in the community. Located at 704 4th Street, the library offers much more than just books to visitors and residents. The historic building combines architectural significance with modern library services.
5. Neosho River Fishing Spot
TRANQUIL RIVERSIDE ANGLING
The Neosho River fishing area below Riverside Park provides an excellent spot for anglers to enjoy a day of fishing. Visitors can access the river easily from the park and try their luck at catching local fish species. The peaceful setting offers a relaxing outdoor experience for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
6. Oswego Community Center
SOCIAL HUB FOR EVENTS
The Oswego Community Center serves as a focal point for community gatherings and events within Riverside Park. The center hosts various social functions, recreational activities, and private events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the amenities while taking advantage of the center's convenient location within the historic park.
7. Kamp Siesta RV Park
CONVENIENT RIVERSIDE CAMPING
Kamp Siesta RV Park offers comfortable accommodations for travelers visiting Oswego with recreational vehicles. Located within Riverside Park, the campground provides convenient access to all the park's amenities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings while having the comforts of an established RV facility.
8. Labette County Fairgrounds
ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR VENUE
The Labette County Fairgrounds in Oswego hosts the annual county fair and numerous other events throughout the year. The venue features exhibition spaces, animal barns, and areas for carnival attractions during fair season. Visitors can experience authentic rural Kansas culture and entertainment at this community gathering place.
9. John A. Mathews Park
FIRST SETTLEMENT SITE
John A. Mathews Park marks the site of the first white settlement in Oswego, established by John Mathews around 1841. The historic park features the Little Old Well and commemorates Mathews' role as a blacksmith for the Osage tribe. Though small, the park serves as an important historical marker on the way to the larger Riverside Park.
10. Oswego Tennis and Basketball Courts
SPORTS IN RIVERSIDE PARK
The Tennis and Basketball Courts in Riverside Park offer recreational sporting opportunities for visitors and residents alike. These well-maintained facilities provide a place for friendly competition and exercise in a scenic setting. The courts are easily accessible within the park's layout and complement the other recreational amenities.
11. Oswego Swimming Pool
SUMMER COOLING SPOT
The Oswego Swimming Pool at 207 Riverside Park Drive provides a refreshing escape during hot Kansas summers. The public pool offers recreational swimming for families and individuals looking to cool off. Its location within Riverside Park makes it a convenient stop while enjoying other park amenities.
12. Neosho River Dam and Falls
SCENIC WATER FEATURE
The Neosho River Dam and Falls create a picturesque water feature near Riverside Park in Oswego. Visitors can enjoy the sight and sound of falling water while appreciating this engineering landmark. The area provides excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful spot to connect with nature.
13. Homestead National Monument of America
PIONEER HISTORY PRESERVED
Homestead National Monument of America, located four miles northwest of Beatrice, preserves the history of the Homestead Act of 1862. The monument features restored prairie, historic structures, and interactive exhibits about America's pioneering past. Though not in Oswego, this nearby attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the settlement of the American West.
14. Oswego Downtown Historic District
CHARMING MAIN STREET
The Oswego Downtown Historic District showcases the town's architectural heritage and small-town charm. Visitors can browse local shops, enjoy hometown restaurants, and appreciate historic buildings that tell the story of Oswego's development. The district serves as the commercial and cultural heart of this Kansas community.
15. Parsons Arboretum
DIVERSE BOTANICAL COLLECTION
Parsons Arboretum, located in nearby Parsons, offers a beautiful collection of trees, plants, and walking paths for nature enthusiasts. The arboretum serves as both a recreational space and an educational resource about regional flora. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls while learning about the diverse plant species on display.