Sharon KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sharon, Kansas.
1. The Homestead Inn
CHARMING BED & BREAKFAST
The Homestead Inn is a quaint bed & breakfast located in the historic town of Sharon, Kansas. Visitors can enjoy comfortable accommodations in a building that captures the essence of small-town Kansas. The inn provides a peaceful retreat for travelers exploring the hometown of country music star Martina McBride.
2. City Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GATHERING SPOT
City Park in Sharon continues to be a beloved community gathering place that has stood the test of time. The park offers a serene setting for picnics, community events, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy the small-town charm while relaxing in this well-maintained green space.
3. The Bull Pen Cafe
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
The Bull Pen Cafe serves as a popular dining establishment on Main Street in Sharon. This local eatery offers hearty meals in a friendly atmosphere that embodies Kansas hospitality. Visitors and locals alike gather here to enjoy home-style cooking while experiencing authentic small-town charm.
4. Willie's Art Designs
LOCAL ART GALLERY
Willie's Art Designs showcases unique artistic creations on Sharon's Main Street. The gallery features works by local artists, offering visitors a glimpse into the creative spirit of the region. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse selection of handcrafted pieces available for viewing and purchase.
5. Farmers Co-op
AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY HUB
The Farmers Co-op stands as a vital institution on Sharon's Main Street, serving the agricultural community. This establishment provides essential supplies and services to local farmers while offering visitors insight into rural Kansas life. The co-op represents the strong farming heritage that continues to define this region.
6. Rhea Antique Pump Organs
UNIQUE MUSICAL COLLECTION
Rhea Antique Pump Organs offers visitors a rare opportunity to view a specialized collection of historical musical instruments. The collection showcases beautifully preserved pump organs that tell the story of American musical history. Music enthusiasts and history buffs alike will appreciate this unique attraction that has earned excellent reviews from travelers.
7. Western Vistas Historic Byway
SCENIC PRAIRIE DRIVE
The Western Vistas Historic Byway provides a culturally and visually fascinating route through the Kansas prairie landscape. Travelers can experience rugged terrain, expansive skies, and historical landmarks along this well-maintained scenic drive. This byway offers a perfect opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and rich history of western Kansas.
8. Land and Sky Scenic Byway
MAJESTIC KANSAS HORIZONS
The Land and Sky Scenic Byway presents travelers with breathtaking views of Kansas' vast horizons and open prairies. This route allows visitors to experience the Wallace Branch of the Great Western Cattle Trail and other historical sites. The byway showcases the impressive elevation of the region, with Sharon Springs standing at nearly 3,500 feet above sea level.
9. Medicine Lodge Stockade
HISTORIC FRONTIER ATTRACTION
The Medicine Lodge Stockade offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Kansas' frontier history. This historical reconstruction commemorates the significant peace treaties signed between the U.S. government and Plains Indian tribes in 1867. Visitors can explore exhibits and structures that bring to life an important chapter in the settlement of the American West.
10. Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
RED HILLS NATURAL WONDER
The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway takes travelers through the striking red hills and mesas of south-central Kansas. This 42-mile route showcases unusual geological formations, colorful buttes, and sweeping views unlike anywhere else in the state. Nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts will be captivated by the unique landscape that feels more like the American Southwest than typical Kansas terrain.
11. Pratt Fish Hatchery
AQUATIC CONSERVATION CENTER
The Pratt Fish Hatchery serves as an important conservation facility that produces fish for stocking Kansas waters. Visitors can tour the grounds to see fish in various stages of development and learn about aquatic conservation efforts. The hatchery provides an educational experience about Kansas wildlife management and has earned excellent reviews from travelers.
12. Lemon Park
FAMILY RECREATION PARADISE
Lemon Park offers extensive recreational opportunities for families visiting the Pratt area. The park features playgrounds, walking paths, fishing ponds, and picnic areas in a beautifully maintained setting. Visitors consistently give this park high ratings for its cleanliness and variety of activities available in all seasons.
13. Maxwell Wildlife Refuge
NATIVE PRAIRIE WILDLIFE
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is a Kansas State Park where visitors can observe herds of both bison and elk in their native prairie environment. The refuge houses the state's largest public herd of bison and offers changing prairie colors with a variety of native grasses and wildflowers throughout the seasons. Visitors can view wildlife from the observation tower or schedule a tram tour for a closer look at these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
14. Fort Larned National Historic Site
AUTHENTIC FRONTIER FORT
Fort Larned National Historic Site preserves one of the most complete and authentic frontier forts remaining from the Indian Wars period. The site features nine meticulously restored and furnished buildings including barracks, commissary, officers quarters, and blacksmith shop. Visitors can explore the museum collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the Indian Wars while learning about this important outpost on the Santa Fe Trail.
15. Historic Hays Walking Tour
BRONZE PLAQUE HISTORY
The Historic Hays Walking Tour features 25 bronze plaques placed along and near the brick streets of downtown Hays. These informative markers give visitors a fascinating glimpse into local life and history throughout different time periods. The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace while learning about the rich heritage of this western Kansas community.