Silver Lake KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Silver Lake, Kansas.
1. KAW River Adventures
SCENIC RIVER EXPERIENCES
KAW River Adventures offers visitors incredible outdoor opportunities on the Kansas River near Silver Lake. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, river camping, and catfishing in the beautiful natural surroundings. The proximity to the Kansas River makes this a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts looking to experience the waterways of Kansas.
2. Blacksmith Event Centre
ELEGANT SMALL-TOWN VENUE
Blacksmith Event Centre is a completely renovated event space in Silver Lake that can accommodate 78 seated guests and 125 reception-style guests. The venue features a fully stocked cocktail lounge, available catering, entertainment equipment, and free Wi-Fi for various celebrations. This charming space hosts weddings, baby showers, birthdays, graduations, retirement parties, reunions, and business conferences, bringing the small town to life.
3. Silver Lake Chinese Restaurant
LOCAL ASIAN CUISINE
Silver Lake Chinese Restaurant serves authentic Asian cuisine in the heart of Silver Lake. The restaurant offers a comfortable dining atmosphere for locals and visitors alike seeking familiar Chinese flavors. This eatery provides a convenient dining option for those exploring the small town of Silver Lake.
4. Casa Hernandez Mexican Restaurant
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FLAVORS
Casa Hernandez Mexican Restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine in Silver Lake, perfect after a day of outdoor activities. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes prepared with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and satisfying meals at this Silver Lake dining establishment.
5. Silver Lake Farmers' Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Silver Lake Farmers' Market showcases fresh local produce and handcrafted goods from area farmers and artisans. Visitors can browse seasonal fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and unique handmade items in a charming community setting. The market provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the local flavors and culture of Silver Lake.
6. Shawnee State Fishing Lake & Wildlife Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Shawnee State Fishing Lake & Wildlife Area offers excellent fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation opportunities near Silver Lake. The area features a serene lake environment where visitors can catch various fish species while enjoying the natural beauty of Kansas. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diverse wildlife and peaceful atmosphere of this outdoor recreation destination.
7. Silver Lake Public Library
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE CENTER
Silver Lake Public Library serves as an important community resource offering books, digital media, and educational programs. The library provides a quiet space for reading, research, and community gatherings in this small Kansas town. Visitors and residents alike can take advantage of the library's resources and friendly staff during their time in Silver Lake.
8. Silver Lake Community Lake Days
ANNUAL TOWN CELEBRATION
Silver Lake Community Lake Days is an annual celebration bringing together residents and visitors for community activities and entertainment. The event typically features food vendors, live music, games, and family-friendly activities showcasing the town's spirit. This cherished tradition offers a perfect opportunity to experience the warm hospitality and small-town charm of Silver Lake, Kansas.
9. Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center
FAMILY WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center, located just a short drive from Silver Lake, houses over 300 animals across numerous exhibits. Visitors can experience the Kay's Garden, a 2.5-acre Japanese garden, along with the Tropical Rainforest, Camp Cowabunga, and other themed areas. The zoo focuses on conservation education and provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages throughout the year.
10. Kansas State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Kansas State Capitol in nearby Topeka features stunning architecture and houses the Kansas state government. Visitors can take guided dome tours to enjoy panoramic views of the city and admire the building's intricate murals, including works by John Steuart Curry. The historic building, completed in 1903, showcases beautiful limestone construction and impressive interior details that reflect Kansas history.
11. Lake Shawnee
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Lake Shawnee offers 416 acres of water recreation opportunities near Topeka, just a short drive from Silver Lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and exploring the 1,100 acres of parkland surrounding the lake. The area includes the Ted Ensley Gardens, a golf course, campgrounds, and trails that make it a complete outdoor destination for nature lovers.
12. Gage Park
HISTORIC CITY PARK
Gage Park is a 160-acre historic park in Topeka featuring multiple attractions including the Topeka Zoo, Reinisch Rose Garden, and a vintage mini-train. The park offers beautiful landscaped grounds, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and seasonal events that attract visitors throughout the year. Since its establishment in 1899, this beloved green space has served as a central recreational area for residents and visitors alike.
13. Combat Air Museum
MILITARY AVIATION HISTORY
The Combat Air Museum at Forbes Field in Topeka showcases over 30 aircraft and numerous aviation artifacts spanning from World War I to modern times. Visitors can explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits featuring military planes, engines, uniforms, and interactive displays that tell the story of aviation history. The museum offers a fascinating educational experience for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs just a short drive from Silver Lake.
14. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
CIVIL RIGHTS LANDMARK
The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site occupies the former Monroe Elementary School, which was central to the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision ending school segregation. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations tell the story of the civil rights movement and the fight for educational equality in America. This important historical site provides visitors with a powerful educational experience about a pivotal moment in American history.
15. Mulvane Art Museum
FINE ART COLLECTION
The Mulvane Art Museum at Washburn University houses an impressive collection of regional, national, and international artwork just a short drive from Silver Lake. The museum features rotating exhibits of contemporary and historical art along with a permanent collection that includes works by significant Kansas artists. Educational programs, workshops, and the ArtLab provide interactive experiences for visitors of all ages interested in exploring visual arts.