Solomon KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Solomon, Kansas.
1. Russell Stover Candy Company
SWEET KANSAS DELIGHTS
Russell Stover Candy Company offers visitors a delectable experience with its variety of chocolate confections and sweet treats. Visitors can explore the retail store featuring an extensive selection of candies, boxed chocolates, and seasonal specialties. The location provides a glimpse into one of America's most beloved candy manufacturers, making it a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
2. World's Largest Belt Buckle
UNIQUE ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The World's Largest Belt Buckle stands as an impressive roadside attraction drawing curious travelers to Solomon. This oversized monument represents the area's western heritage and cowboy culture in a whimsical, larger-than-life format. Visitors often stop to take photos with this unique landmark that exemplifies small-town America's charm and creativity.
3. Greyhound Hall of Fame
RACING HISTORY MUSEUM
The Greyhound Hall of Fame celebrates the heritage and history of greyhound racing in America. The museum features exhibits on famous racing dogs, the evolution of the sport, and the greyhound breed's distinctive characteristics. Visitors can often meet retired racing greyhounds who serve as living ambassadors for the museum.
4. Seelye Mansion
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL TREASURE
Seelye Mansion offers visitors a glimpse into early 20th century luxury with its 25 meticulously preserved rooms. This Georgian-style mansion features original furnishings, including pieces from the 1904 World's Fair and Edison light fixtures. Tours of this architectural gem provide insight into the lifestyle of Dr. A.B. Seelye, a patent medicine entrepreneur whose success story embodies the American dream.
5. Brewer Scout Cabin
HISTORIC NATIONAL LANDMARK
The Brewer Scout Cabin stands as an important historical landmark in Solomon, Kansas. This rustic structure was recognized for its significance when it was entered into the National Register of Historic Places on July 18, 2000. The cabin represents an important piece of Solomon's community heritage and continues to be maintained as a testament to the area's rich history.
6. Solomon River
SCENIC NATURAL WATERWAY
The Solomon River, once known as the Nepaholla River, flows through one of Kansas's most picturesque regions, covering approximately 300 miles including its north and south branches. The river's path winds through multiple counties before joining the Smoky Hill River near the town of Solomon. This historic waterway has played a significant role in the region's development, with European settlers establishing communities along its banks between 1863 and 1864.
7. Statue of Liberty
DOWNTOWN SQUARE MONUMENT
The Statue of Liberty replica stands proudly in downtown Beloit's square as a symbol of American freedom and values. This smaller version of the famous New York landmark serves as a gathering point for community events and celebrations throughout the year. Visitors to Mitchell County often stop to take photos with this patriotic monument that reflects the heartland's deep connection to American ideals.
8. The Castle Service Station
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Castle Service Station in downtown Beloit stands as a unique example of themed architecture from America's early automotive era. This distinctive building, listed on the National Historic Register, was designed to resemble a medieval castle, complete with turrets and crenellations. What once served as a simple gas station has been preserved as a visual reminder of the creative roadside architecture that developed alongside America's growing car culture.
9. Waconda Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Waconda Lake offers visitors a vast 12,600-acre reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and water recreation in the heart of the Solomon River Valley. The lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for walleye, crappie, white bass, and channel catfish. Surrounding the lake are camping areas, hiking trails, and wildlife observation points that make it a complete outdoor destination for nature enthusiasts.
10. Glen Elder Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL
Glen Elder Dam stands as an impressive engineering achievement that created Waconda Lake and provides flood control for the Solomon River basin. The dam's construction in the 1960s fundamentally transformed the region's landscape and created new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Visitors can learn about the dam's history and function while enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside from its observation areas.
11. Nicodemus National Historic Site
AFRICAN-AMERICAN PIONEER SETTLEMENT
Nicodemus National Historic Site preserves one of the first all-African-American settlements established west of the Mississippi River after the Civil War. This historic community near the Solomon River represents the pioneering spirit of formerly enslaved people who sought freedom and opportunity in the American West. Visitors can explore several original structures and learn about the challenges and triumphs of these remarkable settlers through exhibits and ranger-led programs.
12. Fort Solomon
FRONTIER MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Solomon once stood as a military outpost on the east side of the Solomon River, providing protection for settlers and travelers in the region. The fort played a strategic role during the settlement period of the 1860s when European pioneers were establishing communities along the river valley. Though the original structures no longer exist, the historical significance of this frontier outpost continues to be recognized as part of the area's pioneer heritage.
13. Battle of Solomon Fork Site
HISTORIC CONFLICT LOCATION
The Battle of Solomon Fork site commemorates a significant conflict that took place along the river in July 1857. This historical location provides insight into the tensions between Native Americans and westward-expanding settlers during America's frontier period. Though the exact location is thought to be near Penokee in Graham County, the battle represents an important chapter in the region's complex settlement history.
14. Solomon City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION GROUNDS
Solomon City Park provides residents and visitors with a well-maintained green space for recreation and community gatherings. The park features playground equipment, picnic facilities, and open areas for sports and leisure activities. This central community space hosts various local events throughout the year, serving as the heart of outdoor social life in Solomon.
15. Solomon Valley Highway
SCENIC HISTORICAL DRIVE
The Solomon Valley Highway offers travelers a scenic route through one of Kansas's most picturesque river valleys with rich historical significance. This driving trail connects multiple small towns and historical sites that tell the story of pioneer settlement, Native American history, and agricultural development in the region. Travelers along this route can experience the natural beauty of the Solomon River basin while discovering the charm of rural Kansas communities that have grown alongside the historic waterway.