Susank KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Susank, Kansas.
1. Susank City Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Susank City Park serves as a central gathering spot and recreational area for residents and visitors alike. The park features open green spaces, playground equipment, and shaded picnic areas, making it ideal for family outings and community events. It is a peaceful place to relax and experience the small-town charm of Susank.
2. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area
WETLAND BIRD SANCTUARY
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, just a short drive from Susank, is one of the most significant wetlands in North America. Birdwatchers and nature lovers flock here to view migratory waterfowl and over 300 bird species. The site features observation towers, nature trails, and educational exhibits about the unique ecosystem.
3. Brit Spaugh Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ZOO
Brit Spaugh Zoo offers a delightful experience for families with a variety of animals from around the world. The facility emphasizes animal care and education, featuring interactive exhibits and engaging events for children. Shaded walkways and a nature-themed playground make it an appealing spot for all ages.
4. Garden of Eden
VISIONARY ART LANDMARK
The Garden of Eden in Lucas is an eccentric outdoor sculptural environment created by Samuel P. Dinsmoor. Featuring dozens of concrete sculptures and an eye-catching concrete house, the attraction offers a unique glimpse into American folk art and personal expression. Visitors are encouraged to take a self-guided tour and explore the imaginative scenes scattered throughout the property.
5. Brandt's Meat Market
LOCAL SAUSAGE AND MEATS
Brandt's Meat Market is a beloved local shop known for its homemade sausages and fresh meat products. Visitors can sample a variety of traditional sausages, smoked meats, and jerky made with time-honored recipes. The market is a favorite stop for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Kansas flavors.
6. Kansas Oil Museum
INDUSTRY AND HISTORY
The Kansas Oil Museum showcases the region's rich petroleum industry heritage through historical artifacts, interactive displays, and vintage oil equipment. Visitors can learn about the impact of oil on the development of central Kansas. The museum is both educational and entertaining, appealing to history enthusiasts and families.
7. Wetlands at Great Bend
NATURE INTERPRETIVE TRAILS
The Wetlands at Great Bend offer scenic trails and boardwalks that guide visitors through lush marshlands teeming with wildlife. Interpretive signs detail the ecological importance of this area and the migratory birds that pass through. It's a tranquil destination for walking, birdwatching, and photography.
8. Ellinwood Underground Tunnels
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND TOUR
The Ellinwood Underground Tunnels are a fascinating remnant of the town's early days, once used for businesses and secret passages. Guided tours take visitors below street level to explore old saloons, barber shops, and other 19th-century establishments. The site provides a unique look at local history and intrigue.
9. Santa Fe Trail Center Museum
PIONEER TRAIL EXHIBIT
The Santa Fe Trail Center Museum preserves and illustrates the story of the Santa Fe Trail and the pioneers who traveled it. Visitors find artifacts, reconstructed buildings, and immersive exhibits detailing both the challenges and culture of the era. The museum is a key stop for those interested in Western expansion history.
10. Jack Kilby Square
HISTORIC TOWN SQUARE
Jack Kilby Square serves as the heart of downtown Great Bend, offering a picturesque plaza for community gatherings and seasonal events. The square is named after Nobel Prize-winning inventor Jack Kilby, a native of Great Bend. Shops, restaurants, and the historic Barton County Courthouse surround the inviting square.
11. Hoisington Main Street Shops
SMALL TOWN SHOPPING
Hoisington Main Street offers a charming collection of locally owned boutiques, gift stores, and specialty shops. The area is known for its welcoming atmosphere and unique finds, from handmade crafts to Kansas souvenirs. Shoppers can stroll the pleasant streets and enjoy the friendly service.
12. Great Bend Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER AND DINING
Great Bend Brewing Company is a popular spot for sampling local craft beers and hearty American fare. The brewery features a rotating selection of beers, a spacious taproom, and a lively outdoor beer garden. Guests can enjoy casual dining while experiencing live music and community events.
13. Barton County Historical Society Museum & Village
LOCAL HISTORY COMPLEX
The Barton County Historical Society Museum & Village showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Barton County. The complex includes historic buildings, period artifacts, and educational exhibits that bring local history to life. It is a popular destination for families and school groups seeking to learn about the area's past.
14. Gathering Grounds Café
COZY LOCAL COFFEEHOUSE
Gathering Grounds Café is a community favorite known for its inviting atmosphere, aromatic coffees, and fresh-baked pastries. The café provides a comfortable spot for relaxing, meeting friends, or catching up on work. Patrons appreciate the friendly service and locally inspired menu offerings.
15. Fort Larned National Historic Site
FRONTIER MILITARY FORT
Fort Larned National Historic Site preserves an important 19th-century military post that protected travel along the Santa Fe Trail. Visitors can tour original stone buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and learn about the fort's role in Western history. The site offers year-round programs and living history demonstrations.