Sylvia KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sylvia, Kansas.
1. Don Brownlee Family House
UNIQUE ARTISTIC MONUMENT
The Don Brownlee Family House stands as a monument to Don's amazing talents as an artist, engineer, and musician. This unique gem in Sylvia must be seen to be fully appreciated as it defies simple explanation. Visitors can experience the creative legacy of this multi-talented individual through the distinctive architecture and artistic elements of the property.
2. Prairie Oaks Inn
CHARMING COUNTRY B&B
Prairie Oaks Inn offers more than just typical bed and breakfast accommodations with its comfortable country-style lodging and meals. The inn is also home to the Flying M Ranch, a working alpaca ranch specializing in Suri Alpacas. Visitors can enjoy the rural Kansas atmosphere while supporting local Kansas-made products and services promoted by the establishment.
3. Oasis Restaurant and Convenience Store
LOCAL DINING SPOT
The Oasis Restaurant and Convenience Store serves as Sylvia's essential small-town diner and café. This local establishment provides a convenient stop for travelers passing through the area. Visitors can experience authentic small-town Kansas dining culture while grabbing necessities from the convenience store portion of the business.
4. Sylvia Rural High School
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL MONUMENT
The Sylvia Rural High School, completed in 1926, stands as a two-story Colonial Revival style red brick monument to education in the small community. The historic building features a modern interior design with separate gymnasium and auditorium spaces plus customized areas for science, manual arts, and domestic science. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this semi-fireproof building was considered 'modern to the last word' when built and remains a significant landmark in the town.
5. Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
PREMIER WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors an exceptional natural experience with its diverse habitats for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. The refuge features wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands that support numerous species of migratory birds and other wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as wildlife photography, birdwatching, hiking, and fishing throughout the seasons.
6. Hedrick's Exotic Animal Farm
UNIQUE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Hedrick's Exotic Animal Farm provides visitors with close encounters with unusual animals from around the world. This family-friendly attraction offers guided tours where guests can feed and interact with exotic species. The farm combines entertainment with education about wildlife conservation and animal care.
7. Pratt's All Veterans Memorial Complex
PATRIOTIC TRIBUTE SITE
Pratt's All Veterans Memorial Complex honors the service and sacrifice of American military veterans through impressive monuments and displays. The complex features various memorial structures dedicated to those who served in different conflicts throughout American history. Visitors can reflect on the nation's military heritage while paying respects to the men and women who served their country.
8. Flying M Ranch
WORKING ALPACA FARM
Flying M Ranch specializes in raising Suri Alpacas in the heart of Kansas farm country. Visitors can tour the working ranch and learn about alpaca raising, care, and the production of alpaca fiber products. The ranch showcases sustainable farming practices while promoting locally produced Kansas goods and services.
9. INTRUST Bank Arena
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
INTRUST Bank Arena hosts major sporting events, including the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament First & Second Rounds. This modern venue serves as Wichita's premier location for concerts, performances, and large-scale community events. Visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities while experiencing top entertainment options in Kansas's largest city.
10. Wichita Ice Center
YEAR-ROUND SKATING FACILITY
The Wichita Ice Center provides year-round ice skating opportunities for visitors looking to escape Kansas's seasonal weather extremes. This indoor facility offers public skating sessions, lessons, and hosts various ice sports competitions throughout the year. Skaters of all skill levels can enjoy the ice despite the region's sometimes challenging climate conditions.
11. Museums of Wichita
CULTURAL LEARNING DESTINATIONS
The Museums of Wichita offer visitors indoor cultural experiences perfect for avoiding winter's freezing temperatures. These institutions showcase diverse collections spanning art, history, science, and regional heritage. Visitors can expand their knowledge while enjoying climate-controlled environments during Kansas's colder months.
12. Sylvia Co-op Grain Elevator
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Sylvia Co-op Grain Elevator stands as a monument to the town's agricultural legacy and economic foundation. This functional landmark represents Sylvia's historical importance as a shipping point for wheat, corn, and other grains. Visitors can observe this iconic prairie structure that symbolizes the region's farming heritage and continuing agricultural traditions.
13. Brick Sidewalks of Sylvia
HISTORIC TOWN FEATURE
The Brick Sidewalks of Sylvia, installed in 1900, represent the town's early 20th century prosperity and development. These historic pathways connect the small community's landmarks and businesses with nostalgic charm. Visitors can literally walk through history while experiencing the small-town atmosphere of this once-thriving Kansas settlement.
14. Exploration Place
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE MUSEUM
Exploration Place engages visitors with hands-on exhibits covering science, technology, aviation, and more in a striking architectural setting. This interactive museum features permanent and traveling exhibitions designed to make learning accessible and entertaining for all ages. Families can spend hours exploring the diverse educational opportunities while enjoying the museum's scenic Arkansas River location.
15. Botanica Wichita
LUSH GARDEN OASIS
Botanica Wichita showcases over 30 themed gardens spread across 18 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can wander through diverse plant collections including the butterfly garden, aquatic collection, and seasonal flower displays throughout the year. The gardens offer a refreshing natural retreat with educational opportunities about botany, ecology, and sustainable gardening practices.