Westphalia KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Westphalia, Kansas.
1. Gerth Cabin
HISTORIC PIONEER DWELLING
Gerth Cabin is a highly-rated historical attraction in Westphalia with a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors. The cabin offers visitors a glimpse into pioneer life in early Kansas settlement days. It serves as a preserved example of the region's architectural history and early European settlement.
2. Eisenhower State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Eisenhower State Park is a popular recreational area near Westphalia with a 4.5 rating from visitors. The park offers camping, fishing, hiking, and boating opportunities on Melvern Lake. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, wildlife watching, and well-maintained facilities throughout the seasons.
3. Sandbar
LOCAL GATHERING SPOT
The Sandbar is a community favorite in Westphalia with a solid 4.2 rating from visitors. This local establishment serves as a popular gathering place for residents and tourists alike. It offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can socialize and enjoy local hospitality.
4. Kanza Park
RECREATIONAL GREEN SPACE
Kanza Park is a highly-rated outdoor space near Westphalia with a 4.5 visitor rating. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its well-maintained grounds make it a perfect spot for community events and outdoor activities year-round.
5. Carnegie Cultural Center
ARTS AND HERITAGE HUB
The Carnegie Cultural Center boasts a perfect 5.0 rating as a cultural landmark near Westphalia. Housed in a historic Carnegie library building, it serves as a hub for arts, history exhibits, and cultural events. The center preserves local heritage while offering educational programs for visitors of all ages.
6. Historic Opera House
19TH CENTURY ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Historic Opera House was built by J.C. Merrill in 1887 and once seated 300 people. This cultural landmark provided entertainment including plays, musical performances, dances, recitals, and concerts for the community. The Opera House represents an important part of Westphalia's cultural heritage from the town's prosperous early days.
7. Farmers State Bank
HISTORIC FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
The Farmers State Bank is a historic institution that houses the original counter from the first Westphalia Bank established in 1887. This preserved piece of financial history connects visitors to the economic development of early Westphalia. The bank represents the commercial growth that accompanied the town's agricultural expansion in the late 19th century.
8. Westphalia Historical Museum
TOWN HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Westphalia Historical Museum preserves the unique history of this town founded in 1880 and largely settled by German immigrants. Exhibits showcase artifacts from the town's development including its role as a major shipping point for livestock, grain, and hay. Visitors can learn about significant historical events, including the capture of the first tornado photograph taken in Westphalia on April 26, 1884.
9. Prairie Spirit Trail
SCENIC RAIL-TRAIL PATH
The Prairie Spirit Trail is a popular recreational path that passes near Westphalia, offering miles of scenic hiking and biking opportunities. Built on a converted railway corridor, the trail winds through beautiful Kansas prairie landscapes and connects several communities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nature watching, photography, and seasonal wildflower displays along this well-maintained trail.
10. John Redmond Reservoir
WATER RECREATION DESTINATION
John Redmond Reservoir is a major water recreation destination within driving distance of Westphalia. The reservoir offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping throughout the warmer months. Visitors appreciate the scenic shoreline views and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in this natural setting.
11. Garnett Farmers Market
LOCAL FRESH PRODUCE
The Garnett Farmers Market provides a vibrant shopping experience for residents of Westphalia and surrounding communities. Local farmers and artisans offer fresh produce, handcrafted goods, baked items, and specialty foods in a friendly atmosphere. The market serves as both a shopping destination and social gathering place that celebrates local agricultural traditions.
12. Cedar Valley Reservoir
FISHING AND WILDLIFE AREA
Cedar Valley Reservoir is a peaceful natural area near Westphalia offering excellent fishing opportunities for anglers. The reservoir is stocked with multiple fish species and features accessible shorelines and boat launches for water recreation. Its quiet setting makes it perfect for nature photography, birdwatching, and escaping into the tranquility of Kansas landscapes.
13. Dutch Country Cafe
HEARTLAND HOME COOKING
Dutch Country Cafe serves authentic heartland cuisine that draws visitors from Westphalia and beyond. The restaurant specializes in homestyle cooking with generous portions and friendly service in a comfortable setting. Diners especially enjoy their breakfast offerings, homemade pies, and daily specials that reflect regional culinary traditions.
14. Anderson County Historical Society
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Anderson County Historical Society preserves the rich history of the region including Westphalia and surrounding communities. Their museum displays artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of settlement, agricultural development, and daily life through different eras. Visitors can research local genealogy, view rotating exhibits, and gain insight into the area's cultural heritage.
15. Kirk's Mansion
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
Kirk's Mansion stands as an impressive example of historic architecture within driving distance of Westphalia. The mansion features period furnishings and decorative elements that showcase the lifestyle of prominent early Kansas settlers. Tours of the property reveal interesting historical details and provide context for understanding the region's development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.