Whiting KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Whiting, Kansas.
1. Golden Eagle Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Golden Eagle Casino is a popular gaming destination near Whiting, Kansas offering various gambling options for visitors. The casino features slot machines, table games, and other entertainment options for guests to enjoy. Visitors can experience the excitement of casino gaming while enjoying the amenities provided at this regional attraction.
2. Sac & Fox Casino
GAMING AND DINING HUB
Sac & Fox Casino provides a complete entertainment experience for visitors in the Whiting area. The casino offers a variety of gaming options including slots and table games, along with dining facilities. Guests can enjoy a full day of entertainment in this established regional gaming venue.
3. Monument Rocks
NATURAL LIMESTONE FORMATION
Monument Rocks is a stunning natural landmark featuring chalk formations that rise dramatically from the Kansas plains. These 70-foot tall structures were the first landmark chosen as a National Natural Landmark in Kansas. Visitors can walk among these impressive geological formations that were formed millions of years ago when the area was covered by a vast inland sea.
4. Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
DRAMATIC CHALK FORMATIONS
Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park showcases Kansas's largest Niobrara chalk formation with striking 100-foot tall spires. The park offers hiking trails that wind through the unique landscape, allowing visitors to experience the dramatic terrain up close. Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse wildlife and native plants while exploring this relatively new addition to Kansas's state park system.
5. Clinton State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Clinton State Park encompasses 1500 acres of natural beauty with a man-made lake developed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the 1970s. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities including campgrounds, a golf course, swimming beach, marina, and hiking and biking trails. Visitors with dogs will particularly appreciate the dedicated dog park where their pets can run freely.
6. Allen Fieldhouse
HISTORIC BASKETBALL ARENA
Allen Fieldhouse, often called the home of college basketball, hosts the Kansas Jayhawks and offers a glimpse into basketball history. The arena has a connection to James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, who coached the Kansas Jayhawks shortly after inventing the game. Basketball enthusiasts should not miss experiencing the venue's legendary atmosphere and rich sporting heritage.
7. Booth Family Hall of Athletics
JAYHAWK SPORTS MUSEUM
The Booth Family Hall of Athletics houses an impressive collection documenting the storied history of Jayhawk Basketball. Attached to Allen Fieldhouse, this museum features fascinating exhibits that appeal to sports fans and general visitors alike. The hall celebrates Kansas's basketball legacy with memorabilia, interactive displays, and historical artifacts.
8. Whiting Flower Shop
HISTORIC FLORAL BUSINESS
Whiting Flower Shop holds the distinction of being the third oldest floral shop in the nation with over 121 years of continuous operation. The shop has been honored with an Outstanding Century Achievement Award from the Society of American Florists, recognizing its longevity and service. Visitors can experience a piece of living history while purchasing floral arrangements from this historic business.
9. St. John the Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
St. John the Baptist Church was established in 1897 when Father Benedict Rajcany arrived in the region. The church represents the foundation of Catholic worship in the area and showcases historical religious architecture. Visitors can explore the church's heritage and learn about its significance to the local community's development.
10. Garden of Eden and Cabin
UNIQUE FOLK ART SITE
The Garden of Eden and Cabin is an extraordinary folk art site created by Samuel Perry Dinsmoor using 113 tons of cement over 22 years. Dinsmoor, a retired school teacher and Civil War veteran, built the cabin in 1907 specifically to attract tourists as a source of income for his family. Visitors can tour this fascinating property which includes the unusual feature of Dinsmoor's body visible under glass in the mausoleum he constructed on-site.
11. Bob Dole's Childhood Home
POLITICAL HISTORY SITE
Bob Dole's Childhood Home offers visitors insight into the early life of the prominent U.S. Senator and presidential candidate. The modest dwelling reflects the formative environment of one of Kansas's most famous political figures. History enthusiasts can gain perspective on Dole's roots and the small-town values that influenced his long career in public service.
12. Heym-Oliver House
HISTORIC LIMESTONE BUILDING
The Heym-Oliver House, built in 1878 by Nicholas Heym, is a remarkable example of Kansas limestone architecture. Constructed on land purchased for just $50, the house represents the resourcefulness of early settlers who utilized locally available building materials. Visitors can tour this historic residence to appreciate its craftsmanship and glimpse life in 19th century Kansas.
13. Memorial Park
RECREATION AND REMEMBRANCE
Memorial Park in Russell offers multiple recreational amenities including a golf course and swimming pool for visitors to enjoy. The park also features a veterans memorial honoring those who served from the local area. Families and individuals can spend a day enjoying outdoor activities while also taking time to reflect at the commemorative installations.
14. Buffalo Soldier Monument
MILITARY HISTORY MEMORIAL
The Buffalo Soldier Monument honors the African American soldiers who served in the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments following the Civil War. Located at Fort Leavenworth, this significant memorial recognizes the contributions of these soldiers who served on the frontier despite facing discrimination. Visitors can learn about an important but often overlooked chapter in American military history through this impressive bronze sculpture and educational displays.
15. White Castle Origin Site
FAST FOOD HISTORY
The White Castle Origin Site marks where America's first fast food chain was founded on March 10, 1921, by Billy Ingram and Walter Anderson. White Castle's signature square, steam-grilled burgers, known as sliders, became the most influential burger in American fast food history. Visitors interested in culinary history can appreciate the humble beginnings of this centenarian restaurant chain that pioneered many fast food concepts still used today.