Ghost Towns In Kansas Map
Ghost Towns In Kansas Map
With a rich history and plenty of abandoned towns, Kansas is a great destination for those interested in exploring ghost towns. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a unique travel experience, you’ll find plenty to see and do in these fascinating sites. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to the ghost towns of Kansas.
Top Attractions
When it comes to ghost towns, Kansas has plenty of fascinating sites to explore. One of the most popular is Stull, which is known for its eerie legends and spooky cemetery. Another top attraction is the town of Nicodemus, which was founded by African American settlers in the late 1800s and is now a national historic site. Other must-see ghost towns include Wildcat, Volland, and Severance.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t overlook the hidden gems that can be found in the ghost towns of Kansas. For example, the town of Sappa was once a thriving community, but now all that remains is a small cemetery and a few foundations. It’s a peaceful and haunting place to explore. Another hidden gem is the town of Le Hunt, which was once a bustling oil town but is now a ghost town with plenty of interesting ruins to explore.
Food Scene
While you won’t find any restaurants in the ghost towns themselves, there are plenty of great dining options in nearby towns. Some of the best places to eat in the area include the Hays House in Council Grove, which is known for its delicious comfort food, and the Cozy Inn in Salina, which is famous for its sliders. You’ll also find plenty of great barbecue joints and Mexican restaurants throughout the state.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money while exploring the ghost towns of Kansas. One of the easiest is to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal in one of the abandoned towns. You can also save money on accommodations by camping in one of the many state parks, or by staying in a budget-friendly motel or hostel.
Outdoor Adventures
From hiking and biking to fishing and hunting, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in the ghost towns of Kansas. Many of the abandoned towns are located in rural areas, which means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Some popular outdoor activities in the area include hiking the Flint Hills Trail, fishing in the Kansas River, and exploring the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
Historical Landmarks
Many of the ghost towns in Kansas are also historic landmarks, with fascinating stories to tell. For example, the town of Nicodemus was founded by former slaves seeking a new life in the West, while the town of Volland was a thriving cattle town in the late 1800s. Other historic landmarks to visit include the Fort Scott National Historic Site, the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.
Family-Friendly Activities
While some ghost towns may be too spooky for young children, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in the area. For example, the Kansas State Fair is a great event for families, with live music, carnival rides, and plenty of delicious food. You can also visit the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, which has a petting zoo, fishing pond, and plenty of outdoor activities for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, be sure to check out some of the off-the-beaten-path experiences in the ghost towns of Kansas. For example, you can visit the abandoned ruins of the town of Hopper, which was once a thriving railroad town but is now completely abandoned. Or, you can explore the ruins of the town of Big Bow, which was once a booming agricultural community but is now a ghost town with plenty of interesting ruins to explore.
Natural Wonders
While the ghost towns themselves are fascinating, there are also plenty of natural wonders to explore in the area. For example, the Monument Rocks are a series of stunning rock formations that are over 80 million years old. You can also visit the Cimarron National Grassland, which has over 100,000 acres of prairie and plenty of wildlife to see.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the ghost towns themselves may be quiet at night, there are plenty of vibrant nightlife options in the nearby towns. You can enjoy live music and a cold beer at the Brickyard 20 Ale House in Emporia, or head to the Granada Theater in Lawrence for a night of dancing and entertainment.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for some local flavor, be sure to check out the many farmers’ markets and craft fairs in the area. The Old Town Farmers’ Market in Wichita is a great place to find fresh produce and handmade crafts, while the Lawrence Farmers’ Market offers a wide variety of local produce and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
While Kansas may not have any beaches or mountains of its own, there are plenty of nearby destinations that offer these types of experiences. For example, you can head to the Ozark Mountains in Missouri for hiking and outdoor adventures, or visit the beaches of Oklahoma for a day of sun and sand.
Cultural Immersion
From Native American history to African American heritage, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the cultural history of the area. Some top cultural destinations include the Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, and the Nicodemus National Historic Site in Bogue.
Art and Music Scene
Whether you’re a fan of visual art or live music, you’ll find plenty of options in the ghost towns of Kansas. The Wichita Art Museum is a great place to see both contemporary and historic art, while the Bottleneck in Lawrence is a popular music venue that hosts local and national acts. You can also visit the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, which is a museum dedicated to space exploration and the history of flight.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking for a guided tour of the ghost towns, there are plenty of walking tours available. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers several guided hikes throughout the year, while the Kansas Historical Society offers tours of the state’s historic landmarks and ghost towns. You can also explore the towns on your own with a self-guided walking tour.
Architectural Marvels
Many of the ghost towns in Kansas are home to fascinating architectural marvels, from abandoned buildings to historic churches and homes. The town of Lindsborg, for example, is known for its Swedish heritage and features plenty of interesting architecture, while the town of Leoti has a beautiful courthouse that was constructed in 1906.
Historical Sites
From Native American sites to historic forts, there are plenty of historical sites to explore in the ghost towns of Kansas. The Fort Larned National Historic Site is a must-see destination for history buffs, while the Pawnee Indian Museum State Historic Site offers insights into the lives of the Native Americans who once lived in the area. Other historic sites to visit include the Mine Creek Battlefield State Historic Site and the Fort Hays State Historic Site.
Biking Routes
If you’re a fan of biking, there are plenty of scenic routes to explore in the ghost towns of Kansas. The Flint Hills Nature Trail is a popular biking route that spans over 90 miles, while the Prairie Spirit Trail is a 51-mile rail trail that passes through several charming towns. You can also explore the many back roads and scenic byways throughout the state for a more leisurely ride.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, there are plenty of wellness retreats in the area that offer yoga, meditation, and other wellness activities. The Prairie Sky Yoga Retreat in Hutchinson is a popular destination, with plenty of outdoor activities and healthy meals. You can also visit the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge for a more comprehensive wellness experience.
Adventure Sports
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports to enjoy in the ghost towns of Kansas. The Zipline at Wildwood Adventure Park in Manhattan is a thrilling way to see the countryside, while the Kansas River is a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing. You can also try your hand at rock climbing at the Kansas Cliff Club in Lawrence.
Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just a unique travel experience, the ghost towns of Kansas offer plenty of fascinating destinations to explore. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this hauntingly beautiful part of the country.