Lyons Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Lyons, Central Kansas with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lyons

Located in the heart of Central Kansas, Lyons is a quaint town full of history and natural beauty. From museums and historical sites to hiking trails and outdoor adventures, Lyons is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a laid-back vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Lyons

Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich history or taking in its natural beauty, Lyons has plenty of attractions to offer.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in history, Lyons has many culturally important attractions to explore.

  • Rice County Historical Society Museum: This museum features exhibits on the history of Rice County and its people, including Native American artifacts, pioneer history, and more.
  • Coronado Quivira Museum: This museum tells the story of explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and his search for “the Seven Cities of Gold.” It also includes a replica of the Coronado Cross, which was erected near Lyons in 1936 to commemorate Coronado’s expedition.
  • The Water Tower and Memorial: This downtown landmark pays tribute to Rice County soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Natural Attractions of Lyons: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, Lyons has plenty of natural attractions to explore.

  • Quivira National Wildlife Refuge: Covering over 22,000 acres, this refuge is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as other wildlife such as bison and pronghorns.
  • Sand Hills State Park: This park features sand dunes created by the wind over thousands of years, making it the perfect destination for hiking and exploring.
  • Coronado Heights: This historic site offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and is the site of the Coronado Cross, mentioned above.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lyons

Lyons has many hiking and biking routes to explore, including the following:

  • Quivira Nature Trail: This 1.2-mile trail winds through the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and offers stunning views of the surrounding marshes and prairies.
  • Sand Hills State Park Hiking Trails: Sand Hills State Park has over seven miles of hiking trails that take visitors through scenic sand dunes and prairies.
  • Coronado Heights Trail: This short, paved trail leads visitors from the parking lot to the top of Coronado Heights, providing spectacular views along the way.

Best Things to Do in Lyons: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and exploring Lyons’ natural and cultural attractions, there are many other activities and tours available for visitors to enjoy.

  • Lyons City Pool: This public pool is open during the summer months and is the perfect place to cool off from the summer heat.
  • Guided Tours: The Rice County Historical Society Museum and Coronado Quivira Museum both offer guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the area’s history and culture.
  • Fishing: Quivira National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent fishing opportunities for visitors who enjoy spending time on the water.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lyons

If you’re planning to spend a week in Lyons, consider the following itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Rice County Historical Society Museum and Coronado Quivira Museum
2 Explore the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
3 Hike the Sand Hills State Park Hiking Trails
4 Visit the Lyons City Pool and relax
5 Take a guided tour of the Coronado Quivira Museum
6 Try your hand at fishing at the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
7 Shop for souvenirs and local products to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Lyons

While Lyons may be a small town, it’s home to many delicious local dishes and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kansas City-style Barbecue: Lyons is just a few hours from Kansas City, home of the famous Kansas City-style barbecue. Visitors to Lyons can try this delicious, tangy barbecue at local restaurants.
  • Krautburgers: This local dish consists of ground beef and sauerkraut wrapped in dough and baked until crispy.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from the Sandhills Brewing Company: This local brewery produces a variety of beers, including a blonde ale and a porter.
  • Wine from the Smoky Hill Vineyards and Winery: This local winery produces several varieties of wine, including a Kansas-grown Chardonnay and a sweet dessert wine.

Where to Stay in Lyons: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

While Lyons may not have many lodging options, there are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses available to visitors.

  • Lyons Inn: This hotel is located in downtown Lyons and offers basic amenities at an affordable price.
  • Coronado Motel and RV Park: This motel and RV park offers both rooms and RV sites, giving visitors flexibility in their lodging options.

What to Buy in Lyons: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lyons is home to several shops and stores where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products to bring home.

  • Coronado Quivira Museum Gift Shop: This gift shop sells books, souvenirs, and other items relating to the area’s history and culture.
  • Sandhills Brewing Company: This local brewery sells a variety of beers and merchandise, including pint glasses and t-shirts.

Local Culture and Customs of Lyons

Lyons is a small town with a friendly, welcoming culture. Visitors should be prepared for a slower pace of life and take the time to enjoy the town’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Best Time to Visit Lyons

The best time to visit Lyons is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the town’s natural beauty is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lyons

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the town’s natural and cultural attractions.
  • Do try the local food and beverages.
  • Do take a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the area’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t miss the chance to relax and enjoy the town’s slow pace of life.
  • Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to remember your trip.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lyons

Lyons is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still take normal precautions, such as locking their cars and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Lyons

Lyons has a small hospital and clinic, but visitors with serious medical needs may need to travel to a nearby town for treatment.

Getting to Lyons: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lyons

The nearest airport to Lyons is the Salina Regional Airport, located about an hour and a half away.

Bus Stations Near Lyons

The closest bus station to Lyons is in Great Bend, located about 30 minutes away.

Other Options

Most visitors to Lyons choose to drive, as the town is located off of major highways and interstates.

How to Get Around in Lyons

Lyons is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. Visitors who wish to explore the surrounding area may want to consider renting a car or using a rideshare service.

Where to Go Next from Lyons: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue exploring Central Kansas, consider visiting the following nearby destinations:

  • Hutchinson, Kansas: Home of the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, this town is just over an hour away from Lyons.
  • McPherson, Kansas: This town is home to several historic homes and the McPherson Opera House, located about 45 minutes away from Lyons.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich history, taking in its natural beauty, or simply relaxing and enjoying its slow pace of life, Lyons has something for everyone. From museums and outdoor adventures to delicious local dishes and beverages, Lyons is the perfect destination for a laid-back vacation.