Winfield Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Winfield with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Central Kansas.


Introduction to Winfield

Located in the heart of Central Kansas, Winfield is a tranquil city known for its small-town charm, scenic beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Great Plains region of the United States, Winfield boasts of a plethora of fascinating attractions that make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. In this Winfield travel guide, we will take you on a journey to the best attractions, activities, and experiences that this charming city has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Winfield

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Winfield is home to a wealth of museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Cowley County Historical Museum: This iconic museum is known for its extensive collection of historical artifacts, including antique automobiles, military memorabilia, and Native American artifacts.

  • The Walnut Valley Association: The Walnut Valley Association is an organization dedicated to promoting and preserving bluegrass and acoustic music in Winfield. Visit the Walnut Valley Festival in September for a 5-day musical extravaganza.

  • Historic Winfield: Walk through the historic downtown area and experience the charm of early 20th-century American architecture.

Natural Attractions of Winfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Winfield is also known for its gorgeous natural landscapes and outdoor adventures. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:

  • Quivira National Wildlife Refuge: A veritable Eden for wildlife lovers, Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is an astounding 22,000 acres of prairie, wetland, and woodlands.

  • Timber Creek Wildlife Preserve: This wildlife preserve is home to a variety of animals, including deer, turkeys, pheasants, and bobcats. It’s an ideal destination for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

  • Winfield City Lake: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, Winfield City Lake is a recreational haven in the heart of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Winfield

With its picturesque landscapes and stunning vistas, Winfield is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes in the area include:

  • Walnut River Trail: This 14-mile trail follows the course of the Walnut River and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests, prairies, and wildlife.

  • Prairie Trails: For a real taste of the Great Plains, hit the Prairie Trails. This network of trails winds through the Flint Hills, providing visitors with incredible views of open vistas and rich prairie landscapes.

  • Kansas Country Cycling: For avid cyclists, the Kansas Country Cycling route is a must-do. It spans over 730 miles and takes riders through some of the most picturesque countryside in Kansas, including Winfield.

Best Things to Do in Winfield: Activities and Tours

Winfield is a city that offers many activities and tours, catering to different interests.

  • Visit the Mound Valley Railroad, which offers train rides, railroad experiences, and railroad memorabilia

  • Take an art class at Winfield Arts & Humanities Council, home to local art exhibits, art classes, and cultural events

  • Go wine tasting at the Wheat State Winery, where you can sample a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Winfield

Day 1: Check out the Cowley County Historical Museum and soak up the history of the region. Visit the Grand Theatre in downtown Winfield.

Day 2: Visit the Walnut Valley Festival grounds and take a guided tour of the campsites, the main stage, and festival hub. Later, go for a 5-mile bike ride along the Walnut River Trail.

Day 3: Spend the day at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and discover the wetlands, prairie, and woodlands while viewing wildlife such as whooping cranes, sandhill cranes, and bald eagles.

Day 4: Rent a kayak or paddleboat at City Lake and float around on the lake. Later, visit Winfield Arts & Humanities Council and attend art classes.

Day 5: Go on a tour of Wheat State Winery and enjoy tastings of Kansas-made wines, and then dine at the Lumber Yard Grill for a delectable steak and side dish.

Day 6: Explore the Prairie Trails while cycling your way around the stunning Flint Hills prairies.

Day 7: Wear your dancing shoes and attend the Pickin’ in the Park concert series at the Island Park, where local musicians perform bluegrass and acoustic music under the stars.

Food and Drink Scene of Winfield

Must-Try Dishes

Winfield offers a range of dining options to suit all palates. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Kansas city-style barbecue ribs at Leon’s Smoke Shack BBQ.

  • A classic burger and fries at Baden Square Cafe & Bakery.

  • Fresh pastries and baked goods at Sweet Rewards Bakery and Cafe.

Local Beverages

When in Winfield, you must try the local craft beers and wines. Some of the best places to do so are:

  • Wheat State Winery: This winery produces some of the best Kansas-made wines you’ll ever taste.

  • Walnut River Brewing Company: Sample a variety of craft beers including stouts, IPAs, and wheat ales.

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

Winfield has an impressive range of accommodation options for all budget types. Some of the top hotels and guesthouses include:

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites: This hotel is known for its comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a fitness center and an indoor pool.

  • Cardinal Inn and Suites: This budget-friendly hotel is located in downtown Winfield and offers easy access to the city’s attractions.

  • The Victorian Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is housed in a beautifully restored Victorian home, providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable stay.

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

Some of the best local products to bring home from Winfield include:

  • Walnut River Brewing Company beers and merchandise.

  • Kansas-made wines from Wheat State Winery.

  • Handcrafted art and pottery from local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Winfield

Winfield has a proud cultural heritage that reflects in the city’s art galleries, music festivals, and museums. The people of Winfield are friendly, welcoming, and always happy to share the history, art, and culture of their beloved city. Respect for these local customs and traditions is essential to ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Best Time to Visit Winfield

The best time to visit Winfield is between August to October when the weather is mild, and events such as the Walnut Valley Festival, Pickin’ in the Park, and the Sunflower Arts Festival take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Winfield

Do:

  • Explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, including museums, art galleries, and music festivals.

  • Appreciate the beautiful natural scenery and wildlife found at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and City Lake.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.

  • Be disrespectful to the locals, their culture, and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Winfield

Winfield is a safe and friendly city, but it’s always better to be mindful of the following safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night.

  • Keep your belongings safe while traveling, especially in public spaces.

Health in Winfield

For health-related emergencies, call 911. Winfield has several medical facilities, including William Newton Hospital and the South Central Kansas Clinic. Make sure to carry a medical kit and any necessary medication during your travels.

Getting to Winfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Winfield is well-connected by road, air, and rail. Here are some of the best transportation options to reach Winfield:

Airports Near Winfield

The nearest airport to Winfield is the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, located about 43 miles northeast of Winfield.

Bus Stations Near Winfield

Winfield does not have its bus station, but there are several Greyhound bus stations located in nearby cities such as Wichita and Newton.

Other Options

Driving is one of the most convenient ways to get to Winfield. The city is located along US Route 77, which connects it to other major towns and cities in Kansas.

How to Get Around in Winfield

Getting around Winfield is easy, with many transport options available such as taxis, rental cars and bikes. The best way to explore the city is by car or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Winfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the top places to visit near Winfield include:

  • Wichita: This vibrant city is known for its art museums, shopping, and dining.

  • Hutchinson: This city is home to the famous Cosmosphere, an incredible space museum, and also offers a thriving arts and culture scene.

Conclusion

Winfield is a hidden gem in Central Kansas, offering an enchanting blend of culture, history, and nature. Visit the city and explore the beauty of the Great Plains, experience the warmth of the locals, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to the Midwest, make sure you add Winfield to your itinerary.