Southeastern Kansas Travel Guide

An all-in-one guide that covers everything you need to know to make your trip to Southeastern Kansas a memorable one.


Introduction to Southeastern Kansas

Southeastern Kansas is a picturesque region that is known for its rolling hills, lush grasslands, and charming small towns. It is a place that has a rich history and offers numerous natural and cultural attractions that are worth exploring. If you’re planning a trip to Southeastern Kansas, this guide will help you in creating a memorable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Southeastern Kansas

Here are the top attractions that you should visit on your trip to Southeastern Kansas:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Crawford County Historical Museum: This museum offers an insight into the history of Crawford County and Southeastern Kansas. You can find artifacts, photos, and documents from the pre-Civil War era to the present day.
  2. Fort Scott National Historic Site: This is one of the best-preserved frontier forts in the country, where you can learn about the history of the area and the role of Fort Scott in the westward expansion of the United States.
  3. Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes: The center highlights individuals who have made a positive impact on the world. You can learn about inspiring stories of everyday people that have made a difference in society.
  4. Big Brutus: A massive electric coal excavator that is now a museum and an engineering marvel to see.
  5. Kansas Oil Museum: This museum explores the history of oil discovery in Kansas and how it changed the state’s economy and culture.

Natural Attractions of Southeastern Kansas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Elk City State Park: The park is a popular spot for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. You can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
  2. Crawford State Park: The park is located near the Ozark Plateau and is known for its beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views.
  3. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: This is one of the few remaining areas of tallgrass prairie in the world. You can hike, birdwatch, or take a guided tour to explore the unique ecosystem of the area.
  4. Bison Nature Trail: A scenic trail that is great for hiking, birdwatching, and observing the bison herd in the area.
  5. Big Hill Lake: A reservoir that is known for its clear water, fishing opportunities, and a variety of recreational activities such as boating and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeastern Kansas

  1. Prairie Spirit Trail: This 50-mile trail stretches through beautiful prairies, fields, and towns. It’s great for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  2. Wilson Lake Trail: A scenic trail around the lake that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
  3. Flint Hills Nature Trail: This trail winds through the Flint Hills and will give you a chance to experience the unique landscape of the area.

Best Things to Do in Southeastern Kansas: Activities and Tours

  1. Bourbon County Arts Council: This council hosts a variety of cultural events and art exhibitions that showcase local artists.
  2. Southern Kansas Air Museum: Discover the aviation history of Southeastern Kansas and the surrounding areas.
  3. Crawford County Speedway: A fun and exciting place to experience the thrill of car racing.
  4. Mined Land Wildlife Area: A great place for wildlife viewing, fishing, and hunting.
  5. Girard Heritage Days: A local festival held in the town of Girard where you can enjoy music, food, and activities for the whole family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeastern Kansas

Day 1: Visit Fort Scott National Historic Site and Crawford County Historical Museum. Day 2-3: Explore the natural attractions of Elk City State Park, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, and Flint Hills Nature Trail. Day 4: Visit Big Brutus, the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, and the Kansas Oil Museum. Day 5-6: Experience the local culture, art, and events at Bourbon County Arts Council and Girard Heritage Days. Day 7: Take a scenic drive around Southeastern Kansas and explore hidden gems along the way.

Food and Drink Scene of Southeastern Kansas

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chicken and noodles: A classic comfort food made with homemade noodles and tender chicken in a flavorful broth.
  2. Bierocks: A savory pastry filled with ground beef, cabbage, and onion. The dish is a reflection of the area’s German and Eastern European heritage.
  3. Fried chicken: Southeastern Kansas is known for its delicious fried chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Local Beverages

  1. Wheat beer: Local breweries offer delicious wheat beers that are refreshing and perfect for the warm summers.
  2. Cherry wine: The area is known for producing cherry wine that has a sweet and tangy flavor.
  3. Sweet tea: A classic Southern beverage that is popular in Southeastern Kansas and is a perfect match for the local cuisine.

Where to Stay in Southeastern Kansas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Lyons Twin Mansions: This elegant Victorian mansion offers luxurious rooms, delicious breakfast, and a glimpse into the area’s history.
  2. Franklin Guest House: This cozy bed and breakfast offer comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.
  3. Best Western Parsons Inn: A great option for budget travelers, the hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  4. HiWay House Motel: An affordable motel that offers clean and comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.

What to Buy in Southeastern Kansas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Oil-related souvenirs: The area is known for its oil discovery history, and you can find unique souvenirs like oil-well-shaped salt and pepper shakers or oil-related prints and historical books.
  2. Pottery and ceramics: You can find unique pottery and ceramics that are inspired by the area’s natural beauty and history.
  3. Homemade jams and jellies: You can find delicious homemade jams and jellies made with local fruits like blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeastern Kansas

Southeastern Kansas is known for its friendly and welcoming locals who take pride in their community, traditions, and history. The area has a rich cultural diversity with influences from German, Eastern European, Native American, and African American communities. Exploring the local culture and customs can enhance your trip experience.

Best Time to Visit Southeastern Kansas

The best time to visit Southeastern Kansas is from April to October when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is particularly beautiful with colorful foliage, and the weather is pleasant. Winters are cold, and some of the outdoor attractions may be closed due to snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeastern Kansas

Do:

  1. Explore the natural attractions and outdoor activities.
  2. Try the local food and drinks.
  3. Check out the local festivals and cultural events.
  4. Respect the local customs and diversity.
  5. Take a scenic drive to explore the hidden gems of the area.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural attractions or historical sites.
  2. Ignore the safety guidelines for outdoor activities.
  3. Disrespect the local customs or traditions.
  4. Make assumptions about people based on their ethnicity, race, or religion.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southeastern Kansas

Southeastern Kansas is generally safe, although you should take precautions while exploring natural attractions and remote areas. It’s recommended to stay on the designated trails, carry a map or GPS, and be aware of the weather conditions. It’s also important to be cautious while driving in rural areas and watch out for animals on the road.

Health in Southeastern Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommends to check your vaccinations before traveling to the area. It’s also important to take precautions against tick bites, especially when hiking or camping. The area is prone to seasonal allergies, and the pollen count can be high during the spring and summer months.

Getting to Southeastern Kansas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southeastern Kansas

The nearest airports to Southeastern Kansas are:

  1. Joplin Regional Airport (JLN)
  2. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
  3. Tulsa International Airport (TUL)

Bus Stations Near Southeastern Kansas

The main bus stations near Southeastern Kansas are:

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines in Pittsburg, KS
  2. Jefferson Lines in Parsons, KS

Other Options

Southeastern Kansas is easily accessible by car and is located along the US highways 69, 400, and 166.

How to Get Around in Southeastern Kansas

The best way to get around Southeastern Kansas is by car. There are rental car options available in major cities, and the area has well-maintained roads and highways. Public transportation options are limited, and it’s recommended to have a car to explore the area’s attractions.

Where to Go Next from Southeastern Kansas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that you can consider visiting after exploring Southeastern Kansas:

  1. Branson, Missouri: A popular tourist destination known for its entertainment shows, theme parks, and scenic beauty.
  2. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri: A picturesque lake in central Missouri that offers a variety of water sports and outdoor activities.
  3. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: A vibrant city known for its cowboy culture, museums, and diverse food scene.

Conclusion

Southeastern Kansas is a beautiful and rich region that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the towering hills, to trying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Southeastern Kansas. This guide will help you in crafting a memorable trip to the area and experiencing all that it has to offer.



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