Sedan Travel Guide

Sedan is a small town in Southeastern Kansas at the edge of the vast prairie. Read our in-depth travel guide to explore the natural and cultural attractions of Sedan.


Sedan is a charming small town in Southeastern Kansas, located at the edge of the vast prairie. It’s an ideal destination for exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the region. From historic museums and outdoor adventures to epicurean delights, Sedan has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know before visiting Sedan.

Introduction to Sedan

Sedan was founded in the 1870s and quickly rose to become one of the most important railway towns in Kansas. With the rise of the automobile and the construction of Route 66, Sedan’s heyday as a transportation hub waned, and it slid into obscurity. Today, Sedan is a peaceful town that retains the charm and feel of an earlier time. It has an abundance of cultural and natural attractions and is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

List of Places to Visit in Sedan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sedan is brimming with history and culture. If you’re interested in learning more about Sedan’s rich past, there are several museums and historical sites that you can visit.

  • Chautauqua County Historical Society Museum: This museum houses exhibits showcasing Sedan’s history. It has an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia, including a wide variety of photographs, maps, and documents.
  • Emmett Kelly Museum: Emmett Kelly, the famous clown, spent his early years in Sedan. The museum houses his memorabilia, including his original costumes and makeup, and provides an insight into his life and career.
  • Red Buffalo Ranch: This a working ranch that educates visitors on the cultural significance and history of buffalo in the Midwest. Guests can explore the ranch, watch the buffalo herds graze, and learn from the tour guides about the habits and habitats of these incredible creatures.

Natural Attractions of Sedan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sedan is surrounded by some of the most unspoiled and beautiful natural landscapes in the Midwest. Visitors can enjoy everything from hiking to fishing to wildlife watching in Sedan.

  • Cross Timbers State Park: Cross Timbers is a stunning park with over 1,000 acres of wooded hills and a beautiful lake. It’s perfect for hiking, fishing, and hunting. You can rent a cabin or campsite here and spend a few nights under the stars.
  • Kaw Wildlife Area: The Kaw Wildlife Area is a preserve that protects the natural habitats of a variety of wildlife, including prairie chickens, quail, and deer. Visitors can go birdwatching or hiking, and take in the stunning views of the Kansas prairie.
  • Fall River Lake: This is a popular destination for fishing and boating. Fall River Lake is a top place to catch walleye, crappie, and bass in Kansas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sedan

Sedan has a bevy of trails that offer visitors incredible views of the Kansas landscape.

  • Chautauqua Hill Trail: The 1.5-mile Chautauqua Hill Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes visitors up a steep hill. Once at the top, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of sedans and the surrounding countryside.
  • Cross Timbers Hiking Trail: The 12-mile Cross Timbers Hiking Trail offers hikers a more extended hike through some of the most beautiful parts of Cross Timbers State Park.

Best Things to Do in Sedan: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, Sedan has plenty of activities and tours to keep you occupied.

  • Visit the Inch Mile Museum
  • Take a Stroll through the Sedan City Park
  • Explore the nearby Lakes and Rivers
  • Go on a hunt or fish
  • Take a Scenic Train Ride through the Countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Sedan

If you’ve got a week to spend in Sedan, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.

Day Activity
1 Explore the town center: Spend your first day in Sedan visiting the museums and historical sites in the town center.
2 Go Fishing: Enjoy a day of fishing at Fall River Lake.
3 Visit Cross Timbers State Park: Take a relaxing hike through the park. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch!
4 Experience the West: Take a trip to Red Buffalo Ranch to learn all about buffalo herds.
5 Ride the Rails: Take a scenic train ride through the countryside.
6 Experience a Full Day on the Range: Spend a day at a local working ranch. Watch cowboys in action, ride horses, and enjoy a real western experience.
7 Kaw Wildlife Area: Head to Kaw Wildlife Area to take in the gorgeous Kansas landscape and watch the local wildlife.

Food and Drink Scene of Sedan

Sedan has a reputation for serving up amazing American cuisine. The town is renowned not only for its tasty dishes but also for its locally made jams, jellies, and syrups.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kansas-Style BBQ: BBQ is a big deal in the Midwest, and Sedan has some of the best around. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some authentic Kansas-Style BBQ.
  • Chicken Fried Steak: A dish made of battered and fried steak, Chicken Fried Steak is a Kansas staple. It pairs well with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and gravy.
  • Burgers and Fries: You can find some amazing burgers and fries at local diners and eateries in Sedan.

Local Beverages

  • Local Wines: Sedan is near a variety of Kansas wineries that produce amazing local wines. Head to one of the local wineries for a wine tasting tour.
  • Coffee: Kansas has a rich coffee culture, and Sedan is no exception. There are several local coffee shops in town where you can grab a cup of joe.

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

Sedan has several excellent options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guest houses.

  • Holter Haus Bed & Breakfast
  • Rustic Timbers Cabin on Fall River Lake
  • Sedan City RV Park

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

Sedan is home to a host of unique local shops selling souvenirs, local products and so on.

  • Hillcrest Thrift Shop
  • The Trade Post and Emporium

Local Culture and Customs of Sedan

Sedan prides itself on its heritage and culture. Visitors can expect a warm and friendly Midwestern welcome.

Best Time to Visit Sedan

The best time to visit Sedan is in the spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant, and there is little chance of snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sedan

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Visit the museums and historical sites
  • Take scenic train rides

Don’t:

  • Be rude to locals
  • Break the rules at local museums and landmarks
  • Litter in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Sedan

Sedan is a safe place to live and visit. However, you should always be wise and aware of your surroundings, whether you’re in town or in nearby parks.

Health in Sedan

Kansas has a thriving health care system, and Sedan is no exception. There are several medical facilities in town in case of emergencies.

Getting to Sedan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some of the transportation options you can use to visit Sedan:

Airports Near Sedan

  • Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport
  • Kansas City International Airport

Bus Stations Near Sedan

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Jefferson Lines

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Renting a car is easy, and you can easily explore the natural beauty around town.
  • Bike Rental: Biking is a fantastic way to explore the natural parts of Sedan.

How to Get Around in Sedan

The best way to get around in Sedan is by car. However, the smaller size of the town makes it the perfect place to explore on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Sedan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to enjoy when you visit Sedan. Here are a few of them:

  • Independence, KS
  • Coffeyville, KS
  • Winfield, KS

Conclusion

Sedan is a charming small town nestled in the heart of the Midwest that is sure to delight visitors. Whether you’re looking to experience the local culture, explore the natural beauty of the area, or just relax and enjoy the local cuisine, the town offers something for everyone. Plan your trip to Sedan today, and you won’t be disappointed!