Goodland Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive travel guide to Goodland, Kansas. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and more.


Welcome to Goodland, a charming city in Western Kansas that offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this welcoming city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions and activities in Goodland, and provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip.

Introduction to Goodland

Goodland is a city located in Sherman County, in Western Kansas. It sits on the high plains, with an elevation of 3,670 feet, and is known for its beautiful landscapes and wide-open skies. The city has a population of around 4,400 people and is home to a vibrant community of artists, photographers, and historians.

List of Places to Visit in Goodland

There are plenty of attractions to see and things to do in Goodland. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. High Plains Museum: This museum showcases the history, culture, and art of Sherman County and the surrounding areas.

  2. Giant Van Gogh Painting: This attraction is a replica of Vincent van Gogh’s painting “Three Sunflowers in a Vase,” but on a massive scale. It stands at 80-feet tall and 24-feet wide and is a must-see for art enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates unique attractions.

  3. Ennis-Handy House: A beautifully restored home that showcases the history of the area. This Victorian-style house is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or history.

Natural Attractions of Goodland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Flatlander Fall Festival: A yearly outdoor festival that celebrates the beauty and culture of Western Kansas.

  2. Goodland City Park: A sprawling park that offers beautiful walking trails, playgrounds for kids, and plenty of natural beauty.

  3. High Plains Camping: A campground situated in Goodland that offers camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Goodland

Goodland offers many beautiful trails and paths for hiking and biking, including:

  1. High Plains Trail: A scenic trail that stretches over 80 miles through Western Kansas, the High Plains Trail offers breathtaking views of the region’s rolling hills, tall grasses, and abundant wildlife.

  2. Goodland Walking Trail: This trail features beautiful views of the city, with stretches that wind through green spaces, parks, and residential areas.

  3. Buffalo Bill Cultural Trail: This trail offers a unique look at the history and culture of the area, showcasing the life of the legendary Western figure, Buffalo Bill.

Best Things to Do in Goodland: Activities and Tours

  1. Sherman County Speedway: Enjoy the thrill of high-speed racing at the Sherman County Speedway.

  2. 18-hole Prairie Hills Golf Course: Experience a challenging round of golf at the Prairie Hills Golf Course.

  3. Community Building Pool: Visit the Community Building Pool for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Goodland

Day 1: Visit the High Plains Museum and learn about the history and culture of the region.

Day 2: Take a hike through the High Plains Trail and enjoy the rugged beauty of Western Kansas.

Day 3: Explore the unique and massive Giant Van Gogh Painting in downtown Goodland.

Day 4: Play a round of golf at the Prairie Hills Golf Course.

Day 5: Take a walking tour of the Ennis-Handy House and learn about the fascinating history of the area.

Day 6: Attend the Flatlander Fall Festival, which takes place every fall and celebrates the natural beauty and culture of Western Kansas.

Day 7: Relax in the beautiful Goodland City Park and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Food and Drink Scene of Goodland

Goodland offers a variety of dining options, from classic diners to authentic Mexican restaurants.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Smoked meats and BBQ: Goodland is known for its delicious BBQ, and some of the must-try places include Joe’s BBQ and Grandma’s Soda Shop & Diner.

  2. Authentic Mexican cuisine: Try the delicious tacos, burritos, and enchiladas at Las Chivas Mexican Grill.

Local Beverages

  1. Brewed Awakening: A local coffee shop that offers a variety of signature blends and pastries.

  2. Sunflower Bar: A classic Western Kansas bar that offers a variety of local and regional brews.

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

Goodland offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors, including:

  1. Super 8 by Wyndham Goodland: A budget-friendly hotel with a convenient location.

  2. Comfort Inn & Suites: A hotel that offers comfortable rooms and amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness center.

  3. Days Inn by Wyndham: A good option for those looking for a pet-friendly hotel and easy access to the interstate.

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

  1. Gift shops: Visit the High Plains Museum gift shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.

  2. Sunflower Art Gallery and Studio: Shop for local art and photography at this beautiful gallery and studio.

Local Culture and Customs of Goodland

Goodland is a friendly and welcoming community that celebrates its Western heritage and culture. It’s not unusual to see residents sporting cowboy hats or boots, and visitors should expect a warm welcome wherever they go.

Best Time to Visit Goodland

The best time to visit Goodland is during the fall months, when the weather is mild, and the Flatlander Fall Festival takes place. The festival celebrates the beauty and culture of Western Kansas, and visitors can enjoy everything from live music and food to local art exhibits and kid-friendly activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Goodland

Do:

  1. Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Goodland City Park.

  2. Visit the High Plains Museum and learn about the history and culture of the area.

  3. Explore the unique Giant Van Gogh Painting and take a selfie.

Don’t:

  1. Miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the delicious BBQ and Mexican cuisine that Goodland has to offer.

  2. Forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views and landscapes of Western Kansas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Goodland

Goodland is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should still take standard precautions, such as locking their car doors and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Goodland

Goodland offers a variety of medical services, including a hospital and several clinics. Visitors should be aware of the risk of dehydration and heatstroke, especially during the hot summer months.

Getting to Goodland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Goodland

  1. Goodland Municipal Airport: Located just outside the city limits, this airport offers direct flights to several regional destinations.

Bus Stations Near Goodland

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in nearby Oakley, Kansas, Greyhound offers daily bus service to and from Goodland.

Other Options

  1. Private car rental: Visitors can rent a car from several rental companies in nearby cities such as Colby or Hays.

How to Get Around in Goodland

Goodland is a small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by car. Taxi and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Goodland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Cheyenne Wells: A charming town located just over the border in Colorado, Cheyenne Wells offers small-town charm and a rich history.

  2. Lake Scott State Park: Located just 30 minutes south of Goodland, Lake Scott State Park offers hiking, fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.

Conclusion

Goodland is a beautiful and welcoming city that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, you’ll find plenty to do and see in this charming Western Kansas community. We hope you found our comprehensive travel guide helpful and informative, and we look forward to seeing you in Goodland soon!