Southeast Kansas offers an eclectic blend of history, outdoor adventure, and unique roadside attractions that captivate travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. This region, rich in both cultural significance and natural beauty, is home to sites that celebrate the state’s role in shaping America’s frontier and industrial past. Standing at the historic grounds of Fort Scott National Historic Site, marvelling at the colossal Big Brutus in West Mineral, or driving along Kansas’ brief but fascinating stretch of Route 66, you’ll discover Southeast Kansas reveals a tapestry of stories waiting to be explored. Every small town and scenic stop here offers a glimpse into a past where the American dream was built, one pioneering spirit at a time.
From iconic museums like the Martin & Osa Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute (2 hours from Kansas City, Wichita, and Tulsa), where visitors can immerse themselves in tales of early 20th-century explorers, to the rolling hills of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Strong City, Southeast Kansas is filled with treasures that highlight the region’s diversity.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or just a curious road tripper, this part of Kansas offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the rich and often overlooked wonders of the Sunflower State.
Fort Scott National Historic Site
Fort Scott National Historic Site is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Southeast Kansas, offering an immersive glimpse into 19th-century military life. Established in 1842, the fort was originally built to maintain peace between settlers and Native American tribes, but it played a crucial role during the turbulent Civil War period.
Visitors can tour the fully restored buildings, including officers’ quarters, a hospital, and a stable, all of which offer engaging exhibits that showcase the fort’s rich history. Throughout the year, Fort Scott hosts various living history events, reenactments, and educational programs that bring its storied past to life. The site offers not just a historical experience but also a peaceful setting to reflect on America’s early frontier days.
Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes
The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, is a unique museum dedicated to celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to society but have remained largely unrecognized. Through compelling exhibits, educational programs, and interactive displays, the center highlights the inspiring stories of unsung heroes from around the world.
Visitors can explore exhibits that detail the lives and accomplishments of these individuals, showcasing their courage, dedication, and impact on history. The center not only honours these remarkable figures but also encourages others to discover and share more untold stories, making it a meaningful stop in Fort Scott.
Big Brutus
Located in West Mineral and standing at 16 stories tall and weighing over 11 million pounds, Big Brutus is a giant electric shovel that once played a crucial role in Southeast Kansas’ coal mining industry. Now retired and standing as a monument to the region’s mining history, Big Brutus is one of the largest attractions in the area, both in size and in significance.
Visitors can tour this engineering marvel, climb into the operator’s cab, and explore the adjacent museum, which provides detailed insights into the lives of the miners who worked in the coalfields. This colossal machine, along with the exhibits and nature trails around it, gives visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the industrial heritage of Southeast Kansas.
Drive the 13 Miles of Route 66 in Kansas
but serves up some fascinating stops.
While Kansas only claims 13 miles of the historic Route 66, this short stretch packs in plenty of fascinating stops. Starting in Galena, Gearhead Curios is a fun spot where you’ll find memorabilia from the road’s heyday, including quirky signage and the state’s most photographed bathroom.
A bit further down the road is Cars on the Route (feature photo), an old gas station converted into a nostalgic stop featuring an original tow truck that inspired the character “Mater” from Pixar’s Cars.
Baxter Springs, one of the largest towns along this stretch, boasts historic buildings, including Monarch Pharmacy & Soda Fountain, where you can enjoy an old-fashioned soda or ice-cream float while soaking in the small-town charm.
End your drive at the historic Marsh Arch Bridge, a single-span concrete rainbow bridge built in the 1920s, a perfect spot for a photo op. This short but eventful route provides a fantastic snapshot of America’s historic road culture.
Dalton Defenders Museum & Death Alley
In 1892, the Dalton Gang attempted to rob two banks in Coffeyville, but locals were quick to act, leading to a deadly shootout in what is now known as Death Alley. The Dalton Defenders Museum in Coffeyville honours the brave citizens who defended their town, showcasing artifacts from the infamous gunfight as well as various exhibits on local history.
A walk through Death Alley, the narrow passage where the shootout took place, transports visitors back to that fateful day. The museum also offers displays on other elements of Coffeyville’s history, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in Old West lore and small-town heroism.
Little House on the Prairie Museum
Fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved Little House series will find a special connection to the past at the Little House on the Prairie Museum, located near Independence, Kansas. This site marks the location where the Ingalls family lived in the 1870s, and the museum offers a recreated version of their log cabin, along with a one-room schoolhouse, post office, and barn.
The museum grounds offer a serene and evocative setting where you can explore exhibits detailing the family’s life on the Kansas prairie, as well as the broader history of pioneer settlement in the area. It’s an ideal stop for families and history enthusiasts alike who want to experience a piece of literary history.
Martin & Osa Johnson Safari Museum
The Martin & Osa Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute offers an unexpected adventure into the world of early 20th-century explorers and filmmakers. Martin and Osa Johnson, natives of Kansas, became famous for their pioneering expeditions to Africa and the South Pacific, where they captured some of the earliest footage of wildlife and indigenous cultures.
The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from their travels, including film equipment, tribal artifacts, and photographs that document their groundbreaking journeys. The museum’s exhibits are a fascinating look at exploration, filmmaking, and natural history, providing a glimpse into the adventurous spirit that defined the Johnsons’ extraordinary lives.
Lehigh Portland State Park
For those who crave outdoor activities, Lehigh Portland State Park near Iola offers an expansive area to explore. This former quarry site has been transformed into a picturesque park, featuring a lake and miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The park’s trails wind through a variety of landscapes, from wooded areas to open meadows, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. With its mix of rugged terrain and tranquil spaces, Lehigh Portland State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
BaseCamp
BaseCamp is more than just a camping and outdoor recreation site; it’s a hub for adventure and community. Located in the small town of Humboldt, BaseCamp offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking trails to fishing spots and even yoga sessions.
The camp provides modern amenities for those who want to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, including cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups. BaseCamp is also known for its community events, such as outdoor movie nights and live music, making it a vibrant gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway or a place to connect with nature and fellow travellers, BaseCamp Humboldt delivers an inviting and dynamic experience.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Southeast Kansas is home to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, one of the last remaining tracts of tallgrass prairie in North America. Located near Strong City, this preserve offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of the Kansas prairie as it existed before settlement.
The preserve covers nearly 11,000 acres, with trails that allow you to explore the rolling hills, wildflower meadows, and abundant wildlife that define the region’s natural landscape. Whether you choose to take a guided tour of the historic 1880s ranch house or hike the miles of trails on your own, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers a peaceful and picturesque experience, giving you a glimpse of the landscape that once covered much of the Midwest.
National Teachers Hall of Fame
In the heart of Emporia, the National Teachers Hall of Fame celebrates the contributions of educators from across the United States. Founded in 1989, this unique institution honors teachers who have made a lasting impact on their students and their communities.
The hall of fame features exhibits that highlight the lives and accomplishments of inducted teachers, as well as the history of education in America. Visitors can learn about the evolution of teaching methods, view artifacts from classrooms throughout history, and reflect on the vital role that educators play in shaping society.
For those interested in the history and importance of education, the National Teachers Hall of Fame offers an inspiring and informative experience.
Discover the Unexpected in Southeast Kansas
A visit to Southeast Kansas proves that some of the most memorable travel experiences often lie in the lesser-known corners of the map. Whether you’ve spent your time wandering the halls of the Dalton Defenders Museum, standing in awe before the towering Big Brutus, or absorbing the serene beauty of the Tallgrass Prairie, this region offers an intriguing mix of history, nature, and small-town charm. It’s a place where the past meets the present in dynamic ways — where every museum, historic site, and scenic landscape adds a new layer to the story of Kansas.
The diversity of attractions in Southeast Kansas ensures that visitors of all interests can find something to connect with. From the vibrant road culture along Route 66 to the serene vistas of Lehigh Portland State Park, this area invites exploration at every turn. If you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into the region’s history, Southeast Kansas offers a journey full of discoveries. Plan your visit and see for yourself why this often-overlooked part of the state is brimming with hidden gems that will leave you with lasting memories.
story and photography by Craig Silva
Craig is a passionate and seasoned travel, food, and lifestyle writer, whose words paint vivid pictures of the world’s most captivating destinations. His work not only inspires others to embark on their own adventures but also fosters a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world. He captures the essence of each locale, offering readers a glimpse into the cultures, landscapes, cuisine, and experiences that make travel so enriching. Craig is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)
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