Bushong KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bushong, Kansas.
1. Flint Hills Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
The Flint Hills Trail runs through Bushong along the former Missouri Pacific Railroad line that once connected small towns in the region. Visitors can walk or bike this scenic trail that preserves the historic railway corridor that was vital to the area's development. The trail offers beautiful views of the Kansas Flint Hills landscape and connects to other communities including Osage City, Miller, Admire, Allen, and Council Grove.
2. Bushong Historic District
PRESERVED GHOST TOWN
Bushong Historic District offers visitors a glimpse into a well-preserved ghost town with buildings dating back to its railroad heyday. Visitors can see remnants of what was once a thriving community that supported 150 residents in the 1920s, including abandoned structures that tell the story of rural American decline. The town reached its peak during the railroad era before a devastating fire and changing transportation routes led to its depopulation.
3. Bushong Cemetery
HISTORIC FINAL RESTING PLACE
Bushong Cemetery is located southeast of town and contains the graves of early settlers and residents of the area. The cemetery offers historical researchers and genealogists valuable insights into the families who once called this region home. Visitors can experience a peaceful setting while connecting with the human history of this small Kansas community.
4. Former Missouri Pacific Depot
RAILROAD HERITAGE SITE
The site of the former Missouri Pacific Depot in Bushong marks where the town began its existence as a railroad stop in 1886. The depot, named after baseball catcher Albert J. 'Doc' Bushong who played for the St. Louis Browns, was part of the Missouri Pacific Railroad's tribute to the 1886 World Series champions. Though the original structure is no longer standing, the location represents the birth of the town and its important connection to both railroad and baseball history.
5. Atlas E 548-5 Missile Silo
COLD WAR MILITARY RELIC
The Atlas E 548-5 Missile Silo near Bushong stands as a significant Cold War relic from America's early nuclear deterrent program. This decommissioned missile facility once housed intercontinental ballistic missiles aimed at the Soviet Union during the height of Cold War tensions. History enthusiasts and military buffs find the site fascinating for its role in American defense strategy during a pivotal historical period.
6. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
NATIVE GRASSLAND ECOSYSTEM
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve protects one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in North America, located just a short drive from Bushong. Visitors can explore nearly 11,000 acres of pristine prairie, historic ranch buildings, and hiking trails that showcase the natural landscape that once covered 170 million acres of North America. The preserve offers ranger-led programs, bus tours, and opportunities to see bison herds that have been reintroduced to their native habitat.
7. Council Grove Historic District
SANTA FE TRAIL TOWN
Council Grove Historic District preserves buildings and sites related to the Santa Fe Trail, located just a short drive from Bushong. The town served as the last supply stop on the Santa Fe Trail heading west and contains more than 25 historic sites including the Last Chance Store, Hays House Restaurant, and the Kaw Mission. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the town to experience what life was like during the heyday of the famous frontier trade route.
8. Hays House Restaurant
OLDEST RESTAURANT IN KANSAS
Hays House Restaurant, established in 1857, claims the title of oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River. The historic establishment was founded by Seth Hays, a grandson of Daniel Boone, and has served as a restaurant, tavern, mail distribution point, courtroom, and community gathering place throughout its history. Today, diners can enjoy classic American cuisine in a building steeped in frontier history, with original architectural elements still intact.
9. Kaw Mission State Historic Site
NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY
The Kaw Mission State Historic Site preserves a stone mission building constructed in 1851 as a school for children of the Kaw (or Kansa) Nation. The mission represents the complex relationship between Native Americans and white settlers during the westward expansion period of American history. Visitors can tour the historic building and learn about the Kaw people, for whom the state of Kansas is named, through exhibits and interpretive materials.
10. Council Grove Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Council Grove Lake offers 3,200 acres of water and 40 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and water recreation near Bushong. Anglers can catch walleye, crappie, channel catfish, and white bass in this reservoir built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1964. The lake is surrounded by campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails that provide additional recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
11. William Allen White House
FAMOUS EDITOR'S HOME
The William Allen White House, known as Red Rocks, was the home of the famous newspaper editor and author who won two Pulitzer Prizes while publishing the Emporia Gazette. This 1889 home has been preserved as a state historic site with many original furnishings and personal items belonging to one of America's most influential journalists of the early 20th century. Visitors can tour the house and learn about White's significant impact on American journalism and politics, including his friendship with multiple U.S. presidents.
12. David Traylor Zoo
FREE COMMUNITY ZOO
David Traylor Zoo in Emporia is one of the nation's smallest accredited zoos and offers free admission to visitors year-round. The zoo houses over 300 animals representing more than 80 species, including big cats, primates, and a variety of birds and reptiles. Beautifully landscaped walking paths lead visitors through exhibits featuring both exotic and native species in this charming small-town zoo.
13. Emporia Arts Center
CULTURAL HUB & GALLERY
The Emporia Arts Center serves as a cultural hub for the region, hosting exhibitions, performances, and educational programs in the visual and performing arts. The center features rotating gallery exhibits showcasing work by local, regional, and national artists throughout the year. Visitors can view contemporary art, take classes, or attend performances in this vibrant community arts space.
14. Granada Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Granada Theatre is a beautifully restored 1929 movie palace that now serves as a performing arts center in downtown Emporia. The theater features ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with stunning decorative elements that have been carefully preserved during its renovation. Today, the Granada hosts concerts, films, comedy shows, and community events in its historic auditorium that combines vintage charm with modern amenities.
15. Commercial Street Shopping District
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SHOPS
Commercial Street in downtown Emporia offers a charming shopping experience with locally-owned boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops housed in historic buildings. Visitors can browse for unique gifts, home decor, clothing, and Kansas-made products while enjoying the architectural character of this well-preserved main street. The district regularly hosts special events like art walks and holiday celebrations that highlight local businesses and create a vibrant community atmosphere.