Clearwater KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clearwater, Kansas.
1. Clearwater Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Clearwater Historical Museum showcases nearly 8,000 items related to the town's rich history. Completed in November 1990 after ten years of fundraising by the Clearwater Historical Society, the museum features a recreated historical house with bedrooms, kitchen, bath, dining room, and parlor. Visitors can also explore specialty exhibits including a Doctor/Dentist Office, General Store, Laundry Room, Military Room, School Room, and Summer Kitchen.
2. Chisholm Trail Lodge Bed & Breakfast
HISTORIC CATTLE TRAIL LODGING
Chisholm Trail Lodge Bed & Breakfast offers visitors a chance to stay at a location with connections to the historic Chisholm Trail. The establishment pays homage to Clearwater's prominence as a stop for cattle traders along this famous route. Guests can experience comfortable accommodations while immersing themselves in the history of the old cow town.
3. Chisholm Ridge Fishing Ponds
PEACEFUL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Chisholm Ridge Fishing Ponds provide a serene outdoor experience for fishing enthusiasts in Clearwater. Named after the historic Chisholm Trail, these ponds offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy nature while trying to catch fish. The setting makes for a perfect day trip for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
4. Clearwater Aquatic Park
SUMMER FUN AND SWIMMING
Clearwater Aquatic Park offers refreshing summer entertainment for visitors and locals alike. The water facility provides a perfect escape from the Kansas summer heat with various pools and water features. Families particularly enjoy visiting this popular attraction during the warmer months.
5. Klausmeyer Farms
SEASONAL FARM ACTIVITIES
Klausmeyer Farms hosts numerous seasonal events during the fall months in Clearwater. Visitors can enjoy typical farm activities such as pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and harvest-themed attractions. The farm provides family-friendly entertainment that celebrates agricultural traditions and seasonal changes.
6. Christiansen's Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Christiansen's Gallery displays artistic works in a dedicated space in Clearwater. The gallery offers visitors a chance to appreciate visual arts and creative expressions from local and regional artists. Art enthusiasts can explore various exhibits showcasing different styles and mediums throughout the year.
7. Clearwater Football Field
LOCAL SPORTS VENUE
Clearwater Football Field serves as the primary venue for local sporting events in the community. The field hosts high school football games and other athletic competitions that bring residents together. Sports fans can experience the community spirit while cheering on local teams during the season.
8. Ninnescah River
CLEAR WATERS FLOWING
The Ninnescah River flows through Clearwater and gave the town its name due to its clear waters. This natural waterway provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoors. The river remains an important geographical and recreational feature for the community.
9. Tanganyika Wildlife Park
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Tanganyika Wildlife Park, located near Clearwater in Goddard, offers interactive animal experiences unlike traditional zoos. Visitors can feed giraffes, pet kangaroos, and get up close with numerous exotic species in specially designed habitats. The park focuses on conservation efforts and educational opportunities about wildlife from around the world.
10. Sedgwick County Zoo
DIVERSE WILDLIFE COLLECTION
Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Kansas, located just a short drive from Clearwater in Wichita. The zoo houses over 3,000 animals representing nearly 400 species from around the globe. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits including the Downing Gorilla Forest, Penguin Cove, and the Cessna Penguin Cove.
11. Exploration Place
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE MUSEUM
Exploration Place is a premier science center and children's museum located in Wichita, near Clearwater. The facility features hands-on exhibits focusing on science, aviation, Kansas history, and more within its distinctive building designed by architect Moshe Safdie. Families can spend hours exploring interactive displays, catching shows at the dome theater, and participating in educational programs.
12. Old Cowtown Museum
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Old Cowtown Museum recreates life in Wichita during the 1870s with more than 50 historic and reconstructed buildings. Visitors can interact with costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts, skills, and daily activities from the era. The living history museum connects perfectly with Clearwater's own Chisholm Trail heritage and offers insights into Kansas' cattle trading past.
13. The Original Pizza Hut Museum
PIZZA EMPIRE ORIGINS
The Original Pizza Hut Museum preserves the first Pizza Hut location, which opened in 1958 by brothers Dan and Frank Carney in Wichita. The small building was relocated to the Wichita State University campus and houses memorabilia documenting the growth of this global restaurant chain. Visitors can learn about the humble beginnings of this restaurant empire that started near Clearwater.
14. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
BOTANICAL BEAUTY SHOWCASE
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens features over 18 acres of stunning botanical displays just a short drive from Clearwater. Visitors can wander through more than 30 themed gardens including the Butterfly Garden, Children's Garden, and the Shakespearean Garden. The gardens host special seasonal events including the popular Illuminations holiday light display during winter months.
15. Kansas Aviation Museum
AIR TRAVEL HERITAGE
The Kansas Aviation Museum occupies Wichita's historic 1935 art deco terminal building, showcasing the region's rich aviation history. Exhibits feature numerous restored aircraft and artifacts highlighting Wichita's reputation as the "Air Capital of the World." Visitors from Clearwater can explore the control tower, sit in cockpits, and learn about pioneering aviators who shaped the industry.