Dorrance KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dorrance, Kansas.
1. Dorrance Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND ARTIFACTS
The Dorrance Historical Society Museum is located downtown in the Reiff Building, exhibiting artifacts from the community's rich history. Visitors can explore a fine collection of items that showcase the town's heritage and development since its establishment in 1870. The museum provides insights into the lives of early settlers, including German, English, and Irish immigrants who contributed to the town's growth.
2. Post Rock Scenic Byway
BEAUTIFUL KANSAS LANDSCAPES
The Post Rock Scenic Byway is an incredibly beautiful driving route located near Dorrance that stretches between Lucas and Wilson. This scenic roadway offers visitors breathtaking views of the Smoky Hills region of Kansas and the distinctive limestone fence posts that give the byway its name. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate the rolling hills, prairie landscapes, and historical significance of this picturesque route.
3. Wilson State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Wilson State Park is located just 6 miles north of Dorrance, offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors. The park features beautiful landscapes around Wilson Reservoir, with opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Hills region while exploring the park's extensive trail system and shoreline.
4. World's Largest Czech Egg
UNIQUE CULTURAL MONUMENT
The World's Largest Czech Egg is a distinctive cultural monument located in Wilson, just a short drive from Dorrance. This colorful attraction celebrates the area's Czech heritage and features intricate traditional designs painted on a massive egg structure. Visitors rate this unique monument highly, making it a popular photo opportunity and cultural landmark in the region.
5. Grassroots Art Center
FOLK ART COLLECTION
The Grassroots Art Center in nearby Lucas showcases extraordinary works created by self-taught Kansas artists. The center houses an impressive collection of folk art made from unusual materials and found objects, representing the creative spirit of rural Kansas. Visitors can explore multiple buildings filled with unique artistic expressions and learn about the visionary artists who created them.
6. Garden of Eden
UNIQUE CONCRETE SCULPTURES
The Garden of Eden in Lucas was created by Samuel Perry Dinsmoor, a retired schoolteacher who began building this remarkable site in 1907 at the age of 64. For 22 years, Dinsmoor fashioned 113 tons of cement and many tons of limestone into his unique 'log' cabin and surrounding concrete sculptures. This historic site showcases Dinsmoor's artistic vision and political beliefs through elaborate sculptural works depicting biblical scenes and political commentary.
7. Granny Mae's Pumpkin Patch
FALL FESTIVAL FUN
Granny Mae's Pumpkin Patch offers an old-fashioned fall festival atmosphere with hayrack rides, bonfires, and marshmallow roasts near Dorrance. Located on a family farm purchased by the Herber family in 1942, this seasonal attraction provides wholesome entertainment for visitors of all ages. The pumpkin patch is open every weekend from late September through the end of October, featuring live music and traditional autumn activities.
8. Fossil Station Museum
HISTORIC SHERIFF'S BUILDING
The Fossil Station Museum is housed in an imposing native limestone building constructed in 1907 to serve as the sheriff's office and county jail. Today, the museum displays portray the early history of Russell County through exhibits on 100 years of clothing, Heartland politics, and local wartime contributions. Visitors can explore this historic 'post rock' building and learn about the region's rich cultural heritage.
9. Paper Moon Film Location
HOLLYWOOD IN KANSAS
Dorrance was among the filming locations for the 1973 Academy Award-winning film 'Paper Moon' starring Ryan and Tatum O'Neal. Film enthusiasts can visit the town to see some of the authentic locations that appeared in this classic black-and-white movie set during the Great Depression. The town's historic buildings and rural Kansas atmosphere made it an ideal backdrop for this beloved film.
10. Deines Cultural Center
ART AND CULTURE HUB
The Deines Cultural Center in Russell serves as an important cultural hub for the region near Dorrance. The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs that celebrate local and regional artistic talent. Visitors can enjoy visual arts, performances, and community gatherings in this vibrant cultural space.
11. Russell Municipal Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Russell Municipal Golf Course offers a relaxing golfing experience within a short drive from Dorrance. This well-maintained course is part of Russell's 160 acres of city parks, providing both recreational opportunities and beautiful landscapes. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the challenging course while taking in views of the surrounding Kansas countryside.
12. Toss Back Basketball Rim Site
SPORTS INNOVATION HISTORY
Dorrance was home to the Toss Back company, which invented and first produced the 'Snap Back' rim used in NBA basketball. This site represents an important piece of sports innovation history that originated in this small Kansas town. Basketball enthusiasts can visit the location where this revolutionary basketball equipment was developed and manufactured.
13. U.S. Route 40 Scenic Drive
HISTORIC HIGHWAY JOURNEY
U.S. Route 40 near Dorrance offers a scenic road trip experience through the heart of Kansas. This historic highway passes through beautiful landscapes and connects visitors to various attractions in the region. Travelers can enjoy the rural charm and open vistas while exploring small towns and historic sites along this route.
14. Smoky Hills Region
NATURAL BEAUTY AREA
The Smoky Hills Region surrounding Dorrance features rolling hills, native grasslands, and distinctive limestone outcroppings that characterize this beautiful part of Kansas. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and photography opportunities throughout this scenic natural area. The region's unique geology and prairie ecosystems provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
15. Russell County City Parks
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACES
Russell County's 160 acres of city parks provide numerous recreational opportunities for visitors near Dorrance. These well-maintained green spaces feature playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and walking paths for public enjoyment. The parks host community events, family gatherings, and outdoor activities throughout the year.