Elk Falls KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elk Falls, Kansas.
1. Elk Falls Waterfall
NATURAL CASCADING BEAUTY
Elk Falls Waterfall is a natural 10-foot high, 100-foot wide cascade formed by stone outcropping across the Elk River. The falls, which gave the town its name, were once the site of a water-powered grist mill built in 1875. Visitors can easily view the waterfall from the historic 1893 Iron Truss Bridge or hike down to the water's edge on the massive limestone slabs lining either side of the river.
2. 1893 Iron Truss Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The 1893 Iron Truss Bridge is a venerable iron and wood structure that once allowed traffic on US 160 to safely cross the Elk River. This historic Pratt Truss Bridge offers excellent views of the Elk Falls Waterfall below. The bridge now serves as a pedestrian walkway and historical landmark in the small community.
3. Elk Falls Pottery
ARTISANAL CERAMIC CRAFTS
Elk Falls Pottery is a thriving establishment that has been operating in the town for over three decades. The pottery studio is located in the restored Rock Garden, which was originally built in the 1930s. Visitors can observe artisan pottery-making techniques and purchase unique handcrafted ceramic items.
4. The Rock Garden
DEPRESSION-ERA STONE ART
The Rock Garden is a unique historic attraction created during the Great Depression of the 1930s. This restored stone garden now houses Elk Falls Pottery and showcases the craftsmanship of that era. The garden stands as a testament to the creative spirit that persisted even during difficult economic times.
5. Annual Outhouse Tour
QUIRKY THANKSGIVING TRADITION
The Annual Outhouse Tour is Elk Falls' signature event held on the Friday and Saturday before Thanksgiving each year. The quirky celebration features creative outhouses, live music, handcrafts, and food vendors, bringing numerous visitors to the self-proclaimed "Outhouse Capital of the World." This unique festival represents the town's eccentric character and remains the busiest time for the tiny community.
6. The Tannery
HISTORIC LEATHER WORKS
The Tannery is one of the interesting seasonal businesses that continues to operate in the self-proclaimed "World's Largest Living Ghost Town." Visitors can learn about traditional leather-working techniques and processes used in the past. The establishment contributes to preserving the historical character of this small Kansas community.
7. The Saw Mill
TRADITIONAL WOOD CRAFTING
The Saw Mill represents one of the traditional industries that once thrived in Elk Falls. This seasonal business showcases historical wood processing techniques and craftsmanship. Visitors can observe demonstrations of lumber production methods from the town's more prosperous era.
8. Sherman House Bed & Breakfast Inn
HISTORIC 1879 LODGING
The Sherman House Bed & Breakfast Inn, dating back to 1879, offers visitors a chance to stay in a piece of Kansas history. This historic accommodation provides a glimpse into 19th-century life while offering modern comforts. The inn serves as one of the few year-round businesses in the seasonal town of Elk Falls.
9. Prudence Crandall Historic Markers
EDUCATIONAL PIONEER TRIBUTE
The Prudence Crandall Historic Markers honor the renowned educator who lived the last 16 years of her life in Elk Falls. Crandall gained fame for establishing the first black female academy in New England in 1883, making significant contributions to educational equality. The two markers, located on the west side of town, commemorate her progressive legacy and connection to this small Kansas community.
10. Independence Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Independence Historical Museum preserves and displays the rich history of Montgomery County and southeast Kansas. Located approximately 35 miles southeast of Elk Falls, the museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits telling the story of the region's development. Visitors can explore multiple galleries showcasing everything from Native American history to early pioneer life and the area's industrial growth.
11. Little House on the Prairie Museum
LAURA INGALLS SITE
The Little House on the Prairie Museum sits on the original site where the Ingalls family lived in a one-room cabin from 1869 to 1871. Located near Independence, about 35 miles from Elk Falls, this historic site features a reconstructed cabin, schoolhouse, post office, and farm animals. The museum offers visitors insight into the pioneer life that inspired Laura Ingalls Wilder's beloved books.
12. Elk City State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Elk City State Park offers 857 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities on the shores of Elk City Reservoir near Independence. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching in this scenic natural area. The park's proximity to Elk Falls makes it a perfect complement to exploring the historic small town.
13. Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence feature a small zoo, playground equipment, miniature train rides, and a historic carousel. The 22-acre park along the Verdigris River provides family-friendly entertainment about 35 miles from Elk Falls. The facility includes sports fields, picnic areas, and seasonal events throughout the year.
14. Neewollah Festival
KANSAS' LARGEST FESTIVAL
The Neewollah Festival (Halloween spelled backward) is Kansas' largest annual festival, taking place in Independence during the last week of October. The celebration includes parades, carnival rides, musical performances, food vendors, and the crowning of Queen Neelah. Visitors from throughout the region, including nearby Elk Falls, gather for this nine-day festival that has been a tradition since 1919.
15. Fall River State Park
TALLGRASS PRAIRIE WILDERNESS
Fall River State Park encompasses 980 acres of tallgrass prairie, wooded hills, and the Fall River Reservoir not far from Elk Falls. The park offers camping, fishing, hiking trails, and wildlife observation in a scenic Flint Hills setting. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and seasonal hunting while exploring this diverse natural area.