Gorham KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gorham, Kansas.
1. St. Fidelis Church
HISTORIC CATHOLIC BASILICA
St. Fidelis Church is a stunning Catholic basilica located near Gorham that has earned the nickname 'Cathedral of the Plains' due to its impressive architecture. The church features soaring twin towers, beautiful stained glass windows, and was constructed from native limestone by German immigrants. Visitors can explore this historic landmark that stands as a testament to the religious heritage of the area and remains an active parish today.
2. Dream Theater
CLASSIC MOVIE EXPERIENCE
Dream Theater offers a nostalgic cinematic experience in the heart of Gorham, Kansas. The theater has been completely renovated with historic preservation in mind, combining vintage charm with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy films in a comfortable setting that features 223 upholstered seats and air conditioning.
3. Gorham City Park
SCENIC COMMUNITY SPACE
Gorham City Park is a welcoming public space located along the Post Rock Scenic Byway. The park offers visitors a place to relax while enjoying views of the surrounding Smoky Hills with their distinctive weathered bedrock formations. Local residents and travelers alike appreciate this green space as a gathering spot and rest area when exploring the region.
4. Paper Moon Film Location Tour
HOLLYWOOD IN KANSAS
Gorham served as both a setting and filming location for the acclaimed 1973 film 'Paper Moon' starring Ryan and Tatum O'Neal. Visitors can take self-guided tours to see the various locations around town that were featured in this classic movie. Film enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood history while experiencing the authentic small-town Kansas atmosphere that made Gorham the perfect backdrop for the Depression-era story.
5. Post Rock Scenic Byway
BREATHTAKING RURAL DRIVE
The Post Rock Scenic Byway winds through Gorham and the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views of the Smoky Hills. The route is named for the unique limestone fence posts that pioneer settlers created when faced with a shortage of wood on the plains. Travelers along this scenic drive can experience the natural beauty of Kansas while learning about the ingenuity and resilience of its early inhabitants.
6. Walker Art Gallery
REGIONAL ART SHOWCASE
Walker Art Gallery, located near Gorham in Hays, showcases an impressive collection of regional and contemporary art. The gallery features rotating exhibitions of works by both established and emerging artists from the Great Plains region. Visitors can enjoy the thoughtfully curated displays in a welcoming environment that celebrates the artistic heritage and creative spirit of Kansas.
7. Sternberg Museum of Natural History
PREHISTORIC KANSAS WONDERS
Sternberg Museum of Natural History in nearby Hays offers a fascinating journey through the prehistoric past of Kansas. The museum houses world-class fossil collections, including spectacular specimens from the Western Interior Sea that once covered the region. Visitors are particularly drawn to the lifelike dioramas and the famous fish-within-a-fish fossil that demonstrates the remarkable preservation of ancient marine life in the area.
8. Ellis County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Ellis County Historical Society Museum preserves and presents the rich cultural heritage of the area surrounding Gorham. The museum features extensive exhibits on pioneer life, Native American history, and the development of communities in Western Kansas. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the compelling story of settlement and growth in this region of the Great Plains.
9. Fort Hays State Historic Site
FRONTIER MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Hays State Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into Kansas' frontier military history near Gorham. The site features original and reconstructed buildings from the fort, which played a crucial role in protecting settlers and railroad workers in the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the blockhouse, guardhouse, and officers' quarters while learning about famous figures like General George Custer and Buffalo Bill Cody who served at the fort.
10. Al's Chickenette
ICONIC FRIED CHICKEN
Al's Chickenette has been serving its famous pan-fried chicken to locals and travelers near Gorham since 1949. This beloved dining institution maintains its vintage charm with original neon signs and classic diner decor that transport diners back in time. Visitors flock to this iconic restaurant for its crispy, flavorful chicken and homestyle sides that represent authentic Kansas comfort food at its best.
11. Gella's Diner & Lb. Brewing Co.
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Gella's Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. combines a full-service restaurant with an award-winning microbrewery near Gorham. The establishment offers a diverse menu of made-from-scratch dishes paired with handcrafted beers brewed on site. Visitors appreciate the casual atmosphere, quality food, and the opportunity to sample unique beers that have won medals at the Great American Beer Festival.
12. Cedar Bluff State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Cedar Bluff State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of recreational activities on the shores of Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Gorham. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation in this scenic park that spans over 10,000 acres. The park's dramatic limestone bluffs and expansive water views create a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers throughout the changing seasons.
13. Plainville Gallery
LOCAL ARTISAN SHOWCASE
Plainville Gallery showcases works by talented local artists from the region surrounding Gorham. The gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, pottery, jewelry, and handcrafted items that reflect the cultural and natural heritage of Kansas. Visitors can browse unique pieces, meet local creators, and find distinctive souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Great Plains.
14. Historic Downtown Russell
CHARMING MAIN STREET
Historic Downtown Russell offers visitors a charming shopping and dining district near Gorham. The area features well-preserved historic buildings housing unique specialty shops, local restaurants, and cultural attractions. Visitors can stroll the main street while discovering the hometown of former U.S. Senator Bob Dole and experiencing authentic small-town Kansas hospitality.
15. Wilson Lake
CLEAREST LAKE IN KANSAS
Wilson Lake is known as the clearest lake in Kansas and offers spectacular recreational opportunities near Gorham. The lake features crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by dramatic limestone outcroppings and native prairie landscapes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing for walleye and bass, camping, and hiking along scenic trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Kansas plains.