Marquette KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marquette, Kansas.
1. Kanopolis State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Kanopolis State Park offers exceptional spots for camping and outdoor activities near Marquette. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and equestrian trails throughout this beautiful natural area. The park is ideal for nature enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the Kansas landscape.
2. Mushroom Rock State Park
UNIQUE NATURAL FORMATION
Mushroom Rock State Park features a remarkable 27-foot rock formation shaped like a mushroom, located just five miles north of Marquette. This five-acre park is one of the smallest state parks in Kansas and is recognized as an Eight Wonder of Kansas Geography. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of unique shots along the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway where the park is situated.
3. Kansas Motorcycle Museum
RACING HISTORY COLLECTION
The Kansas Motorcycle Museum showcases the legacy of local racing legend Stan 'The Man' Engdahl who won 16 Kansas State Championships. Visitors can explore a collection of 600 trophies, learn about motorcycle history, and see Stan Engdahl's actual race bike. Motorcycle enthusiasts will be particularly impressed by the comprehensive exhibits celebrating the region's racing heritage.
4. Smoky Valley Distillery
LOCAL CRAFT SPIRITS
Smoky Valley Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally-produced craft spirits in Marquette. Guests can tour the distillery to learn about the production process and sample their signature products. The distillery adds a unique attraction to Marquette's small-town charm and local business scene.
5. Marquette Civic Mural
COMMUNITY PRIDE ARTWORK
The Marquette Civic Mural beautifully illustrates the city's characteristics including civic pride, agri-business, religion, and fellowship. This impressive artwork serves as a perfect photo opportunity for visitors to the area. The mural stands as a testament to the community's values and history in this charming Kansas town.
6. Vintage Gas Pump Display
NOSTALGIC AUTOMOTIVE COLLECTION
The Vintage Gas Pump Display is a unique creation by Marquette resident Corky Saum featuring antique gasoline pumps. Inside the accompanying gas station, visitors can purchase memorabilia and collectibles related to automotive history. This eye-catching attraction offers excellent photo opportunities for those interested in vintage Americana.
7. Marquette Historical Complex
LOCAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Marquette Historical Complex, built in 1910, preserves the rich history of this Kansas community. Adjacent to the complex is the 1906 Range School Museum schoolhouse, offering insights into early education in the region. Together, these historical buildings provide visitors with a glimpse into Marquette's past and cultural heritage.
8. Smoky Hill Wildlife Area
NATIVE WILDLIFE HABITAT
The Smoky Hill Wildlife Area provides a protected habitat for native Kansas wildlife near Marquette. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, hunting (in season), and exploring the natural landscape. The area showcases the diverse ecosystem of the Smoky Hill River region.
9. Prairie Trail Scenic Byway
PICTURESQUE DRIVING ROUTE
The Prairie Trail Scenic Byway offers a beautiful driving route that passes through Marquette along K-4 highway. Visitors enjoy stunning views of the Kansas prairie landscape and easy access to local attractions. The byway is frequently mentioned as one of the highlights for those traveling to Marquette.
10. Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery
SWEDISH ARTIST SHOWCASE
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery in nearby Lindsborg celebrates the work of Swedish-American artist Birger Sandzén. The gallery houses an impressive collection of paintings, prints, and drawings by Sandzén and other artists. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the cultural significance of this institution just a short drive from Marquette.
11. Old Mill Museum
HISTORIC MILL COMPLEX
The Old Mill Museum in Lindsborg preserves a historic flour mill and offers insights into the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the mill machinery, historical exhibits, and learn about Swedish immigrant history in the area. The museum complex includes several buildings that showcase different aspects of early Kansas life.
12. Red Barn Studio
ARTIST'S WORKING SPACE
Red Barn Studio in Lindsborg showcases the artistic workspace and legacy of renowned artist Lester Raymer. The studio has been preserved as he left it, allowing visitors to experience the creative environment of this talented craftsman. Art lovers can view Raymer's diverse works including paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted items.
13. Coronado Heights
HISTORIC LOOKOUT POINT
Coronado Heights offers a stunning panoramic view of the Smoky Valley region from atop a sandstone bluff near Lindsborg. The site features a picturesque stone castle built during the 1930s as a WPA project and is rumored to be where Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado gave up his search for the Seven Cities of Gold. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and spectacular sunset views from this elevated historic landmark.
14. Maxwell Wildlife Refuge
BUFFALO AND ELK PRESERVE
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge offers visitors the chance to see American bison and elk in their natural prairie habitat near Canton. The refuge provides tram tours that allow for safe, close-up viewing of these magnificent native animals. This conservation area preserves a slice of what Kansas looked like before settlement and farming changed the landscape.
15. Dala Horse Factory
SWEDISH FOLK ART
The Dala Horse Factory in Lindsborg demonstrates the creation of traditional Swedish Dala horses, colorful wooden figurines that symbolize Swedish heritage. Visitors can watch artisans hand-carve and paint these iconic folk art pieces that have become synonymous with Lindsborg's Swedish culture. The factory offers the opportunity to purchase authentic Dala horses as unique souvenirs of the region.