Montezuma KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Montezuma, Kansas.
1. Stauth Memorial Museum
WORLD TRAVEL EXHIBITS
The Stauth Memorial Museum celebrates the adventures of Claude and Donalda Stauth through a unique collection of photographs, artifacts, and indigenous art gathered in 40 years of worldwide travel. Visitors will find rotating exhibits from across the globe and learn about cultures far beyond southwest Kansas. The museum building itself is notable for its farmstead-inspired silhouette and rounded copper-roofed design.
2. Santa Fe Trail Tracks
HISTORIC WAGON RUTS
The Santa Fe Trail Tracks near Montezuma allow visitors to see the preserved wagon ruts left by pioneers on the legendary Santa Fe Trail. The site offers a powerful glimpse into 19th-century history and westward expansion. Guests can walk along the path and imagine the treacherous journey faced by early settlers.
3. Brianna's Cafe
HOMESTYLE DINING & PIE
Brianna's Cafe is a beloved local eatery known for its homemade comfort foods and the best pie in Southwest Kansas. Conveniently located across from the Stauth Memorial Museum, it's a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, or a sweet treat after sightseeing. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for both residents and travelers.
4. Montezuma Drug Store
HISTORIC PHARMACY & SODA FOUNTAIN
The Montezuma Drug Store, established in 1914, offers more than medicine—it features a charming soda fountain, gift boutique, and a gathering spot for locals. Visitors can enjoy classic treats like cherry limeades and milkshakes or pick up unique gifts in a historic setting. The store exemplifies small-town hospitality and community tradition.
5. Just For You Floral & Gifts and Coffee Connection
FLORAL GIFTS & COFFEEHOUSE
Just For You Floral & Gifts combines a boutique floral shop with Coffee Connection, a nonprofit coffeehouse offering homemade baked goods and a friendly, relaxed environment. It's a popular hangout for students and residents alike, especially known for fresh cinnamon rolls. Shoppers can find unique gifts, flowers, and enjoy a welcoming community space.
6. Crooked Creek Country Club
GOLF COURSE & RECREATION
Crooked Creek Country Club provides golf enthusiasts and families with a well-maintained course to enjoy a round in the Kansas countryside. The club hosts local events and offers scenic views of the surrounding plains. It's a gathering place for both recreation and community socializing.
7. Gray County Wind Farm
WIND ENERGY LANDMARK
The Gray County Wind Farm, one of the largest in Kansas, features rows of massive wind turbines surrounded by open farmland. Tours and viewing sites allow visitors to learn about renewable energy and the region's commitment to sustainability. The wind farm offers a striking visual contrast to the flat Kansas landscape.
8. The Rusty Junker
ANTIQUES & VINTAGE FINDS
The Rusty Junker is a charming antiques shop in Montezuma featuring a variety of vintage goods, collectibles, and locally crafted items. Shoppers can browse an eclectic mix of treasures, from farm tools to retro home décor. It's a favorite stop for those searching for unique souvenirs and gifts.
9. Dalton Gang Hideout
OUTLAW LEGEND SITE
The Dalton Gang Hideout in Meade invites visitors to explore the secret escape tunnel used by the infamous outlaw family. The historic home-turned-museum offers artifacts, stories, and insights into Old West outlaw life. Guided tours share dramatic tales of the Dalton Gang's escapades and their connection to the area.
10. Boot Hill Casino & Resort
GAMING & ENTERTAINMENT
Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City provides guests with slot machines, table games, and live entertainment in a vibrant Western-themed setting. The complex also offers dining options and accommodations, making it a popular getaway for travelers in Southwest Kansas. Visitors enjoy both the gaming excitement and the historic atmosphere.
11. Boot Hill Museum
OLD WEST HERITAGE
Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City preserves the fabled history of the American West through authentic buildings, exhibits, and live reenactments. Highlights include a reconstructed frontier street, cowboy shows, and tales of lawmen and outlaws. The museum offers an immersive experience into Dodge City's storied past.
12. Carnegie Center for the Arts
LOCAL ART EXHIBITS
The Carnegie Center for the Arts showcases works by local and regional artists in a beautifully restored former library building. Exhibits rotate throughout the year, spanning painting, photography, sculpture, and more. The center also hosts classes and cultural events for all ages.
13. Central Station Bar & Grill
STEAKHOUSE & NIGHTLIFE
Central Station Bar & Grill is a staple of Dodge City's dining scene, known for hearty steaks and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant also doubles as a nightspot with live music and dancing on weekends. It's a great place to experience local flavor and socialize after a day of sightseeing.
14. Clark Pharmacy and Gift Shop
GIFTS AND ESSENTIALS
Clark Pharmacy and Gift Shop in nearby Minneola offers visitors a unique blend of pharmacy services and distinctive gifts. Customers can find Kansas-themed souvenirs, home décor, and personal care items in one convenient stop. The friendly staff and small-town charm make it a pleasant place to browse or shop.
15. United Wireless Arena
CONCERTS AND EVENTS
United Wireless Arena is Southwest Kansas's premier venue for major concerts, sporting events, and community gatherings. The modern facility hosts touring acts, rodeos, and regional competitions throughout the year. Fans enjoy state-of-the-art amenities and an exciting lineup of entertainment options.