Olmitz KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Olmitz, Kansas.
1. Cheyenne Bottoms
PREMIER WILDLIFE WETLANDS
Cheyenne Bottoms is one of the most important wetland areas in North America, drawing birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The area serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds, with over 320 bird species documented at this massive 41,000-acre wetland. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, photography, hunting in designated areas, and educational programs at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.
2. St. Ann's Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Ann's Catholic Church has been a cornerstone of the Olmitz community since its founding on May 9, 1889. The church represents the strong Austrian Catholic and Volga German heritage that shaped the town's development. Today, it continues to serve the local community as a place of worship and cultural significance.
3. Pawnee Rock
HISTORIC NATURAL MONUMENT
Pawnee Rock is a historic sandstone formation that once served as an important landmark for travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. Standing 300 feet above the surrounding prairie, it offered a strategic vantage point and was mentioned in numerous pioneer journals. Today, this state historic site provides interpretive displays, picnic areas, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Kansas Oil & Gas Museum
ENERGY INDUSTRY HERITAGE
The Kansas Oil & Gas Museum showcases the rich history of petroleum development in Central Kansas. Exhibits feature vintage equipment, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of how oil discovery transformed the region's economy. Visitors can explore both indoor displays and an outdoor collection of drilling equipment and machinery.
5. Heartland Farm
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Heartland Farm is a sustainable agricultural community operated by the Dominican Sisters of Peace that welcomes visitors to experience rural Kansas life. The farm offers workshops on sustainable living, fiber arts, and spiritual retreats throughout the year. Guests can interact with alpacas, tour organic gardens, and purchase handcrafted items from the farm store.
6. Wetlands at Great Bend Aquatic Facility
RECREATION AND NATURE
The Wetlands at Great Bend Aquatic Facility combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The facility features swimming pools, water slides, and splash areas alongside restored wetland habitat. Nature trails wind through the wetlands area, offering wildlife viewing opportunities within city limits.
7. Tuttle Creek State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Tuttle Creek State Park offers extensive outdoor recreation opportunities around one of Kansas's largest reservoirs. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing across the park's 1,200 acres. The park also hosts special events throughout the year, including fishing tournaments and outdoor concerts.
8. Rocky Ford State Fishing Area
PREMIER ANGLING DESTINATION
Rocky Ford State Fishing Area is a popular destination for anglers seeking channel catfish, flathead catfish, and other freshwater species. The area features a unique rocky riverbed formation that creates ideal fishing conditions year-round. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife watching, picnicking, and scenic views of the Kansas River.
9. Colbert Hills
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF EXPERIENCE
Colbert Hills is a premier championship golf course designed by golf legend Jim Colbert in collaboration with Kansas State University. The course features dramatic elevation changes, native prairie grasses, and challenging layouts for golfers of all skill levels. Beyond golf, visitors can enjoy dining at the clubhouse restaurant while taking in panoramic views of the Flint Hills.
10. Manhattan River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Manhattan River Trail offers a picturesque path along the Kansas River for walking, jogging, and cycling enthusiasts. The trail connects several parks and natural areas, providing scenic views and wildlife watching opportunities. Interpretive signs along the way highlight the area's natural and cultural history.
11. Kansas Wheat Innovation Center
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SHOWCASE
The Kansas Wheat Innovation Center showcases cutting-edge research and development in wheat production and processing. Visitors can learn about wheat's importance to Kansas agriculture through interactive exhibits and displays. Tours of the facility highlight how scientists work to develop new wheat varieties and improve farming practices.
12. Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WILDLIFE ENCOUNTER
The Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo houses over 100 animals representing species from around the world in a family-friendly environment. The zoo combines entertainment with education through keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and special events throughout the year. Visitors particularly enjoy the big cat exhibits, primate collection, and the interactive children's area.
13. Barton County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Barton County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region through extensive artifact collections and historical buildings. The open-air museum includes a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and railroad depot that visitors can explore. Special exhibits highlight the area's Native American heritage, pioneer settlements, and agricultural development.
14. Hoisington Main Street
CHARMING DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Hoisington Main Street offers a charming small-town shopping experience with locally-owned businesses housed in historic buildings. Visitors can browse antique stores, specialty shops, and enjoy hometown restaurants serving classic Kansas fare. The district frequently hosts community events including seasonal festivals, car shows, and farmers markets.
15. Great Bend Downtown Square
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Great Bend Downtown Square centers around a historic courthouse and features a variety of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The area maintains much of its early 20th-century architectural charm while offering modern shopping and dining experiences. Throughout the year, the square hosts community events including summer band concerts, holiday lighting ceremonies, and art festivals.