Radium KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Radium, Kansas.
1. Garden of Eden
WHIMSICAL CONCRETE SCULPTURES
The Garden of Eden in Lucas features the remarkable concrete sculpture work of SP Dinsmoor, which has stood for nearly 100 years. This unique attraction showcases both religious and political imagery through whimsically delightful sculptures and a distinctive concrete-clad house. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to understand the background of this artistic wonder, which is free to visit though donations are welcomed.
2. Giant Toilet
QUIRKY PUBLIC ART
The Giant Toilet in downtown Lucas is one of the town's quirky mosaic art installations that draws curious visitors. This unusual public art piece showcases the town's commitment to unique artistic expression. The toilet mosaics represent Lucas's reputation as an art-centric community in central Kansas.
3. Brandt's Meat Market
HOMEMADE SAUSAGE SPECIALIST
Brandt's Meat Market in Lucas offers visitors tasty house-made sausages and other specialty meat products. This local establishment provides authentic Kansas flavors and serves as a culinary highlight in the artistic community. Visitors often stop here for a savory snack while exploring the other attractions in Lucas.
4. Miniatures Museum
TINY ARTISTIC TREASURES
The Miniatures Museum in Lucas houses a collection of intricately crafted small-scale art pieces and models. This museum adds to Lucas's reputation as a hub for unique artistic expression in central Kansas. Visitors can marvel at the detailed craftsmanship and creativity on display in these miniature works.
5. Buffalo Soldier Monument
HISTORICAL MILITARY TRIBUTE
The Buffalo Soldier Monument honors the African American cavalry units who served on the frontier. This significant historical landmark commemorates the contributions of Black soldiers in the American West. Visitors can learn about an important chapter of military history while appreciating this meaningful memorial.
6. Frontier Army Museum
MILITARY HISTORY COLLECTION
The Frontier Army Museum preserves the history of the U.S. Army on the frontier through extensive exhibits and artifacts. This museum showcases military equipment, weapons, uniforms, and documents dating back to the early frontier days. Visitors can explore the role of the army in westward expansion and the development of Kansas and surrounding territories.
7. Museum at Prairiefire
MODERN SCIENCE AND HISTORY
The Museum at Prairiefire in Overland Park stands as one of the city's premier points of interest with its striking architectural design and educational exhibits. This museum features rotating exhibitions in partnership with the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Visitors can explore interactive displays on natural history, science, and culture in this modern facility.
8. Overland Park 9/11 Memorial
SOLEMN REMEMBRANCE SITE
The Overland Park 9/11 Memorial honors the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. This commemorative site provides a place for reflection and remembrance for community members and visitors. The memorial serves as an important historical marker and educational resource about the impact of 9/11.
9. Clock Tower Plaza Park
CENTRAL COMMUNITY GATHERING
Clock Tower Plaza Park serves as a focal point and gathering place in Overland Park. This well-maintained public space features a distinctive clock tower that has become a local landmark. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the park's amenities and its central location for community events and casual recreation.
10. Union Station
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
Union Station in Kansas City features breathtaking Beaux-Arts architecture with restored ceiling artwork and magnificent Kasota stone and Dark Cedar Tennessee marble floors. This historic landmark was once covered in soot and neglect but has been meticulously restored to reveal its original grandeur and design. Visitors can experience the station's perfect symmetry by standing in the middle of the floor patterns and looking up at the corresponding ceiling elements.
11. Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
ICONIC ART COLLECTION
The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art is known for its famous outdoor shuttlecock sculptures that have become iconic photo opportunities in Kansas City. Outside this historic landmark, visitors can explore the glass maze, play mini golf on the art course, or simply relax on the sprawling lawn. Inside, the museum houses world-famous art collections within a building noted for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
12. Lucas Downtown District
ART-CENTRIC SMALL TOWN
The Downtown District of Lucas showcases this small town's remarkable dedication to public art and creative expression. Despite its remote location and tiny size, Lucas has become known as an art-centric community with various sculptures, installations, and artistic amenities. Visitors will find an unexpectedly vibrant cultural scene that makes for a worthwhile side trip in central Kansas.
13. Rock Sculpture Garden
STONE ART COLLECTION
The Rock Sculpture Garden in Lucas features a collection of unique stone plinths with various designs and elements located near the Garden of Eden. This outdoor gallery showcases different rock varieties and artistic approaches to stone carving. The garden complements the other artistic attractions that have made Lucas a destination for art enthusiasts.
14. Radium Historic District
SMALL TOWN HERITAGE
The Radium Historic District preserves the small-town character and heritage of this tiny Kansas community. While not widely known for tourism, the area offers a glimpse into rural Kansas life and history. Visitors passing through can experience the authentic atmosphere of a small prairie town largely untouched by commercialization.
15. Wilson State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Wilson State Park offers outdoor recreation opportunities near Radium with its scenic reservoir and natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping in this Kansas prairie setting. The park provides a natural retreat that showcases the beauty of the central Kansas countryside.