Simpson KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Simpson, Kansas.
1. Trapper's Bar & Grill
REGIONALLY FAMOUS RESTAURANT
Trapper's Bar & Grill is Simpson's main attraction and a regionally famous restaurant with lots of pride and heritage. Visitors can enjoy wonderful food and hospitality in this historic establishment. The restaurant has become a must-visit destination for travelers passing through the area.
2. Simpson Self-Guided Tour
HISTORIC COMMUNITY EXPLORATION
Simpson Self-Guided Tour is part of the 'See more on 24' series that runs along US Hwy 24. The kiosk for the tour is located beside the Tri-County Bank, opposite Trapper's Bar & Grill. This tour allows visitors to explore the exciting past of this historic community.
3. Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church is a highly-rated religious site in the Simpson area. The church features traditional architecture and serves as a spiritual center for the local community. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere and historical significance of this church.
4. Best Friends Dog Park
CANINE RECREATION AREA
Best Friends Dog Park offers a welcoming space for dogs and their owners to enjoy outdoor activities. The park features open areas for pets to run and play in a safe environment. Visitors consistently give this park high ratings for its maintenance and friendly atmosphere.
5. Kansas Auto Racing Museum
RACING HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Kansas Auto Racing Museum is located just half a mile south of Exit 286 off Interstate 70 in Chapman. The museum showcases the rich history of auto racing in Kansas with various exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about famous Kansas racers and see historic vehicles that have competed on tracks throughout the state.
6. Coronado Heights Castle
HISTORIC SANDSTONE LOOKOUT
Coronado Heights Castle is a winner in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography located northwest of Lindsborg. Built in 1936 as a Works Progress Administration project, this native Dakota sandstone castle sits 300 feet above the valley floor where Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and his men are believed to have viewed the prairie. The castle offers perfect opportunities for picnics, flying kites, hiking, off-road bike trails, and is a favorite spot for photographers and artists alike.
7. Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia Motherhouse
RELIGIOUS HISTORICAL SITE
The Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia Motherhouse is a highly-rated historical religious site in the region. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of the Sisters of St. Joseph and their contributions to the community. The motherhouse architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a meaningful destination for those interested in religious history.
8. Brown Grand Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Brown Grand Theatre is a beautifully preserved historic theater in the North Central Kansas region. Built in the late 19th century, this venue continues to host performances ranging from plays to musical concerts. The theater's ornate interior and rich history make it a cultural landmark worth visiting.
9. Little House on the Prairie Museum
PIONEER LIFE EXHIBIT
The Little House on the Prairie Museum features a log cabin reconstruction based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's famous novel. The site includes an authentic one-room schoolhouse from the 1870s and an original turn-of-the-century post office moved from nearby Wayside. Visitors can also explore a period doctor's office and a red barn where they can pet and feed donkeys.
10. Kansas Celebrity Hall of Fame
LOCAL FAME SHOWCASE
The Kansas Celebrity Hall of Fame showcases notable local celebrities from the region. Visitors can learn about figures such as music promoter Jim Halsey, TV host Bill Kurtis, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright William Inge, and actress Vivian Vance. The museum celebrates the achievements and contributions of Kansans who have gained national recognition.
11. Independence Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Independence Historical Museum houses more than 20 rooms filled with valuable antiques and unique artwork. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the rich history of Independence and the surrounding region. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the cultural heritage and development of this part of Kansas.
12. Elk City State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Elk City State Park offers some of the most scenic views and hiking trails in the state. The park features a swimming beach, camping facilities, playgrounds, and a large wildlife area for visitors to enjoy. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diverse outdoor recreational opportunities available throughout the different seasons.
13. Johnston Geology Museum
NATURAL SCIENCE COLLECTION
Johnston Geology Museum houses an impressive collection of geological specimens and exhibits. Visitors can explore various rock formations, fossils, and minerals native to Kansas and beyond. The museum provides educational opportunities for those interested in the geological history of the region.
14. Schmidt Museum of Natural History
WILDLIFE AND ECOLOGY EXHIBITS
The Schmidt Museum of Natural History showcases the diverse flora and fauna of Kansas through various exhibits and displays. Visitors can learn about the ecological systems and wildlife that have shaped the region's natural environment. The museum offers educational programs that highlight conservation efforts and natural sciences.
15. Peterson Planetarium
ASTRONOMICAL EDUCATION CENTER
Peterson Planetarium offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the wonders of our universe. The facility features regular shows that highlight constellations, planets, and astronomical phenomena. Educational programs at the planetarium make complex astronomical concepts accessible to visitors of all ages.