Westwood KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Westwood, Kansas.
1. Liberty Memorial
HISTORIC WAR MONUMENT
Liberty Memorial stands as an impressive monument dedicated to those who served in the First World War. Visitors can ascend the tower for a fantastic panoramic view over Kansas City. The site includes an interesting museum that provides in-depth information about World War I.
2. Mirror Pool
SCENIC WATER FEATURE
Mirror Pool is an elegant water feature situated between W 61st Terrace and W 62nd Street along Ward Parkway. The pool spans almost the entire median block and was created as part of a beautification effort along the parkway. Its reflective surface provides a peaceful spot for relaxation and contemplation.
3. Westwood Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Westwood Park offers various recreational facilities including ball diamonds and playgrounds for community enjoyment. The park features multiple shelters that can be used for gatherings and events throughout the year. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's trails for walking, jogging, or connecting with nature.
4. Sheila Kemper Dietrich Park
ACCESSIBLE PLAY AREA
Sheila Kemper Dietrich Park was renamed in 1999 to honor Dietrich at the end of her term. The park was carefully planned as one of the first ADA-compliant accessible play areas in the region. Its thoughtful design ensures that children of all abilities can enjoy outdoor recreation together.
5. Kauffman Legacy Park
URBAN GREEN RETREAT
Kauffman Legacy Park serves as an urban haven with expansive green spaces for public enjoyment. The park offers various trails perfect for jogging, walking dogs, or simply exploring the natural surroundings. Its welcoming environment makes it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation within the city.
6. The Hiker Monument
MILITARY MEMORIAL STATUE
The Hiker monument is located south of the Liberty Memorial in Penn Valley Park and was dedicated in 1947. The statue commemorates those who served in several wars and conflicts of the early 20th century. This thoughtful memorial provides a place for reflection and remembrance of military service.
7. Westwood Hills National Historic District
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL AREA
The Westwood Hills National Historic District comprises the entire city of Westwood Hills and was listed as a national historic district on December 4, 2013. The district is significant for its community planning, development, and architecture, with 255 resources reflecting its evolution from pastureland to residential subdivision to a self-contained city. Originally platted by the J.C. Nichols Company in 1923, Westwood Hills became an independent city in 1949.
8. Old Cowtown Museum
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Old Cowtown Museum transports visitors back to Kansas's Wild West era through immersive historical exhibits. The museum features authentic buildings, artifacts, and costumed interpreters who bring the past to life. Visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and activities of a frontier cattle town firsthand.
9. Fort Hays State Historic Site
MILITARY FRONTIER POST
Fort Hays State Historic Site preserves the remains of a significant frontier military post active from 1865 to 1889. The site includes original and reconstructed buildings that showcase life at the fort during its operational years. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the fort's role in western expansion and the Indian Wars.
10. Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of Wichita and Sedgwick County through extensive collections and exhibits. Housed in the original 1892 City Hall building, the museum itself is an architectural treasure. Visitors can discover artifacts, photographs, and stories that trace the region's development from frontier settlement to modern city.
11. High Plains Museum
REGIONAL PIONEER HISTORY
The High Plains Museum chronicles the pioneering history of northwestern Kansas and the High Plains region. Exhibits showcase agricultural innovation, homesteading, and the challenges of settling the prairie. Visitors can view historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the area's past to life.
12. Fort Leavenworth
HISTORIC MILITARY INSTALLATION
Fort Leavenworth, established in 1827, stands as the oldest active military installation west of the Mississippi River. The fort houses several museums and historic sites including the Frontier Army Museum and the Buffalo Soldier Monument. Visitors can tour the grounds to learn about the fort's significant role in American military history and western expansion.
13. Old Abilene Town
WILD WEST EXPERIENCE
Old Abilene Town recreates the atmosphere of one of the wildest cattle towns of the American frontier. Visitors can watch gunfight reenactments, tour historic buildings, and learn about famous residents like Wild Bill Hickok. The attraction provides an entertaining glimpse into Kansas's rowdy cowtown era of the late 1800s.
14. Westwood Walking Tour
SELF-GUIDED HISTORICAL EXPLORATION
The Westwood Walking Tour offers a self-guided journey through the rich history of Westwood. Created by the Westwood City Council Parks & Recreation Committee and former Mayor Karen Johnson, the tour highlights interesting facts and finds around nearly every corner of the city. Participants can use either a printable map and notes or an interactive Google map to explore the depth of Westwood's fascinating past.
15. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
ICONIC GAS STATION BBQ
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que operates from a converted gas station and has earned worldwide recognition for its exceptional barbecue. Their signature Z-Man sandwich and ribs have been featured in numerous national publications and food shows. The restaurant regularly draws lines out the door with locals and tourists alike seeking to experience their award-winning smoked meats.