Southeast Kansas Itineraries

Explore the scenic southeast Kansas, beginning at Elk City State Park. Nestled amidst dramatic rock formations, this park offers plenty of outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to fishing and swimming. Whether you choose to camp under the stars for $10 per night or enjoy the comfort of a cabin (ranging from $35 to $80), the park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. With its beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities, it’s a great starting point for this itinerary.

Next, take a 45-minute drive east to the Parsons Arboretum in Parsons. Built on the site of a former rail yard, this 19-acre park is a hidden gem of botanical beauty. Wander through natural landscapes featuring a variety of trees, shrubs, and plants, including a serene wetlands area perfect for birdwatching and quiet reflection. The arboretum’s unique history and tranquil atmosphere make it a wonderful stop for both nature enthusiasts and casual visitors.

From Parsons, head about an hour north to the newly established Lehigh-Portland State Park, just south of Iola. This former cement plant and quarry has been transformed into a haven for outdoor recreation, with miles of walking and biking trails that wind through scenic landscapes. Though its visitor center is still under construction, the park already offers plenty to explore. Conclude your journey 45 minutes east at the Fort Scott National Historic Site, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the 19th-century frontier. Tour 20 restored historic structures, stroll across the parade ground, and admire the five acres of restored tallgrass prairie, a nod to the natural beauty of Kansas during its early days.

Embark on a family-friendly adventure in southeast Kansas, starting at the Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence. This charming zoo features a variety of animals, a serene duck pond, and the iconic Monkey Island. Kids will love Kiddy Land, an interactive play area designed just for them. Adjacent to the zoo is Riverside Park, where the fun continues with affordable attractions like mini-golf at $2 per person, rides on an antique carousel for just $0.05 a ticket, and a delightful train ride at $0.50 per person. These nostalgic experiences make it a perfect stop for families with young children.

From the park, head just five minutes to downtown Independence to visit the Independence Science and Discovery Center. This hands-on museum is packed with engaging exhibits for curious minds. Kids can ride the Anti-Gravity Simulator, explore the science behind sound in the echo tube, and marvel at the Van de Graaff generator’s hair-raising effects. They’ll also have a chance to “chat” with a life-like Albert Einstein, blending fun and education into an unforgettable experience for budding scientists.

Next, travel 35 minutes northwest to the Curious Minds Discovery Zone in Parsons. Geared toward younger children, this interactive space encourages hands-on learning through exhibits that explore music, art, science, and engineering. Finish your journey with a 30-minute drive southeast to Big Brutus in West Mineral. This colossal electric shovel, once the largest of its kind in the world, has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the miners and coal-mining history of the region. Standing in the shadow of this engineering marvel is a humbling and inspiring way to conclude your trip.