Southwest Kansas Itineraries

Begin at the Cimarron National Grassland, a sprawling expanse of over 100,000 acres offering opportunities to bike, camp, fish, hike, horseback ride, and hunt. Camping is a budget-friendly $7 per night. Explore the diverse landscape of rock cliffs, cottonwood groves, grassy fields, and patches of yucca and sagebrush, all while enjoying the serenity of this wide-open space. It’s a perfect start for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Next, travel east for about two hours to the Big Basin Prairie Reserve, a stunning 1,800-acre preserve of native mixed grass prairie. Hike through the area to discover two natural basins formed by sinkholes. The larger basin is nearly a mile wide and 100 feet deep, while the smaller is about 280 yards across and 35 feet deep. Don’t miss St. Jacob’s Well, a mysterious 84-foot-wide pond located within the Little Basin, known for its unfailing water supply. The reserve offers a unique blend of natural beauty and geological intrigue.

From Big Basin, drive northeast for about 45 minutes to visit the M.T. Liggett Art Environment. Here, you’ll find hundreds of quirky, politically charged metal sculptures created by artist M.T. Liggett. The site also includes a museum, his workshop, and a studio apartment, offering insight into his creative process and perspective. Finally , head an hour north to the Fort Larned National Historic Site, one of the best-preserved military outposts from the mid-1800s. Tour the original sandstone buildings, walk along the Santa Fe Trail ruts, and enjoy the on-site nature trail. After exploring, wrap up your journey with a comfortable stay in Great Bend, just 30 minutes northeast.

Begin your adventure at the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City, a site dedicated to preserving the history of the Old West with a focus on Dodge City. With over 20,000 artifacts, including more than 200 original guns, this museum brings history to life. Enjoy a hearty country-style meal, witness thrilling gunfights between the good and bad guys, and watch Miss Kitty and the Can-Can girls perform at the Long Branch Saloon. Dive deeper into the past through the museum's engaging reenactments and exhibits, offering an unforgettable peek into the rugged life of the frontier.

Next, head west for an hour to Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City, a family-friendly destination sprawling across 47 acres. This zoo features spacious animal habitats and shaded walking paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. Kids will love the playgrounds and picnic areas, while visitors of all ages can enjoy observing the diverse collection of animals. It’s an ideal stop to relax and connect with nature while taking a break from history-focused activities.

Finally, drive south for just over an hour to Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz in Liberal. Step into a replica of Dorothy’s house from The Wizard of Oz and follow the Yellow Brick Road into a magical 5,000-square-foot animated exhibit, The Land of Oz. This enchanting stop is perfect for fans of the classic story. For those interested in regional history, the Coronado Museum, located next door, offers exhibits on the Coronado Expedition of 1540 and the history of Liberal and the surrounding area. Together, these attractions provide a perfect blend of whimsy and historical intrigue to wrap up your trip.