{"id":124735,"date":"2023-08-28T13:55:36","date_gmt":"2023-08-28T13:55:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wondrousdrifter.com\/?p=124735"},"modified":"2023-09-19T08:31:18","modified_gmt":"2023-09-19T08:31:18","slug":"best-fun-things-to-do-places-to-visit-in-hays-kansas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wondrousdrifter.com\/north-america\/usa\/kansas\/hays\/best-fun-things-to-do-places-to-visit-in-hays-kansas\/","title":{"rendered":"Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Hays, Kansas"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Excited to Explore: Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit in Hays, Kansas<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Are you planning a trip to Hays, Kansas and wondering what fun activities and places to visit are available? Look no further! Hays is a city rich in history and culture, with plenty of options for outdoor adventures, unique attractions, and delicious food and drink experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re interested in exploring the rich history of Hays, be sure to visit the Historic Fort Hays and the Volga-German Heritage Area. These museums and historical markers offer a glimpse into the past and are a must-see for any history buff. The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is another popular attraction, featuring world-class exhibits and hands-on displays that explore the region’s pre-1800s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Hays has plenty to offer. Take a hike at the Frontier Park Nature Center or enjoy a picnic at the beautiful Wilson Lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking or fishing on the Smoky Hill River. And for those who love to shop, the Chestnut Street District in downtown Hays is a must-visit, with its unique shops, boutiques, and galleries nestled amongst historical markers memorializing the city’s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Hays, Kansas is a city rich in history and culture, with plenty of options for outdoor adventures, unique attractions, and delicious food and drink experiences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
The city offers a variety of museums and historical markers for those interested in exploring its rich history, including the Historic Fort Hays, the Volga-German Heritage Area, and the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Frontier Park Nature Center, Wilson Lake, and the Smoky Hill River, while shoppers will enjoy the Chestnut Street District in downtown Hays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Exploring the Rich History of Hays<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Are you a history buff? Hays, Kansas, has a rich history that you can explore through its many museums and historic sites. Here are two places you won’t want to miss:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fort Hays State Historic Site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fort Hays was established in 1865 to protect the Smoky Hill Trail and the Kansas Pacific Railway from Native American attacks. The fort was named after Brigadier General Alexander Hays, who was killed during the Civil War. At its peak, the fort housed over 7,000 soldiers and civilians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today, you can visit the Fort Hays State Historic Site to learn about military history and pioneer days. The site includes several original buildings, such as the guardhouse, officers’ quarters, and hospital. You can also see replicas of the blockhouse, bakery, and other structures that were once part of the fort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ellis County Historical Society Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ellis County Historical Society Museum is located in the heart of downtown Hays and is dedicated to preserving the history of Ellis County. The museum features exhibits on local and regional history, including the Volga German heritage of the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibit on the Smoky Hill Trail, which was a major route for pioneers heading west in the mid-1800s. You can also learn about the history of the area’s railroads, agriculture, and businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you’re interested in military history, pioneer days, or the Western history of Kansas, Hays has something for you. Don’t miss the chance to explore the rich history of this fascinating city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Museums and Exhibits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you’re interested in history, fossils, and artifacts, Hays has some great museums and exhibits to explore. Here are two must-visit spots:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sternberg Museum of Natural History<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Located inside Fort Hays State University, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History is a fascinating museum that features displays and hands-on exhibits to explore the history of the region before the 1800s. The museum is a popular attraction in Kansas for its dinosaur fossil exhibit, and it’s an excellent place to start your Hays travel adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The museum displays a vast collection of dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and memorabilia from the region’s history dating back millions of years. You’ll get the chance to see real fossils, including the famous fish-within-a-fish fossil. The museum also features live animals, including snakes, turtles, and lizards, and traveling exhibits that change throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n