Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Tulsa to Denver?
The direct drive from Tulsa to Denver is 692 mi (1,114 km), and should have a drive time of 9 hrs 33 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Tulsa to Denver, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Colorado Springs, Oklahoma City, Wichita, and Manitou Springs, as well as top places to visit like Grand Casino Hotel & Resort and Oklahoma State University, or the ever-popular The Pioneer Woman Mercantile.
The top cities between Tulsa and Denver are Colorado Springs, Oklahoma City, Wichita, and Manitou Springs. Colorado Springs is the most popular city on the route. It's 10 hours from Tulsa and 1 hour from Denver.
Oklahoma City, the state capital of Oklahoma in the United States, is famous for its cowboy culture and a capitol complex that is surrounded by functioning oil wells. The Oklahoma City National Memorial features a reflecting pool and unoccupied glass and bronze chairs to commemorate the victims of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing back in 1995. A significant part of this memorial is the Survivor Tree, which happens to be an American elm that was nearly destroyed during the attack.
48% as popular as Colorado Springs
40 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Denver
Wichita, located in south-central Kansas, offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Exploration Place showcases interactive science exhibits and Kansas in Miniature, featuring animated models depicting 1950s Kansas. Old Cowtown Museum provides a glimpse into 19th-century life with its historic buildings and costumed guides. Botanica Wichita boasts themed gardens such as a wildflower meadow and a Chinese garden. Meanwhile, the Museum of World Treasures houses fascinating artifacts including Egyptian mummies and a T.
13% as popular as Colorado Springs
4 minutes off the main route, 26% of way to Denver
Need a place to stay?
WhereWhere are you going
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Manitou Springs, a charming resort city in Colorado, is renowned for its mineral springs and stunning mountain vistas, particularly the majestic Pikes Peak. The area features the fascinating Manitou Cliff Dwellings and the challenging Manitou Incline Trail. Its vibrant community hosts unique events like the famous Emma Crawford coffin races. This small town offers an array of distinctive shops, dining options, and entertainment venues.
10% as popular as Colorado Springs
55 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Denver
Colorado Springs is a city situated at the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, with an elevation of 6,035 ft. It is close to Pikes Peak, known for its hiking trails and cog railway leading to its summit at 14,114 ft. The Garden of the Gods park in the city showcases stunning red-sandstone formations and scenic mountain views.
Most popular city on this route
48 minutes off the main route, 90% of way to Denver
Best stops along Tulsa to Denver drive
The top stops along the way from Tulsa to Denver (with short detours) are Pikes Peak, Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Other popular stops include Sedgwick County Zoo, Bricktown, and Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum.
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, located in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, is a popular destination created by Ree and Ladd Drummond. Housed in the renovated Osage Mercantile building on Main Street, it offers a restaurant serving country dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The establishment also features a deli, bakery, and store where visitors can enjoy comfort food and shop for treats and gifts.
Beautiful store! FABULOUS restaurant! You don't have to know anything about 'Pioneer Woman'. I've only seen one episode and still thoroughly enjoyed The Mercantile. A very very NEAT experience!
Michele Moyer — Google review
Stopped in with the family to grab a bite to eat for dinner and shop around. Our dinner was delicious and our customer service from cinnamon was great during our meal. We purchased a 6 count tray of pioneer woman cinnamon rolls from the upstairs bakery and had them with our breakfast the next morning and darn were they delicious (I highly recommend getting yourself a tray of those cinnamon rolls to go as well). The shop itself was huge and had so many options to choose from including clothing, hats, salt and pepper shakers, stickers, coffee mugs, stuffed animals, baking supplies etc etc etc. While my family really enjoyed eating at the mercantile we enjoyed the pioneers woman’s P-Town pizza location across the street the second evening even better. If you have a family with kids I highly recommend you dine at P-Town pizza, you won’t regret it!! Though I would definitely eat at the mercantile again as well. We just really enjoyed our mixed drinks and our desert jars with dinner from P-town so much more. 10/10 would eat and shop here again.
Gemsofthewild — Google review
Came to visit on a Mother’s Day trip. Easy to find. Fairly easy to park. Loved browsing through the store and find some fun items to purchase. Don’t miss the upstairs bakery. Highly recommend a visit. Also, try out the restaurant! We waited 1 hr and 42 minutes to get in. Normally I would never wait like that for a restaurant but since we were in town just for this purpose we waited. The food was good. Definitely give it a try!
Cheryl Evans — Google review
Didn't know what to expect, but so pleasantly surprised, the food is amazing, the employees are excellent, there can be a long wait to be seated but it's worth it, so much to take in while you are waiting, shopping, the bakery upstairs, we went two days in a row, that's how good the food is! Would definitely recommend!
Darion Shenyer — Google review
This place is fantastic❣️I had to give the food 4 stars because it lacks seasoning. I do understand folks of all ages come to eat here so you dont want to season too much but it would be nice if you could offer the option to add a little kick to everything. (maybe some hot sauce on the table).
The menu is wonderful and the food is quality. The service was excellent. We were here Easter weekend so there were no crowds and we didn’t have to wait for anything. We stayed at the hotel and ALL of the service was impeccable ❣️
Michele BT — Google review
It was a three hour wait, but it was well worth the wait. The food was exceptional. The portions are large. You could live off the plate of fries. The staff was excellent. The pictures speak for themselves. This is place you must put on your bucket list.
Alvin Merz — Google review
The food here is amazing. If you like home-made, like your grandma made, fresh farm to table this is your place!
The biscuits that are served with some of the best apple butter I've ever had, are a side to most dinners.
And the way they make their tomato soup and grilled cheese sticks, are perfection!
And their spinach artichoke dip as an appetizer is so creamy and baked just right.
James N Gina Kinney — Google review
Had a really nice chicken sandwich with chips and pickles made in house. Completely forgot to get a picture. If they sold the pickles by the jar, I would have bought several. The desserts seemed good but we chose to visit the bakery upstairs. Everything looked great and I can't imagine a bad choice.
Tom Nickell — Google review
It was our first time coming, and it was a little disappointing. We expected it to be larger and it was filled with the usual tourist type of stuff. We were hoping to find more locally sourced inventory.
The one saving grace was the bakery. It had an awesome selection of goodies. We did not eat in the diner, so I can't speak of it.
Carl Relford — Google review
Awesome place to visit! Everything was delicious in the restaurant and bakery! Cowgirl coffee is a MUST try! Very friendly polite town. Will be back for sure! Make reservations early for restaurants on weekends and enjoy the atmosphere while you wait 😊
Brittney Rice — Google review
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile has some great food. The portions were huge. The price per person can easily be 20 to 30 a person depending upon appetizers and main meals that are purchased. We did the chicken fried steak which was a breaded chicken fried sirloin steak. They don’t tell you that biscuits come with the meal or I would have avoided purchasing the garlic Parmesan fries which that appetizer alone was a Mountain of fries that easily fed four and were so filling that by the time our main course came out we could not finish. But are now going to be delicious leftovers to eat later. The biscuits were moist hot and delicious on their own. But the rhubarb strawberry jam was a great addition to spread on the buttery hot biscuits. I will definitely. This place is in Pawhuska, Oklahoma and about 50 minutes north north west of Tulsa. But was definitely worth the stop.
Benjamin Coleman — Google review
I loved visiting! The food, the atmosphere, the service, the whole thing was amazing. So big, so clean and more than what I expected. So neat to hear the employees talk to so highly of Ree and it’s fun to listen to their stories. We also got lucky and visited on a day that was pretty slow, no wait at all. We also came for breakfast though. We also got to visit the lodge on this day, which was a nice surprise. Definitely worth a visit!
Devin Ganka — Google review
Arrived on a Thursday morning for breakfast. No wait & we were seated right away. We has good breakfast and didn't take too long either. Fun experience & loved the shopping area.
A S — Google review
Everyone was so nice. The food was delicious. The ice cream shop was small but manageable. The clothing store was fantastic and the bathrooms were so clean. I loved my 1st time there and would love to come back. If you haven't been, go!
Charlotte — Google review
The store is nice, and even larger a bit now. The restaurant is always good, and their strawberry lemonade is the best! In my opinion, the bakery upstairs is the star of the show. Everything in that bakery is amazing, and they make crepes now! They sell the best pecan pie and scones there that I’ve ever eaten.
Kelly Naul — Google review
This was the reason for our visit to Pawhuska, As I am sure it is for most people who come to this small town. The building has a great historic, yet modern look. The store has many items that are fun and fit the old world mercantile feel, but sadly still almost all mass market. The upstairs coffee shop has so many yummy looking goodies, so make sure to check that out. There is no signage, to let you know its up there. We only learned of it by overhearing the servers tell another table at breakfast.
Breakfast itself was really good. Breakfast is my favorite foods and these didn't disappoint. Heidi was our server and she was very friendly and attentive. (The service here was much more on top of things than the pizza place across the way. The training and management are worlds away, yet owned by the same company and so close.) Since I am such a breakfast fan we got several items, the burrito, biscuit sandwich which comes with yummy gravy and the waffle with three butters and mimosas to wash it all down. All of the food was very good. Had it not been such large amounts we would have finished it all. My only issue was that the burrito was too big to eat comfortably, not necessarily a bad thing.
Michael — Google review
We waited an hour and a half (without reservations), for just passing through town. The food service and atmosphere were totally awesome. They are super proud of all their merchandise, but the items were unlike any other souvenir shop I've seen. The food was absolutely great! We really loved it!
K at — Google review
Party of 6 seated quickly for dinner(it was so good we went back) and breakfast on a Thursday evening and Friday morning. The food was delicious, the service excellent and the biscuits were amazing. The servings are plentiful, be prepared to take some home. For many dishes, you could share plates especially for breakfast, specifically the Cowboy Burrito(8-10 eggs). The Parm Cheese fries as a side to an entree can be shared too. No kids menu. The Creme Brulee was outstanding. Prices are very reasonable for the amount of food you receive. Upstairs, there is a bakery with fresh treats and coffee bar. Highly recommend
Gail Hicks — Google review
Had a very nice dinner at the Mercantile this evening. Half a BBQ Chicken with mashed potatoes, a salad, and artichoke dip with chips as an appetizer.
Great place to grab some food.
Dave Keener — Google review
We traveled to Pawhuska Oklahoma to see The Pioneer Woman’s mercantile. Beautiful building in the center of town. The store had everything you could ever want, shirts, kitchen gadgets. Cookbooks, souvenirs and food. Are dinner there. We ordered half chicken fried steak and a chicken pot pie. The pot pie sadly was nothing special, very bland but hot which was nice. The chicken fried steak was seasoned perfectly and was very good. Highly recommend ordering that.
Lori Pruitte — Google review
This was our 1st visit to The Pioneer Woman Mercantile and Pawhuska, OK. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast and wonderful service at The Mercantile. Best of all, the restaurant was not busy at all, and we were thrilled to be seated right away as we've heard there's usually really long wait times for this popular eatery! There's a fun store on the 1st floor filled with all kinds of merchandise to shop for, and a bakery with all types of yummy, delectable items on the 2nd floor.
Bonnie W — Google review
Love the Christmas decorations! Everything from the bakery is 1000/10.
Everyone was so friendly, we had the best server and she was so kind (we have 2 littles in high chairs and she brought us crayons, etc. without asking).
If you are hungry and eating breakfast - get the burrito! Holy moly its huge!! My husband got it and couldn’t finish it.
They have the Christmas decorations up and it feels like a hallmark movie. Some of the reviews said people were not friendly, but thats wasnt the case, everyone was kind, attentive and friendly.
I was able to do a lodge tour & would plan at least 2 hours for the outing with drive time included, such a pretty property!
Emily Cockrell — Google review
Wow, is all I can say! from the cute decor to the history and the amazing food that tastes like it’s from scratch this is a place you must stop to eat if you visit Pawhuska!! I would definitely come here again!! The gift shop is a good place to shop while you are waiting for a table, they have pioneer woman cookbooks and all sorts of local or handmade Knick knacks and t shirts! The chicken fried steak is to die for but it’s huge it can feed almost three people with the full order and their baked potatoes were perfect. The salads tasted like they were just picked from the garden!
Tara7355 — Google review
Worth a day trip if you get the chance.
My daughter has been a huge fan since meeting Ree Drummond at a book signing a few years ago. We were in OKC for a gym meet and made the drive out. Glad we did.
The food was simple and comfortish. Rich, stick-to-your-ribs type food! Just delicious. Pot pie just like it should be in middle America. Chicken-fried steak like the best diner version you could imagine. Chicken strips with cap’n crunch breading. Yum.
The environment was welcoming and pleasant.
Retail schwag was surprisingly reasonable, price-wise, with a broad variety to chose from.
It was a great experience for my daughter and really a brand that we can feel good about supporting.
Vince L — Google review
In one word, DELICIOUS. The biscuits that are complimentary were flaky and the strawberry rhubarb jam was delicious. I ordered an iced lavender latte and it was divine.
The Grand Casino Hotel and Resort is a luxurious facility that offers a variety of dining options as well as a casino, spa and rooftop pool. The hotel is located in downtown Oklahoma City and is within walking distance of several popular attractions.
This casino is always a lot of fun. More so when you get a machine that's hitting good, and that was exactly what happened here. Played for several hours until I decided to go "All in", but had a blast. Could have left $200 richer, but still had a good time with wife and friends. Ended up going to the bar and grill just outside the main casino downstairs, and had some great food. All in all, a great time.
Jay Valente — Google review
We We stayed for 3 days and 2 nights. The hotel room and walk in shower were both very nice and pretty clean.The hotel staff were kind and check in and out we're easy.
The Casino has a good variety of modern machines and a few of the Video poker machines.
The reason for only giving 3 stars is because all of the food court restaurants, the Sushi restaurant, and the Steakhouse, were all closed for our entire stay.
The only places to eat are the Grand Cafe from 6 am to 2 pm, and the Sports bar.
Both the Grand Cafe and the Sports bar had good food, but on Monday night, the Sports bar didn't have a bar tender. A sports bar without a bar tender, really isn't a sports bar!
Everyone told us that all of the restaurants are closed because they can't get any employees. They provide great benefits, but still can't get any employees to staff the place. It's very unfortunate, because this would be a great destination resort, if all of their restaurants were open! Even the gift shop has a sign on the door that says, by appointment only. That's crazy!
We won't be back, until the restaurants open.
Steve Wilson — Google review
Make sure to use HotelTully.ᴄᴏm when booking your stay. This site will compare countless booking websites and normally will have prices much cheaper than others! Thank me later on! This place is the best rated in this area. I have been coming here for a long time. If you decide to stay here you for sure will love it I'm sure!
I stayed in my Tractor Trailer so I can't speak of the rooms. But I'm sure they are very nice. The whole place was well kept. The staff were awesome. PLENTY of parking for a big rig. I will definitely return! Thanks for a great evening out of the truck! I had a great time!
Richard Humble — Google review
Probably the best casino in Oklahoma. From the outside it looks smaller than it actually is because it is probably the only two level casino in the state. Has an interesting little food court in place of the usual buffet, and a pretty nice sports bar with great and cheap pizza. The slots were not only loose, but there's a huge variety including some interesting classic games (still mostly bingo based though). The wheel of fortune game in the lobby is a treasure.
Steve Collins — Google review
I've stopped here several times over the years and it's a beautiful casino however I've never had any luck here.. ate dinner at the sports bar and the food was delivered fast and was delicious.. service is excellent and the employees are extremely professional and nice.. plenty of truck parking is available even late at night.. just park in the back of the casino if you can't find a spot.. they also have a food court.. some guy next to me won $19,000.. good luck y'all..
Mark Frazier — Google review
It is a very good Casino. The facilities are nice and clean. The food court has a grand variety of foods from different regions of the world. The customer service was great. The Casino offers free drinks and ice cream to its guest.
They also offer Truck Parking... so this is a Truck Driver Friendly Casino. Excellent!
I would definitely recommend that you visit Grand Casino Hotel & Resort.
Alberto González Alvarado — Google review
For me, three stars is about the highest rating a tribal casino can receive. Perhaps if they made slot machine information/stats publicly accessible, then a five star rating could happen. That said, Grand Casino is a very nice casino. Of all the Oklahoma casinos I've visited (I have been to quite a few), it has the look and feel that most resembles a Vegas casino. It's clean, not smokey, and if I was smarter and less greedy I could walk out of there a winner on most visits. The 45 minute drive (longer during high traffic times) is definitely worth it.
Undoctrinated — Google review
Nice size gambling facility with non smoking areas. Wide variety of games. Good sports bar and grill. They have a nice non- smoking hotel with room service, a pool on the second or third floor, a spa and exercise area. The attached casino has free soft serve ice cream along with fountain drinks and coffee and tea machines. Enjoyed my visit there.
Dawn Sherrill — Google review
The restaurant has really good food and the price was good just wish the hours were longer being open. The food court food isn't bad either. The Mexican food station is the best. Other than that have fun losing money. I never go thinking I'm going to strike it rich. Lol
Joseph Lake — Google review
This is one of the best casino and hotel I've been to they know how to treat there customers they offer me one free night a month how nice is that...we always stop on our way to Missouri to see my son the pizza is the best and the breakfast at the restaurant is amazing the machine are very generous and the best thing is the margarita's..The staff is very friendly and rooms are clean and comfortable oh did I mention they have a soft service machine and the ice cream is delicious I was pour some in a cup and then coke wow a free float..Thank you guys for the free stay.. if I had to say anything bad about the casino its that they give me very little free play all the other casino I've stayed have been generous but besides that it's a great casino with lots of slots that pay out its just a great place to visit I will be going again in November I can't hardly wait try it out guys you will love it..please reply to me if you go tell me if I was right...God bless you all...
Rosemary Espindola — Google review
Awesome place great clean chill atmosphere friendly staff. Excellent free ice cream. Neat machines I miss some old familiar ones but I'm liking these and black jack on fire!!
Nesting Nomad — Google review
Several weeks ago we spent three days in your beautiful hotel. We won a huge chunk of change too, playing the penny slots! Everyone (employees) was so friendly. Our room was immaculate! The casino itself is awesome! The restaurants were outstanding! The free ice cream each night was delicious and appreciated. Wish someone had been working in your gift shop the 3 days we were there, but it is what is. We have no complaints whatsoever! Your rates are better than other hotels in the area.
Mark W. — Google review
What a fun day at Grand Casino in Shawnee, OK!
Love that they still have penny slots that are so much fun to play! Hope they never upgrade!
Also, the free ice cream is awesome and the food court and sports bar is great ! Must check out!❤️
JM Wonder — Google review
Highly recommend this and Choctaw nation if i could give Riverwind a no star review i would. This is a beautiful establishment with several dining options my only complaint is they aren’t open 24 hours except for Fri and Saturday which blows if your staying at the hotel. One thing i do like about the hotel is check out is at 11 but you can simply tell them you want to check out at noon and get that extra hour no charge
L Dez — Google review
I used to love this casino. Now never win. It feels rigged. Another lady and i were winning about a year ago . She was up 1600.00 I was up 500.00 as soon as I pulled my players card out of the machine...it immediately said DISABLED CALL ATTENDANT! That's rigged. It was hitting for an hour now curiously disabled. I've lost last 3x I've played ..beautiful place tight slots
Charlotte Goetz — Google review
Got a flat tire and pulled into parking lot. Went inside and 🎊🎉 amazing. I had forgotten how great it was. Funny and friendly staff. Clean restrooms. The spa has the best nail techs. I got a pregnancy massage and it couldn't have been better. The price was reasonable too.
Lisa Gifford — Google review
The rooms are spacious and nice. Well equipped. They have a large buffet open varying days and hours. It's ok. Their coffee shop has above-average food and a few items are excellent. Service could be better. Their Asian cuisine restaurant has closed and will not reopen. Their signature restaurant is a Brazilian steakhouse and it is absolutely outstanding. Reasonably well equipped 2-story gaming area. Machines are Indian tight but do give decent play. A few of them break down a lot but I am told this will be addressed around August 2023. Small high limit area. Nice and well run poker room with tournaments Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
michael taylor — Google review
It's a fancy hotel and a casino how could you not love it! Now I've got to admit that their service is typical of any casino it's poor and you can't get a drink unless you're lucky enough to have a bar or a self-serve location. But I don't go to a casino to drink I do that at home. It's a good place to have a good time with your friends.
Cheryl Lynn Youngren — Google review
They’ve really upgraded the place over the last year. I like how they still have a lot of older machines. They also have a large non-smoking area upstairs that seems to go unnoticed. They should really put signs up guiding people to the area that don’t smoke.
Larry James Hill — Google review
I did not stay at hotel.
I met a friend for lunch at the food court, which I love. I've tried the pizza, Chicken Alfredo, and the Mexi Bowl. All of it was very good. The lime rice at the Mexican food section is absolutely amazing. I had never had lime rice before, decided to try it and was so glad I did.
Casino is very clean and lots of games. I didn't come home a millionaire but that's gambling!!!
Teresa Jo Dellinger — Google review
Great parking, nice place, restaurants were mediocre
only game I played was roulette 70-80 or more chip in 1-36 and 10 times in a row it hit a number with no chips or 1 chip….? Odd???
They charge a .50 per play on live games, like the house is not making any money after paying out barely anything to anyone. 🤷♂️
Oh and it stinks like an ash tray! 🤢 both floors. Thank you
Chris Miller — Google review
I love this place. Great restaurants with pleasant servers and fair prices!! I stop here whenever I drive this corridor, great place to hang out while your car charges!! Nice Casino though I don't gamble much. Clean and pleasant!!!
Will Jocobsmeyer — Google review
I park my semi truck here. Play at the casino which I've had a few hand pay wins. The restaurant has great food for a very reasonable price and the portions are very nice. Haven't had the pleasure of staying in any rooms yet. But the location is great. East on/off interstate Access. People are awesome. Highly recommend if you're passing through in a semi truck or on vacation.
todd Buettner — Google review
This is a great place to stay. Quiet rooms and nice size rooms. Very quiet and great room darkening curtains. Toilet has its own room. But shower is in same room and closed by 2 pockets doors. Very comfy beds and lots of comfy blankets. We were very toasty. The side lounge room was nice. Couch and a nice desk area. Lots of lights and super bright bathroom lights. Very helpful staff.
Carole Klaue — Google review
Driving cross-country, I mainly stayed in the major chains, but wanted to give the casino resort a shot. Turned out it was a great value with a really nice room. I'm not a gambler, but I walked through the casino to get to the restaurants. A little loud and smoky, but whatever. Unfortunately, I was there on a Sunday or Monday and dining options were more limited than usual. Even so, the grilled chicken sandwich was really nice and very reasonable. While I'm not a drinker anymore, the alcohol prices were extremely reasonable as well
David Kominsky — Google review
Truck stop was the usual place. Not bad, just a truck stop. The food I got from the casino was less than I was hoping for. $20 for a meager few slices of brisket and 5 slices of their version of BBQ sausage, baked beans and mashed potatoes on the side. The BBQ sauce tasted like it was half corn syrup and half tomato sauce with a few spices added. I definitely won't be getting that again.
The parking lot was very well lighted and easy backing. It makes a great place to spend the night. Maybe next time I'll try the sit-down restaurant in the casino
Shane — Google review
First time staying here and it was better than we were expecting. Very clean and excellent customer service from every employee we encountered. The food was also good although with our last minute planning we were unable to get into the steak house and spa, so make reservations ahead of time if you want to do either of these things. We didn't win big, but won enough to have 2 full evenings of game play. Prices were more reasonable than I have seen from a hotel casino in many years. Would highly recommend if you are looking for a weekend getaway.
Kim V — Google review
The room was nice and clean. The bed was very comfortable. King size bed room, for two people. You only get two towels set (washcloth, hand and bath towel). If you want water bottles, you can buy them or bring them in.
Sizable public university founded in 1890 & known for its athletics, science & business programs.
It is a beautiful place for young people, has a multiple services for them, easy access to services. Motivational place.
Maria Alvarez — Google review
Had a pretty good semester of graduate school here before transferring. I found that it felt like a “small” school but with all of the perks of being a massive Big 12 Conference member. Fun football games, some good professors (and easy classes) with a beautiful campus. Go Pokes!
Andrew FordGuy — Google review
I'm proud to be an OSU alumni. The facilities and people are top notch. I love it so much my daughter is attending!😜👍 Go Pokes!
Ryan McKenzie — Google review
Forever timeless, nothing quite like Oklahoma State University.
Ash Corona Westmuckett — Google review
OSU was home for 4 years during 2016-2020. Came from Bangladesh as a grad student, did a double MS, got married, started my first family, parents visited, experienced COVID in early 2020. All these years, always found peace and rejuvenation around the library, international mall, Colvin, CEAT and Human Sciences buildings. Would love to get back whenever opportunity presents itself!
Shahed Uddin — Google review
I'm a parent and all the money we pay for dorms and they can't open a window! My son been back 3 days and sick! The building flooded last semester and has not been aired out! Are you all trying to make our kids sick? Is it a fire code violation to bolt windows shut? Believe me, I will find out. Also, make sure carts are available at all move in dates! Don't request ppl to be early and not have all the equipment needed to move. You all need to get it together!!!
I said I'd find out! Now fix it!
You all are in violation code R310.1 Emergency Escape and Rescue required.
Every sleeping room shall have at least one operable Emergency Escape and Rescue opening.
Section R310.2 Emergency Escape and Rescue openings shall open directly into a public way, yard, or courtyard.
Section R310.2.1 window openings can be open 6 to 20 inches based on the floor.
Crystal Davis — Google review
beautiful university! very distinguished! and we were here! because my daughter received a writing recognition! . congratulations 🎉🍾🎊🎈!!! daughter ! proud of you! proud to live in Oklahoma! and have been in this university! of first class !
brenda de zauzich — Google review
Always Great Campus, With Top Technology Center's Available.
Cheyenne Kidd — Google review
A student who was supposed to be moved for "Emergency" Housing has not heard anything for over a week. Housing either doesn't answer their phone or promises to call back and never does. Do better OSU, you aren't keeping your students safe, just seeing them as income.
Cameron Knopp — Google review
One of my worst experiences in my entire life. As an international student, I am telling everyone to avoid this school by any cost. It is really not worth it plus they treat as an ATM, they come up with fees and they really good at it. Don’t underrate yourself and apply for better schools. Also stillwater itself it really sucks and there is literally nothing here and it’s so hot in summer and cold in winter.
If you are reading this DONT COME here be careful
My name is Floki — Google review
I regret to express my disappointment with my experience at Oklahoma State University. The academic support and resources fell short of expectations, with some faculty members lacking in responsiveness and assistance. Additionally, the campus infrastructure seemed in need of improvement, affecting the overall environment. The social scene was not as inclusive as hoped, and the university could benefit from more efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion. Overall, my time at OSU left me wanting more in terms of academic and social support.
Michael Cummings — Google review
It's a great University. Been here for two years and it never ceases to surprise me. A wonderful world away from the rest. Best place for students to hone their skills and learn new ones. For me it's personal you should be here in person to feel the energy of this little university town. You wouldn't believe how happening this place is. Welcome to Oklahoma State University. #gopokes.
Sai Vamsi Krishna Vissa — Google review
I love the campus and my program, but the city is a prison if you don’t have a car. No bus or train for other cities, only university’s bus to tulsa which doesn’t work in holidays or weekends. Not All students can afford buying a car!
Sahel Zaboli — Google review
The grounds are. The workers are good people. The OSU Police department falsely accuses students of reckless behavior. I was wrongfully arrested placed in 24 days of incarceration within those 24 days I spent $23 hours in a cell with one hour out. Officer Justin Gordon Brianna page and William Paterson created fictitious charges saying I was stealing utility electricity wow inside the McKnight center after hours.
Update: The Police Department promotes Constitutional protection for groups and or corporate activities, yet chooses to practice acts of discrimination against Consitituants of the public. It has been settled beyond controversy, the expression of any/all principles, protections, and immunities the Constitution demands from the Fiduciary Duties and Obligations each and every Public Officers, Officials, including but limited too Employees of all titles. I am American Indian, by the actions of the police department of the campus continues to go against the very dream that Martin Luther King Jr., Frannie Lou Hammer, Malik El Hajj Shabazz a.k.a. Malcolm X, and other Civil Rights Leaders stand and stood for.
On Feb 13, I will stand before Appointed Judge Diane Vaughan, former JAG Officer;
I am under duress being forced to enter a proceeding where there is no Standing for a suit. The use of the word "State" to create a fictional case proceeding is known as a Shame Legal Process-
21-1533.
A. Except as provided in subsection B of this section, every person
who falsely personates any public officer, civil or military, any
fireman, any law enforcement officer, any emergency medical technician
or other emergency medical care provider, or any private individual
having special authority by law to perform any act affecting the
rights or interests of another, or who assumes, without authority, any
uniform or badge by which such officers or persons are usually
distinguished, and in such assumed character does any act whereby
another person is injured, defrauded, harassed, vexed or annoyed, upon
conviction, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in
the county jail not exceeding six (6) months, or by a fine not
exceeding Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00), or by both such fine and
imprisonment.-
Sadly, I have sent correspondence to the President and Chief of Police, yet I have not received a response to this matter at hand. I pray that through these reviews, the People will learn and correction will commence.
/S/Todd Hunter
American Indian: Principal Grantor&Beneficiary
Junius Edward — Google review
Apparently greek life here like to abuse animals. This is absolutely disgusting. As a college student myself, I am so deeply disturbed by this behavior. Thanks to Daily Mail, now we know how fraternities really operate here. If the school is as appalled as they say they are, they will shut this frat down. As someone from the midwest, I am so saddened by the death of this longhorn. I was raised never to kill an animal without a purpose to eat it or defend yourself. Farm stock should be respected. Not only was this animal tortured and abused, but it was left to rot as a joke! These kids are sick in the head, and need to be disciplined to the fullest extent both legally and academically. Anyone with a sound mind won't attend this college or donate a penny until these criminals are found and dealt with. People who abuse animals go on to abuse other humans, and thats a fact. Do better, OSU. This is disgraceful.
Kendyl Stahlbusch — Google review
Each year OSU Hosts Special Olympics. They are so much more than just sports! We love coming and spending 3 days here. Stillwater is a nice town and OSU is the very Best
The Oklahoma City Zoo is a zoo located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It features 1,900 animals from across the world and offers a variety of attractions such as shows and trails.
One of my favorite zoo's to visit. Lots of variety of animals. Lots of trees for shade. Plenty of benches for sitting when gets tired. The tram is handy for getting around and inexpensive. Handicapped accessible. Great activities for adults and kids.
Angelique Turner — Google review
We went on the first nice Saturday of the spring and it was super crowded. The overflow parking was across the street at the racetrack. Other than the long walk to and from the car, once inside, it wasn't bad. With all of the new expansions, the exhibits were all comfortable to get around. It was the first time I had been to the zoo in close to 10 years. It is certainly not the same as when I was a kid. The new elephant area is huge and all the animals have so much room to roam around. No more little cages for any of the animals. The Asia experience is beautiful and I can't wait to go back when the Africa section is also complete. That being said, with all of the updates the cost has also increased quite a bit. I believe that you can still bring a picnic lunch inside as well as your own snacks. We ate at the Cafe by the sting rays and for 3 kid drinks, fries, a hamburger, and chicken strips it was almost $50! 🤯 Wear comfortable shoes, because you will be walking a lot!
Teresa Holmes — Google review
We went on a Saturday afternoon in April and the zoo was incredibly packed. People will not hesitate to cut you off while walking. Due to the heat, many of the animals were sleeping or hiding. Notably the bears. We weren’t able to see any of the bears on this day. The monkeys and gorillas were definitely the most active animals on this day. The tram ride is $6 per person and I would recommend that on hot days. The cool part about the tram is that they provide you with unique animal facts and the zoo’s history as you are riding and seeing the animal exhibits. The bird feeding is $4 per person and I thought that it was ridiculous that I had to pay $4 just to walk in and watch my family members feed birds that didn’t want to eat. Bring your own drinks because we waited in line for 30 minutes to spend $25 on drinks that would have been $8 or less at any overpriced gas station across the state. Despite the sometimes disappointing price points and waits, the employees were incredibly friendly across the zoo. I would recommend going on a cooler day and during the week if you can.
Drew — Google review
2023 Safari Lights drive and walk through reservation. $70 for a car with up to 4 walk passes. It's about an hour and a half to see it all, but give yourself 2 hours. The drive was nice with more animals and peaceful, quiet, or Christmas music and heat. It only costs $7 more for 4 people to do the drive and walk than just the walk through, so that is the way to go, but you must order online in advance to reserve your time slot. I'm not sure it is something we will do every year, but it was very nice. The walk was nice with some interaction activities and places for photo opportunities. There were concessions around where you could warm up, and I saw some people cooking marshmallows. At the entrance, there is a light show all around that lasts for about 6 songs (+- 9 min) or so and then gives a 3 minute countdown before restarting. Wish there were longer paths to walk as we saw it all relatively quickly.
Daniel — Google review
Most of the zoo is under construction currently. It would be nice if tickets were discounted since a good portion (pushing half or more) is under construction. But it's still a lot of fun! Some things were still left from the dino exhibit. The zoo is huge, give it at least 3 hours. Lots to see. Bring quarters (feeding ducks, turtles, fish), $1 and pennies (smashing), $5s (wax molds!) and then however you're going to pay for food.
There should be exhibit signs for the construction. For the workers, the machines, what's going on. Kids like construction, too, and adults are curious. I would love to see signs about who is working, what they like, how the machines work and facts about them. How the company hired is contributing to making a better planet. They're missing a perfect chance to teach.
Amber Jameson — Google review
It was a great school trip. The zoo is doing remodeling so there was a lot of construction that was going on. The animals that were there were awesome to see. The kids and everyone there had a great time, and can't wait to see what new exhibits will come. The zoo was also setting up the lights for Halloween, which was really cool to see as well.
Andrew C. — Google review
With a whole new exhibit being constructed and the aquatic area slated for a full makeover there is a lot of work being done around the zoo. It made it feel very run down. Most exhibits were closed or empty. Some were just full of debris. Then, the exhibits that were open were overly crowded with unattended field trippers. The kids were so disappointed with the animal situation that they spent most of their time playing on the jungle gyms. For a Zoo actively pushing to be voted “Best Zoo in the Nation” it has a long way to go.
That being said, the updates being made are very nice. When it’s all done I’m sure it’ll be fantastic. Until then though it just seems like a waste. We basically spent $100 for our kids to go to the playground.
Katy K — Google review
Zoo experience was great. Every animals, and birds have enough space for themselves. They were properly labeled with their features or characteristics which is enough to distinguish them.
There are separate sections for snakes, water creatures, asian animals, cats (lion) and many more. Special section is bear, they are real entertainers.
New wing is currently under construction which will involve new animals or scenery to the zoo beauty. It has train service ($9-10/ person), if anyone wants to use. Food and water outlets inside as well.
Kids live to spend time with their families.
It will take minimum 5 hours to maximum 7 hours to see and enjoy whole zoo.
Rashi Sehgal — Google review
The zoo has made many changes since I was last there, 13 years ago. I decided to take my 19 year old son with me. We had a blast! Unfortunately we did not get to see all the animals because it was hot and they go inside, but that is expected. Either way, it was worth it! We took many photos and videos. Even stopped to ride the carousel. Just remember to be courteous to the animals and don't let little ones bang on their glass, it stresses them out more. Don't forgot to stop in the little shop they have by the night exhibit, it's quant and has many goodies inside (I'd recommend going that direction last, or else you'll be carrying everything throughout the day.)
Alice Shehorne — Google review
Daughters first time there, and she loved it. Haven't been in years and a lot has changed and been added. Staff was friendly and the zoo was surprisingly clean with as many people that were there. You have to get there early for a good parking spot though, otherwise you are parking across the street at the casino or if you're lucky, next door at the science museum. Military discount is great!
Jennifer Stewart — Google review
A great zoo with many fun events and animals from all across the world. Seems to be a very popular spot for field trips. Some sections seem to be perpetually under construction, but that means it's constantly changing. The zoo friends perks are great for frequent visitors and discounts.
Dustin Hinkson (HINK Rates) — Google review
A great place to visit. We were there for about 4 hours and still could only see part of the zoo.
My wife got to feed the giraffes and loved that.
I loved getting a mold from the Mold-a-matic. They had these at different places I visited when I was a child. It was like walking back into time and IT WAS FABULOUS!!!
A perfect experience for the whole family!!
Also, they had a lot of potential discount groups so make sure and find out if you can get a discount.
James Nahach — Google review
I'd recommend to take the mini train for a ride in the first place and save some energy for the animals you and your family love. The park is worth for at least two days visit. But the legwork was a bit exhausting. Bring your own food. The park's food is not bad but might be a little pricey than average.
?? — Google review
Place is under construction in a lot of spots, but it says that on the website so you should know ahead of time. Love the giant pride flags they have out during pride month, makes me feel very validated! The animals are very interesting and well taken care of. I've been going here every few years since I was a toddler and will be coming here more in the future. <3
R?zey !!! (Cybrr / Bubble) — Google review
I love our zoo! I can wait for the new exhibits to be done (should be soon)! We are moving up in the world.
This is a great place for kids with multiple playgrounds, rest areas, and a waterfall with stream the kids can play in!
Brittany Pound — Google review
My kiddos and I came during the week the OKC Zoo was having free admission. It wasn't very crowded at all since a lot of schools started this week. What I was really impressed with was the amount of restroom stops they provided as well as cooling stations. I was so glad to see a lot of staff around as well, and they were all so nice. It was a pretty awesome visit despite how hot it was!
C.P. Harjo — Google review
We had a blast! We really enjoyed how the animals were active for the most part, and how each area was so accurate to the regions that each animal was from. I wish we knew that the feeding zoo cost to enter so we could've been better prepared... Other than that we had a great time and all of the zoo employees were very friendly helpful and professional! Will be going back after the African exhibit is done!
Ebony Peralta — Google review
The OKC Zoo is simply the best place to hang out any day of the week. So much to see and do! If you can, buying a pass is the way to go. I’ve been taking my children there for 20 years and absolutely love it! The zoo keeps improving and I hope to see it completed one of these days.
Heather Burke — Google review
The zoo is now better than ever with the Expedition Africa open. They did however change companies for the dining areas so the Flavor Burst ice cream (the one everyone remembers from school) is no longer carried. However I will not dock points because I do not know the reason for the swap. The giraffe enclosure is so awesome now, you can see them from 95% of it due to how open the walk way is. I recommend the OKC Zoo and have been ~4 times in the past year it is always growing and getting better.
NoLaifuOtaku NLO — Google review
No zoo map to walk around with?! Closed exhibits! I've been to a few zoos in my lifetime but this one ranks toward the bottom. It could be so much better, that's all I'm trying to say.
Cherokee Meek — Google review
It was a great calming experience. It was during a weekday so it was All Adults, Not crowded. We walked around the whole park Not realizing 5hrs past by fast. The bathrooms were very clean, The lady at the Ticket both was really Kind, & The gentleman working The food booth By The Cats were respectful/Kind Also, They seemed like they enjoyed were they was working. The girls in the Starbucks seemed like they don’t like anyone & Just wanted to get paid to be there. But I will definitely say I would like to visit again 💯 Just cause It was a Beautiful, & Soothing place to Enjoy.
lourdes farmer — Google review
The improvements have been amazing and Exhibition Africa is awesome. The OKC community is so proud of this zoo. It’ll be even better once the aquatic area is complete. I’ve been volunteering for quite some time and can’t thank the staff enough for all they do. Go and check it out; you won’t be disappointed.
Mike Penning — Google review
Love going here on my days off. We went recently and did a Wild Encounter with the Galapagos Tortoises! Deffintely worth the price PLUS the goats in the new part of the Children's Zoo are TOO CUTE!
Ali Morrison — Google review
Went during a school field trip this time at around 10 am. There is still a lot for the kids to see by just walking around. Love this place. Different attractions at different times, so make sure you know what you want to go for and plan around that. If you're just going to walk around then around 10 am to 3 pm is the perfect temp and time to go.
Kathryn Kilmer — Google review
Had a lot of fun. Wonderful to know you can bring your drink and lunch in so you can have a little picnic bought bracelets and what they call a key it opens up 22 different boxes that tell about different animals
Alice shelton — Google review
2023 the zoo has a light show that takes place after 4:00 they have huge figurines very unique throughout your walk of checking out the zoo animals. It was absolutely beautiful. Me and my family had a blast,the time went by so fast that we wished there had been more time to continue our visit.
Alicia Luethje — Google review
We’ve been to the suit twice and last time unfortunately I had food poisoning from the hotel and wasn’t able to see much. This time we finally got around to seeing about 80% of the zoo and it was really awesome! Would’ve seen the other 20% Our feet wouldn’t let us. Got to feed some birds and pet a stingray. There are so many things to keep you busy I highly recommend going to the zoo! Also the fried okra was out of this world here and the chicken and fries with the gravy is enough to fill up both me and my husband and have a lot of leftovers that went to waste. I would recommend getting the two piece chicken strip and sharing it with your partner!
Bricktown is a vibrant entertainment district in Oklahoma City, featuring refurbished warehouse spaces that house trendy restaurants, elegant wine bars, and stylish piano lounges. The area boasts of an assorted range of shops selling fashionable clothing, home decor items, and artisanal food products such as gourmet sauces and handmade chocolate. A popular attraction in Bricktown is the Water Taxi that offers tours along the picturesque Bricktown Canal.
4.5
(2601)
Oklahoma City, OK, USA
I'll never travel to Denver without this trip planner again
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is devoted to the history and culture of the American West. It features a large collection of art and artifacts, including works by well-known Western artists. The museum is located on a prominent hill in Oklahoma City, providing stunning views of the American West.
I really liked it. It's huge. We walked around and looked at the exhibits and the pictures on the wall. There are several displays. They are very well done. I highly recommend going. We stayed several hours in the museum.
Toby Trevett — Google review
We stopped here because I remember seeing "End of the Trail" about 48 years ago as a kid. This powerful statue left me in awe & I wanted my wife & grandchild to see it as well.
We went in at opening time of 10am. I was struck by the size & scope of the museum's displays. WOW!! There is truly something for everyone on display.
The staff was out of this world. Full of knowledge & happy to be of help. If you tour with one of their guides you will not be disappointed.
I plan on visiting again the next time we get to Oklahoma City.
Kevin Wilson — Google review
It was an absolutely fantastic experience! We had "an hour to kill," ended up spending 2.5 hours at the museum, and needed at least another few hours to see everything.
The displays and exhibitions are well thought out, descriptive, and looked after!
We loved the museum and would definitely recommend a visit.
Robert Sean McMurtrie — Google review
This was my first time visiting this museum. I was VERY impressed. There was a myriad of paintings, artifacts, displays of western gear, weapons, ropes, barbed wire and MANY bronze statues, including Remington's. I took over 400 photographs that I plan to make a slideshow with for my YouTube page. At 1:00 P.M. I went on a guided tour with a very knowledgeable docent that was very enjoyable. I highly recommend this museum.
Steve Simmons — Google review
My visit to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum was a truly memorable experience. One of the highlights for me was exploring the outdoor Native American living quarters. It was fascinating to see how Native Americans lived and worked, and the attention to detail in the recreation of the living quarters was impressive.
In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the museum itself is full of fascinating artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the American West. From cowboy gear to Native American art, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The museum also offers a range of educational programs and events, making it a great destination for families and anyone interested in learning more about the history of the American West.
Overall, I highly recommend a visit to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. It's a great way to experience the rich history and culture of the American West in a fun and engaging way.
Lady Cornwall — Google review
Wow! The outdoor reenactment is very well done. The cowboy gallery and rodeo exhibit were so fascinating. Love the different multimedia making learning and browsing so entertaining.
Lots of interesting American Indian history that occupied all over US, not just local tribes.
We rushed through in 2 hours but could easily spend another 2.
J J — Google review
Absolutely amazing. There is such an astounding collection of art and historical artifacts, it will take the better part of a day to work your way through everything. I like how the exhibits are broken down into sections which make easier to take it all in. I especially enjoyed "the town". An entire indoor town is genius. I also enjoyed the movie memorabilia section. Very well done! This is probably one of the best museums I have ever been too. If you love cowboy culture and the old west, this place is a must!
Doug's Bass Place — Google review
We had such a fun time at this museum!! Free parking, no wait time, and only $15 admission; I definitely recommend setting aside an entire morning or afternoon if you want to get the whole experience. I think we spend about 3 hours walking around the art galleries. So much beautiful artwork and history to see and learn about- I loved how there were also exhibits outside (see pictures of the waterfall below.) The gift shop has a huge variety of souvenirs to choose from too!
Jessica Lowe — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised how diverse this place is. I loved the 2023 Prix the West exhibit - so many folk artists had a chance to show their beautiful art. The building is beautiful, too, very spacious and interesting. Remember to see all the outside spaces, too. The gift store had a great choice of handmade items available. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Katrina W — Google review
Sooooo many amazing displays and rooms and info and knowledgeable docents! This museum is one of the best I’ve been too. It’s not just “dry” info. They have found a way to display and tell and show that brings this place to life. Spent 2 1/2 hours here and barely scratched the surface and only left because of another appointment! Loved this museum and will be back!!
Steven Pester — Google review
This is a really informative and well organized museum. I was pleasantly surprised at how engaging the artwork, history, and sculptures were. It took 1-2 hours to cover the museum and I went on a "Bank of America Museums on Us" free weekend. I highly recommend visiting if you're in the Oklahoma City area!
Arnav Agarwal — Google review
Was not expecting such a museum in a place such as OKC, not going to lie…I frequented many national museums in DC and I am glad I stumbled across this one. I will definitely be back to take time to soak in the entire exhibit. I highly recommend this museum if you are into these kind of places. Beautiful inside and outside.
La'Toya D.R. — Google review
Had a fun family day here. It was a 2 hour drive for us but it was worth it. I was really impressed with everything and was surprised at just how large this museum is. It wasn't crowded at all which is nice. I highly recommend checking this museum out.
Brittany Warren — Google review
What a great place to experience cowboy and western heritage. The completeness and thoroughness of this museum is astounding. I only spend a couple of hours and rushed through the various areas of the museum. Everything I saw was done exceptionally well. If you are in the area, this is a must see place. Don’t expect to see the whole place in one visit, there are just too many areas with so many details that it would too ambitious to see it all. I have a much better understanding and respect for cowboy life after my visit.
Nils Pedersen — Google review
I highly recommend this. Great for the family. Kids loved it. If you’ve ever traveled abroad to learn culture and see ancient ruins, you’ll love learning about the culture right here.
We were impressed with the Prix de West art collection. And we’re not art connoisseurs. The kids loved Prosperity Junction which immersed us in another era. Definitely try the sarsaparilla at the saloon and learn about the cowboy job. Outside, tour the different types of indigenous Indian homes.
You’ll spend about 2-3 hrs here and take about 20 pictures.
L Lee — Google review
Large quantities of memorabilia and exhibits. Clean facilities. Wonderfully helpful staff. Well worth the admission price. They also allow for several different discounts on admission. Very educational for the whole family!
Ghee Buttersnaps — Google review
I really enjoyed my visit to the National cowboy and western heritage museum! The museum has a wide variety of collections and throughout the museum, I was offered guidance by the volunteers. The front desk staff were super friendly and helpful!! The garden was closed today due to weather but they were so nice and offered me one complimentary ticket to come back later this week to see the gardens! 🥺 definitely recommend this museum to everyone visiting OKC!!
Gin J — Google review
So amazing! Literally soooo amazing! One of the best museums I’ve been to. So much to see. I want to go back so I can see the rest. Just too much for one trip, but loved it all and can’t wait to return. Great gift shop too.
Kate B. — Google review
Absolutely love this museum! If you are on I40 or I35 near Oklahoma City it is very much worth your while to stop and visit. Parking is easy (and free!). You could easily spend several hours or just stop in to view the art in the main area. Highly recommend!
Carol Eubanks — Google review
This site is great for family fun, a date night, school trip, or just a leisurely stroll. The Cowboy is easily our family's favorite outing this year. We've made a goal to go monthly. We see a new room we didn't know was there every time we go!
Jamie Braden — Google review
Very nice exhibits and interesting artifacts. I enjoyed the outside exhibits as well. We spent about 2 hours here and it kept my 14 year old’s attention. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable as well. They also have scavenger hunts and other activities for smaller children. Lots of good photo opportunities and appreciated the air conditioning inside since it was very hot outside. Nice gift shop on the way out too. Parking was simple and free.
Tara Spalding — Google review
We all had a great time here, our party included parents and a 16 yr old as well as a 4 year old. This museum is massive and you could spend hours inside and then even more outside. The collections of art, memorabilia, antiques, replicas, etc are just enthralling to go through. There is no shortage of items to look and learn about in this massive museum. The old west replica town is so immersive, you feel like you are in a western. It is so well put together and several buildings you can actually go in and take really cute photos. I agree that the native American side of western history is severely lacking here - but the title does have COWBOY most prominent and that is what you will find here. Tons of cowboy history. From the wild west to the movies to the rodeo and beyond. I really wasn't expecting the massive structures outside of the museum but it is truly a sight to see. I recommend allotting plenty of outside time, especially if you are there with younger children. There is a playground, interactive areas and lots of immersive play opportunities. The people that complain about this museum must just hate life. My only complaint I have from our visit was that my four year old wanted to rush us through everything and I felt jipped on my experience there! I guess I will just have to go back!!
Jessica Hamlet — Google review
The Cowboy Museum, as it's locally known, has made some big changes over the last couple years, and they are all for the better. The best part right now is an expanded outdoor space that honors many Native American tribes in the Oklahoma area and their stories. Liichokoshkomo' showcases a Chickasaw Council House, Hopi Pueblo homes and much more! Kids can also choose an animal guide to find drawing prompts, codes words, the sounds of the Old West and how many cowboy hats are in certain exhibits. If you haven't been to the Cowboy Museum in awhile, you definitely need to check it out! There's so many new things to see!
Melanie C — Google review
Excellent! So much to see here so plan to be here for a few hours. The right side has a bit more things to see and read than the left I think personally. Don't forget to go outside! I will be back because I know I missed some things and what an awesome National Cowboy Museum.
The bathrooms were clean. The staff was friendly and ready to give important facts about wherever you were in the museum.
Plenty of parking. They have a small cafe. Didn't eat food so cannot give an opinion. Ticket prices were good, they did offer us a disabled vet discount so that was nice.
Go check this museum out!
Dayna Guinn — Google review
Truly incredible museum with an incredible amount of history, exhibits, statuary, examples of weaponry, clothing, household and old west town every day life, Indian life, military, rodeos, art, etc... This has to be one of our top museums we've seen in America!
Gary — Google review
Fantastic museum - very detailed. Budget 3 hours for your visit to see everything.
Lots of great western artifacts.. some exterior western exhibits geared toward kids.. and the short film about the history of Hollywood western films is highly recommended..!
Ryan Smith — Google review
Enjoyed our family visit to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage museum. There is something for everyone here. I was impressed with the Art and sculpture. Others in my party enjoyed the movie and rodeo memorabilia. We spent 4 entertaining hours.
I was impressed by helpful volunteer docents who gave us an excellent overview at the start and helped us learn more in the exhibits.
Mary Morrison — Google review
This was a great museum! It covered a lot of history. There were multiple videos to watch. It has a lot of artwork and sculptures to look at. It's bigger than it looks. It took us a couple hours but could have taken longer if we would have stopped to read everything.
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum honors the 168 people killed in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, as well as all those affected by the tragedy. The outdoor memorial features the Gates of Time and Field of Empty Chairs, while the museum offers a number of exhibits about the bombing.
Sad place to visit, but we wanted to pay our respects to those who were lost here. The grounds are beautiful considering what happened here, the reflecting pond relaxes your tension with gentle draining water sounds as you stroll around reading posted signs telling you what everything symbolizes. Didn't have a chance this time to visit the museum but I'm sure it's comforting to those who lived through this terrible event. Prayers to all.
Jim DeGennaro — Google review
To the guard on duty late 8.6.22, thank you for making us feel welcome and safe when we happened upon the memorial at 1030pm. We are from Texas and in town for just tonight. We drove by and got out to take a picture of the fence of tributes. You invited us into the memorial grounds and gave us wonderful information that made our visit more meaningful. My 8 yo daughter was completely captivated by the memorial and wanted to read every name on every chair and read into whom the victims might have been and their relations to each other.
This was an experience we will never forget. We will keep all of the victims and loved ones in our prayers always.
Gregory Alvarado — Google review
If you’re in Oklahoma City than you need to come to the memorial. This memorial does an incredible job of honoring the victims of the attack and the heroic first responders. Definitely prepare yourself mentally because it is quite a bit to take in at once if you’re not expecting it. I spent about three hours in total at the museum so give yourself enough time to see everything. The presentations and recorded interviews are absolutely incredible and are extremely informative and captivating. There’s a big section on the arrest and prosecution of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols which I easily could have spent more time looking at. Everything is so well put together and all the staff are extremely informative and will answer any questions you have. 10/10!
Dusty_marshmello — Google review
A beautiful memorial in the heart of Oklahoma City. This memorial plays an amazing role in keeping the memories of those lost, as well as those affected by the events, alive. It is so well thought out. Walk outside the memorial to find the chain link fence and spend some time reading notes to lost loved ones. Pay attention to the black painted brick on the museum which shows where windows were blown out and fresh brick in the building. These unique features all add to the magnitude of the true memorial area. I would say parking was ample, but for whatever reason...hard to find (more so know the cost and if it was public parking or not). Don't get me wrong, there is PLENTY of parking in the area. We did not tour the museum, but I wish we would've. We did enter the museum to see the gift shop and use the restroom. I'd rank this as a "must see" memorial.
M Nagel — Google review
Excellent tribute to the citizens of Oklahoma City bombing along with victims and survivors. Very well put together museum and many exhibits the outdoor memorial is beautiful and serene. The state park ranger, Dan was very informative and helpful. The museum and memorial was a beautiful tribute to the perseverance of the state. Price was very reasonable and has a gift shop. Ticket lady was very nice. A great visit for a self tour, very well laid out. Very nice and clean restrooms. Very accessible
Nancy Steadmon — Google review
Oh my! A solemn remembrance of a horrible event in recent history of the U.S. The creators of this museum were thoughtful and thorough with their interpretation of April 19, 1995. From "an ordinary day" until the present day, there are interviews, artifacts (large and small), pictures - anything you can imagine that describes the day, the weeks of search and rescue/recovery, the years of waiting for justice, what all mankind can learn from it- it's all there.
I especially liked how the outside memorial was planned; I believe it is an appropriate and meaningful way to remember those people who were killed.
May this memorial and museum continue to be a source of healing and understanding of the experience.
Cindy Clough — Google review
Everybody goes during the day and it's absolutely beautiful during the day. I have also been in the daytime and love it I go to the marathon and compete. I happen to be in downtown and wanted to see it at night. There is a security guard so you don't feel unsafe. He was a very nice man. To see this place at night with the chairs lit was a whole nother experience unto itself. It was so quiet and peaceful you could just hear the reflection pulled trickling. The remembrance wall with the saying in the times are lit. It was a good time to just go and not have a lot of people. Where you could reflect pray for those people and their family look at the memory wall and just have your moment.
Yvon Farmer — Google review
June 6, 2017: I arrived about 1:00pm. No car or foot traffic at all. I was overwhelmed with the monument. I remember the day the bombing occurred, seeing half of the building gone. Being here gave me a different perspective especially reading the names of those who perished and seeing the remains of the bldg. The artist(s) who created this monument did a magnificent tribute. All the chairs, small and large, the reflecting pool, the remaining tree. It was breathtaking; it was peaceful. A must stop anytime you are even close. Pictures do not do it justice.
Terri Moore — Google review
So beautiful! Love the survivor tree. Videos and pictures throughout the site. If you want to go through the museum you can but there is a charge for that. If you want to see just the area of the bombing, it is free. Make sure you see the statue of Jesus across the street also.
Cheryl Wirkus — Google review
This museum was amazing and they do a great job of telling the story of the day of and the days following.
While the museum was extremely informative, the real star was the memorial itself. This was probably the most beautiful memorial I have been to in the U.S. Both the simplicity and complexity behind the meaning of it all is incredibly moving.
I don't want to write a novel about all the symbology, but definitely pick up a brochure and read for yourself!
Collin Anderson — Google review
My wife and I are taking a cross country road trip and spent an evening in Oklahoma City. While in town, we visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. The museum is well done with many exhibits that teach about the horrible event, the people whose lives were taken, and the response of the people of Oklahoma City. While it is difficult to relive these sorrowful events, it is also good to be reminded that these events do not define nor destroy us.
There was a school group that was going through the museum at the time we visited. Truthfully, some of them didn't "get it" and were rather cavalier in their attitude. But some did understand the significance, and even for those who did not, it is good that the seeds of understanding are planted. Perhaps someday they may fully recognize the solemn day for what it was.
Following our visit to the museum, we went outside to see the memorial. Where the building once stood, a beautiful pool of reflection now exists, bordered by two large walls with times 9:01 and 9:03 inscribed. Those times represent the moments before and after the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building. A field of empty chairs sit adjacent to the pool, representing those who were killed in the bombing. The memorial is a beautiful but somber reminder of the tragic day, but also of the strength and determination of the human spirit.
Greg Squyres — Google review
They do a great job with this difficult situation. The museum does a great job of showing the events from the time before the bomb all the way to the execution. It also tells the story of the heroes, survivors and victims. It was great to hear the stories but it is an emotional journey.
Chris Hurst — Google review
Still remember it like it was yesterday, as a senior in HS about to graduate. So sad and powerful to see the chairs, which represent approximately where the victims were in the building. Seeing all the small chairs of children that were in the daycare is heartbreaking. A well-done memorial that is ranger-patrolled for any questions or discussion about the event and venue.
FFKDTP1 — Google review
My family started our OKC tourist day at the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial, which was a pretty somber experience. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum was very well done, and really captured the anguish of that day in 1995.
The museum had numerous artifacts recovered from the rubble, as well as a shocking volume of items related to the investigation and subsequent execution of Tim McVeigh. The guy planned and executed the whole thing (almost) using a fake name. At bottom, if he hadn't screwed up and used his real name to order Chinese food from a hotel where he'd registered with his fake name, he'd likely have never been caught as there would have been no link to a real person. Good thing he wasn't as smart as he thought.
A particularly powerful part of the outdoor memorial was the empty seats - one large seat for every adult and one small seat for every child that died in the bombing. The number of small seats was heartbreaking. If you're ever in the area, this is a must see - just be prepared for an emotional experience.
Zac Clark — Google review
Incredibly detailed account on that very tragic and unforgettable day in April 1995. I remember listening to the radio while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, on this fateful day. The visit to the memorial brought back so many memories. It goes beyond comprehension how much evil McVeigh and Nichols had to plan for the extermination of potentially far more than the 168 lives they took. Thank you to the precious staff of the memorial for doing such a blessed job at being so compassionate and empathetic to all those families that lost loved ones so prematurely not so many years ago.
Kevin and Janeen Chase — Google review
Visiting the memorial is a visceral experience. We decided to buy museum tickets at 4:15, thinking it would be plenty of time to finish by 6 PM close. We were quite rushed toward the end. The video footage, interviews with survivors, and items on display that were collected both as evidence and as momentos from survivors and rescuers are incredible. Plan to spend another 30-60 minutes outside, walking around the reflecting pool and contemplating Survivor Tree. We also made the decision to return after dark to view the memorial lit up at night. It is serene and even more beautiful. Very safe to walk around, as well. Highly recommend.
Kim Pish — Google review
The memorial was beautiful and the park rangers Dan and Cody were very helpful. I loved that the reflection pond was moving and made noise. I was not impressed with the museum though. The museum is "affiliated" with the National Parks Service but they don't take the NPS Annual Pass. The museum was very claustrophobic and there was no easy way to bail. I was locked in the "recording room" where they played a tape where the bomb exploded but then lights flashed and there was no warning and no way to get out. The rangers were great though so because this listing combines the memorial and the museum this is more about the museum.
David Devaney, Jr. — Google review
They did a wonderful job on this memorial and museum. Lots of artifacts and videos throughout the 2 floors of the museum. People working there are very friendly. All throughout it is Handicapped accessible. Beautiful water Area with trees and grass for the Monument. See pics
Smelling the Roses — Google review
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a very powerful and well done monument to the Oklahoma City Federal Building bombing on April 19th, 1995.
In my opinion it is best to start in the museum, which features several videos, displays, witness testimonials, and even items and parts of the building that survived the explosion. I found the saddest part was the Gallery of Honor, which features photos of the victims with items that their families donated that speak to who they are as real people.
The outdoor memorial makes more sense after you've toured the museum because it puts the memorial into context. It is very beautiful but sad.
The staff are all very nice and helpful, both in the museum and at the memorial.
Ryan LaFebre — Google review
Very emotional. The museum is very graphic and it depicted the scenes very well. I was emotionally sick to my stomach reading everything and seeing so many lives cut short and families depleted. It is amazing how much the community and country rallied together to rebuild. The memorial outside waa peaceful and serene.
Sianna Conko — Google review
I had a friend who used to work in the building and was transferred out shortly before the attack happened. I always wanted to visit and finally got around to it this weekend. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area. Helpful hint: Visit on a Sunday and you can park in the post office lot right next to the site :)
Donny Hacker — Google review
The designated parking garage is extremely small and hard to park, but other than that. This place is well laid out and done very well. The staff is all friendly and knowledgeable. If you're near here, stop and check it out. It is worth the stop at no matter age you are.
Cameron Miller — Google review
This was amazing! It's a must see if you're in OKC and you have about 3 hrs to go through it. It was very emotional going through this memorial museum. There were some younger kids there with their parents that had a hard time going through it. You can't help but want to cry and yet be angry that it happened in the first place. Definitely worth the time and money. They do have a parking ramp to park in.
Angela DeWitt — Google review
Today was my first experience at the OKCMM and it had to have been the most moving and powerful experience I've had at a museum. I arrived before they opened and used the time to walk around the site soaking in every piece of tribute and honor. The experience begins as any ordinary day, only to be met with explosions as the next door opens showing the destruction and recovery efforts. The heartstrings are in constant motion reading every piece of information and seeing the pictures as if you were on scene for the events.
A couple times I had to move to a corner and breathe as emotions were in constant engagement. While there are exhibits detailing the men behind the attacks, this experience is truly focused on those who died and those who risked their lives in the recovery effort. The love and unity of Oklahoma, United States, and world truly shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.
I highly recommend visiting this museum and to take your time going through the museum and grounds. This was my first time in OKC and I've experienced great museums and experiences, but this truly is a beacon of light and hope in the midst of tragedy. I will absolutely visit again anytime I am in the area.
Andrew Carlisle — Google review
A beautiful museum that is a remarkable tribute to the victims of the bombing in Oklahoma City. It's a very thorough display of all that happened on that tragic day. The staff are kind and helpful. I highly recommend a visit.
Donna — Google review
I was privileged to be shown around by an exceptional park ranger, Dan McKee. He described the solace of the moments. The past, present and future of the site. The inspiration for the architecture and design of the memorial was breath taking. If you are in the area this is definitely worth a visit. The grounds themselves are amazing and Dan is a wealth of knowledge.
Mitchell Everlyn — Google review
A moving memorial to those killed - to include context on the first responders. Very detailed information about how the terrorist was arrested and convicted.
Highly recommended to visit - also there is an adjacent parking garage - get your parking validated for free parking, too.
Ryan Smith — Google review
What a surreal feeling walking where a building once stood. If you are ever in Oklahoma City, stop by the National Memorial that commemorates the victims of the bombing on April 19, 1995. It is a beautiful Memorial and tribute to the strength of our country under tough times.
This former family estate tells the story of the Marland family & their fine art collection.
It is an exceptional experience. Beautiful mansion with some very interesting history. It is very large and will take a little while to go through. I would recommend the guided tour. You will learn much more about the mansion and see things you may not see on your own.
Our guide knew A great deal about not only the house/mansion but the family who live there and built it. A great piece of the past.
50 in a bottle — Google review
A MUST-SEE Oklahoma landmark! The entire place is unbelievable, and likely only surpassed by the governor's mansion in OKC. I recommend a guided tour, but you can do self-tours as well. (same price) Everything from the floor to the ceiling to the exterior and the windows and light fixtures can only be described as stunning!! It's not expensive. Take plenty of pictures and share them with your friends. They will thank you and visit it themselves to see it in person.
Steve Simmons — Google review
Beautiful!!! Loved it. Next time we will do the guided tour not the self guided.
Susie Lockhart Boggus — Google review
Amazing home with an intriguing history. A must see. Been here several times and will return. Learn more each time I go. Notice some new detail I didn't see the time before.
Kim Jimenez — Google review
This is probably one of the better old historical Mansions I have toured. The Tour guide was knowledgeable and informative. Highly recommend.
andrew mason — Google review
This is a wonderful place to stop if you are in Ponca City for the day. Air Conditioned indoor fun about the history of the Oil Barrons of Oklahoma! You can look in each room of 40,000 square foot home built in the early 1900s that had working air conditioning at the time. Tours are available.
James Duffy — Google review
Beautiful former home of E. W. Marland and family and site of the Marland Estate. Now owned by the city of Ponca City, Oklahoma, it is preserved as a historic museum, landmark, tourist destination and event center.
Antonio Boloniano — Google review
Amazing place! Really enjoyed the tour and history!
Stefanie O — Google review
What you will find if you ever tour Herculaneum, or the EW Marland Mansion, is that after people are comfortable and well-fed, additional wealth basically is poured into art. Lots of art. Big art, small art. I especially delight in small artful details, and am posting a few pics as examples, but just know that this place is packed with them. Almost anywhere you look, there's something interesting.
The Petroleum Hall Of Fame resides on the bottom floor. I view it very differently than the two women who wandered in and commented, "A good old boys' club." They need to read Atlas Shrugged! One of the men on that wall employed my grandpa - he worked for Hughes Oil. Personally I would not be willing to make the sacrifices necessary for my picture to be on that wall, but I appreciate the way of life those guys made possible. EW Marland in particular seems to have been quite generous in funding hospitals and many other things that benefitted all Ponca City residents.
Have you seen the large portrait of Lydie? Apparently the artist disliked her, so he painted a serpent in near her feet. But I can't decide if that's also the reason the angle of her leg is so wrong, or if it was just a lack of talent. Either way, I'm surprised the Marlands would hang that portrait. Maybe they never noticed.
Ken Sellers — Google review
We visited the museum on a quiet day in May 2023. Because there were almost no other visitors on site, we were lucky that David, the Executive Director, could take the time to give us a fine guided tour with excellent explanations and exciting stories and we were also allowed to ask lots of questions. Well we were very interested :).
So we had a great time with David, learned a lot and were very impressed! There we have had really luck.
On this way a big thank you to David for this excellent Friday morning!
The museum is very interesting in many ways. The life story of Mr. Marland and his family is remarkable and amazing (and also a little scary and sad), the building is technically as well as stylistically, optically and architecturally exciting, there is a lot to see and you can dive into the past with pleasure and let yourself be touched if you like.
Now, yes, we had the best museum guide you could ever wish for. So we would recommend every visitor to take a tour! Really. The museum and its many exhibits and facilities do need their explanations and become all the more interesting. This information cannot be perceived in depth during a short unguided tour - unless you read up on the literature. But even if you go through briefly, it will be impressive for any visitor.
About the content: A self-made multi-millionaire builds himself a huge villa with technology that was unique at the time (air conditioning, heating, elevators), international flair (he had craftsmen come from Italy, for example, etc.) and exciting, clever and very detailed architecture. However, the whole object is not dully ostentatious but impresses with a real feel-good atmosphere.
The museum doesn't look that big from the outside, but it's huge inside.
Our conclusion and recommendation: The museum is definitely always worth a short visit - but we strongly (!) recommend to take your time and enjoy this wonderful impressive museum for two hours during a museum tour.
Karsten Gödde — Google review
We took our kids here as we saw the sign on I35 at first we said Ponca City ?? no thanks but we took a chance and wow this place is great, it seriously could of been transplanted from an old English countryside. The place is massive and has lots of interesting things to look at. Be careful of the stairs they are not for running or jumping. If you get there early in the day ask to see the secret tunnel !! and please buy souvenirs
Jason Brockway — Google review
I absolutely LOVE working at the Marland Mansion for wedding events! We just did a styled shoot here a few weeks ago and it was a dream! Truly the most gorgeous and breathtaking venue. We had so much fun and the team here was a joy to work with!
Ribbon & Blooms Floristry — Google review
Late family Christmas celebrated here (at the "cottage"). Lots of space for little ones to run and ride their bicycles and we had a beautiful view of the grounds and the lake. Many took the tour, but I did not. They reported that it was a little long, but enjoyable.
Shelly Elaine — Google review
We enjoyed the tour and learning the history of Marland Mansion. David and Kim were knowledgeable, helpful, and a delight to meet. Thank you for your hospitality!
Armstrong Auditorium, situated on the Herbert W. Armstrong College campus, is a top-notch performing arts center that showcases world-class dance, music, and theater productions. The venue's lobby is adorned with exquisite Austrian crystal chandeliers and French candelabras, creating an elegant ambiance. Renowned for its exceptional acoustics, the auditorium offers an unparalleled experience during orchestra concerts and live music performances.
Beautiful facility! Phenomenal acoustics! There really is no bad seat in the house and the people who are working the various events are so helpful, knowledgeable, and courteous.
T Bishop — Google review
Amazing place! I especially enjoyed the Celtic Throne performance during the summer of 2021.
Ethan Garber — Google review
A hidden gem in Central Oklahoma. Saw Celtic Throne as they began their 2023 tour. A premier venue for musical concerts. The venue is beautiful with comfortable seats and amazing acoustics. Staff is super friendly and willing to assist. A definite must for musical performances .
T Dwayne W — Google review
Wonderful venue. Beautiful architecture, and great sound. Attended the Glenn Miller Orchestra presentation, and it rocked. Attended two (2) other shows (Ray Chen and Irish dancers). Perfect productions. Have updated, and increased my season tickets. You can't go wrong with Armstrong Auditorium.
Nick Slepko — Google review
Loved it. Had an exhibit bringing rare Bible artifacts to be seen by Oklahoman's...Skip the religious reference if you do not believe! The artifacts are still rare examples of very old ancient civilizations.
There was no cost or any asking or place where you could put a donation. I did ask ...and gave a small amount and may mail in more money donation. This is rare for an exhibition or museum not to have a place for donations where such significant things are being displayed.
This exhibit dealt Seals Isaiah and Hezekiah. It goes til Aug. 19, 2018
Sandra Adcock — Google review
A very wonderful place to be. I 100% recommend coming here for a concert or an event. It is very beautiful and the staff very hard working and happy. This is one of the nicest places I've ever been.
E S — Google review
Absolutely the best show I have ever seen. The lighting was incredible along with the talent on the stage. The venue was marvelous as soon as you walked through the doors. The audience was very involved, clapping to the songs! The audience even stood up to clap after a couple performances. I would go see it again tomorrow if there was another show :)
Emily hanquist — Google review
I thoroughly enjoyed The Celtic Throne. The dancers and musicians were outstanding and the music and light show were exception. The grounds of the auditorium are gorgeous and well kept. The art inside is beautiful and the staff is very friendly. I intend to attend more events in the future. It was throughly enjoyable from start to finish. I highly recommend this venue!
Stephanie Van Orden — Google review
As a teen I watched all of the old musical movies with Big Band music. The Glen Miller Band with "In The Mood" has always been my favorite. Last night at the Armstrong Auditorium with the Glen Miller Band was wonderful. The only thing missing was the dance floor. Thank you for the opportunity to cross off on my bucket list, my live big band experience. I loved it! 5 stars!
Claudette Robertson — Google review
A stunning building with a great auditorium. The seats were comfortable and had ample leg room. Everything was well organized and flowed well. Seemed a little pricy.
Carolyn Parker — Google review
Incredible!! Such sharp, dramatic choreography. Such showmanship--every single person right down to the little peeps! We could tell they were having fun. I really loved how Jude explained about the family connections. Wow! The patriotic songs were also very stirring, and many in the audience gave them a standing ovation. It was so professional and somehow it just keeps getting better! How is that possible?! I'll be back next week!
The Hillikers — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous! We saw Celtic throne ...it was wonderful ❤️❤️❤️! Standing ovation worthy! Loved everything about it! Thank you so much for bringing them to Edmond! My sister and brother in law treated us to the show.. beautiful ❤️..I hope they return..a must see again 💞
karrie tienter — Google review
My wife and I saw the Glenn Miller Orchestra Thursday, April 4th at Armstrong. It was our first time with this orchestra and at this venue. We had a fantastic time and would highly recommend both. The auditorium is beautiful throughout and the three giant chandeliers are beyond words. The orchestra was nothing short of outstanding and the musical selections were excellent. The only issue was that it was difficult to hear vocals due to the volume of the instruments. This was not a major issue and would not stop me from coming back. Overall it was still a great 5-star experience.
Alexander Saunders — Google review
We are never disappointed with our experiences at Armstrong Auditorium! Thoroughly enjoyed the Glenn Miller Orchestra last night, as we knew we would! Everything about it was fantastic! Your venue is absolutely gorgeous and we love having a reason to dress up for a night on the town! Keep up the good work!
Dawn Hemphill — Google review
Our first time to visit this auditorium, and we were not disappointed! Beautiful facility and the acoustics were great for performances. We saw the Celtic Throne, and the talent of these young adults and kids was amazing. Plenty of informed staff to help with doors, directions, history and parking. Small parking lots but the staff moved traffic in and out safely and quickly.
K Bourgeois — Google review
We enjoyed the show Celtic Throne very much! Outstanding talent! Lots of variety! The location is absolutely beautiful! Thank you for an amazing time!
Landria Edwards — Google review
We saw VOCE8 from Great Britain. The facility is simply amazing. The opulence is stunning, you feel like you have just walked into a palace. The acoustics in the auditorium can't be beat. Thank you for a completely enjoyable evening.
Randy Wicklund — Google review
Had a wonderful evening at the Armstrong with my husband last night. The staff were all very helpful and kind. The venue is in a class by itself, and I don’t think there is a bad seat in the house. The only thing that I thought was a bit off was that the stage floor was extra dusty. But on a final note (pun intended) getting to hear the Hamburg Steinway again was such a treat. Such a joy to see a 26-year-old play it so brilliantly.
Insaaaaaaaaanely awesome. Great employees. Very cool place. So awesome to stand next to these giants and able to pet them. Will bring friends and family when they come in town.
Chad Nichols — Google review
The guide that we had as well as the horses, cats, and dogs were all absolutely wonderful. We paid about $50 for two people, which lasted about 30 minutes on a guided tour. I originally was mistaken on the pricing and received a phone call from Tabitha, who was trying to make things right from a customer service perspective. I appreciate any business that's willing to reach out, because many of us that go out to places don't always know what our reviews going to be until hours after we've settled in at home from an experience. So to receive a phone call the same day I placed a review was nice and showed me how much care and consideration these individuals put into working here. I did share some feedback with her to let her know that for new folks in the area some clear instructions on where to go to start the guided tour would be helpful, and she handled that constructive criticism professionally. I appreciate that. I would definitely recommend any family check this location out, as well as any individuals or couples for that matter. Thank you and God bless.
Andrew Brown — Google review
If you're in the area go stop by here and you can see the beautiful horses and if you make an appointment tour you can learn history about the horse reams, feed them and more. It's a really cool spot to check out.
Cameron Miller — Google review
These horses are so beautiful... and huge! It's nice to be able to see them up close. Some are more "social" and come up to see you. Those big brown eyes, so beautiful. I just loved them. The barn is super clean, and even with horses, cats & dogs - my allergies weren't affected. There is an event space upstairs & a small gift shop in the barn as well. Definitely worth checking out.
sibilla merlo — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed this experience. The horses are gorgeous and seem well cared for. We reserved our time in advance on their website. We were there for about an hour. Don't forget your camera.
LaToya W. — Google review
Our band played for the Rockheads USA conference dinner. Catering by Abbey Road. Nice, unique venue. Good folks to work with.
Peter DeLesDernier — Google review
I enjoyed seeing the horses, but the website made it seem as if we would be getting a guided tour. Instead it was a self-led tour where you could just walk around and pet the horses. So that was a little disappointing. I thought there would be more information about who they were, what they did, etc.
K Neary — Google review
I really enjoyed it. My wife paid for a private tour. The lady giving the tour, did an excellent job, all while carrying a small baby on a chest harness. This was well worth the money and two thumbs up.
Toby Trevett — Google review
New to Oklahoma are so really enjoyed seeing and learning about the ranches here in Yukon. Called for appointment, self guided for us.
Pam Cook — Google review
I had no idea their hooves were so big. They're like the Redwoods of horses. Super cool it's open to the public for free. They are majestic animals.
Chad Burum — Google review
Our group really enjoyed our tour. The tour guide did a great job answering all our questions about Clydesdales. The kids had fun petting the horses and haven’t stopped talking about going back.
SG — Google review
If you find yourself in the Yukon Oklahoma... The express ranch is something to see.... We were able to visit the Clydesdale Barn see and meet some of the horses... It was also bath day which was quite an event... We got to visit the barn and walk through the paddocks to meet some of the other... The staff is open to questions I'm very informative about their giant co-workers
.... These horses travel all over the country. And as usual with some of the bigger more interesting places in our state... They have quite the gift shop.
Deborah Parker — Google review
We had a fantastic time at Express Ranch Clydesdales during our visit over the fall break. Although we encountered a minor issue, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us and make it right. We look forward to returning in the future to interact with and observe these gentle and endearing giants. It was an unforgettable experience for my littles!
Christina Bowers — Google review
Great for the whole family. We had a large group and so paid to have a guide. She was great. Very knowledgeable and went into a lot of detail about raising the horses and the different kinds of horses. The facilities were very clean.
John Ludwig — Google review
We had an amazing time and the guided tour was well worth it! The guide was very knowledgeable and so sweet to the kids with us. It was a very hot day but didn't feel too warm in the barn and shade!
Sarah Harvey — Google review
Fantastic experience where you get to interact with the horses in the barn and outside on the ranch. The facility is clean and the staffs are friendly. Note that they are busy during the holiday season and many of them are out for parades. Additionally, it’s a nice drive to the barn with beautiful, open landscape.
The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot-tall sculpture that overlooks the confluence of the Big and Arkansas rivers in Wichita, Kansas. The statue was created by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin as a gift to celebrate the United States' bicentennial in 1976. Today, the Circle of Firepots surrounds the sculpture nightly, burning a Ring of Fire to honor Native American culture.
Tranquil peaceful walk amazing views of bridges and downtown Wichita with native music playing in the background. Lighting of the fire is a must see. Hearing the river flow over rocks and damn is amazingly peaceful. Learn as you look with sculptures and descriptions of Native American culture. Veterans memorial along river walk adds to culture history. feed the ducks and geese recommend fish pellets as bread can breed bad algae and smells.
z man — Google review
This experience is a must! Walking up to the keeper some music can be heard in the distance. It takes you getting closer to realize that the keeper actually has music playing around it. The land in between is also considered sacred which just adds onto the experience. The land sits in between where Little Arkansas and Big Arkansas river meet. It was a hot and humid day but the excitement of seeing the Keeper of the Plains just gave me the jump I needed. The walls around the keeper hold all the history of the place. I would advise also reading up online as well for more details. I went when the sun was overhead during a lunch break and would advise you go when it is much cooler. A point to note is that the ring of fire is not lit during the weekdays. My fellow travelers complained about having to wait for the ring of fire and nothing happened. I believe it is only lit on weekends at 7pm and 9pm. Unfortunately I did not stay over the weekend but I look forward to my next visit to Wichita so I can catch the full show.
Mutale Kalulu — Google review
The phenomenal centerpiece of Wichita, on the river right where the Arkansas and the Little Arkansas come together, and accessible from either McLean or Central. This beautiful sculpture is the most famous sight to see in the city as well as one of the most treasured destinations in all of Kansas. The bridges on both sides are astounding to admire and easy to cross and gain access to The Keeper. The circular path surrounding the statue itself has many other artistic tributes to Native American culture and the short walk is even highlighted by wonderful soundscapes that add to the masterful experience. A ring of flames can be seen here nightly as well, which times vary depending on the season and functionality of the fire pots. This area also leads to great walks along the river, which is most breathtaking after the sun is going down. This is one place in Wichita I can recommend to all locals and visitors to check out over and over again.
Jason Spiral — Google review
A site that you cannot miss while in Wichita. If you come in the evening, the torch surrounding the statue would light up for 15 minutes from 7pm. There is a small free parking lot near the bridge through where you can access the statue.
LS fanatic — Google review
I could see it in the far distance from my hotel window, decided to walk and then ended up riding a scooter on the riverside to see it. It did not disappoint. Lovely area with water falls and plenty of spots to walk around and take pics. The area along the river walk has lovely tribute to native Americans. Many little status fountains and structures along the way to keep one entertained. It was a fun walk to get to the statue and fun to hang around it and take pics.
Gihan Saad Semine — Google review
Made a trip to Wichita to spend time with my granddaughter. I wish we would have had more time to spend here. It’s absolutely beautiful. A great place to walk, run, enjoy a picnic, ride a bike, take pictures or just relax. There’s little scooters you can rent to ride around on also. Hopefully will make it back to enjoy longer next time.
Tanya Glessner — Google review
Ok! Great monument really cool. Do not go down here unless you are armed. Dangerous full of bums criminals and cretins. Seems to be a party location for certain groups. Some areas have been shut down because of vandalism. The parking lot across the street is not patrolled and not safe. Come very early keep your head on a swivel and be wary.
Jason Germany — Google review
Absolutely love this spot for viewing downtown Wichita, especially at night. The area and the walking paths leading to and away from the Keeper are well lit and seem safe. Listening to the water coming over the small dam in the Little Arkansas River adds a soothing sound of flowing water to the area.
Definitely stop by during the day as well for pictures as the Keeper is absolutely stunning.
Christopher Hall — Google review
This was more interesting than I expected. We went during the day first and then read about the fire lighting at night so we went back to experience that. Definitely go early to get parking. It was pretty full parking lot.
Allison Emge — Google review
You can access the Keeper of the plains over two different walking bridges and each side has parking. The walk is easy and short.
Day or night it’s a nice place to visit. If you can plan around it, try to see it when they have the torches lit at night for a short period from 9pm-9:15pm pending good weather.
Bryan O'Neal — Google review
Amazing and relaxing experience while traveling through Witchita. It was a windy day. I couldn't stay for the fire show. But there's always next time. I'm Chumash and Yaqui, so I try to visit places representing the tribes native to the areas I go to. I love to learn more about our different tribes, customs and people. 10/10 would visit again.
Delia Loya — Google review
Wow. What an experience!! I have wanted to visit here, I live near Cincinnati, for a few years and made it here today!! Such a beautiful statue and tribute to the native Americans that used to live here. The statue itself is breathtaking and the music and panels with information adds to the experience . Free to park and visit.
Jay Biddle — Google review
Beautiful. Relaxing. Iconic. This is a MUST visit when coming to Wichita. Ride your bike here. Walk around. Take in the history by the status. Come at 9pm to watch the fire display. It’s a great place for the family and friends to come hang out. Pack a lunch or come after ice cream. Great place to hang out and get your picture taken with the Keeper in the background, along with the city views. The exploration place is across the street. It’s within walking distance of River Front Stadium (baseball stadium). Delano district nearby. Parking on either side of the bridges! (Exploration place parking has a lot of room) Enjoy!
Brian Alvarez — Google review
This is one of my favorite places in all of America. Something about this physical place, with the two rivers coming together moves me. The Keeper itself is a beautifully constructed work of art, honoring our Native American Heritage of this amazing country. Enjoy the pictures I've been taking of this awesome creation.
Harley Chaos (Spanks1Big) — Google review
Great place to visit, however we were disappointed that they didn't have the ring of fire tonight. We took a nice walk along the riverfront. A must see if you want to visit Wichita.
Rhonda Steines — Google review
Definitely worth it to visit The Keeper of the Plains along the ArKansas river near downtown Wichita. We had a family event near Exploration Place so we parked on the Riverside side & walked over the bridge & down to exploration place to meet with our family group. We had not been for several years. And it was a lovely evening to be on the river bank enjoying the stars and the breeze and our family. Free.
Marsha Hill EXP Realtor Wichita, KS (Marsha Hill Realtor) — Google review
All open and outdoors. There were exhibits to read and look at and the statue itself had multiple paths leading around it. There were families of different generations and pets present. Was lovely. I learned and enjoyed the experience.
Jennifer Snyder — Google review
We loved this. Nice walking trails and wild life . Near another attraction also.
Andrew Ward — Google review
It was a cool little place to explore! All aspect of science. Even an old man like me learned something there.
Botanica, a botanical garden paradise in the middle of downtown Wichita, features 18 acres of gardens with a variety of plants, including an interesting children's section and a butterfly house. The gardens are also home to events such as concerts and lectures.
Fun place with allot to explore. Good sized children's garden playground and maze. Great for learning.
Awesome bird watching areas and plenty of beaches. We came in the winter but I can imagine it is beautiful when everything is greener and full of color.
Would love to come back in the summer.
David Wischmeier — Google review
Wonderful spot to spend a couple of hours. Although we were a little early to enjoy the spring blooms, there was still plenty to see. My kids really enjoyed the carousel and children's garden areas. We even spent some time in the little play area inside enjoying some nature books. Would love to visit sometime when everything is in full bloom!
Valerie Kochevar — Google review
The tulips are not all in bloom yet, but hopefully soon! Awesome children’s area that could keep kids entertained for hours! $10 entrance fee for adults and very sweet volunteer working the train exhibit.
Lilly Bakker — Google review
what a lovely place to walk around. The flowers looked great, the rose garden was full if blooms(I do miss my roses back home). I didn't go into the children's area. Their displays with the ocean junk while very creative, it's sad to know all that stuff ends up in the ocean instead if being recycled... They staff was super friendly and getting the gardens ready for Christmas. I will totally plan to go back with all the lights. Highly recommend visiting.
Kathie Miller — Google review
This is a great way to spend a quiet afternoon among superbly manicure flora and fauna, some native to the area and many imported to give this park several splashes of color and beauty that is expertly manicured, obviously, by a team that absolutely loves what they do, and this garden.
I've been to a bunch of different gardens around the country, and while the Wichita Botanical Garden may not be the biggest, it is certainly among the best in design and impact per square foot.
Every inch of this place has been carefully thought through and planned by someone who clearly knows how to make the most of an outdoor space.
There are several water effects that include babbling brooks that feed into several coy ponds, open water ponds that are home to a variety of water flowers, including three different color lilly pad flowers.
Small bronze statues of wondrous children and animals dot the paths and on the daily I went, there were several dinosaur exhibits.
There's too much to talk about on this small review, like the many gazebos, and comfortable benches that are tucked away in little hidden sanctuaries off the path to sit, watch, and just enjoy the bustling wildlife and blossoming beauty.
Before you go, don't forget to stop by the Japanese garden on the other side of the administrative building. If you miss that you'll be sorry that you missed one of the most beautiful stops in the park.
The price of admission is nominal, and just so happened to be free for me as an Army veteran on this particular day, but normally entrance in around $15 for adults, more than worth it for a beautiful afternoon.
Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy.
Louis Celli — Google review
This is one of my favorite places in all Wichita. Everytime I have friends in, I take them here. The staff take SUCH good care of the grounds and seem to have new displays each time I'm there. Massive kids garden. Highly recommend...an absolute must if you're nearby!
Lindsey Mast — Google review
We have turned this place into a tradition for my boyfriend and I the last year and a half, and now we get to include our daughter (2 months old). It is so special and we look forward to every event we attend and thoroughly enjoy them all! We have been to tulip fest two years in a row, jack-o-lantern spectacular, illuminations at Christmas time, and took our daughter to the dinosaurs around the world earlier this week. The gardens are beautiful, very well taken care of. We will absolutely continue to go to all the events and build those family traditions with our girl!
Alecia Downing — Google review
I am a horticulture major, so of course I am going to love this garden! But my family also loves going with me to enjoy all the different seasons and displays. We especially loved the orchestra on the lawn and tulip season. If you need to feel a retreat or a great nature stroll...I highly recommend.
Amber Card — Google review
We went to the Christmas lights. The atmosphere was fun with the dancing lights, music, fire place, ect. Lots of opportunities to take pictures. Several concession stands open. They had a Santa Clause, carousel, and a gift shop. The experience took about 1h 20 min without stopping to see Santa or riding the carousel ( my kids are older) Parking is free right outside the entrance.
Jackie kendall — Google review
Great great time! We are visiting from out of town and a coworker recommended the Illumination! Glad he did! It was very well done and we thoroughly enjoyed it! The only downfall was that we ate supper before we went and just couldn't enjoy the food carts or the outside bar with the fireplace, darn! Great Job! We can't wait until next year and we will come hungry! Another side note, Everyone in Wichita was so nice and when we were stopped and taking photos of one of the displays, one of the employees stopped and explained who made it and how it was done, cool! Thanks, great people and great show! (Even the police directing traffic were so nice!)
Kevin B Berger — Google review
Symphony in the Gardens was a lovely event, well organized, great food, and gorgeous music. I would highly recommend this event as an adult evening. With flowers in bloom, music floating on the breeze, there's an air of romance and an old world sophistication. It was a great combination of nature and art. I honestly didn't expect to stay the full time, but time flew by, and the final symphony concert was well worth staying to hear.
J J — Google review
We came here on a whim and it was worth it! The gardens are beautiful and spans across a large property. There are so many different plants and sculptures to look at, koi ponds, and even lots of fun things for kids. Many pollinators were flying around. My daughter liked the music garden, climbing the large tree/wooded theme play area, and they were putting up dinosaurs for an upcoming event that she really loved. We arrived an hour and a half before closing and didn't see everything. We will definitely be back!
Maryann Barbon — Google review
Great place for all to run or unwind.
The grounds are in malicious shape, always.
Evenings are great, too, with excellent artistic lighting.
Lots of family-friendly stops.
Sometimes, there is a fantastic symphony orchestra playing.
Mark Presson — Google review
This place is so magical. We went around 3p.m. there weren't a lot of people, but I would go earlier because we didn't make it completely through the whole thing. Their is just so much beauty to take in.
I loved that their is something to do for all ages. Definitely will be back ♡
Chelsea Fyfe — Google review
If the weather is right and there isn't a lot of children it is by far one of the most relaxing and peaceful experiences you can enjoy. The grounds are well maintained and the array of colors always brings a smile to my wife's face.
Bobby Stroud — Google review
Such a beautiful place. I’m only reading it 4 stars because we went for the tulip fest, but a lot of tulips died or hadn’t bloomed and also things weren’t in season just yet - but that’s on us! It will definitely be a 5 star experience mid spring!
I’ve lived in Wichita for almost 5 years and this was my first time - I know, crazy right? - it took my tourist boyfriend from out of state to get me to go and let me say, I don’t regret it! Despite it being cold and under bloomed, we got hot chocolates and acted like big kids exploring throughout the place. It was so fun to do the interactive activities, see all the beautiful plants, and even get up close to some of the animals that came by (squirrels :))
I definitely recommend going mid spring out for events they host!
Kynnedy Moore — Google review
I from another state & visiting for the weekend and had the privilege of visiting during the Tulip Festival... WOW, So Beautiful !
Only downside is there was alot of people. But it was definitely worth it!
Gina Guajardo — Google review
We went to see the Christmas lights at botanica during Christmas time and omg it was definitely a hit! Such a great time. Walking around stopping at the fire pits stopping at the food stands. It was really really nice. Definitely going back next year!!!!!!
Patrice Pete — Google review
We have been to their Illuminations display twice now! Its always so beautiful & a well organized event. Love that they serve alcoholic beverages & food - a really fun evening for a date night or outing with friends!
Rachell Goodwin — Google review
Beautiful gardens to explore. The scents and sights were wonderful!
Rhonda Steines — Google review
Have not been 10 years it was great to go back to a place my mom volunteered for so many years. The Tulips were always her favorite time of the year to work at the Garden Center.
Santa Christopher — Google review
Such a great experience for kids to be able to get out and walk around to look at all the Christmas lights. This was our first year with our kids Anna they absolutely loved the carousel, and of course all the lights.
Britt Fistler — Google review
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens in Wichita, Kansas, is an enchanting haven that truly captivated my soul. From the moment we stepped foot into this wondrous garden, we were greeted by an abundance of natural beauty that left us in awe.
The garden's sheer diversity and the myriad of flora and fauna on display made it a delight for the eyes and a soothing balm for the soul. The meticulously curated landscapes and the vibrant colors of the flowers created an atmosphere that was truly mesmerizing.
We found ourselves effortlessly losing track of time as we wandered through the garden paths, each turn revealing a new and breathtaking vista. The tranquility and serenity of Botanica made it a place where one could easily spend an entire day, immersed in the wonders of nature.
For anyone seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Botanica, The Wichita Gardens is an absolute must-visit. The garden's beauty and tranquility make it a gem in the heart of Wichita, and we cannot recommend it highly enough.
Our experience at Botanica, The Wichita Gardens was nothing short of incredible. The sheer beauty and tranquility of the garden made it a place where time seemed to stand still. We left feeling rejuvenated and inspired, and we cannot wait to return to this captivating oasis in the heart of Wichita.
The Sedgwick County Zoo, which is located in Wichita, Kansas, is the largest zoo in Kansas and one of the largest in the United States. It has a diverse selection of animals, including tigers and elephants, that are housed in habitats that resemble their natural surroundings. The zoo is also home to a large bird collection. Visitors should allow two to three hours for a visit.
The best zoo in the world in my opinion! Especially if you like tropical birds. They have a walk-in aviary with lots of beautiful, healthy pigeon/dove species and other birds from around the world. Some of them are very used to people and you can get great close-up photos of them. The other animals were cool to see too. You had your typical lions, tigers, and bears there plus some fun others like penguins and river hogs. Go there in the winter on a Wednesday and admission is dirt cheap!
Bethany Jones — Google review
In the last few years they've done an excellent job in several areas, making the zoo even more awesome. The tropical building and the whole zoo is much more wheelchair accessible and generally more accessible overall throughout. The exhibits look great (though there's a lot of construction and maintenance right now. We love that there is wheelchair rentals and online tickets to make getting in easier.
I love seeing all the happy elephants now!
Chey Fregon-Walker — Google review
We recently had the pleasure of visiting Sedgwick County Zoo and it was an extraordinary experience. The zoo's extensive collection of animals and well-designed exhibits made for an enjoyable and educational visit. Spending a couple of hours there wasn't nearly enough to fully appreciate everything the zoo has to offer.
The giraffe exhibit was absolutely captivating, offering a close-up encounter with these graceful creatures. The expansive space and the opportunity to observe the giraffes up close made it a memorable experience.
The exhibit featuring zebras was a true delight. The well-designed habitat and the chance to observe these majestic animals in a naturalistic setting left a lasting impression.
The chimpanzee and gorilla exhibits were among the best we’ve ever seen. The naturalistic environments provided a fascinating insight into the lives of these incredible primates.
In summary, our visit to Sedgwick County Zoo was one of the best zoo experiences we've ever had. The diverse range of animals, the quality of the exhibits, and the overall atmosphere made it an unforgettable day in the company of wildlife. I highly recommend this zoo to anyone looking for a fantastic wildlife adventure!
Adventure With Coffee — Google review
I'm from Northern Kentucky and I frequent the Cincinnati Zoo and I have to compare this zoo to them. I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the zoo and the variety of animals in the zoo overall. While it does not have as many animals you still have a very good representation of the continental areas they are covering. The biggest plus with this zoo is the amount of open space between exhibits and the help offered by the staff. They are very pleasant to deal with and helpful. I would definitely visit again when back in town!
Nick Hoffman — Google review
I used to come here ALL THE TIME when I was a kid, but haven't been in many years. I completely forgot how much fun this zoo is! They have so many animals and so many vantage points to view them from! The bridge going over the buffalo is incredible! All the animals seem well taken care of and happy, which is more than one can say about other zoos in the area.
We can't wait to come back and see everything again, especially when the jungle exhibit is open again!
Kelcey Turnbull — Google review
I came here as a child myself and now come with the grandkids. Needless to say, it has changed a lot, mostly for the better. The kids love the animals. You are still at the mercy of the weather, as with any outdoor activity. I recommend coming early so you can go when it starts to get too hot. It's good to see many of the enclosures are bigger than when I was a kid, giving the animals more room. There are a lot that could still use improvement, though. I especially feel bad for the bald eagle. His space is too small for him to really stretch out his wings and fly.
joe gunzel — Google review
The lights are amazing. It’s the perfect time to go. It’s not too cold or warm. I was impressed by the amount of lights they had out.
We went on Sunday evening and it was not that busy. Great time with the family.
Kelly Elliott — Google review
My son got awarded a free family pass from his school. The family and I went and had a really good time. The Zoo has always been a great adventure with a fun friendly environment for the family to enjoy. Would definitely recommend and we will be back again for another adventure.
Ronnie Shepherd — Google review
The exhibits were done well, and there were lots of animals to see up close! The whole zoo was laid out nicely and easy to walk. There were a lot of unique features that I haven't seen at other zoos, and I left very impressed!
swatch — Google review
Above expectations. You can easily spend 7 hours there. Currently, South America and Australia was closed. Other than that must visit place. One of the largest zoo in the country. Lots of animals. $22 per adult and $4 for feeding giraffe or touching stingray.
Abhishek Shende — Google review
I love this zoo. It's beautiful. But they do nickel and dime you for everything. The train ride is not worth $5. There's no "guide" talking about anything. All there is to see are a few generic signs and the back of the zoo. Once they figure out they need to put in some dioramas, and add guided points of interest that the engineer can relay over a speaker system or even a prerecorded guide, then it will be worth the $5. Until then, don't waste your money.
But the rest of the zoo is AMAZING. Love it.
Sally Gill — Google review
Out of town visitor for a day trip to Wichita.
Heard this zoo had one of the largest elephant enclosures and we weren't disappointed. Really enjoyed seeing all the elephants and the large open space they had.
The rest of the zoo was amazing. Enjoyed the boat ride through the park. The train which showed us some of the behind the scenes was awesome. Our daughter wants to be a vet when she grows up so seeing those areas was a huge plus to our visit.
The staff was super friendly and informative.
Recommend getting there as soon as it opens. We stayed for 3 and half hours and there was several areas we didn't get to see.
Highly recommend this zoo if you are in the area.
T D Wilson — Google review
An out of town visitor, I was able to visit the zoo again for the first time in about ten years. I was very impressed by the new exhibits, especially the Asian Big Cat Trek. The Gorilla Forest was always my favorite exhibit but now it’s even more so as all the trees have matured with the natural canopy offering shade. All of the employees I encountered were very friendly and helpful. I only was able to spend a few hours but easily could have visited all day. There’s a lot of walking but with an adventure this size, nothing wrong with that! I cannot wait until I can visit again, hopefully sooner than another ten years. Baby elephants in the future might make that hard to resist!
Ryan Easley — Google review
This is an awesome zoo. I have been able to visit this zoo several times in the past 25 years despite the fact I didn't live here. We recently moved here and I look forward to coming more often.
The only complaint I have is the fact I am disabled and paid more for the scooter I needed to get around than my ticket to get in. I couldn't believe it! Why are those who are handicapped being punished to see the zoo. Because of this fact, I won't be able to come often. I can understand a fee, but charging more than an entrance ticket, really? I just don't understand. I even asked if I was a member was the scooter complimentary and was told no. I am very sadden by this.
Kay Ann Haas — Google review
Wonderful zoo! Exhibits were nicely set up and felt like you could really see animals up close. Good food, beer available for beer lovers, not too big but all the animals that you would want to see!
Katrina Hayes — Google review
We went on a cloudy, cool Saturday in February, and the zoo was totally empty. The animals were out and about, so we had a fantastic experience! The exhibits are well laid out and the zoo is very walkable, even for little legs. Can't wait to visit again when it's warm and try the train and the river boat.
Laura Bishop — Google review
The zoo itself is a great place to go walk on the weekends or evening, but the light shows and different themes are spectacular experiences between Halloween and Christmas.
This even will always trump the normal days at the zoo. Maybe justas majestic as seeing the animals in the sping when the garden blooms. It's a friendly event during the holidays, especially for special family visits. The tickets are affordable on any budget, and don't forget the proceeds are going to the care of the animals.
The botany work and landscaping has been very impressive compared to other cities.
Lihnmen Micro Islands — Google review
We love this zoo! Our family gifts us a membership every year and we go as often as we can and try to participate in the different events! Wild Lights is absolutely beautiful and a must-see!
Megan Beeson — Google review
Fantastic experience at the Wild Lights event this Fall. The Incredible artwork displayed with the Alice in Wonderland theme was truly amazing. We have 2 young girls, 9 and 11, and they loved every minute of the event. Kudos to the staff there for keeping everything looking clean and serving hot chocolate on such a chilly evening.
Thomas Johnson — Google review
This is one of the best zoos in the country. There are many exhibits with many different types of animals. The exhibits are designed in a way that animals are visible and close, unlike some zoos where animals seem distant. The zoo is well maintained and very clean. The staff are wonderful here. They frequently hold various activities for people of all ages. The price of admission for one time can be a bit steep, but guests can expect to spend quite a while walking around here. For those who plan to visit often, the annual membership might be your best bet for great value!
Noah J. — Google review
It is a neat display. With a lot more out there than we thought would be. All the exhibits are closed. But the giraffes were still out and the little one was running around. Took us about an hour to walk thru and look at everything. There are some really big displays that pictures don't show. Some of them are moving. Others blow smoke or bubbles. We had a great time and the weather was perfect.
Tyler Elliott — Google review
We went for the Christmas night light event. It was magical and so much fun. It sent you on a walk through the park as you followed the story of Alice in wonderland. The lights the displays were great bring your family for a fun night and it’s reasonably priced.
Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum
Museums
Historical place museum
History museum
Specialty Museums
This Presidential Library is probably the best one I have ever visited! It covers his life from young boyhood to death - and it is well done! I love that his boyhood home can be toured - and its furnishings are original to the home. The museum is a wealth of information, not just about the 34th President, but also WWII and throughout the '70s. Had someone presented history to me in high school like this I might have taken an interest in it... I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this site! If I'm back in Kansas again, I will revisit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Library!
Cindy Clough — Google review
Very nice museum worth a visit. It does a good job outlining the life of Eisenhower without getting too bogged down in minutia. The website says to plan on 3 hours, but I saw the museum in about 1 (and no, I didn't hurry). There are quite a few pieces including the actual table where the D-Day invasion was planned. Lovely grounds that are also close to the other museums, so one could park here and visit most of the other museums in town with a very short walk.
My main beef is that the boyhood home was closed, the gift shop was closed and the library was closed and yet they charge the full $15. In my opinion, if they are going to close half of the facility then they should charge half of that price.
Michael Miller — Google review
This is my 8th Presidential Library! I was in Olathe, KS for half marathon and went to Truman one day and Eisenhower today! The gift shop and visitor center staff are wonderful. The boy good home is closed and under “preservation.” The museum is absolutely amazing! I could have spent 3 hours alone just in the WW2 section! I learned SO MUCH about IKE and his military career! The D-Day table was one of the best pieces of history you will ever see. You truly do not understand the weight this man carried and the love for his country until you visit and read. The grounds are amazing. Peaceful. Quiet!
Sean Foster — Google review
This is a very well-curated museum about a little boy from Abilene, Kansas at a time this country was still young, simple, and yet sophisticated and technologically advanced at the same time, and how this boy became the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe during WW II defeating the most-evil human enterprise invented by the Germans and their allies in Europe. (Their modern enterprise is the Euro € that has enslaved and impoverished the people of Europe now, except them!)
The museum covers his life and the life of his wife and family including the years of his Presidency.
After touring the museum my kids said, wished we had more people like Ike in government who would love and care for this country as he did.
ALL the people in the museum, from the people at the ticket counter to the museum staff including security were very nice, cheerful, and helpful. I highly recommend visiting and plan to spend a long time there. Do not hesitate to ask security to remove loud and disruptive visitors, this is a place for you to enjoy in peace.
I recommend learning some of the history of the era beforehand to help you appreciate more the things you will see.
Nik Mak — Google review
Very interesting museum with a lot of exhibits covering President Eisenhower’s life from childhood, through war and presidency. Definitely worth a visit, especially if you are interested in history.
M?rton Luk?cs — Google review
Amazing place. This is a great tribute to a true American hero and leader that stood for this country and everyone in it. From humble beginnings on (the wrong side of the tracks) to the leader of the free world. What a remarkable story and history that is told and unveiled for you when you visit. So much to learn and understand I would recommend a two day visit to see and learn it all about one of the greatest Generals and Presidents the US has ever had.
Joshua Roberson — Google review
You like Ike, I like Ike, everybody likes Ike. My brother and I visited Kansas and Missouri in November of 2023, and Eisenhower's Museum was one of the two major motivating factors to go out there.
Seeing the museum was a wonderful experience. We started out by getting tickets to see the boyhood home which was done through a guided tour (I believe the tour took just around 20 minutes). From there, we visited the Place of Meditiation, where Dwight, Mamie, and Doud Eisenhower are interred. Then, we went to the museum itself and spent a little over 2 hours in the building. On a holistic approach, I would recommend spending around 3 hours on the museum grounds to see the whole thing. The museum has exhibits for Eisenhower's whole life - his military career and presidency chiefly among them - but also smaller things like a piece of cake from his and Mamie's wedding. The gift shop has a lot of cool memorabilia including $35 busts of the President.
There are restrooms on site (in the gift shop, library, and museum). If you have a NARA Presidential Library/Passport, it gets stamped at the entrance to the museum; passports can also be purchased on site. There was even an interactive component when we visited; it was on November 10th, so we got the opportunity to write a letter to a WWII veteran. Of course, I would heartily recommend visiting this museum to anyone - both those who are history buffs, and those who are not.
Avinash Veeraraghav — Google review
Awesome Presidential Grounds for such a great President. This is well worth a two day visit to walk the grounds, buildings, chapel and library. The boyhood original home on the grounds is difficult to get tickets for as you can not purchase in advance and daily slots are limited. Also, you can no longer access the second floor due to structural concerns.
James Schell — Google review
Great Museum, much more inside than I thought. Boyhood home tour was worth the upcharge, tour guide was great!
Alan Ledesma — Google review
This should be a must for kids and adults to learn about history. We found the museum to be exceptional, informative, and very interesting. I thought I knew Eisenhower fairly well but was impressed by his life and achievements. And his wife, well, she was his rock! She had a great sense of humor, too! The library was filled with gifts various leaders around the world sent to the president. Some from surprising sources. The surprise, at least to me, was that the president and first lady were interned here on the grounds. It was a sobering moment to be in the Place of Meditation! I have been to the Richard Nixon Museum and birthplace in Yorba Linda, Ca, the Ronald Reagan Museum in Simi Valley, Ca and the Eisenhower Library and Museum rates right there with them both! A very enjoyable time!
Michael Hendricks — Google review
Enjoyed touring the chapel and the library exhibit on famous women during the Eisenhower years. The Eisenhower boyhood home and the museum were the highlights. Great representation of IKE's early years, military, Presidential and later life achievements.
Karen Torres — Google review
Wonderful museum for an extraordinary patriot 🇺🇸
Learned so much about President Eisenhower. Left truly inspired.
Loved the grounds. Loved that they’ve kept up the library , museum & meditation building so well, but have left it very much of its original design. The older architecture adds to the charm.
Have always regarded the Eisenhower couple with great esteem, but the visit to the museum gave even more insight to their life & presidency.
My valentine and I joined the Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad yesterday for a Valentine's dinner and ride. The volunteers were so personable from beginning to end. We entered the train to an impressive spread and thoroughly enjoyed the dinner. When the train arrived in Enterprise, we were able to get out and explore a flour mill and some older trains that were parked there. On our way home, we enjoyed desert, coffee and entertainment from the Abilene choir. Those young adults brought both my husband and I to tears! It was an amazing event. I HIGHLY recommend this organization! They put great thought into the night to make us feel very special and comfortable. Great job all around.
Maggi Denton — Google review
We loved this little excursion. We only wished we could hear the history a little better while riding.
Whitney Frizell — Google review
🚨You can capture a picture, even just for a moment but truly capturing a piece of history is a rare gem to find. We had so much fun riding the rails of history🛤 The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Grist Mill was such a cute little shop. I love how they value local quality made items. The whole train ride experience was very relaxing and had many photo opportunities. The Frank W. Schmidt Railroad Museum was very informational too. We will definitely be back again. Sometimes you need to slow down on this fast tracked life and admire the beauty around🚂❤ Thanks for the adventure!
Sammy Dee — Google review
Fun ride.
Great history lesson.
Fun mill at stop in Enterprise.
Must go and enjoy the old train engines and passenger cars with history that rolls you down the tracks.
L L Lamothe — Google review
Great dinner train experience. Really cool to see a working steam engine that is over 100 years old. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing information about the train. The engineer even invited us up into the cab, explaining how the locomotive worked.
For safety the train does not go very fast, at no fault of the museum. Just sit back and enjoy the view and time with friends/family.
Keegan Garner — Google review
Lovely historic train ride! Unfortunately, there were some track issues and we needed to return to the station without the full tour. They did allow us to look inside the caboose and engine. The train museum has a model train and lots of information for the kids about railroading.
Alisa Robinson — Google review
Very nice July 4th ride. Fun for the family. We'd recommend!
Rose-Marie Bradley — Google review
The kids and I really enjoyed the steam excursion. It was worth the drive out to Abilene.
Amy — Google review
Fun trek from Abilene to Enterprise via slow railway tour. It was a nice day for the train ride. Slow and a bit rough, but pleasant nonetheless.
Rhonda Steines — Google review
We had The Most Amazing Time visiting Snoopy, Charlie Brown and Lucy to. Still on ☁️ 9 to.
Jaynae Smiley — Google review
My wife and I recently took a ride on the Abilene & Smokey Valley Railroad for a mother's day ride that included dinner. The ride was about two hours.
A couple things to note would be that the train moves at about 5 miles an hour so it's very slow. So two hours on a train that's barely moving was a little tough. We seriously considered catching at Uber at the half way point in Enterprise, Kansas where the train stops for about 30 minutes before heading back to Abilene. I kind of equated the experience to sitting in an airplane that's stuck at the terminal for some unknown reason.
I will say that the staff was great and it was nice riding in a train car that was built in the 1940s but that fun feeling wore off about 5 minutes into the journey. The remaining part of the trip I found myself wondering why i had made such a foolish decision and whether or not my wife would still love me after such a grueling mental adventure. If you absolutely love trains, you might want to check this out. However, if your obsession is only skin deep, it might be better to find something else to do.
If you have kids and want to do this; don't. They will grow up wondering if you really love them.
Dan Lady — Google review
This is a great little tourist railroad. Get to see an over a century old steam locomotive in action. The staff and crew are awesome, very friendly!
Brian L — Google review
Wonderful way to spend some spare time, especially if the steam engine 3415 is pulling the train. A nice relaxing trip through the Kansas countryside.
Ryan Dorrell — Google review
My wife and daughter and I took the steam train ride on Memorial Day weekend, and we all really enjoyed it. We've lived in the area for over 7 years but this was our first time riding the ASVRR. My daughter loved it, especially the plane that buzzed around the train about halfway through the trip to Enterprise. The views were amazing, and all the volunteers were very friendly.
Lance Tilton — Google review
Real nice job with the Great Pumpkin ride. Great staff and had some fun things for the kids. Nice leisurely train ride to the pumpkin patch and back. No hassles or rushing through and it didn't hurt that the weather was so good. Definitely come back for future events.
Underground working mine exploring the history of salt with guided tours, train rides & exhibits.
Such an awesome and perfect outing for our family. Our 11 year old boy wasn't bored once, didn't even realize we had been there over 2 hours. The tour guides were awesome and very knowledgeable about the history and little details of the salt mine. Definitely recommend for anyone in the area.
WhitneyPaige Rowley — Google review
Amazing Experience, an active Mine with so much going on...it was very interesting & well worth the money and time. Two hours went by so fast and it is needed. Strataca helps to send you back into time allowing understanding of how mining salt began and how it has evolved. Learning the purpose of salt and how it's used today was fascinating! Everyone should visit this Attraction.
Rene West — Google review
Awesome place to visit. Down 650 feet into the mine. Dark tour takes you behind the scenes. Interesting that social security stores their records in the mine and a lot of medical records are there too. Disney stores all their original films and costumes in the mine due to constant temperature and lack of humidity. Educational....lots to learn.
marilyn castillo — Google review
My family had so much fun at Strataca! It was a great experience. Buy tickets in advance. We showed up when they opened at 1:00 and missed the window to go down at that time and for the 1:20. We got the 1:40 but didn't mind waiting 40 minutes.
I also want to add that we had a great experience with the staff. We visited on 7/30/23. From ticket sales to taking us down to the ride conductors, all the staff members were kind and friendly and engaging.
Kayla Ruth — Google review
I had a great time. The exhibits were amazing and the atmosphere is so different from the norm. It's a must-see. The staff were quick and friendly as well. They were making terrible but funny jokes/puns and trying to interact with guests as best they could, only downsides are that if you have claustrophobia the elevator is tiny and packed, but the actual museum underground is very spacious once your down there and our tram's speaker didn't work.
Krios — Google review
This is an amazing underground adventure! 650ft underground active salt mine! It’s been suggested that breathing salt air has a healing effect, and many swear by it.
This tour was one of the most informative I’ve been on in some time, AND in addition to making memories, you get to select a chunk of actual salt rock to save, show and share your experience with others.
Eugene Matthews — Google review
The salt mine is awesome. The tours are great. Part of it was self guided which is cool. Kids and adults had a great time. The kids loved being able to collect a salt rock.
The wait to go topside was WAY to long. The kid running the hoist actually sent it up empty "because I'm the only one here and can't leave to ride with you". That was frustrating, there were 30-40 of us waiting at that time.
Shawna Huggans — Google review
A diamond in the rough. 😉 We had an excellent time exploring 650 feet under the surface. The tour guides were knowledgeable and genuinely nice. We're planning on visiting in August for the "Murder in the Mine", and then again in October for the Boy Scouts of America overnight camping trip, where the kids can receive two merit badges, geology and mining in society.
Victoria Rios-Furlow — Google review
We had so much fun at Strataca! We had a great experience and can’t believe everything we learned. Even the kids (4 & 7) enjoyed it. Our dark ride tour guide Carey was really funny and entertaining. They don’t really have a great solution for the hard hats not fitting the kiddos. We tried the straps they gave us, but it still didn’t quite work. But everything was great, and I’d recommend this place to everyone.
Kelsey Grounds — Google review
If you are in Kansas, don't miss this place! First of all, this is the ONLY mine that allows visitors in all of North America... So doing this is not something you can do just anywhere. We added the extra 'salt safari' and it was well worth it. Our guide, Francis, was very very knowledgeable about the entire mine and quite possible could have driven us throughout the tour blindfolded. Expect to stay at least 3hrs if you are doing the Safari, but 100% recommend!
Justin LaRose (Apophis) — Google review
Staff was friendly and very informative and willing to answer questions.
Spent about 3 hours on tour with a 5 year old and 7 year old. 5 year old found it a bit more boring as there is allot of talking.
There was a few stops were kiddos can collect salt rocks in a little bag. Few areas have tactile stuff like salt powder, small rocks big rocks and slabs.
Tours were fun and guides were full of puns, facts and quips
Would recommend for family trips, field trips, homeschool, ECT.
Cost seemed high at first but would say it is worth the cost.
Will warn the elevator may be intense for those afraid of tight closed spaces. Ride down is 90 second. Also underground might be tough for those scared of enclosed places.
David Wischmeier — Google review
I took my wife here for our 4 year anniversary and it did not disappoint! I bought the regular tickets plus the safari ride through the old mining areas. We got to collect chunks of salt from the mine too. You can also reserve their event center 650 feet underground! I will be back again it was so much fun.
Stephen Barkley — Google review
My husband and I had talked about visiting here more than once and finally made the trip. I HIGHLY recommend this. The information is very interesting and the staff is very informative. The temperature was pretty good, but if you are someone who gets cold easy or often dress for a fall day or bring a sweatshirt or light jacket. I get cold very easily and my fingers were starting to get tingling after being down in the mines for 3.5 hours. I bought the Safari tour and it was well with the extra money! Money very well spent!
Melynda L — Google review
Strataca was a ton of fun, my Dad and I had a blast! It's 68 degrees down there and more than comfortable. If you get cold easily then I'd recommend a light jacket. The museum is large and very spacious. The tours were well-organized and the guides were very friendly. I would definitely recommend this for families and anyone looking for a unique experience!
Joe Wileman — Google review
Great experience. It’s, for the most part a self guided tour in an active salt mine (away from the actual mining and miners) that has a wealth of fascinating information. There are also two rides, the train and dark tour where you ride in little cars pulled by a vehicle that takes you deeper into the mine. The driver regales you with stories, anecdotes and information. You also stop and are allowed to get your own piece of salt. Lastly, there is a display explaining about the old movies and documents stored in the mine. Highly recommended place. It takes roughly two hours.
Corazon Properties — Google review
Truly unique afternoon! The museum stuff was informative and interesting. The cute little train and dark ride were a blast. Loved being able to take a chunk of halite home!
Erin Merrill — Google review
Highly recommend order tickets ahead of time. This is a great place to visit especially when the weather is at its extremes. 68 year round. We have a 7 and 10 year old, they loved it.
Benjamin Francisco — Google review
Great experience, I'm so glad we came! The Safari was well worth the extra money. All 5he staff were amazing! Very knowledgeable, friendly & excited about their jobs!
Jill Kreikemeier — Google review
Visiting a salt mine was more than expected. 650 ft underground The train ride and dark ride were fun. Buy tickets in advance the sellout as only some many can go down the hoist at one time
James Quinn — Google review
It was the best $50 I’ve ever spent! Very thoughtful planning for the salt mine tour! My son and I had a lot of fun there!
Min Lee — Google review
We came here as gifts to two of our kids who were turning 21 and 18, and because it just seemed cool to be touring a salt mine. Anyway, the combo ticket was sold out, but that was OK because the two or three hours we were in the belly of the beast were plenty. The only thing I would improve would be to see the actual mining, OSHA, be hanged. 😆 By all means, visit the salt mine and take your time...it's worth it.
Kimberly McJunkin — Google review
What an outstanding experience, unlike anything I've ever seen! The salt mine tour is a fantastic thing for the family to do together. It's easy walking and you could take a wheelchair on the main tour portion. I would suggest purchasing the additional train tours. The train takes you off the main tunnel into parts that give real mining experiences to show what the conditions were like in the beginning. Partway through the train tour you will stop and be allowed to pick a piece of salt to take home!
Anthony Williamson — Google review
A go your own pace tour. Provided tons of information regarding how they mine and what else the area is used for (movie memorabilia, medical records).
They did have wheelchair accessibility after the elevator
amberbugaboo — Google review
WOW! What a great tour. We were all impressed and amazed to see the process of salt mining, and see how enormous the mine is underground. We took the three hour tour that included the 'Salt Safari' and it was totally worth it. Amazing how the mine has changed over the 100+ years it's been a working mine.
Attractions include a planetarium, dome-shaped theater, re-created rocket lab & space museum.
A great museum to visit with all ages! Even my toddlers/preschoolers enjoyed looking around at all the different displays. The children's area supplies a few small activities for them to do (a grown up or older kid will definitely have to help) and that kept my crew busy for a while! We were bummed the cafe was closed during our visit but hopefully we can make the drive again soon!
demi garza — Google review
The museum was great, it was very dark and difficult to find your way around and then also difficult to find way out. The nice thing was that there were several little classes of school children and when they are in the lab or the movie or the planetarium it's like you almost have the whole museum to yourself which is nice because nobody is wearing a mask anymore.
I gave it a low rating however because the planetarium and the movie theater rooms were very very hot and uncomfortable, and the cafe did not have any food whatsoever it just had ice cream and popcorn. My favorite part was the SR-71 Blackbird and I remember doing a project when I was in school about this plane and it was just fascinating I'm very fortunate to see a real one at this museum! One other thing I was confused about was the lunar module from Apollo 13 I thought the sign said that it was a replica of some scale but then the brochure says that it's the actual lunar module so I was confused on that.
Connie Ledwidge — Google review
The Cosmosphere is a hidden gem located in central Kansas, and it is 100% worth the ticket!
As soon as you walk in the front doors, you see an original 100+ foot long SR-71 Blackbird (the world’s fastest spy plane) suspended from the ceiling, its nose dipping close enough to the floor to touch. The museum also contains a whole host of artifacts from space, including the original Apollo 13 capsule, space suits, and much more.
It’s also very family friendly, with engaging exhibits for the whole family to enjoy! One fun activity at the Cosmosphere is Dr Godard’s lab, where the audience learns about rocket fuel and watches a scientist blow stuff up in front of their eyes. Another fun activity is visiting the planetarium, which explores the beautiful night sky by means of a giant, dome-shaped screen.
It’s such an amazing and interesting place to see! The staff is also very friendly and welcoming! Overall, I’d definitely recommend stopping by!
Eliana Pyle — Google review
I had no clue such a treasure was in the state of Kansas. They have a lot of artifacts and memorabilia from various flights as well as support assets and resources. We easily could have spent an entire day just going exhibit to exhibit. They have some good some videos and the science lab was fun and a break from standing. We really enjoyed the planetarium as well that was guided by the same guy who did the science lab. Give that guy a raise!
There were authentic replicas and authentic craft present and it just really hits you what the space race was trying to accomplish and the work that went into achieving space flight for both manned and unmanned missions to the stars.
The only thing is knock would be the moving flight simulator. We didn’t pay extra for it, but it was an attraction that was part of the all inclusive pass we got. If you have VR at home you’re probably better off. Again, not knocking them too much, but given our technological advancements over the past two decades I’d expect for this to be refreshed in the future.
We drove 90 minutes one way from camping south of Wichita and I’d say it was definitely a worthwhile trip. If plan to spend at least 4-5 hours there if not more to really take it all in and read all of the exhibits and check out the artifacts/exhibits.
Larry Myers — Google review
Family friendly time waster. I'm a fan of space and I enjoyed seeing the exhibits. They were undergoing renovations when I visited so I wasn't able to see everything. I appreciated the space rock sample. Much better than the one at Cape Canaveral in Florida which I'm pretty sure is just plastic. Lots of information to read but with the younger ones it's hard to hold their attention.
Imogen Phillips — Google review
One of the best space museums in the world, with too many one of a kind artifacts to list.
I love the way their exhibits are set up. You're able to get much closer, and see see artifacts from multiple sides, with plenty of educational information available for you to read. I find this museum more engaging and interesting than the national air and space museum.
A true hidden gem and worth going out of your way for!
Jason Hall — Google review
Had a great time meeting the employees that know so much about space, astrology and science. The facility is fantastic for both adults and children. The cafe has amazing food. A place to definitely stop and visit. Guaranteed you will learn something and have fun.
Malissa F — Google review
This place is absolutely amazing. The rich history held within the walls of this building makes you feel as if you're walking through time. The mercury capsule model makes you feel like you're standing alongside the engineers that made the space race happen. Seeing the V-2 rocket they have here also gave me chills. It's apparently an authentic one that was found abandoned years ago and that was restored. It was awe inspiring seeing the precursor to the human journey into space. Simply can't fathom how the USSR and USA made all of this happen. To think that the space race had the Nazis to thank. A little uncomfortable to make that connection, but just proves the value of having facilities like this one. Seeing the displays at the museum in historical context was a reminder that even in the darkest hour, there may be some good yet to come.
Daniel Sloan — Google review
A great museum regarding space exploration. Has a small kid area for hands on experiments as well as demo area to watch cool experiments regarding rockets
Also has an indoor movie theater that shows science movies and random other ones.
amberbugaboo — Google review
What a great day! I am just visiting the area when my grandson said he wanted to do something fun. I looked up fun things to do in Hutchinson and this came up. It was the best fun. The shows were a bit mature for my 5 yr old but he sat through them with some interest. The kids space downstairs is as fantastic, we left and came back to it several times throughout the day. Their cafe’ was cute and perfect for our educational breaks. I highly recommend this fun but educational museum.
Dorothy Cruz — Google review
Totally loved this place, especially when you first walk in and see the SR71 and space shuttle! People have said they can spend 4 hours here, I say, how fast are you walking? We took a lunch break after 4 hours and then spent an additional 1 and a half hours and still could have spent even more time there. Don't miss the lab, it is so explosive! I almost forgot ... they also have an actual moon rock on display ... so cool!
Lyle Sem (The Dirando Group) — Google review
The Cosmosphere is amazing! Our family had a wonderful time looking at all the exhibits and reading about the history. Touching part of the Berlin Wall was very cool considering all the history attached to it. The exhibits were both educational and very fun. The children’s area was also enjoyable for the kiddos. The cafe food was good but especially the fries were amazing. We saw Secrets of the Sea in the iMax theatre and it was also very good. I would definitely recommend visiting. The Cosmosphere is so full of history.
Antonia Ortiz — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience! Surprised to find this gem in the middle of a small town in Kansas, but what a fun place. There is so much to see and do here. I would definitely recommend this place to people of all ages. Our visit included people from ages 7 to 75 and everyone had an amazing time!
Rebekah Johnson — Google review
I've wanted to go here for two years and finally just decided to take a day and go. Found it didn't disappoint me. I walked to the ticket booth and asked for the package deal. Plus, the second movie. The package included "Admission to the museum, a ride with the blue angels, a choice of two different movies, the planetarium, and the cosmokids interactive play area and Dr. Goddard's lab, which I didn't go to either one. " I decided I'd go have lunch in the cafeteria before the movie and looked at the menu on the wall to only find snacks. But right next to me were menus of all the delicious foods they prepare. I had baked potato covered with chili, which was so huge I couldn't eat it all. But it was so delicious . While eating, I discovered that the planetarium had two different shows, and one of them was at the same time as the planetarium show, so I asked if I could change my movie time, they changeditwith no problem. I enjoy taking my time and really appreciating everything around me. I got there at 11:10 AM and left at 6:50 PM as they closed at 7 PM. Lots of parking right across the street, and lots to see if you're into space adventure. Loved both movies, it would be hard to say one was better than the other. Loved the total experience!
Roger House — Google review
I still give it a 5 star because of the restaurant! I had one of the best meal in a museum there.
Min Lee — Google review
This is an unsung gem of the Central Kansas area. The Cosmosphere is affiliated with the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, and has an amazing collection of exhibits from the very beginning of rocketry and space exploration. We got the all access passes, which entitled us to go to the planetarium, the digital theater, and all the rest of the exhibits. We went on a Sunday, which seem to be lightly attended because of the State Fair. If you have anyone who is interested in the history of the space exploration, it would be worthwhile to take the trip. It's not quite an hour away from Wichita. We're sure glad we went!
Steve Flower — Google review
Little bit pricey for what is offered, but overall great experience and neat exhibits. They are also working on adding more exhibits. Will be back!
Raquel Mikos — Google review
I enjoyed this place very much. I went as soon as I moved to Kansas and found out there was a place like this. Parking is right in front of the building. There was even a space for wheelchairs. The inside is bigger than I expected. I went on a weekday, so the window was empty. Inside, each booth had detailed explanations and was very informative. This is a place where both adults and children can have fun!
ᑕᗩ RRI — Google review
It was an amazing and enlightening visit; as someone from a country that was under a brutal dictatorship supported by President Nixon during the Space Age/Cold War era, I l had no idea that the Space Race had had such an impact on modern technology and the current state of life as we know it. There are so many things to do and see here at the Cosmosphere, I recommend to be there early (we arrived in the afternoon and missed a lot) and get the all-inclusive access pass.
Expansive 60-acre outdoor zoo, with a variety of exotic & regional wildlife, plus a nature museum.
So glad to have visited here finally! Beautiful layout, great exhibits, the museum was wonderful, cute gift shop. Admission prices very reasonable and tram rides were only $3 per person. Great place for everyone of all ages with restaurant on site or a picnic area outside the zoo if you bring a picnic lunch. Definitely will be visiting here again!
Lee Smith — Google review
On our trip, we saw a billboard for the zoo and decided to stop and look. They had a kennel for our dog to stay while we went through (so awesome!) The museum was amazing and well put together. We enjoyed walking through the zoo. There’s a petting zoo (no extra cost!) It’s a must visit!
Shianne Huffman — Google review
I really liked this zoo. Greatly surpassed my expectations. Visited on the way home just after visiting Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and I was impressed. The museum walk through was also great and really well done. Walking through the entrance I could see this zoo is well maintained and cared for.
Aj Dunmall — Google review
Nice zoo. Cool gift shop. Has the stamped penny souvenir machine which I love. The restaurant is affordable and reasonable besides icecream/drinks but nbd. Animals were pretty sleepy it seemed for being noon. The glass viewing areas are the best viewing spots in my opinion and make opportunities for great shots of the animals.
Ashton Urbex — Google review
They have sensory bags for free!! So thankful bc we forgot my daughters earmuffs. Took the tram and it was fantastic on a hot day. Loved the museum using the boards to find everything. Lots to look at. Really enjoyed the kids play area and I was really fond of the salt water tank. Next time we will walk.
Tonya Wilson — Google review
We spent an incredible afternoon walking through the museum and the zoo. My kids loved it and the family membership is super cheap.
Jaime H Navarro — Google review
It was fun, I went there with my family. The only problem was that the parks not really wheelchair friendly. I almost launched my mother into the koi/flamingo pin, plus the deer/pronghorn pin. Most of the animals I really wanted to see where missing, and the animals that live communal where by themselves and seemed sad. But other than that it was nice, the animals that had others in their pin where quite happy and it made it more entertaining to watch 07/16/21
claw crowsworth — Google review
Great time as usual here! Zookeeper interactions are very informative, and the layout of the zoo is very good to walk. Museum and kids play areas are perfect for little ones.
Alan Ledesma — Google review
We love visiting Rolling Hills. Have visited many times before. During memorial day visit, all the vending machines sold out so it made it hard to get a drink, but besides that it was a perfect trip!
Audrey Caldwell — Google review
You know they have animals.... but the zoo also does a Fathers Day car chow every year!! The red car i posted here is owned by the Walker family who started the zoo! I added a couple more of my favorites for your pleasure! This is a great zoo and museum, thanks for putting on the car show!
Bob Sibley — Google review
This is a nice little zoo. The walkways are easy to navigate (but there are lots of of geese so watch out for the goose poop). When we visited, there were only a handful of other cars so we had the zoo more or less to ourselves for the visit. The enclosures all look clean and the animals appear to be in good health. This zoo doesn't have the largest variety of animals but we had a good time seeing what they do have. There is some construction and renovation going on and I look forward to seeing what it's like when it's done, especially the reptiles since that was closed when we came.
What really impressed us was the museum. The dioramas are amazing! So many animals in dynamic poses. They even had a piebald fawn! I would come any day just for the museum!
Maryann Barbon — Google review
Great little zoo that you can do a walk through or enjoy the Tram ride for a few dollars more. They have an indoor walk through exhibit that shows animals from around the world, never knew Polar Bears were that big.
IM Burgin — Google review
1st time coming here it was ok museum was good zoo however could use some help probably won't b back for a long time if ever honestly
C H — Google review
Always a great zoo. They are not joking about the Rolling Hills though. If your knees/legs can't handle the walk, they do have a tram you can buy tickets for that does a great job. They even have a kids playground in the middle of the zoo so kids can just play for a little bit. Worth the drive. and don't forget to check out their museum
Kate Watts — Google review
Wow! That museum is the best. I've seen natural history museum wildlife dioramas in many different cities (Denver, Los Angeles, and Chicago) as well as other countries (England, Sweden and Japan) but this one beats them all. We came for the zoo but decided to quickly walk through the museum. We did end up walking quickly but that wasn't my husband or mine's preference, it was because the exhibit scared our toddler. He was scared because it was so lifelike and had animatronic people that told stories related to the diorama. There was no glass between the diorama and the viewer which helped make you feel closer to the exhibit. The animals were posed in very life like poses (standing on a rock, eating a zebra, etc.) that it felt so real.
The zoo was decent.
Laura Nelson — Google review
Perfect for cold days!! I loved that almost all animals were visible even though it was very cold. The zoo made it possible for visitors to see the animals while they took shelter from the cold winds, which meant we could warm up too. They have an amazing museum with dioramas or all kinds of animals! We went through twice! The food was good and priced well. We will be back in the summer for the new exhibit they are building!
Tours are offered of this unique folk art attraction starring Biblical & political sculptures.
I have been meaning to write a review for this for a while now! Had an incredible time there this summer, beautiful sculptures especially when you go as an artist with his art major father. Learning from all of the nice tour guides was an incredible experience and walking through the house felt like walking through a large time capsule. The art outside and story behind each sculpture is fascinating, and even learning about S.P. Dinsmoor's mausoleum and coffin that he created himself and then, of course, going inside and seeing the man himself preserved in a glass case! Very worth the trip. We took this road trip to Lucas Kansas just to see the Garden of Eden, and it did not disappoint!
Jasper — Google review
It was definitely a quirky place! However it wasn’t really as cool or expansive as I was expecting. It’s a small yard with a bunch of mediocre concrete statues.
We weren’t able to do the tour but walked around the yard. We made a donation in the box outside. The tour with the guide cost $7 for ages 12+, $2 for 5-11, and free for kids under 5. You have to pay to get into the mausoleum and see his body, FYI.
The town is a bit odd. There’s a giant “FUCK BIDEN” flag a block up the street.
D LC — Google review
Super cool place! We got there before opening so bummed didn't get to go inside. You can still walk grounds when closed so that is a nice perk. There is a great info board under shelter that helped explain it all. We will be back when open next time.
Jennifer Buroker — Google review
A journey into the world and mind of a man who saw today so many years ago. I really enjoyed the time spent there. The two young ladies, who were working there, were both helpful and quite knowledgeable. I say, read up about the garden of eden and its history, then take your mind away from today and emerson yourself in the time period in which the garden was made. You won't be disappointed. 5 stars.
Michael Morris — Google review
The concrete statues and limestone cabin are interesting examples of the grassroots art of S.P. Dinsmoor. He built the house and mausoleum, which holds himself and his first wife, as well as other structures on the property, which was designed as a tourist attraction. I enjoyed seeing how he had worked electric lighting into the statuary. The statues themselves reminded me a bit of Blake's illuminations with their symbolism. The house includes examples of Dinsmoor's detailed woodwork, including doorframes, banisters, tables, and a wardrobe. Well worth a visit, and the tour included some fun family and local history.
Veronica Goosey — Google review
This place is a must see! Absolutely beautiful art work and lots of history.
Amanda Coots — Google review
A must-see!!! Now, I have to do more research on topics this brought up. Then I will have to go back. Plus, the dead body.
Dana Buxton — Google review
If you're in Lucas, you should definitely stop by. Unfortunately we stopped by after hours so the main house was closed but you can still stroll the garden and see some impressive wood carving.
Pandy Fackler — Google review
My brother and I visited the Garden of Eden on November 11th, 2023 while we were spending a few days in Kansas and Missouri. We'd heard about this place from Mr. Beat's YouTube video, and as one can guess from the rating, we enjoyed ourselves while there.
To start, we got there at just a little before 3 PM. We were the only visitors for the whole day. Lynn, the tour guide, was outside, and she guided us inside where we paid the fare and got the tour. Dinsmoor was a very eccentric man - in fact, calling him eccentric seems to sell him short - but Lynn did a wonderful job with explaining the place, lining up with and enriching the content that Mr. Beat had posted before. Some parts of the tour were quite autonomous; we were allowed to see the upstairs and downstairs parts of the house on our own terms (again, this might have been because we were the only ones there besides Lynn and a younger volunteer). Lynn took us outside to show us the sculptures including the famous 'Crucifixion of Labor' and more. We also got to see Dinsmoor's mausoleum where he is very much decomposing in his coffin with a glass lid (of note, this is the only area of the park where photography is forbidden), the pavilion in the back, and everything else. History buffs, art enthusiasts, and just tourists in general will love this place.
There is a small gift shop at the entrance that has items including lapel pins, post cards, and a little guidebook. There are bathrooms on site as well; they are located behind the house. I was so happy to have seen this place. Bravo, Lynn, and thank you to Mr. Beat for putting this place on our radar. My brother and I spent just about an hour at the place. It is possible to get the entire experience in as little as ~40 minutes, but of course, if you have the time, more of it is time well-spent.
Avinash Veeraraghav — Google review
In the interview novel, "American Gods", author Neil Gaiman writes about places of power.
"It's perfectly simple," said Wednesday. "In other countries, over the years, people recognized the places of power. Sometimes it would be a natural formation, sometimes it would just be a place that was, somehow, special. They knew that something important was happening there, that there was some focusing point, some channel, some window to the Immanent. And so they would build temples or cathedrals, or erect stone circles, or...well, you get the idea."
The Garden of Eden is such a place. Here, artist S. P. Dinsmoor constructed a fantastic monument to mid-American Populism using the creation story as a framing device. The sense of mystery and energy pervades the town this sculpture park is in, Lucas, Kansas. Numerous grassroots artists are drawn here to add to the creativity that has buzzed in the air of the land, probably long before Dinsmoor mixed his first batch of concrete.
The guided tour is thorough and engaging, and the guide gave us warning before showing us into Dinsmoor's mausoleum. His body lies in state, and with a glass top, i was drawn face to face with the 91-year mummified remains of one of the most curious artists I've ever learned of. A strange thing to behold in such a strange place.
The many sculptures of his are both simple yet clear and honest about the urge to create and the urge to tell the world of things important to the artist.
If you're remotely within driving distance as you cross Kansas, do not pass up the opportunity to visit this strange place of power and see a very unfiltered and bold form of art!
James “JJ” Cantrell — Google review
Very interesting man, S.P. Dinsmoor, who created this odd and one of a kind historical place in the middle of Kansas. The town of Lucas is peculiar and unique. The house is made to look like a cabin, but built with limestone from nearby quarries. A neat piece of rural history.
Rhonda Steines — Google review
This place is a must-see for fans of art, history, and just all-around cool and unique experiences.
Zac Stafford — Google review
Don't rush through. The statues tell a story it's up to you to read it.
M Kaufee — Google review
If you appreciate quirky folk art this place is for you. This man was an eccentric very talented artist who transformed every inch of his house and yard into unique art works. Many of them speak to politics, religion and the mistreatment of the common man. On the tour you can even see his mummified body in the mausoleum he made himself. Sadly, much of the house is off limits and you can only go in the main floor. There you buy admission tickets and watch a short film regarding the history of the house. Definitely worth a visit.
Restored, mid-1800s army post, with ranger-led tours, living history events & a leafy picnic area.
Fun fort with no walls. Lots of content, interesting for all ages. Junior ranger program was challenging for smaller kids. This is part of the Santa Fe trail. So 2 ranger programs are available.
It was very windy the day we were there, which made moving between buildings a challenge. For this you will want a good sun had that ties on, sunglasses, and plenty of water.
You will need to walk to the fort (wheelchairs are available and the path is accessible) your car will not be quickly available to you so a backpack or stroller would make your trip easier
Marcy Kyser — Google review
Very nicely kept and well preserved part of history. A wonderful resource of historical displays. One ranger on duty was dressed a in period attire as a drummer. He was able to play different commands. Restrooms and gift shop. National history passport stamps available. There is a bit of walk to the fort from the parking lot, but it's flat if you have a wheelchair.
Jamie Wagner — Google review
This is a wonderfully preserved/restored fort from the era of westward expansion that provides a glimpse of what life at the fort might have been like. The exhibits are well balanced, not so dense with information that it overwhelms the visitor, and they tastefully repeat some key information for reinforcement. They also took special care to include Native American voices and perspectives and don't gloss over the many broken promises made with them and atrocities committed against them.
Kevin Hodges — Google review
Had a WONDERFUL day at the Fort today. Not my first time to see the Fort but was one of the better ones. Would say take the time to download the National Parks service app. They had a number of walking tours that you can do. I found out more just using the application than the previous 3 times I was there. We also found the trail that was out side the camp that points out were the other buildings were . We will go back again for sure.
Michael Mayhill — Google review
I never knew of this place and uts significance in our countries history. Clean, well maintained and a great museum.
William Paschal — Google review
This is a beautiful fort we went here today and it was very nice
The rangers were friendly and helpful
Alan Brown — Google review
Well maintained and preserved historic site. People were friendly and helpful in answering questions. I would recommend going and visiting.
Cara Geyer — Google review
I've visited LOTS of period forts, houses and other historic sites and this is by far one of the best preserved and maintained. It's a short trek from I-70 and so worth it. It truly looks like the people of the time are just put for the day. Everything is staged immaculately. I highly recommend!
Amanda Bennett — Google review
What a hidden Jen! What here on a weekend and there was barely anyone there. The Rangers were supper friendly and grateful for all my random questions. They had a shooting and drum demonstration while we were there. We were also very impressed with their visitor center. It was recently renovated in 2018.
Van Wilder — Google review
Surprisingly well maintained US Army fort on the Santa Fe Trail.
The Rangers and staff go out of their way to educate and accommodate weary travelers.
Home of the 10th Calvary Buffalo Soldiers.
Excellent little gift shop.
Joel Blea — Google review
Beautifully restored, lots to see. Officer's quarters, barracks, hospital, bakery, blacksmith, warehouse all full of period artifacts. Can see what life was like for troops at a frontier post. Well worth the trip.
Kurt Vogel — Google review
Mess and Muster 2023 was incredible. Cavalry units were outstanding. Educational and friendly. This was the first time I had been back to ft Larned in 50 years! I am impressed. The facilities are immaculate.. the history is real and staff informative. I will be back for the event in 2024 and every year I can.
D Spark — Google review
Completely blown away at how well preserved and staged this was. It truly was like stepping back in time. Informative, educational and eye opening. You are able to walk through each area of the fort and see just what it would have been like. Each area tells a story and you can feel the pain, joy, and hope reading the words and names etched into the walls. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable and the walk through museum was beyond eye opening. There are interactive displays and even a holographic account from a young Indian woman who's relatives experienced life on the prarie during the days of Fort Larned. There is no sugar coating her message of what really happened and how the native Americans were treated. An absolute gift to be able to visit this old fort. So very much appreciate that it has been preserved and the messages allowed to be told.
rebecca Lents — Google review
Some amazing stories and artifacts on display. Knowledgeable Rangers and volunteers can share lots of info that the sights just don't demonstrate and some of the most fascinating things are all the names carved into the walls of the building. No they all are not graffiti
Museum features include a replicated fossil dig site & a discovery room with hands-on activities.
We had such a great experience overall. The museum is super clean and easy to navigate. They have a variety of things on display from mineral and fossils to live animals and interactive activities. We throughly enjoyed the dinosaurs on display now and my daughter had a great time in the discovery center.
I work with reptiles professionally, venomous snakes specifically, and was thrilled to see an exhibit a about rattlesnakes. I enjoyed the spread of North American species on display. Lots of nice information was available on the boards to read. The enclosures of the rattlesnakes (and other herps throughout the museum) are smaller for some species than I'd prefer but I understand that space is limited and all of the enclosures were clean with various textures, hiding, climbing, and visually appealing decor so it appears that they want to do as well for the animals as they can. A couple of rattlesnakes and the boa were quite overweight though so I'd love to see them again a little bit slimmed down. Regardless, I would absolutely visit again.
Maryann Barbon — Google review
This Museum was a fun little off the road find on our way back from Denver. We had so much fun and I’d highly recommend anyone of all ages.
Harvey Flowers — Google review
I was impressed with how cool this place was. We were able to visit for free using the Sunflower Summer app.
There were really neat artifacts, crystals, animals, etc.
My kids really enjoyed this place.
Bailey — Google review
Cool museum about the natural history of the state of Kansas. Takes 1-2 hours to go thru depending on how long you look at each exhibit
Melissa D. — Google review
So great! Stopped on our way to Colorado to give our toddler a break. Lots to see for kids of any age with hands on areas and live animals. Perfect sized museum to spend an hour or many! Really glad we stopped!
Also, plenty of room to park an RV/trailer. Gift shop prices are super reasonable.
K Mead — Google review
So much more than expected! A wonderful place to take the kids to lean about dinosaurs, fossils and so much more. I especially loved the "underwater" cave.
Sophia Gamino — Google review
A must see if you're passing by Hays KS on I70. Excellent natural history exhibits with great fossils and many live animals. Exhibit with 20+ live rattlesnake varieties was great. Kids would love it!
Chuck Baumgart — Google review
Stopped here while going through town, it was a great museum, the kids loved it. Lots of cool things to look at.
It was free to enter using the sunflower summer app
Deana Miller — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to the museum. It was a Sunday afternoon, there were families with children enjoying the educational experience. It's big and there are many different features, so there will be sections of more or less interest to everyone. I personally found a couple sections a little boring, and then other sections very interesting. Amazing fossils. The only part I didn't like at all was the two big beautiful tortoises living in a dark walled corner area with concrete floors and nothing natural in their surroundings at all. It just seemed so cold and cruel. Besides that, I recommend it as a nice way to spend a few hours.
C — Google review
It was a lot of full the staff were very nice and helpful!
The exhibits were cool all the live animals were a surprise and the stuff there for little ones to do was great! This was worth the drive from Wichita. You can easily spend two hours here if you got kiddos and they love dinosaurs and all things animals and exploring☺️
Scot-Senshi O — Google review
Such a great museum! My mind was boggled by all the ancient things found in Kansas. I learned a lot. Staff was nice was well. The gift shop prices were so reasonable too!
Super cute! Way bigger than I thought it would be. Not sure if the painting is fading from the sun or if my cam was dirty but neat free Stop to those interested in art
Ashton Urbex — Google review
Homies, this is actually kinda cool! I’m not entirely sure the purpose of this neat little spot, but it definitely adds some character to the town! They’ve got a nice dog park, lots of benches and picnic tables, clean cut grass, it’s pretty cool!
Ethan Unverferth — Google review
Nice lady with her two dogs came up to us and we had a nice little conversation with her! The painting is massive, and well made. I love free stuff!
Noah S — Google review
Not much to say about this road side attraction. The park around it was clean and not busy at all. Right beside a Dog Park so something for the pups to enjoy.
Alexis Kus — Google review
Very cool spot. Don't forget to sign in at the book by the information kiosk. Very nice place. Nice dog park picnic benches really a plus to the town
Beth Clouser — Google review
Fun stop. Better than world’s largest prairie dog in Oakley which is closed now. Great photo stop and fun story.
Tom Kelly — Google review
Great place to pull over and stretch your legs and there is a great dog park where you can let your dogs roam while you see the sites!
Whitney Smith — Google review
We got such a kick out of seeing the World’s Largest Easel! It gave us a nice break and walk during a long road trip. It was fun to get photos too!
JoAnn Schneider Farris — Google review
The World’s Largest Easel made a prefect leg-stretch break. Our kids were wowed and we all enjoyed the road-side spectacle!
The main reason I give 4-stars instead of 5 is because “the world’s largest easel” was about 3x to 4x larger in my imagination. Also, everyone was ready to get back in the car and move on after only five minutes.
Asa Sherwyn — Google review
It’s actually pretty impressive when you first see it driving up. It’s only a minute from the highway so why not stop here?? It’s fun for the whole family.
Mike Dee — Google review
It's a big easel with a Van Gogh painting. Not else much more to say. Good place to stop take a break from driving through the most boring estate ever Kansas! Does have a dog park attached to it. And I think I saw a playground nearby. Anyway if you're bored stop by nothing else to do in the small town of goodland though.
B Metzger — Google review
Well worth a visit if you're going through Goodland!! Very beautiful and reminiscent of Kansas being the sunflower state!
Lauren Thornberg — Google review
It is a big pic, not much to look at. It was a nice stop to have the kids run around. There was a playground just down the road.
Andrew McClure — Google review
It is a giant VanGogh sunflower painting statue. I mean really giant and it is not that far off the highway and located in a nice small park with tourist information nearby.
Very nice dog park at the same location. Two separate areas for large dogs and small dogs. There is a water pump.
There are gas stations and fast food stops nearby (Steak and Shake, Sonic)
Will Bernstein — Google review
80 foot easel with a Van Gogh painting. Outdoor park with a dog park. Good place to rest for a minute when driving through Kansas.
Mechelle Thornton Weedin — Google review
Very awesome attraction. How cool to see a gigantic Van Gogh painting. Great photo op. Worth a stop.
Roberta Peek — Google review
Great roadside attraction. Not too far off the highway. Free. Fun quirky stop. Grounds were in good condition.
Reese Dewey — Google review
Wonderful art installation. Would be amazing if they change the artwork on the easel periodically.
Jasmine — Google review
This was a very fun road trip stop for our whole family. We still talk about it years later and revisit when we are anywhere in the area. They even had a painter's brush on site for photo fun.
This is a tucked away gem in small town of Burlington Colorado located on the Kit Carson County Fairgrounds. Carved and built in 1905, this carousel is number 6 in the succession of the 2500 built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company for Elitch Gardens in Denver Colorado. Only 150 of the original carved carousels have survived. These colorful carousel animals have been magnificently and painstakingly restored to original paint, trim and gold leaf. We road the carousel for 25 cents which is the same price it cost in 1905. The Carousel Museum is close by and costs $1.00. Both are quite a bargain!
J. Shaw Renner — Google review
This place was an absolute gem in the middle of a long car ride! It is a beautiful carousel! It has been restored and is fully functional for rides. We enjoyed hearing about its history and a couple of stories about it before we took a ride. Rides are only 25 cents a person too! The organ that plays music for the ride is an absolute stunner, too!
Don't hesitate to stop and see this historic treasure.
Sherri Burks — Google review
Having read about the carousel we finally made a day trip from Aurora. What a find! 1st stop was to ride and photograph the carousel. WOW. Anita shared a vast amount of history and stories beforehand. Great gal, very knowledgeable. 2nd visited the museum, another gem all about the history of this carousel with great photos. Much more than what we expected and a great day!!!
Linda Nichols — Google review
This place is a gem that deserves attention. Take some time here if you love stories of the American mid-west. We didn't allow enough time to take in the full experience. Take a couple quarters so you can ride at least twice!
Eric Varnon — Google review
What an incredible experience! The ladies really knew their history about the carousel! The museum was also very beautiful and nice to tour and learn all about the history!! Our two year old daughter absolutely loved the rides she got to have! We can't wait to come visit again!!
Lacy Munos — Google review
This is one of those gems that you rarely find anymore. On the Federal Historical Register it was built in 1905. After many years of storage and almost total destruction, restoration was started in the 70's. Boasting more than 95% original paint still present on all the animals and paintings, it was amazing to ride on thia 116 year old carousel. Its only 0.25 cents to ride and there is a really cool museum to explore for only $1.00. I highly suggest stopping by and taking it for a ride with its original GM electric motor spinning you at 12 M.P.H.
Bob Villia — Google review
Very cool stop on our road trip! The ladies running it were so sweet and informative. The attached museum is interesting.
The carousel itself is *gorgeous* and surprisingly fun to ride. (It goes fast!)
Victoria B — Google review
This is amazing. It is one of only a handful of original carousels in the country that is in operation. The animals are all hand carved and it was built around 1904. They also have a small museum which is also where you purchase the tickets.
Gerald King — Google review
The lady who helped us at the carousel was so nice and friendly! But the lady inside was not very nice. She made a few comments that were unnecessary. I have three kids and they each wanted to try the player mechanism. She then says "gosh you only need to tap it once, was that necessary.
We thought it would be a nice fun experience for our kids while we drove from Washington to Florida but she was so rude it was sad.
Brittney Z — Google review
Stopped here on our way home in June 2022.
I've posted before that we always try and find the older carousels to ride when on vacation. This one was amazing, and the story behind it even better. The eyes on the large dog and lion were made of glass and looked like they were moving as you moved.
If you are traveling down I-70 would recommend stopping in for a visit to the museum and a ride on the carousel.
We rode the giraffes in memory of my wife's mother who had passed away 2 weeks before our visit.
Darren Gunter — Google review
We have been visiting this carousel for many years as we are driving down I-70. In the summer, we try to time it so we are there when it is open and one can actually ride the carousel. It is such a magical treasure which combines art, craftsmanship, and history. The beauty of the carved and painted animals is beyond description and needs to be seen in person. It still only costs a quarter to ride. Be sure to visit their museum and ask about the history.
D. Olson — Google review
It is open only in the summer, but we were able to see this beautiful carousel through the windows. I would love to have a ride on it !
Alexandra Mccoy — Google review
Nice nostalgia. Classic beautiful carousel It was very inexpensive 25 cents to get in and they give you a wooden nickel as a souvenir
Unique open space with distinctive color variations & rock formations plus 4 miles of trails.
I went early to avoid the crowds and glad I did. It’s a very interesting area with lots to explore. When coming from the parking lot, you don’t see the coloring on the rock/clay formations but keep walking! The pinks and yellows are gorgeous. There are other hikes around the area with a definite marked trail system. Given I was still adjusting to the elevation in Colorado, I didn’t make it the entire loop. It’s free exploring and definitely worth the visit.
Leslie — Google review
I loved the Paint mines!!!! They are so pretty!!! The trails are easy to read and are an easy hike! I had such a good time walking around and experiencing the joy of nature! The colors were so unique which I thought was so cool! I can't say I'm mad about my experience at all! If you're ever in the area and want a really cool place to visit, I'd highly recommend this location.
Jonathan Loveridge — Google review
What a strange and beautiful place. This is coming from someone who grew up in Florida and spent the last 10+ years of her life in Alaska, so, I have never seen landscape like this. Lots of wild flowers blooming everywhere and a very nice walk. We only did about half of it due to having a young child with us and rain coming in. I will definitely be back to explore the rest!
Christy Weeks — Google review
This place rocks! Went on the 3.8 mile loop. Trail conditions were great and there was a lot of interesting native plans and views. Something about looking at the painted rocks settled into this vast grass plain was relaxing.
The interpretive guide Chris was teaching us all kind of cool history about the area and gave us a bunch of information about local wildlife we had seen.
Was an awesome time.
Mike Miller — Google review
A worthwhile point of interest. The rock formations are colorful and fascinating. I recommend going straight to the geological formations; the longer hiking trails are not very scenic. The interpreter on site was friendly and informative. No admission fee. Free parking.
thyblacksmith — Google review
Interesting place - nice easy hiking around a historical and geologically interesting location. Soft, multi-colored rock layers have been eroded into interesting shapes, and small canyons have been used by indigenous peoples as a source for coloring, used in pottery. Location is really off the beaten path (seems like it is in Kansas), but is right next to a huge wind turbine farm - strange juxtaposition of modern technology with the past. Well maintained, has (primitive) bathrooms. Looong drive on county roads from the North if you follow Google maps. Better to come across on Rt 86 before hitting the long dirt county roads.
Rich Bromberg — Google review
Lovely geological formation tucked into the prairie! I didn’t have time to explore the entire park, but I definitely wanted to! It was a great place to stretch my legs a little while passing through eastern Colorado. Plenty of nicely kept trail. The north entrance is the best place to start. There is no visitors center, but there is a map at the north entrance and information placards along the trail. There was a staff person walking around answering questions and providing additional information about the geology and history of the formation. There were restrooms at the north entrance and a port-a-potty at the southwest entrance.
Danielle Dewees — Google review
The landscape at this park is unlike anything I've seen before, with its vibrant and surreal rock formations. The vibrant colors and unique geology make it a photographer's dream come true📸🤳🏽
The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of lengths and difficulties, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. The interpretive signs along the way provide fascinating insights into the geological history of the park, adding an educational aspect to the experience.
I was particularly impressed with the efforts to preserve and protect the fragile formations here. It's clear that the community values this natural treasure and is committed to its conservation.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, or simply someone looking for a serene and picturesque escape, Paint Mines Interpretive Park is a must-visit. It's a place that will leave you in awe of the Earth's artistry.
I highly recommend a visit to this unique and beautiful park. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be explored and appreciated💖😍
Anastasiia Prokopenko — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous free park. It features what can be miles of walking if you walk all the way around and back, rock formations, and the ability to take lovely photos. Pets are not allowed. Most people seemed to be following the admonition not to climb, but it was disappointing to see that people had painted smiley faces on some of the rocks & we found and picked up some trash someone had left on the rocks. The path has gotten wet and been stepped in and hardened so if you have mobility considerations it would be best to use an electric device. There are about three outdoor bathrooms, two at the lower lot and one at the overlook. A couple benches but they are spread out.
A D — Google review
Beautiful landscape. Colorful formations that built up millions of years ago.
Named "Paint Mines" as native Americans were using the colors as paint by mixing them with oils.
Good for open walk but be prepared as it gets windy on the trails.
Abdulaziz — Google review
Beautiful, unique and very clean geological formation park, with strict rules. This shows at least that the park is really caring. The Paint Mines have a free car park, clean rest rooms and park rangers you can bombard with questions. The ways are very good for hiking. Would definitely recommend coming here. It’s just 30min from Colorado Springs by car.
Sari — Google review
This place is a nugget of Colorado. It's free to come here and walk the trail/see the formations, but no dogs, bikes, or horses are allowed on the trail. I'm pretty sure that's to protect the formations, because otherwise these trails are literally perfect for all three of those things 😆 Anyway, the formations are great - if you have kids or low mobility people with you, I'd suggest heading straight for the mines (make your first right from this parking lot). If you do so, the formations are maybe 1/2 mile away, if that. Take your time and enjoy it because there is really only one spot on this trail where all of these formations are. The rest of the trail is pretty much just a view of hills and wind turbines (which I enjoy, but not to say that's for everyone). There are "interpreters" that walk around, if you have any questions about the formations and they're really nice people. They will tell you to stop climbing or walking on the formations though -- don't be that person. Please be respectful and follow the rules.
There is a bathroom at the trailhead and there is also a way to donate listed on a sign, if you'd like to do so.
Rachel Brower — Google review
We stayed in Colorado Springs and drove about an hour to see the paint mines. It is totally worth the trip! It was beautiful and unlike anything we’ve ever seen. The kids loved having a cool place to run around and explore. Pictures don’t do it justice! We spent about an hour and a half here. It’s really cool and peaceful… and free!
Augusta Nguyen — Google review
From the lookout areas, it looks cool. But that's nothing compared to going down into the mines. You are walking through a maze of rock formations and colors. The shape of these formations seems to change as your viewing angle changes. I spent a whole morning in just a portion of the park. I liked starting early when it was cool, quite and fewer people. I'm planning to go back to explore the rest on future trips.
Richard Carver — Google review
Short 30 min drive from Colorado Springs.
There is several trails to explore within this park. I can’t remember but I think there’s a set of washrooms at the beginning of the park. Plenty of parking.
No dogs, no bicycles, no motor bikes, just walking.
A ton of wildflowers in the summer time, it’s really windy in this area. Bring sunscreen and bug spray!
The mines are beautiful, you can get close up and personal. Not too many people but very quiet and relaxing park. There is benches along the way to sit and watch the view. No water fountains, bring water!
Normal walking shoes are okay, no need for hiking shoes
They offer guided walks, make sure you go online and research the times
Vivian R (Viv) — Google review
I ended up visiting before a storm hit and to be honest the overcast weather was perfect. The pigments in the rock formations were even brighter because the sunlight couldn’t bleach out any of the colors. There wasn’t much of a crowd and as the rain started it was a humbling experience to be surrounded by the echoes of thunder rolling in. Of course my phone could do the experience no justice.
Audrey Klunenberg — Google review
Beautiful place! If you have more limited mobility, I recommend parking at the West Overlook parking lot. I was pleasantly surprised to find a newly added trail that connects the overlook to the badlands, making it much easier to access the hoodoos. (See edited map attached.) However, the only pit restroom is located at the main parking lot.
We enjoyed exploring the area all to ourselves around 230pm on a Friday in December at about 38°F. Come prepared with water and layers as the mines are in high prairie territory where there's not much around, and it can get pretty windy. We went on an overcast day, but I could see sunscreen being a necessity as well.
Great free place to see with great history, not far from the Colorado Springs area!! 👍
Cara M — Google review
Beautiful hidden gem that I almost don't want to share because of the serene, peaceful atmosphere it embodies.
If you want a nice little walk viewing incredibly colorful and vibrant canyon-like rock formations, filled with wildlife, clean and easy walking trails and some of the most beautiful sunrises, this is the place to see at least once.
Cassandra Ashcroft — Google review
I read the other reviews before we joined to the Paint Mines. However, I did not realize the park is larger than expected. We spent a few house going through every section. I would recommend a visit to everyone. We didn’t park at the restroom parking lot. We drove a little farther South and parked at the Overlook.
Shari Tyler — Google review
Probably one of the coolest areas I’ve ever seen. It’s in the high desert plains just east of Colorado Springs. Very interesting rock formations and varieties of colors which you don’t see every day. This area is very exposed and has little shade or anything to protect you from the sun and various other elements, so I would advise wearing proper clothing depending on the season and bringing water no matter what time. Hikes/trails were easy and everyone can access this area. Last section of road to get here is gravel.
Nick Walters — Google review
I don't know that I would go more than an hour out of my way to visit again, but I'm glad we made the trek from Denver this once. It was not crowded on a pretty weekend day, but it was extremely muddy in the winter, to the degree that I almost lost a shoe once or twice. That said, it's very unique. No dogs are allowed and I think that is definitely acceptable because this is a clearly fragile environment that needs to be protected. If you want a place to take a gentle walk with out of town visitors, or need photos of you on Mars for a dystopian futuristic film--- this is it ;). And bring a separate pair of shoes for the car ride home.
Meg Dimpfel — Google review
Super pretty, 100% worth it and free. about 40 mins from Colorado springs, 15 min from food and gas. bring water and a hat, no shade, lots of walking. Porta potties, but only in the parking lots about 1 to 1.5 miles away from formations. Don't wear your best, you'll scuff whatever you're wearing, and if you don't, you didn't explore enough.
Hakidoshi Sesshomaru — Google review
Beautiful and gem of a place tucked in Calhan, Colorado. Probably underrated. Should have been more famous. There are 3 parking points the main one at the Interpretive park, one in middle at the overlook point and one at the upper lot. We parked at the Overlook point. We parked here and it took about hour and half / 1.5 mile easily. Avoid on rainy days as it gets can slippery and muddy. Carry water, no water on site. No dogs allowed. Worth the drive. Close to Calhan town with gas stations and food options.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is an award-winning zoo with more than 750 animals across varied terrain. It is only ten minutes from the resort and guarantee genuine animal interactions.
This zoo is so good! If you're local I would definitely recommend a membership as it's a much better deal. We come every couple weeks and the kids are never bored. It's a bit of a hike in places so wear comfy shoes and I always bring my stroller for the younger kids and to pile our stuff on. Feeding the giraffes is always a highlight. Parking is free and they have a few options for eating but we always pack a lunch. Will definitely be returning often!
Melissa Bettencourt — Google review
Best zoo I've ever been to! The animal enclosures are large with shade and running water. You get to interact with the animals not just stare at them from a distance. Feeding the giraffes was amazing! My kids were excited to stand right next to penguins, wallaby and feed tropical birds. The best part is that the zoo has a timed entry which really helps control the crowd size, we went on Memorial weekend and had zero lines.
Terri A — Google review
I've been to the zoo 3 times in the past year. It's hands down the best zoo I've ever visited. The giraffe feeding experience is so exciting for all ages. But they have several other animal feeding experiences as well. They teach you a lot about conservation with their amazing staff and daily demonstrations. Time entry also keeps the crowds to a minimum so you can get up close with the animals. The Wallabies hopping around at your feet is one of my favorite attractions. And their Primate area is top notch. With informative employees all around to answer questions and teach you more about conservation. The views are breathtaking, and the food is great as well. I recommend the BBQ place first, but the others are also good 👍 and don't forget to visit the Shrine of the sun after the zoo, it's worth the drive up and included in your entry to the zoo.
Tara Holcomb — Google review
Fantastic zoo! The giraffe exhibit is my favorite part! Getting to feed the giraffes is such a cool experience! But be sure to walk around the exhibit to feed the giraffes away from the entrance! They want lettuce too! Lots of walking at this zoo, and a decent amount walking up hill. Brings lots of water!! And sun hat and sunscreen highly recommended!
Cara Conway — Google review
Incredible zoo experience! The exhibits present in a more natural environment being on the side of the mountain. All the zoo staff we have encountered have been very friendly and knowledgeable. The food court is awesome! Very easy to navigate and great prices for what is offered. The sky ride is a must as long as you're not afraid of heights. The view at the top is absolutely beautiful. The HUGE win associated with this zoo is the ability to feed the giraffes and have that interactive experience. The kiddos absolutely love it and adults do too!
Jessi K — Google review
We stopped here after flying in from FL and it was such a beautiful fun zoo. They had so much to offer and it was a very pleasant place to visit. The animals were so well cared and beautiful. A little hard to walk up and down the hills for this FL girl but we just loved it and took our time.
Angie Ellermeyer — Google review
If you’re looking for up in your face animal experience’s, this is definitely it!!!! I’ve never experienced anything to this caliber and I fell in love with Cheyenne mountain zoo!!! Absolutely family friendly for every age, and lots to explore in a day here!!!! It is on a mountain, so expect trekking steep pathways. I can even begin to talk about the views all around!!! Every where you look is just stunning. Easily the best zoo I’ve ever been to and now have high expectations moving forward.
Ty Humphreys — Google review
COZY AND UNIQUE LITTLE ZOO! LOVE GIRAFFES? MUST SEE!
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a little out of the way but well worth it. I've been to tons of zoos but this one was unique in its location and a far more relaxing experience than some of the larger zoos in the states.
If you love Giraffes, this is a must stop. There are eateries on site with amazing views from decks and a one-of-a-kind view from the gandola lift up and down the mountain.
surgioramon — Google review
Amazing zoo experience. Just WOW to the people that trained the Grizzly bears. They are so trained and is so fun to watch. I felt like a kid watching that. Besides that organization in the zoo is perfect. The water fans are amazing for this summer season. The feeding experiences are with it. Highly recommend
Cristhian C — Google review
I loved this zoo! What a beautiful day it was. I enjoyed feeding the giraffes ($3 or $5 bundles). They've got other animals you can feed as well. It was a little crowded today. Definitely recommend it to others. Parking is free. Remember to purchase your tickets in advance too.
Lily — Google review
I am only giving 3 out of 5 because they have the sky ride. That’s a major bonus. If it didn’t, I would give 2/5 based on animals and presentation. Staff was nice and helpful. Also, you can feed the giraffes, hippos, and elephants during certain times of the day which was pretty cool. You can pet the goats and giraffes fairly easily. It is high elevation so required comfortable shoes. You can pay $3 for all shuttle.
Shaneequa Henderson — Google review
It was one of the best zoos I have ever visited. I like that they have a set number of allowed visitors per day, which helps to keep the zoo less crowded and allows for a better quality exploration process. You definitely want to buy tickets in advance because there is no chance you get them at the gate. I have to say, tickets are very reasonably priced for a large zoo like that. Plus, they have military and senior discount.
We ended up walking around the zoo for hours. There is so much to see and do! Excellent location for the whole family. You can feed giraffes and budgies, admire elephants, and rhinos, enjoy the picturesque views of Colorado Springs and Cheyenne Mountain during the Sky Ride, and much more.
Olena V — Google review
This is one of the best zoos we have visited. The fact that is is built on a mountain was amazing. We went on 10/8/2023, the weather was great and the animals were active. Their enclosures seemed like their natural habitats. But even if the animals were not as active, the scenic views are breath taking. Love how they made look out spots to take the sites in. I have already recommended this place to other friends and family making a trip to Colorado Springs. We are from Bryan, Texas and would definitely go again when we make a trip back that way.
Mike H. — Google review
This zoo is one of the best I have been to. It’s built on the side of a mountain and it is so beautiful. The highlight is the 16 member giraffe tower which you can purchase lettuce to feed them anytime from opening to closing. Plus check out the animal encounters, they are fantastic! Some of the animals will even paint you a picture during the encounter. I highly recommend them. Check their website for details. You can easily spend the day.
Linny — Google review
Was great to be able to finally visit after hearing wonderful reports of the experience.
Visited with a toddler and a 7 year old who loved the experience especially feeding the giraffes (take cash for the lettuce) and the budgies!
If you have a toddler bring a STROLLER or something they can be carried with or your biceps are going to get a workout at altitude!
For any South Africans feeling homesick you can see the penguins from Boulder Beach!
Greg Muller — Google review
It is very windy near the entrance but gets better as you go. The zoo is 6,000 feet above sea level, so dress warm 😀 gloves are a must, especially for the little ones. Overall, the zoo is very nice and well built they also have a nice selection of places to eat and shop. We will be back on a warmer day 😀.
Brandon Tindle — Google review
The thing that sets the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo apart from other zoos is the number of ways you can get up close and interact with the animals. Most animals have feeding experiences (giraffes, tigers, elephants, goats, chickens, birds) that are reasonably priced compared to similar experiences at other zoos. There are also multiple ways to interact with the environment as you make your way around (two interactive plays areas, beavers dens, caves, large sculptures to climb). It felt like equal parts modern art gallery and zoo in places and made for a great immersive experience. Many of the animals were active while we were there and staff went out of their way to interact with guests and answer questions about the animals.
The only underwhelming exhibit, IMO, was the reptile and bird house. It had more of a pet store vibe looking at the snakes. For how well designed the rest of the exhibits are, I felt like they could do more in there.
If you want to buy food they offer a decent selection of standard zoo food (burgers, pizza, hot dogs, ice cream), although prepare to pay zoo prices. I appreciated that they sold specialty coffee drinks at the Cozy Goat that were decent. We went at lunch time, and while it was hectic and busy, the line moved quickly.
Be prepared to walk! Lots of incline walking because the zoo is in the side of the mountain. I loved the unique views this provided and the extra exercise, but for those not able to walk far, they offer a shuttle around for $3/day.
The ski lift wasn't operating when we went, but looks fun! There's also a carousel to ride for a fee.
Dana H — Google review
Seriously the best Zoo we have been too. You get up close and personal with a lot of the animals. They take great care of all their animals and it's a very clean zoo. My favorite is feeding the giraffes and seeing the penguins up close! We are locals and bought a yearly family pass because the savings are amazing and we get to visit often! Well worth the trip, even in the winter!
Haley Benardino — Google review
This zoo is definitely one of a kind! We got to feed the giraffe and walk up the mountain for amazing views. You could also feed elephants during specific times, but we missed that. There are also restaurants here to grab a quick bite or something to drink. Word of advice is to dress comfortably and bring your own water! Sunscreen is a must and definitely bring sunglasses and / or a hat!
Mae Bangtan — Google review
This was the best zoo I have ever visited. Of course the giraffes were amazing. (There are so many and many people fees them right by where by food but walk down and around the circle and they are on both sides hungry). There fans and water stations everywhere. Kids 4-16 loved it. Each animal area has a "play area" like a hippo that sprays water, jungle gym by monkeys, alligator play. The interactive place has a 🦥 sloth just hanging above your head!
VERY IMPORTANT- it is a timed ticket entry. We arrived at 10 and were not able to get ticketed entry until 1. We went to old Town Colorado Springs and walked around and got ice-cream. (Recommend getting tickets ahead of time). We brought our wagon full of drinks and snacks in a bag and no one said anything. Highly recommend.
Kimberly Sober — Google review
The zoo is an absolute delignt!
The variety of species on display was truly impressive. It was a joy to observe these incredible creatures up close and learn about their behaviors and unique characteristics.
The staff at the zoo were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate.
To top it all off, the zoo provided a clean and well-maintained environment for everyone to enjoy. The pathways were well-marked, making it easy to navigate, and there were plenty of rest areas and refreshment options available.
Inna S — Google review
Fantastic zoo. I've been to both the Omaha and San Diego zoos and while those are also great, there was something special about this one. It felt much more intimate than those. The layout of the zoo is great and you really felt like it was an experience. It being on the side of a beautiful mountain certainly helped the ambiance. It felt more natural than most zoos. Highly recommend.
Dave Slosar — Google review
What a great experience! We came late Sunday afternoon to fill our day in CO Springs and this place did not disappoint. The cold kept most of the crowds away so it felt like we had the place to ourselves and it seemed like the animals loved the lower temps too because every enclosure had active and moving animals. The indoor buildings were spaced perfectly that when we felt chilled we could duck right in and warm up. The staff was also very friendly and helped me get some great selfies with the penguins while they were out too!
Bryce H — Google review
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is such a unique and beautiful zoo to visit. It is the only zoo that is built upon a mountain side. This makes this particular zoo very unique because of the elevation change that you get when visiting the zoo. You can be higher on the mountain side and look over the rest of the zoo sitting below you. They have a lot of very spacious and well put together enclosures with many different and unique species of animals. I would highly recommend visiting the giraffe feeding area, where they is a tall boardwalk setup that you can walk around and be at the giraffes height and feed them by hand. I've visited many zoos and this one is probably the most unique and cool zoo to check out.
B A — Google review
I've been to several zoos but never expected one so nice at this high elevation! It's very well maintained and has more giraffes than any zoo in the country! My granddaughter loved feeding them! So did my wife! You can easily spend several hours there, and there are several places to hide in the shade on a hot summer day. This place is really worth seeing!
Kelly Smith — Google review
Great Mountain zoo. A new experience! Views are awesome. It’s at around 6700 feet and tucked in Colorado Springs. Tickets around $30. Shrine was under renovation so could not visit. They could have put that up on website. Saw many Giraffes, elephants, couple of mountain lions, and variety of animals. Plenty of restrooms. The whole park is few miles of walk.
Karan Goenka — Google review
Went to the Electric Safari and wow it is so beautiful! They had an amazing drone show that was so cool! One of my favorite zoos. I love that you can interact with the animals. Feeding the giraffes is my favorite part :) Highly recommend going there anytime. But the Electric Safari was so much fun.
Nicole Barnhart (SailorJuicy) — Google review
This zoo is AMAZING! 5 star experience. Beautiful, clean, lots of interactive areas, clean bathrooms at every turn. Reasonable food prices. Very active animals and friendly staff. Feeding the giraffes was so fun and the first thing you walk in to upon entry. We’ve been to several larger zoos but this one takes the cake. Winding paths up and down the mountain made it unique to other zoos.
Jessica Solis — Google review
I've been to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo a total of four times while I was stationed at Fort Carson, CO. I got the privilege of visiting the wonderfully cared for animals on Christmas day 2023 during the beautifully orchestrated Electric Safari event; I've been to two Electric Moonlight events; and one "regular" visit with my mother. Nothing is "regular" about this zoo!! Every time I got to visit, it was a new experience! I highly recommend a membership, and the advance ticket system works splendidly! All the staff is warm, kind, knowledgeable, and professional - you can tell they love the animals! The interactive experiences are fun for all ages!
Brittany Nunez — Google review
This is an AWESOME zoo! There's a big variety of animals and several opportunities for animal interaction. You can feed some of the animals and many of them you get to see up close. The tiger walked right up to the viewing window it was great. Big animals like elephants hippos and rhinos, small animals and reptiles like snakes, lizards, penguins, birds and many in between. It is up and downhill but it's so worth the walk.
Jornai — Google review
i loved this zoo so much!!! i want to go back so bad!! by far the best ive been to!
I got to feed and pet a Giraffe! it was cool being so close to the bears and wolves, it was almost like i could reach out and pet them! we were there from 6 am until like 4 pm, the food was great!
Tiana Rust — Google review
This is a must do when in the area. Feeding the giraffes was definitely a highlight, but having the pleasure of almost being nose to nose with mating penguins...AMAZING!!! I absolutely recommend driving up to the shrine (this is included with your zoo pass admission) as a delightful addition to the zoo. They are a non-profit that does not rely on tax income. So feel free to spend 💰 for a good and fun cause.
S — Google review
4.8
(21260)
•
4.5
(4921)
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
Broadmoor Seven Falls is a magnificent waterfall series located in a 1,400-foot-wall box canyon. There are walking and hiking trails, as well as an optional Broadmoor Soaring Adventure that culminates in a rappeland.
This was a cool experience m. I booked a ticket with my mom and her fiancé! We took a trolley to the actual site and it was a beautiful experience! There is a trolley once you get there to take you up to the views or you can walk (we chose to walk). Then there are elevators to get up. It’s definitely more of a sight seeing thing than it is a hike! Well worth the time and money spent!
Jeremy Cox — Google review
You cannot drive directly to the falls. There are couple of parking lots closer to this location where you can park and walk. But, there are shuttles from this location which will take you the park area (free of cost), where you can purchase the entry tickets. It’s $17 for the adult and $11 for the kids. The falls are around a mile away from the ticket counter. You can purchase a shuttle ride as well for an additional $2 dollars but we liked to walk and enjoy the views. Once you get to the falls, take the elevator to the seven falls sign to enjoy the beautiful view of the seven falls. You could take the stairs too if you’d like. Afterwards, you could visit the actual falls and if interested take the stairs to the top of the falls.
Raghavendra Aditya M — Google review
We got an opportunity to visit this amazing place. We visited without any prior planning, so we wasted lot of time because of this reason.
We reached the right place but we could not get the opportunity to park our car because there was a shuttle bus service for this park. We spend like an hour to wait for our turn in the specified parking lot to get our turn.
When we entered the park, there was lot of walk to reach to the right attraction place but there was still a shuttle inside the park to take to the right place and also the lift to go to the high mountain spot from where we could see the broad view for this park.
one visit was enough to see this park or the surrounding attractions for this park, we may visit sometimes again.
Sheraz Ahmed (Your Sir Jee) — Google review
Great place to get back to nature! Beautiful waterfall! Ticket is $17. Drove up to the main parking lot then took a shuttle to the 7 fall location, they have a ticket booth onsite. 15 mins walk up to main water falls and 224 stairs up to the major hike trail! Great sightseeing spot.
N J — Google review
Went to Seven Falls to visit the water falls and hiking routes. First, you must park near the equestrian/event center and take a shuttle to the park entrance. Free Shuttle service runs from 10:00 am to 5:45 pm. There are guides to help you through the gate to the ticket booth. General admission is $17.00. Extra $ for a park Shuttle service to the Seven Falls cliffs. It's about a mile walk to the actual water fall. It's a beautiful walk if your willing to walk up hill all the way.
There are restrooms along the way and a gift shop near the Falls. There is a self guided tour through a tunnel. At the end of the tunnel their is an elevator that takes you to the Eagles Nest. The restaurant was closed. They claimed it was due to COVID-19 , but rather I believe it is hiring issues. It's hard to find employees right now.
The Seven Falls were incredible but climbing the ladders were steep. But once you get on top their are a couple of trails. You can get a great view of Colorado Springs at Inspiration Point from the top of the mountain. It's a great way to spend hiking at Colorado Springs.
Yardarm Ramon — Google review
I absolutely loved this gorgeous place. I know there are many great locations with free entry in Colorado, but this place is definitely worth the entry fee. Strategically located photo spots provide excellent spots for those who need to expand their photo libraries. The Bubble Waffle Sundaes Food Truck with their delicious Ice-cream adds a little extra to your wonderful experience.
Olena V — Google review
All employees that I encountered were very pleasant. It was quite the walk from where you were dropped off by the shuttle to the base of the falls, but it was so beautiful. The stairs mixed with the altitude made for quite the challenge but we made it. It would be nice if the stairs had been a bit wider to accommodate people going up and down at the same time. But otherwise the views were amazing and we truly enjoyed visiting. Will be back the next time we visit Colorado!
Ashley Cook — Google review
There's a scenic and gentle 1-mile hike to the falls from the gate. Then two sets of steep and challenging stairs go straight up the falls or from the Eagles Nest top there is a separate high-up view of the falls, which is also elevator accessible. The waterfalls and views are spectacular and the trails at the top are worth the extra effort to explore a little more of the area. Sep 2023
James Welsh — Google review
Had a wonderful time. The parking is about 9 minutes away if you want to park and take a free shuttle. There are other places you might be able to get a spot close by and walk to the entrance.
You can buy your tickets online or at the site but it's best to do online. The "tram" that takes you up the walk to top is good if the 3/4 mi hike is too much. But it's a decent incline hike to the top. Where the restaurant is and where the falls are.
The stairs are steep and straight up with a small rest at the middle. It's a good climb but the altitude is probably more of an issue for people than the stairs. Take your time. All the staff we met along the way were great. Cute little souvenir shop. Lots of picture opportunities.
Johnny Crow — Google review
Just beautiful and breath taking… Awe inspiring… I could just saying poetic things about this experience! If you are in the area it’s a must see. It wasn’t high on my bucket list the day I visited because I didn’t understand what I was going to see. I wholesomely can say I wish it was the place I spent the most time that day at. The views are breath taking. The park is clean and orderly and the staff attending the park were incredibly nice and you could tell they really cared about the park. The water falls were fun to see. The stairs I’d you climb up can be scary to take caution before attempting it! Other than that! Just enjoy cause if you’re anything of a nature lover this place will fill you up with Joy. They also have shuttles for those who may need those services to enjoy the park as well! The park fee I believe is $16.50 plus any additional options. Check their website for more details as weather changes etc.
Have fun!
Peter Fairfield — Google review
Despite the rain, it was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience! My wife and I walked to the falls instead of taking the shuttle. Plus due to the rain, we were handed umbrellas for the time we were there. Although it was little under a mile, the scenic views made it totally worth it. Plus viewing the falls from the elevator was incredible. The walk up the stairs to the top was nerve racking (rightfully so especially in the rain) but totally worth it.
Roddrick Ellis — Google review
Cool place to see. Once we parked, they bused us to the falls area. There is a tram you can take up to the falls if you prefer not to walk up there. There is also an elevator you can use to view the falls (or stairs if you want a challenge, I did). Also, there are stairs up by the falls that you can take and view the falls from the top (I did not). Around 7-7:30, they light up the falls. It wasn't dark enough at that time when we went and the lights were hard to see. We did have to wait in line to be bused back to the parking area since it was closing time.
Julie Creech — Google review
This is such a beautiful place to visit! You walk quite a bit and there are a lot of stairs, but the views are so beautiful and breathtaking. The hikes above the falls are so serene and worth the visit. Well worth the $18 entrance fee. Bring your own water and snacks. Drinks are $5 (water bottle or soda)
Juanita Raquel Adams-Evans — Google review
Park across the Walmart (you will see signs everywhere) and a trolley takes you to the entrance. Beautiful weather, gorgeous scenery, stroller friendly, couldn’t go up the stairs because of the snow but luckily there is an elevator that can take you to the top. We enjoyed our time here and highly recommend having lunch at the restaurant called 1858 within the park, it’s a must!
Kristen Bardelas — Google review
Love this place! Professional and clean. The falls are beautiful and there are options for all ability levels. The walk to the base is lovely. The stairs are steep but doable. This is a unique experience you should definitely take part in. Senior tickets (60+) are $15 and adults $18. But well worth the price. Spent about 2 hrs there and loved every minute of it. You can purchase tickets in advance, but I did not and was able to buy them at the park. But if you are going in the summer (which is peak season) I would recommend maybe getting tickets ahead of time so you can be sure you have a spot to get in
MysteriousHeadlines — Google review
Very professional operation to help the flow of visitors transport. Free shuttle to the Seven Falls location from a designated parking area was very efficient. The short hike from the park entrance gave time to take in the surroundings. So glad to see this canyon up close. Very spectacular. The restaurant was perfect for our birthday lunch.
Irv Rutan — Google review
This place was amazing to visit, definitely a must if you're visiting anywhere within an hour of it. The trails are all kept neat and picked up along with having clear paths to ensure you don't lose track of where you're heading. The trams are very timely and worth the $4 a ticket. The restrooms are very clean but there's no handicap access.
Kaeden Robbins — Google review
This is a beautiful place to visit and get your exercise. The steps up to the eagles nest was somewhere around 175-185 steps. There was an elevator that you could use. Then for the waterfall, there was about 285 steps. If the gift shop would have had a t-shirt that said "I made it to the top and survived", I probably would have purchased it.
james mobley — Google review
Absolutely beautiful walk through the canyon up to the waterfall and then the waterfall itself is beautiful. We also visited the restaurant while we were there and it was very good. Would highly recommend this attraction.
Jessica Henry — Google review
This is a great hike for the family. Not everyone can do it, but you can pay to get a ride up the mountain where you can take an elevator to the other part of a trail.
It takes over 2 to 3 hours.
Denise Schroedl — Google review
Staff was very friendly and inviting even the tourists were kind and friendly. Bus staff were professional, helpful and informative. Would recommend more people take this trip when the stairs are actually open.
Kingshock “DE5THSHOCK” Killerwatt — Google review
4.4
(5554)
•
4.0
(2014)
1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, USA
Old Colorado City, formerly known as Colorado City during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, is a bustling area filled with galleries, gift stores, jewelers, candy shops, and dining options ranging from American eateries to Italian trattorias and Greek tavernas. The 19th-century brick buildings along Colorado Avenue house these establishments. The area has preserved its original look by revitalizing the architecture and removing modern signs while adding a touch of 21st-century flair to the historical district.
The Western Museum of Mining & Industry is a historic institution that preserves the history of mining and industry in the American West. The museum has an extensive collection of machinery from across various industries, including coal and steam engines. It's located north of Colorado Springs and is a great place to learn about the impact that these industries had on America during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Great museum with tours and interactive exhibits. The tour guides also activate the mining equipment, really cool history.
Kurt Semon — Google review
We had a nice time at the museum today and received a wonderful tour from our guide. He was super knowledgeable and very patient with us as we walked through each part of the museum. It was nice that they kind of modeled a portion of the museum as if we were in a real mine. There is also a bunch of machinery that still works and our guide gave us a sample of each one of them as we walked through the museum.
Rachel Brower — Google review
Came for the Pumpkin patch, they had plenty of activities to do for the kids. The giant make shift tube slide was the favorite. Kids learned how to press apple cider the old fashioned way, attended a magic show, and went on a hay ride tour of the old mining structures. Staff was friendly and the kids also liked the pumpkin smashing area, great fun support your local museums!
Calvin Burkhart — Google review
Come and learn how the west was built from the underground up! Something to learn around every corner! Watch century old machinery roar back to life on the guided tours and pan for gold and other minerals at the end! Staff is friendly and helpful, museum is loaded with history inside and out, lots of unique goodies in the gift shop, well lit and very clean displays. A wonderful place to explore and learn about the modern world shaped by the industry of the deep earth.
Kerri Clemmons — Google review
If you are at all interested in mining, this is one of the coolest museums you can visit. The tour is incredibly informative and there is gold panning included with admission! What I didn't expect is the many engine and contraptions actually work. Super cool and definitely worth the visit!
Andrew Payton — Google review
This was a neat stop in Colorado Springs learning about mining! We had a wonderful guide give us a quick tour and demonstration of the machines in the museum. Definitely recommend!! You can also pan for gold if you choose.
Melissa Shepard — Google review
My boyfriend and I stopped in on a whim to see the museum. We got to mine for gold. It was a wonderful spur of the moment experience. We also got to see the luminescent stones. They are absolutely beautiful.
Brittney Harris — Google review
We found this museum wandering Scottsdale on a 107F day, too hot! We found this museum decided to pop in air con, glad we did. We spent few hours, a lot of western stuff to see, chaps, spurs, guns, saddles all beautifully set out.
Native American art, beadwork, pottery and bronze statues were amazing.
Tina Stokes — Google review
Brought my family here while visiting Colorado Springs. We were hoping for a hike, but it was overcast, windy and snowing so we opted inside. We took the guided tour and learned so much about the evolution of mining and industry. My 17 year old is considering industrial engineering and was intrigued with all the machinery that still works. We braved the cold to walk around the outside exhibits afterwards.
Carla Osuna — Google review
My sons and I went there while we were in Colorado. There you will find rocks, gems that have been excavated some years ago and some new ones as well. They have several old mining machines in the property and inside that range from fifty to over 100 years old. It's awesome to see how mining was done years ago. There's also a section where you can " Pine for gold" inside. It's truly amazing. There is plenty of parking.
James Johnson — Google review
Went to the museum for their pumpkin patch and we had a great time! Loved exploring the grounds and picking pumpkins. Also go to play some games and watch a Blacksmith working his magic!!
Amanda Quinn — Google review
Definitely do one of the guided tours. The written materials are good but the tour gives you demonstrations of how the engines worked. Amazing how these heavy mining machines were moved and used.
mike skiinghousedad — Google review
This is a well-curated museum, and the guided tours provide exceptional insight into the history of mining in Colorado. The tour guide operates some of the machinery in the museum, which is a treat for gearheads like me.
Paul Ristuccia — Google review
This little museum was surprisingly interesting and very well done. They offer a fairly quick guided tour that even the children enjoyed, and their old steam engines now operate on compressed air and are quite impressive. They've built some extraordinary structures on their grounds.
Michael Kearney — Google review
Totally enjoyed the museum. Lots to see and to learn. Staff was very informative.
Melody Leclair — Google review
This museum I at first thought was going to be a small town feel museum, but it exceeded my expectations! I enjoyed the guided adult tour, the tour guide was awesome! The museum was very unique and interesting and the machines actually work which is shocking and cool! I will definitely tell everyone I know to go to this museum!
Ashley Timmermeyer — Google review
I went here on a Saturday and was able to catch the 1pm tour. Our tour guide Ryan was very informative, engaging, and humorous! We walked through the entire museum, and he highlighted the different topics in a digestible and conversational way. I ended up walking through the entire museum again after the tour ended to read all the little text snippets that we walked past. (Don't worry about missing any details; I came to realize that our guide in one shape or another included all the information in his tour!!) I definitely recommend going to the museum during a tour time! During the tour some of the machines are also turned on which is very impressive to see in action! There is also lots to see outside, so you can easily spend 20+ min walking around. If you're like me who went during the winter, make sure you're bundled up so you don't want to rush inside!
Natalia — Google review
4.7
(893)
•
4.5
(226)
225 North Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921, USA
Aurora Reservoir is a sprawling 800-acre water body offering various recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating. Visitors can enjoy paddle boarding or rent kayaks to explore the reservoir. The park also features an archery range and picnic shelters for gatherings. While it can get busy during peak times like July 4th weekend, the water is generally clean with designated swimming areas and lifeguards on duty.
This reservoir is a great place to spend time with family and friends. A group of friends and I went fishing and had a great time. Bathrooms were clean and the staff was friendly. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who is looking for a good place to spend time outside.
Michael Herrera — Google review
As a native of Colorado, surprisingly, I've never been here. I came out for a birthday party and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of open space on the beach and throughout the park. There was plenty of parking, paved ramps leading to the beach, and not too many people swimming in the dedicated swimming area. The restrooms were clean, and so was the beach. There were several lifeguards on deck. You can also rent shaded gazebos for parties and whatnot.
Lorenzo R. C — Google review
My favorite place to hike and fish close to home, always clean bathrooms and trails, the rangers and staff make you feel welcome and the most amazing they will move out of the trails making sure you and your dog are safe. They take always time to answer and educate yourself about this beautiful place in Colorado.
Claude Sullice — Google review
Great place to catch some sun. They have a beach area. You can rent paddle boards or kayaks per hour. Kayaks are $20 an hour. The time flys so keep track of your time on the water. Lots of parking. Definitely highly recommend this location to chill with family or friends. Come check it out to cool off.
Zesty Zebras — Google review
Busy on July 4th weekend. Water appears clean. Swimming area is small and crowded but a separate lap swimming area was available. Lifeguards were on duty. $10/vehicle to enter. Kayaks/paddle boards available to rent. Electric motor boats only. Dogs allowed on grassy area only (not on sand). Families bring tents and grills as well as speakers so expect dueling soundtracks. Bathrooms are gross but not terrible (not the worse that I’ve seen at a public beach) and only foot showers available.
Jennifer Le — Google review
An incredible reservoir/beach/park that has everything you need for a great weekend beach visit (for Colorado). A purchased day pass or season pass is required to get in, but the season pass is very well priced for a whole year of access to this body of water! Went last week with our dog to learn the area and it was a great time not even getting in the water at all. This weekend we went out early to go paddle boarding/kayaking and the experience was next to none. Beautiful calm blue water and great views of Colorado that stretches for miles completes the experience of a great boating session! I anticipate many more visits here as this small little area packs a lot of fun!
Eric Treutle — Google review
I love this lake!! Been coming here since I was a little girl. Water is way cleaner than other lakes I know... it gets full but fun ambient
Sarai Guzman — Google review
Aurora reservoir is good picnic place.. it has multiple picnic tables, grills.. people celebrate birthday at this place.. water is clean, lifeguards are on duty.. entry fee for non residents is 10 dollars.. restrooms are available and are maintained.. showers are available inside.. parking is adequate.. you can rent kayaks and boats..
Ashish Borate — Google review
I had a great time with my family. There is a beach with lifeguards. Children's playground, places for cooking meat. Everything is clean and tidy
Narine Tevosian — Google review
Fun sandy beach for a summer swim. Water in July was a little cool but perfectly swimmable. There's a playground for little ones and separated shallow wading area, swimming lanes, and boat area.
Scott Woods — Google review
The reservoir is a staple in the community. I was a little surprised to see that they raised the weekend price to 15$ instead of the standard 10$ no matter the day. regardless we took our paddle board, our kayaks, canoes and dog to the beach. Dogs are allowed as long as they stay on the opposite side of the white fence ( not on the actual beach) but it’s still pretty close to the water line where we were swimming/using the water products. There is many people on the water using kayaks and canoes, the same rules stand that only electric motors are allowed , nothing with gas or chemicals like that. Good to know that they continue to care for the well being of the water quality. The quality of the bathrooms were also quite nice. Very clean and multiples stalls available. Very nice place to spend the day with family and friends.
Abigail Gardie — Google review
A definite respet from the daily grind. Quiet and quant during the week. Lively and happening on weekends. The lake is amazing... especially without motorized boats... a very tranquil experience paddle boarding. Great picnic places and a beautiful walking trail around the lake.
Gita Patel — Google review
The stunning lake boasts crystal clear water free from gas motors, making it the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of a giant rainbow trout. With two state fish records already under its belt, it's only a matter of time before this becomes a gold medal fishing spot. The eight-mile loop surrounding the lake offers breathtaking views of the natural surroundings and a plethora of wildlife sightings. Keep an eye out for deer, antelope, coyotes, snakes, bald eagles, and a variety of fascinating water birds that call this area home. Each moment spent exploring this beautiful landscape is sure to be unforgettable.
Brad Hutchison — Google review
Absolutely the best place to go!! It wasn't crowded at all. The water levels where low but what can you expect when there hasn't been any rain. The beach was clean and there was life guards and park rangers on duty. Everyone was having a good time.Glad I found this place.
Pikes Peak is a well-known mountain peak in Colorado that stands at 14,110ft and is made of pink granite. While not the tallest of Colorado's 14ers, it's famous for its stunning views and attracts over half a million visitors every year. The Ute tribe originally named it the Mountain of the Sun, which accurately describes this majestic peak that rises straight up from the plains.
Hiked up through Barr trail and drove back from the top. Thanks to my friend who came up in his car to pick us up. Hard and enjoyable hike with beautiful views along the way. Views from the top were stunning! Would love to travel in the train next time. Our drive down was really fantastic with lot of great stops to enjoy the nature and views!
G J — Google review
America's Mountain is an amazing place to visit. We took the Cog Railway to the top and we were left awe struck. It's no wonder America the Beautiful was inspired by Pike's Peak.
You can hike 13 miles up, take the train, or drive to the top. No matter which way you go, be sure to walk all the way around the top and venture through the visitors center too.
Ben Hommerding — Google review
We went to the top of the mountain through the car, and it was amazing. Views were breathtaking, and we had an excellent time..if you are traveling with kids, they might feel a little light-headed, and the drive up to the mountain is not for the faint heart.
Uday Gundapaneni — Google review
This is a unique high elevation summit experience. There are not a lot of mountains you can drive, hike, or take a railway to the top. The visitor center is nice. The views 360⁰ are spectacular. The summit is very busy.
Jocelyn Dowdy — Google review
One of the very nice outdoor spots to visit in the Denver area. We visited during Labor Day weekend. It was so crowded. It needs a pass to visit the top of the peak. We got lucky to visit the peak despite no planning from our side. The view from the top was absolutely gorgeous. I was pleasantly surprised to see the train service to the top. Next time, I will plan for it. The 360 degree view from the top was spectacular. Sitting at an altitude of 14000+ feet, I could feel the altitude and reduce oxygen levels. The rangers also check for brake pads temperature on the way down and provide recommendations based on the result. In our case, we were asked to wait for 30-40 mins as the brake pads temperature reading was too high. The rangers recommend turning off AC on the way up and using lower gear on the way down.
Bharani Rajendiran — Google review
A very fun day drive and summit experience. Make sure to be ready for the reduced oxygen at the higher elevations. It will be about 20 degrees colder at the Summit, as well.
Orbitals — Google review
Nothing but amazing things to say about this mountain stunning, beautiful, peaceful, ultimate serenity just being out there. I've gone there twice in the last 3 years! Can't get enough of the beauty!
Kevin M — Google review
I’m terrified of heights and I had to drive along those narrow roads with those steep drop offs but I’d do it again to see that view. It really makes you appreciate nature and just how vast the Rocky Mountains are. My photos couldn’t do it justice but just go and see it. If you’re considering it just go do it. Also try the Pikes Peak doughnuts at the cafeteria and check out the gift shop!
Harvey Flowers — Google review
Beautiful peaks to drive to. Landscape wise, not much to see. The challenge is can you withstand the %66 oxygen level and the cold and wind. Not many scenic spot.
Tin Nguyen — Google review
Great tourist site to visit . We took the drive up to Pikes Peak and the views. OMG … We were awe struck.. God has placed so much beauty to see and enjoy ..Will come back again.
Celeste Villegas — Google review
Awesome drive up the mountain in your own vehicle except the last three miles in a bus. Just be sure to drink lots of water to keep from getting altitude sickness. The food at the cafe was really good also and reasonably priced
Randy — Google review
We drove to the top but I have been up hiking and by cograil in the past. Each way to go up gives an amazing experience with breathtaking views. I couldn't believe how much snow was on the summit for later June. I love going up this peak and I enjoyed the amazing doughnuts at the top.
Taylor West — Google review
Ridiculous that they charge $50+ to drive up a mountain... But it's definitely something to check off your list if you're in the area. The $15 admission is if you're not going to the top.
We did not make reservations and were allowed entry with no problem.
Make sure your brakes are in good condition and that you know how to drive downhill without using them (using low gears instead).
Set aside around 3+ hrs for the trip depending on how long your stop offs are. Bring snacks and water.
Beautiful scenery. Be sure to go when the weather is clear and have some high altitude donuts at the top... They really are amazing. The gift shop sells some cool stuff that you can only get there.
If you have kids, be sure to check out the North Pole amusement park.
Diane B — Google review
The views were astonishing. It was a great experience. My kids thought they were on top of the world. And in a way they were kind of right.. It was a little scary driving up there but it was definitely worth it.
Erica Williams — Google review
Jaw Droping view once you get to the top. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND GOING Great view and couple trails near the peak with views definitely if your traveling near Colorado stop there and car accessible all the way to the peak tons of snow even when I went in Late July.
Nayel Bhakta — Google review
An absolutely incredible experience – reaching 14,115 feet up was mind-blowing! Describing the view from the top is a challenge; it's something you truly understand once you've lived it. Opting for the railway train ascent, I would wholeheartedly give it a 💯 recommendation! 🚂🏔️👌
Kat Bulgado — Google review
It is a wonderful experience.
The whole experience was wonderful.
The train journey is awesome with the commentary by the conductor and the staffs are great.
Train is well maintained. Sights and path are very beautiful.
It should be a must visit place and journey.
Highly recommended.
Vishnu — Google review
Wow!! Is the best way to describe this experience. The drive up takes about an hour and it is best to go slow and steady especially around the turns. The view driving up is beautiful but once you get to the top, WOW it is just amazing. It was cold when we went but the experience is so worth it, just dress appropriately. Also don't forget to stop along the way up because there are some really beautiful places to see and take photos. 😊
Reviews by Betty — Google review
Beautiful and fun drive to the summit, it’s 19 miles one way and has lots of gorgeous views! Lots of scenic viewpoints on the way up, we also saw a herd of bighorn sheep! The visitor center at the top is really cool also and you can look in all directions. Highly recommend! Cost $32 for the two of us to come up
Dennis Gavrilenko — Google review
Just amazingly worth it. We tried to get a reservation to drive to the top, but couldn’t. But we were able to drive to mile 16 and park and then ride the free shuttle the next 4 miles to the top. It was a pretty cold day, but we did it in shorts and it really wasn’t all that bad. The views were amazing.
Mark Helms — Google review
A definite MUST see if you are in the Colorado Springs area! The pics do not do this ride justice by far. A few things to note.
Train is about 1 hour up and a little less back down with about 30 minutes at the peak, so plan for about 3 hours.
It will be cold at the top, so plan accordingly! We went up in July and there was still snow.
Also, check the weather and buy tickets in advance. I would recommend sitting on the 3 seat side. We were lucky to have a break in the clouds on the way up, but at the top and the way down, we were in the clouds and had little visibility.
Still an awesome experience that we will do again!
Aaron Seiser — Google review
This place is so beautiful! The views are incredible.
I did not trust myself to drive up or down the mountain so we used Buggy Tours. I highly recommend checking them out. Joe was very knowledgeable and explained all the cool things along the way. Stopped at the best spots for a picture. The summit was cloudy the time we went but the views up and down were perfect.
I highly recommend going to the summit (I’ve been there in the past when not cloudy) you will not regret it, I also recommend checking out Buggy Tours for a ride up and back.
Angelina S — Google review
Wow!! What an incredible time! Make sure to make reservations for your drive up. There is a great map they give you with points of interest on the way. Plenty of places to stop and get some really amazing pictures. Make sure if you are going slow to pull over to let the faster traffic around you. They provide a lot of areas to pull over so you can take your time and enjoy your drive while not holding up people that want to go faster. At the top there is a visitor center with a little museum, gift shop and cafe. Make sure to get your donuts in the cafe! There is a great amount of parking and you can walk around the whole area and get some amazing views. Don’t miss out on this adventure!!
Cheryl Evans — Google review
Breath taking views that we will remember for ever. Must do adventure but please bring jackets on any date if the year. Loved the cog train.
Malissa F — Google review
I highly recommend this if you’re visiting Colorado . I also recommend this opposed to taking the train ride up to the mountain . The ride up and down is an hour… it’s about 15$ a person… and obviously gas to go up and down the mountain. But beautiful views.. and get a donut they’re good!
Kevin R — Google review
Beautiful and tiring. Went to the trailhead straight from the airport and started the hike at 2am on last Saturday 8/26. Paid $30 at the parking lot so don’t forget otherwise you’ll get a $50 ticket. Didn’t see a single soul for first 4 hours and it was pretty dark, reminded me of Blair Witch movie. Last 2-3 miles are tough but worth the payoff. Also, definitely chilly as you get higher so have layers. There is a cafe at the top so enjoyed the cheeseburger and drinks. Water is available to refill along the way so have a filter bottle. I went through 4Liters; Barr camp opens around 7.30am so I was too early but that’s a good stop to rest on the way around 6 miles in or camp at if you want to do this hike over two days. Beautiful views once you get out of the Forrest. There is a train that takes you all the way up and back so do that if you don’t want the workout or you can drive up the paved road. Took me 11hrs total to get to the top and back, around 23.88miles. Hike isn’t technical so anyone can do it as long as you’ve endurance. Highly recommended!!!!
SM — Google review
Breathtaking views! We were only able to go up to mile 13 due to the weather, but it was some of the most beautiful views! Highly recommend taking this journey. We were able to see a couple of moose as well! And we found Big Foot!
Tish N — Google review
Pikes Peak is definitely a must see tourist destination for anyone to visit because of the unbelievable views you get from a top the mountain. The drive up to the top of the mountain is beautiful in itself and is quite invigorating. The amount of switch backs and curves while traveling up makes for an exciting experience. Once you make it to the top, you get a view that is quite unique and truly unbelievable. They have a restaurant at the top where you can grab lunch at. There are multiple spots where you can pull off the road and get some great photo opportunities.
B A — Google review
Probably one of the best things I've ever experienced. I would recommend spending some time in Colorado Springs for a day or two prior to driving up. Get used to the altitude and drink LOTS of water because the lack of oxygen up here WILL make it difficult to walk. Seriously, don't drive up and get dizzy and then not be able to drive back down. There are no guard rails.
Mozz Bagels — Google review
This trendy place is still worth seeing. Yes, the road is steep, and some may be frightened by the sheer drops, but don't let that stop you. The views are spectacular, and it's most likely you won't ever be at that elevation again, especially after being able to drive there! Next time I come here, I want to hike it or take the train. We also saw a Bear near the cliffs below us. Not too often you see them in the wild.
Kelly Smith — Google review
Views for miles and miles. Constantly changing panorama. There's a reason America the Beautiful lyrics were inspired by a visit to Pikes Peak and not New Jersey. Take it slow on the winding road, make sure you have plenty of gas and pack warmer clothes than you think you need.
I. Vladimirovich — Google review
Drive your own vehicle, ride the train, bike, or hike up to the top of this 14,000+ foot summit in Colorado Springs and experience one of the most beautiful views you'll ever see in your life. Photos aren't enough. You have to see Pikes Peak with your own eyes!
Joseph Arnezeder — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience. Due to high winds we did not go all the way to the top. It was still a wonderful site & a must when visiting Colorado Springs