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 • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Lawrence to Denver?
The direct drive from Lawrence to Denver is 566 mi (911 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Lawrence to Denver, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Colorado Springs, Topeka, and Manitou Springs, as well as top places to visit like Evel Knievel Museum and OZ Museum, or the ever-popular Kansas State Capitol Visitor Center.
The top cities between Lawrence and Denver are Colorado Springs, Topeka, and Manitou Springs. Colorado Springs is the most popular city on the route. It's 8 hours from Lawrence and 1 hour from Denver.
1
Topeka
Topeka is the capital city of Kansas. The domed, neoclassical State Capitol has murals and statues. Photos and exhibits at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site commemorate the 1954 Supreme Court decision to end racial segregation in schools. The Kansas Museum of History features an 1880s locomotive. Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site has a mansion, 1890s schoolhouse and botanical garden.
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, 87% 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.
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
47 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Denver
Best stops along Lawrence to Denver drive
The top stops along the way from Lawrence to Denver (with short detours) are Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and United States Air Force Academy. Other popular stops include Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, and Strataca.
The Kansas State Capitol Visitor Center offers tours of the state capitol building's chambers, library, and murals. The dome also provides stunning views. The entire building feels like a museum with classical art and impressive craftsmanship in the woodworking and stone work. Visitors can experience the history of politics as they stand in rooms where political figures once debated. Overall, the center is a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.
The tour was packed with lots of history and interesting facts. There's a library with a glass floor. The entire capitol feels like a museum filled with murals and classical art. The chambers were in session and it felt as if the old days were back alive with the political figures debating in rooms that are filled with a glorious past.
Tiffanie Angelo — Google review
Have been to a number of state and provincial capitol buildings and this is one of our favorites. The 15 year renovation resulted in an exceptional building and the interior murals, stained glass, sculptures and the dome with all the marble, bronze and copper were all top notch. Speaking of the dome, do the tour with the guide to see the inner and outer dome as well a seeing the view of the city from the top - afraid of heights or physical limitations will make it virtually impossible to climb the 296 steps of the tour. A must do if in town!
N and C Farrell — Google review
Went on a school field trip with 5th graders. Great experience. Had a great tour guide Joe. So much history in that building. Awesome structural work, at work amazing.
Pammy Cakes — Google review
This is one of the nicest state capital buildings I have ever been in. Murals on the wall Tell a beautiful story of how Kansas came to be. The interior is spectacular. You can also take a tour up the steps to the dome and look out over the city and surrounding area. There are 292 steps. We did not have time to do that, but if I never back in the area I would definitely schedule time.
Wendy Meyer — Google review
Amazing Tour! We headed to a lot of different areas and who knew this place had 9 stories? It's also amazingly beautiful, I mean it's not everyday that you see 24 karat gold painted walls. It also was, in my opinion, an interesting adventure! And is also an amazing experience that will last!
I also got to see the dome and it's so cool up there especially inside the dome (before you get to the top part) and it's obvious that there is a lot of history in this building. I also wish to show pictures of the place and I wish they would alow me to show more then 50 Pictures as, I have an absolutely astonishing amount of photos and I would love to add them!
A. T. (Alys) — Google review
Our State capitol Building. What a great building. Lots of history here. Craftsmanship in the woodworking and stone work is amazing.
iSeries Fixer — Google review
That was an amazing experience. We went up to the apex of that dome. The guide has amazing knowledge of the history and those art pieces. There was hot while climbing the stairs, still we enjoyed. Got a shot on the KA governor chair.
Shakor Amezai — Google review
Great historical place to celebrate the very diverse and storied past of this very underrated state. The tour was free, informative, and very very cool. The parking is accessible from 8th street, and is located beneath the statehouse, underground. There are two tours, one being a historical tour, the other a dome tour. The dome tour is exactly what it sounds like. There are several spots where you can stop and not continue all the way to the outside part at the top. There is a level up by the inner dome where you can see the inner areas of the top, but if you continue upwards you will be pretty high up on a very sturdy staircase that looks down through a hole in the center of the inner dome. You will see all the way straight down to the first level of the statehouse. It is quite a view! If you are not squeamish about heights, by all means climb the stairs to the outdoor part where you can see the surrounding area of downtown Topeka. If you don't want to do a ton of climbing, stick to the historical tour. You will get to see both chambers of government, many works of art, and the stories behind them. There will be some climbing of stairs, unless the historical cage style elevator is running. You will also get to see the library with the glass floor. We visited with some of our New Jersey family and they were astounded at how far reaching our history is. Between the architecture, the art, and the history, this was such a great tour. 👍
Jeremy Watson — Google review
Beautiful building with interesting features. Decided to do a self guided tour without opting for dome tour based on time but looked interesting.
Melissa Shepard — Google review
Very beautiful artwork and history. The tour is well worth it!!
Midwest Cowboy — Google review
As I was wandering the beautiful halls of our State Capital I met a man from Ohio. He shared that our Capital building was a regular "tourist" attraction for promoting Kansas. He told me I should be proud of our Capital to which I replied, "Sir, I absolutely am!" Upon entering the building I received a warm and friendly welcome by the gentlemen manning the entrance of the Visitors Center. To the left is the desk of the Guided Tour staff and the very nice Gift Shop. I went to my Governor Kelly's office but alas - she wasn't in house that day. From there I wandered, taking pictures as I went.. the art work in our Capital building is exceptional. The moulding and woodwork is kept and cared for as are the Native Stone pillars, granite and marble flooring.. The Kansas State Capital Building is indeed a testament to our Heritage and Strength..to our History. A favorable destination to take out of towners!!
Rebecca Hinds — Google review
Beautiful, rich history across each level of the building. It's stunning inside and out. They offer guided historical tours and If you want to go all the way up the dome, you'll need to tread several steps. Anyone who can't go up the stairs by themselves is prohibited.
Ariadne Flores — Google review
If you find yourself downtown and need something to do, I'd highly recommend a tour of the capitol dome. It's 296 stairs with 3 rests along the way. If you are afraid of heights, this isn't for you. In the summer it is very muggy until you can get to the top and step into the fresh air. It's free to enter and tours run multiple times a day.
K J — Google review
The Capitol Building is so Beautiful there aren't words to properly describe it. Looking at it in person just makes you wonder how those wonderful men was able to build it that high up with such detail and so sturdy. I am just in AWE Everytime I go there.
Unbelievable...I turned into an 8 year old the entire 2 house there. Brought back wonderful memories. As a second grader two of my friends bought me the EK action motorcycle jumper. I bought another one from the gift shop. Kevin was great. Will stop by again if I have the opportunity. I'm from Ohio and remember his jump at Kings Island.
Randy White — Google review
What a fabulous display. Folks were friendly and informative. Only issue was the temperature in the museum, very hot. Not sure if a-c was having issue. Highly recommend if you're in town. Give yourself at least 2 hours.
Louise Thorne — Google review
Great collection of Evel’s memorabilia. The folks running were very friendly. It’s really cool how they not only showed videos of his jumps but also showed all the bones he broke and concussions he had! Highly recommend if you are passing by Topeka.
Emmanuel Maroulis — Google review
This was a good experience. It wasn't to expensive and it had a lot of memorabilia. It had his motorcycles and his truck that have been refurbished. It started when he was a child and went through his death. It is all cataloged and talks about what he did and there was even videos of his jumps and wrecks. I liked how it really focused on him and not the rest of his family. It had some things from my childhood as in toys and even a Wheaties box. :-) It was also a beautiful buliding that it was in.
Chad Motter — Google review
Awesome brought back a lot of memories. Highly recommend going to see this collection. The virtual jump is great as well. Plan on spending a couple of hours. Staff is amazing.
Robert Rippee — Google review
The Evel Knievel Museum Topeka, Kansas:
When growing up Evel Knievel was my hero, an unstoppable Superman that never gave up and never backed down from a challenge. Every time he had an event on TV I was glued to it, wondering if he would make it or crash in some spectacular fashion.
What I didn't know about this amazing man was how wonderfully clever a self promoter he was! Going through the museum you travel through his life all the way from his troubled and wild childhood to his sad and unfortunate death at a much to young age for a superhero. He passed away in 2007 at the age of 69.
Evel Knievel is in the Guinness Book of World Records for breaking the most bones....., 433!!!
Also on display was "Big Red", the truck that was used to move all his equipment and ramps. It was found rotting away in Florida for 30 years and brought back to it's former glory after an 18 month and $300,000 dollar restoration. This was a custom made, one of a kind truck built by Mack Trucks.
The two story display is the largest collection of Evel Knievel memorabilia in the world. It's housed in a Harley Davidson store that also has a nice display of bikes through the ages.
Bud Jackson — Google review
This place is sooooo worth the stop. Srsly, its better than I hoped for and I hoped for a lot. It'd you stop and read everything and watch the movie clips it's about 2/2.5 hours. The staff is great and the gift shop has really great stuff. It's in a Harley Building so you can also go look at their badass collection of old bikes and even Harley snow mobile in the basement. The museum has a fun virtual reality stunt jump and we loved it.
Regan Brunetti — Google review
The blood, sweat, tears, excitement, defeats and victories of the King of the Daredevils (as well as the team who collected, researched, funded, restored and built it) are here to see up close and personal! Such a beautiful museum and such friendly and welcoming service! It's a must!
Cameron Grubert — Google review
4 of us were in Topeka for the weekend. Thought we'd take in the museum. We weren't expecting much. But WOW, were we surprised. This is a treasure, explaining, describing, anything and everything about Evels' life and times. The building was astounding. The virtual bike jump was crazy fun.....the volunteer guides were awesome.
I think it'll be a huge loss to Topeka as the plans are to move the museum to Las Vegas.....
Tim Cameron — Google review
All I can say is wow, this place is completely awesome. If you are a fan of anything Evel Knievel or motorcycles you definitely need to go. The staff are very friendly and informative and do not rush you through the museum.
Thomas Hadley — Google review
Was working in Topeka KS and heard about the museum. I waited to the end of my project to go. Was completely worth it!!! Being an X Gen, Evel Knievel was mine and others hero. This museum is awesome. A must see!!
Matthew Jerkovic — Google review
Plan between 1 - 1.5 hour visit.
Great exhibit within a Harley Davidson shop. Granted, you can watch all his successful jumps and crashes on video, but it was cool to see the bikes, costumes, and paraphernalia that was Evel Knievel.
Mark Smith — Google review
I loved the artifacts and the informative displays. The curators/restoration team seemed to pat themselves on the back in some of the descriptions of the items. It's in the basement of a Harley shop, and it exits at the Harley showroom. If you're a Harley guy you may be into that, but not I.
Jacob Veilleux — Google review
Cool to see so much of Evel's history in one place. The restorations were all done really well, and the displays for his most historical stunts provided more details that were so interesting to see. It was definitely worth the trip from the KC area.
Made me wish that I still had my Evel Knievel BMX bike, but I doubt that it would be considered "museum quality" by a long shot.
Kurt Johnston — Google review
This place is incredible! He was my childhood hero so I might be biased, but i absolutely loved it. The VR jump is well worth it and a complete trip! Very professionally curated museum on a legend in my generation! Go see it in Topeka before it heads to Vegas!!!! The guys working there are very cool as well!
Paul McCrackin — Google review
Evil or Evel?
Either way the museum of Robert "Evel" Knievel is amazing. What a story of this man's whole life: from a kid jumping over grass fires on a bicycle to the world famous Snake River Canyon jump. This museum tells the tale of this American icon. Interactive screens, static displays, movies and more.
Hurry before this Topeka legend moves to Las Vegas.
Craig Campbell — Google review
Spent about 1.5hrs to read through everything and also did the 2 min simulator ride. A really well curated museum to showcase Evel Knievel’s career from child to retirement. Really great short plaques throughout with videos showcasing the jump. Loved that they summarized whether the stunt was a success or resulted in an injury. However, would of loved to see a dedicated section for his son, after learning that his son followed footsteps for 40 years.
Anni K. — Google review
If you were born before 1970 or just a fan of pop culture, this is a good visit. The two guides were very friendly and helpful and the museum is filled with so much information and memorabilia. The story of the truck restoration is very cool and paying the extra $5 for the VR jump over police cars was fun. But after 2023, the museum is being relocated to Las Vegas.
N and C Farrell — Google review
Loved it! I went with my husband, and he loved every bit of it. But even I, though not super into motorcycles, loved reading all about Evel's life and career. We only had an hour before closing, but could probably have stayed for two hours
A tribute to all things "Wizard of Oz", from original book & 1939 movie to Michael Jackson remake.
I have been a fan of the Wizard of Oz since I was a small child. My husband & I were driving through the area & we just had to stop to check it out. The admission was $9 per adult. There was tons of memorabilia on display including items from many different adaptations of The Wizard of Oz. The staff was super friendly & welcoming. I would strongly suggest that any Oz fan check this museum out! I know that both my husband & I loved it!
Cassandra Vacha — Google review
I loved this museum. They had so many original artifacts from the movie that really surprised me. I liked how there was a different display for every character to talk about the actor as a person and their role in the movie. So many fun facts I didn't know! I loved the speech the staff gave before opening the door to the exhibit. There is also 3 videos you can watch about the movie as well to further your education. I liked the movie theater as well. You can watch the Wizard of Oz while you are there to refresh your memory as well!
Tyanne Johnson — Google review
If you like the movie, you will LOVE this museum! We stumbled across it by accident and had a great time. There's a lot of information about the movie, character costumes and info about other movies related to The Wizard of Oz. Have your picture taken in the wizard's hot air balloon. The gift shop has some great souvenirs to take home. Keep your eyes open for the painted Totos around town. Just down the street you can see the legs of the witch sticking out from the house that fell on her.
Sharon Bagnato — Google review
If I could have given more stars, I would! This museum is a treasure! There are over 2000 artifacts on display here - and many more in storage that there isn't room to display. The curator says they change out the displays...so now there's even more reason to go back in the future! I've watched the movie a number of times, but never knew it was a book first. That was only one of many pieces of knowledge I gained. This was such a fun museum to visit and it was more enchanting due to the enthusiasm of the curator, Chris! I highly recommend seeing this gem!
Cindy Clough — Google review
What a wonderful treat right here in Kansas. I have heard about this museum for years but never made the trip up from Wichita. I have family visiting in from South Carolina and we decided to make the trek up to see this. What a gem! This museum does not disappoint. So many really neat items to see and from such a cool perspective. Check this out if you're thinking about it and in the area!
Lydia Roberts — Google review
Amazing place!!
This place was a ton of fun! I visited first time today with my friends. We both love the Wizard of Oz since we were child. We learned so much about the Wizard of Oz! The museum had a ton of items and information. All stuffs were so friendly and knowledgeable about the Wizard of Oz! Wonderful! It also wasn't that expensive. I am sure that you will enjoy this museum a lot.
There is also a small store in the store where you can buy T-shirts, mugs, etc. I highly recommend this place.
?? RRI — Google review
Absolutely loved it! Small but mighty place. So much to see. Very well taken care of. Clean beautiful oz memorabilia. I was thrilled with all the stuff you can take photos by and in the balloon basket! Wonderful. For oz lovers and anyone else on earth. A must see atleast once.
Kimberly Tilander — Google review
My beautiful wife carrying our first child decided to come here for my birthday on July 27 to experience the wizard of oz feel as we have watched the movie and wanted to experience more of how it become and what amazing treasures the museum holds. It may be small museum but had a lot of information from learning more about munchkins to learning the cast members. Inside there’s also a mini theater where the movie is playing. If you’re from Kansas or even stopping by I would still recommend visiting this place. They also mentioned they will move around some oz Characters around especially for the evil witch side to show more about her by hopefully October this year.
Next door they also have Toto’s Tacos and across from the museum in an ally was the yellow brick road with amazing art on the walls and names on the bricks. “There’s no place like home!”
Jerimiah Rapada — Google review
This was a fun stop. I grew up watching The Wizard of Oz and never knew there was an entire book series. This museum was full of all kinds of neat and exciting items. Getting to read about the stories of the author, actors, and history was fun. I took a service dog with me, and the staff was great. A simple question about him and we were "off to see the wizard!" I lived in Kansas for 12 years and never visited Wamego, and that was a shame. Come check this place out and enjoy the history and magic of your childhood once again.
AJ Girardot — Google review
I’ve been to this museum about 12 years ago. It it was great back then. Now I got to show it to my kids and they loved it too. A lot of interesting facts to see, read and hear. There is a book in Russian on display that I used to read as a child and a movie I used to watch! So cool! I can’t say it changed that much over the past 12 years though but it’s ok. I’m glad I got a chance to re- visit. Maybe as suggestion you can come up with something interactive or more hands on for smaller kids? But anyway… it’s a perfect place for any Wizard of Oz fan!
Betty Black — Google review
Saw the signs and decided to check it out. My husband and I have always loved the movie watching it almost every year since we were kids.
Well laid out lots of information and artifacts.
Also, check out the Yellow Brick Road across the street. It had neat murals.
Brenda Kern — Google review
This was a fun experience. It didn't take us long to walk through the museum. Although, I am not a read everything museum person. The price was fair. You could spend ten minutes or an hour depending on your love of museums and Oz.
Don't forget to walk the yellow brick road across the street! Wonderful artwork and great use of space in a little alley off main street.
Bridget Bellon — Google review
The Oz Museum was an amazing place to go for a family trip. If you love the movie or any of the books, this place will be wonderful to go to. It has so many interesting things to see, the staff was wonderful and very nice. And don't forget the gift shop, you'll find something in there for everyone in the family. We had a wonderful time.
Angel Barnes — Google review
It is a small museum, doesn’t take much time to go around. Would say about 20 minutes, could be longer depending on if you read everything and watch the videos and movie.
Every October they have an unveiling of a new artifact that they release in the museum. About every 6 months they will rotate, add in different items to be displayed. They have things from the original movie to the adaptations.
If you’re a fan of the movie, or ever watched one of them, recommend stopping by at least once.
They do offer military/veteran discount.
Tam Henders — Google review
A fun museum to stop and explore. It is small, but packs a lot of information and memorabilia. The staff was friendly and there is a great playground across the street. Make sure to explore the gift shop!
Amanda Hubbard — Google review
I have been wanting to go to this museum for the past 3 years. We were driving through Kansas and decided to make it a stop. We grabbed lunch and headed to the museum. It did not disappoint! I am a huge Wizard of Oz fan as well as The Wiz. It’s got charm galore. We loved the original book collection and all the original costume and set pieces. The play the movie in a little theatre in the back. We watched about half of the movie and really enjoyed ourselves. Definitely a fun way to spend an hour or so.
A Schmidt — Google review
A lot smaller than expected, it didn't take long to go through it, Still there were some neat items to look at and props to take photos with. Gift shop had some fun items for purchase as well as a wind tunnel booth (extra cost.) I wouldn't go out of my way to visit here, but if in the area it's worth a stop if you're a Wizard of Oz fan.
Carey Rose — Google review
Stopped here on the way back home because it looked to be interesting and it didn't disappoint. I grew up watching this every year and it as great to see some of the behind the scenes history of a classic film. It has some video stations going on, a quick movie in a small theater, and a lot of written blurbs describing the history. Nice little gift shop as well.
If you are a fan of the movie you will enjoy it and if you are just. fan of classic movies in general this is one you will like.
christopher trochez — Google review
was better than expected- price was absolutely worth it! fun little side trip/great memorabilia presented VERY tastefully and respectfully to OZ community. easy to read the descriptions of the displays which were really interesting and fun learning. small but mighty. employee welcoming and encouraging to stay as long as you wanted and take as many pix as you want with fun
little surprises along the way! was OZsome for sure! (you really have to stop and read the info cards to truly appreciate the experience)
11,000-acre nature preserve housing a visitor center, accessible hiking trails & historic buildings.
Great place. There is hiking trail of gravel road of 1 mile (not a loop). The ranger will aware you for snakes sleeping on the trail. So beaware of that. No fees involved.
I also visited several historical houses which is part of this place. You can see old day farming stuffs, gas station, etc. Must see the Ranch house - One can learn how the foods were stored in the winter. Outside the ranch house you will see how the toilets were made out of wood (yak!).
There is also nearby school house at a 5 min driving distance.
Madan Kundu — Google review
This is a very nice National Preserve. There are many,many miles of trails here to hike. Also part of the preserve is an impressive 1880's house and limestone barn so a little ranch history as well. Definitely worth a stop.
Jason Clements — Google review
We were able to tour the visitor center, the barn, and main house before we ran out of time. We took the guided van ride into the park. If you like wide open spaces, this is for you. The milkweed and yarrow blooms were beautiful. They had not had much rain recently, so the flowers are a bit behind schedule. We saw some bison right by the road as well as in the distance. I recommend allowing time for the van ride. There are some walking trails.
Jana Winberg — Google review
We spent a few hours hiking around here as a way to break up a road trip. Totally worth it, as we saw Bison, and enjoyed the views. Staff/volunteers are friendly and accommodating.
Kevin Kelly — Google review
It was very nice going out here. The visitor center is clean with lots of information on the area's plants and animals. The park ranger inside was very polite. We enjoyed our walk on the trails, and it was cool to see bison free roaming. I also appreciated the signage warning visitors to keep a respectful distance. The meadowlarks were very vocal during our visit which was just perfect for a day outside in Kansas.
Maryann Barbon — Google review
A winter visit I'm sure is very different than when the grass is green and the flowers are in bloom, yet it was enjoyable to visit the grounds, home and take a hike. We saw the bison off in the distance which was a great!
Lisa Reitz — Google review
An absolute beauty of a place. You can spend hours hiking here, and taking in the scenery.
You get to see heard of Bisons. The rangers at the visitor center, who were friendly, can guide you on where to find them.
Remember to carry water and some snacks with you. Also get your sunscreen, and bug spray.
There's absolutely no shade, so be prepared.
The nature trails are on gravel, hence, not stroller and wheelchair friendly. They have a Bottomland trail which is apparently wheelchair friendly.
Shaik Abdul Cader Shaik Dawood — Google review
The best times to visit this park are probably the spring and fall. I had intended to hike here on the beautiful trails, but temperatures were in the hundreds during my visit. The park is free to visit. The visitor center has interesting displays and a short movie. They also offer an air-conditioned van ride about 3 miles into the hills, which was very nice. The tour guide was quite knowledgeable and we even saw a couple bison.
Donald Sacca — Google review
Free admission with a variety of trails to hike. A couple of the trails have free roaming bison on them, but there are also options if you prefer some distance. There is no shade or tree cover, be sure to plan accordingly.
Michelle Paulus-Baumgarten — Google review
It's a nice 1881 ranch to tour. It is a free tour. We walked around the home. Very ornate wood and stone work. We toured 2 floors of the barn. You can hike over the hill to see Buffalo. We weren't up for it, So we didn't see any. There are nice public bathrooms and park rangers are available. Handicapped parking is available at the top of the hill. Masks are required in the house. Only 10 guests at a time inside.
wanda kelley — Google review
This was our first visit to this wonderful site. The extant buildings are well preserved and very interesting. We really got a sense of why people were attracted to Kansas. There is a sense too of warmth and well-being that is still present.
The pictures are from two locations: the National Park Service site for the TGNP and the Schrumpf View Point south of the preserved area. Both are interesting and worth your time.
A second or third visit is needed to hike the trails that begin at the preserved farm site. It was 100F the day we visited so plan accordingly. Approximately 12 miles north in Council Grove there is a brewery, River Bank Brewing. After a long, dusty time on the road it's just the thing.
Kevin Andrews — Google review
Beautiful National Park! Very knowledgeable rangers and some wonderful trails!
Eugene Jones — Google review
Beautiful place with amazing views of the Flint Hills, tall grass prairie, and bison. Everything is free, but if you call ahead, you can book a van tour which will take you up to the highest point for some amazing views and photos. You will also see the bison herd on the tour.
We also toured the old barn and home. It was a great educational experience for all.
Jessica L — Google review
This place is a must stop if anywhere in the area. Best deal around, free, and what a history lesson. Plan to be here a couple of hours to experience all this place has to offer. You are able to go into a large barn with turn of century equipment, a 4 story mansion and outbuildings. There are multiple trails and a one room school house. Experience yesteryear and make this a stop.
Shannan Witherspoon — Google review
Born and raised in the Flint Hills of Kansas, I love the beauty in its simplicity. Post-university, I’ve enjoyed living in and experiencing big cities around the country and traveling internationally, but my heart always brings me back to visit Kansas, especially my native Flint Hills. Once you learn to appreciate the vast and romantic barrenness of this wild Kansas landscape, your awe for dramatic mountains, oceans and city skylines changes and amplifies. Your perspective evolves, your eye will see the world in a new way. Listening to the waves of wind hitting the tallgrass, it can be hypnotic. While at first you might feel alone, stand still and you can sense the centuries worth of inhabitants and travelers who preceded you; the indigenous people, European explorers, Santa Fe Trail pioneers, homesteaders, farmers, bootleggers. A rich history. Hike the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, and get lost in its meditative charm. It is a one of a kind experience. I recommend reading PrairyErth by William Least Heat-Moon before your visit.
Brian Protheroe — Google review
Wide (really wide) open space on rolling hills and gulches. Magical for its serenity, silence, far horizons, and history. Seeing the undisturbed bison herds in the distance was special. Take a camera or phone with a good zoom lens but don't forget to look down at the watering holes and wallows as you walk. The sky is endless.
David Bishton — Google review
This was a great stop on a trip from Wichita to Topeka. We had planned on spending two hours here but ended up hiking for four. You hike to get to the pasture where the bison graze. It was a breathtaking experience to find the herd. Just make certain to wear appropriate sun protection (as there is no shade) and to bring water. There is also an old school house you can visit. The visitor center has a water fountain with a bottle filler and restrooms. The park rangers were friendly and helpful. They also offer a van tour.
Allen Livermore — Google review
Wonderful site with great scenery. There are many sites to visit and apparently some lengthy trails - I wish I had more time to explore the site.
Denver Doty — Google review
Excellent facility. Put your walking shoes on and enjoy a hike. No admission fees.
Jeff Messick — Google review
This is an amazing preservation of Kansas history! The limestone buildings constructed on this ranch in the early 1880s are unspeakably jaw dropping!! I could have watched the buffalo roaming in the natural prairie for many more hours than I did! The many trails are a great way to experience the land, natural habitats, and breathtaking views. Plan to stay an entire day here as it is well worth it!!! I'll be going back!
The Flint Hills Discovery Center is situated in an eco-friendly structure and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the cultural history and natural ecosystem of the area. The center boasts a range of enriching activities for all ages, including exciting experiences such as the Auctioneer and 4D stations. It is clear that a lot of thought and effort went into designing this facility to promote conservation efforts in the Flint Hills region.
Incredible place. A wonderful 2hrs spent. You seriously can see all the thought put into this place. There's so much to learn, I had a blast. The Autioneer station and the 4D station were the coolest and fun for me. Really enjoyed it.
Ja'Nae — Google review
Such a neat museum. Kids can interact in so many ways with so many exhibits if we didn’t have many miles to go, we would have been till they closed. Fun for the whole family. As well they have an interesting gift shop so be sure to pick up some souvenirs to remember this gem hidden in the woods.
William Stewart — Google review
Had our small wedding here on 4/4/24, but we've corresponded with Jonathan, the event supervisor since last year. We planned to have the wedding outside on the terrace at first, however, it was very windy. Fortunately, the indoor option was available and we were able to have it indoors instead. Jonathan was very helpful and responsive all through out the process. On the day, his team was fast to set up for the ceremony and reception. We also got to use the rooms on the upper floor to get dressed. Everything went smoothly! Highly recommended as an event space!
Plern Kongsamut — Google review
They definitely put a lot of effort into designing this facility to help advocate for the preservation of the Flint Hills. The 4-D video was pretty cool although a little loud.
Brian Stenger — Google review
We weren't sure it would be age-appropriate for our infant & toddlers, but they LOVED it. I'm so glad we decided to stop by, as the second floor is kid-centered and has plenty of high-quality activities and interactives to keep children of different ages engaged. We spent about an hour here, but could have stayed longer. The entire facility is very clean and exhibits are well-maintained. We were here on a weekday morning and it was not crowded.
Gillian Armstrong — Google review
The Discovery Center was an awesome experience for my 8 year old. So many enrichment activities for her. I highly recommend this place even if you have to drive a bit. We drove 1.5 hours. It was well worth it.
Andy Battenfield — Google review
We visited here with tickets for the Sunflower Summer program. The kids had a good time and the staff was friendly and helpful. The kids enjoyed the scavenger hunt and finding all of the answers. The air exhibit was a hit. They enjoyed building planes and challenging each other to see who could get theirs to fly the farthest. I think they had the most fun with the little vacuum wall and catching the objects. We even packed a picnic and sat out in the covered seating area in front of the building which was nice to have a close by place to sit. Overall, it was a great stop on our trip!
Kaitlin Davenport — Google review
Absolutely loved this place. My daughter wife and I went here on a Sunday and it was a blast. I'm a big history buff so learning about the flint hills and the economic and social history of it was really cool. They also had a native American section with models of their shelters that they used over time. The kids play area was fun for my daughter and the space limited exhibit was also really fun for us being able to make paper air planes and rockets. The gift shop also had a wide selection of things relatively priced. Overall a great family place.
B P — Google review
First of all, I would like to personally thank Director, Susan Adams for providing me with a lot of helpful information prior to my visit.
I’ve wanted to visit The Flint Hills Discovery Center for a number of years, and I’m SO glad that I’ve finally been able to!
There’s a film in a small theater that provides guests with a historical background about The Flint Hills. The exhibits are VERY hands on, and are all about the preservation and culture of The Flint Hills. It’s a VERY serene and calming environment, as are The Flint Hills.
This would be a great place to bring a group of students on a field trip, and there’s a lot of fun activity sheets for them to engage in. I would also point out that this can also serve as a community center because there’s several rooms available to hold any kind of event.
The kids have a great deal of fun on the second level in The Prairie Playscape. If you go up to the third level, that takes you outside to where you have amazing views of The City of Manhattan.
On the first level, as soon as you enter, is a gift shop with all sorts of unique Kansas products. The staff are VERY friendly, knowledgeable and can assist you with ALL things Manhattan.
Bailey Ostrom — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed the immersive theatre and the exhibits about the Flint Hills and biology/life on the plains.
Cole Ehmke — Google review
A must visit for all ages! The exhibits are well done and informative on the history of the prairie. The movie is amazing with great visuals and special effects. For us the highlight was the pollinator gardens surrounding the building! Make sure you go up to the 3rd floor for the view and then take the stairs down around the outside to read all about the native plants and see the bees and butterflies at work!
Teresa — Google review
Took the Grandkids, this is my first visit. Quite the production. Has something for all ages. The sand table was quite the attraction.
Garry — Google review
Our family had a great time spending New Years Eve at the Discovery Center. So much to see and do and the staff is so fun and friendly! The event was so fun and the kids loved the dance party, glow light, and balloon drop! Can't wait to return to explore the exhibits further!
Sunset Zoo is a smaller zoo that offers educational opportunities to children, such as kids' classes, day camps, overnight camping, and off-site visits from animals. The zoo has undergone recent construction which has resulted in the creation of more open enclosures for animals. Visitors can easily appreciate the exhibits on display within an hour-long walk through the zoo. Sunset Zoo rents out strollers or wagons and sell cold drinks for visitors' convenience.
Super nice little zoo! Took about an hour to walk through. They rent strollers or wagons and sell cold drinks. Lovely exhibits the animals are in. Will visit again when I'm back in town!
Darren Hawk — Google review
Cool little zoo in the little apple. It is great for the price. The whole zoo takes approximately 2.5 hours to get through and costs $6 per adult. There is plenty of parking and there is food in the zoo. The exhibits focus most on Asian and Australian animals. Highlights of the trip are the monkeys and sloth bear.
M Lawrence — Google review
Gone many times and now with the construction being done the new part of the zoo looks great and more open than before. From 3 to 4 all the animals were easy to see and appreciate in old and new enclosures. The direction the zoo is taking is certainly an upward trend as I feel the quality of the zoo with this remodeling has improved greatly and if they plan to do this with other areas I'm sure they will be greatly appreciated.
Yurtle — Google review
I enjoyed my time at this zoo. It isn't very large but it is easy to walk, the landscaping is pretty, and the animals are easy to view. One of the pelicans was playing with a pair of sticks which was interesting to watch and the gibbons were very playful with one another on the day I visited. We paid to feed the tortoise and my daughter loved it.
My only complaints are water availability and the amount of shade in the enclosures. My daughter was thirsty but the two vending machines we found were out of stock, one water fountain was out of order, and the gift shop had a full refrigerator with every drink but water. We eventually found a working water fountain. A number of animals were up against the glass which made for great viewing but the reason it happened was because it was the spot with the most shade at that time of day so I'd love to see more shady areas provided for them. I'll still definitely make another visit as we enjoyed the zoo overall a lot.
Maryann Barbon — Google review
No offense but unless it’s a service animal people shouldn’t be allowed to bring their dogs. This dude brought his dog and it was barking and scaring off a lot of the animals into their interior shelters so we couldn’t even see them. But also beware if you’re allergic to bees the zones are marked but wasn’t aware of it when buying tickets so definitely looked a fool running for my life bc there was hella
Ashton Urbex — Google review
We visited this zoo with tickets from the Sunflower Summer program which was nice! While this is a smaller zoo, it was still a good time for the kids. Some of the exhibits were a lot better "landscaped" than others we've seen. We were lucky enough to be able to see some of the bigger animals up close which seems to be something that doesn't happen as often! Overall it was a good stop in our day.
Kaitlin Davenport — Google review
Absolutely great zoo experience. The trail layout is nice. The exhibits are wonderful and the park is a nice place for kids to play. Feeding the tortoise was a fun experience. It was exceptionally hot the day we went but they had misters set up throughout the zoo which was a pleasant surprise. They have information on all the animals. The concessions have a wide variety of food and drinks, both hot and cold. Overall a really great zoo.
B P — Google review
I have taken my family twice. Once in the summer and once in the winter.
Pros: It's nice to have a place in town to take the kids to see animals. It is budget, family, and kid friendly.
But, do not expect the Houston or Oklahoma City zoo. Some of the animals exhibits need a lot of work and few animals have not been out on either trip.
All this being said, it is still a good weekday place to take young kids to see animals and walk around.
S RA — Google review
This is a great small zoo for families. It has a nice assortment of animals. We visited at the end of October so it wasn't busy.
Annette Pierce — Google review
CHEAP and such good zoo. They had cool close animals. They definitely care about these animals too because all animals looked respected and guarded for them to stay safe as well.
Larissa Hayes — Google review
Two visits during the day in warm winter. Tigers and chimpanzees are especially interesting. The animals are active and small, but full zoo. The red panda is so cute. I plan to go there frequently this year as a member of the year.
Yoon Hana — Google review
I rated Sunset zoo with 3 stars last year, but they definitely warrant an update. Most areas of the zoo have been reopened. They have opened the new Southeast Asia exhibit and the enclosures are beautiful. You can also tell that they have many updates to the older enclosures. The Austrailian Walkabout is currently closed. However, you can still see many of the animals. I do still feel that they should have more animals that are native to the area but i am no expert and do not know how licensing works. However, you cannot beat the admittance price and if you are just looking for something to do to get out of the house this is a great place to go. Great place to take the kids on the weekend that won't break the bank, or even if you want to take the wife on a date!
A former military hospital dedicated to the history of America's mounted fighting force.
The US Cavalry Museum is amazing. We took a tour and loved it. I only wish I had more time to see some of the stuff around the museum as well.
They have recently remodeled and they have done a fantastic job. The staff knows so many interesting details about the history of the cavalry, the army and the items in the museum.
We had a great time.
Everyone was so nice and the museum was great. If you live history, our military and our country, this is a must see!
I highly recommend and would ga again for sure.
Jason Sargent — Google review
Beautiful museum...needs to open up again !
Deanna Cree — Google review
Well curated museum of US Cavalry history. Two floors of exhibits take you through Cavalry history from before the US was a nation, and all through the major and minor conflicts Cavalry has been involved with. Also don’t miss the Custer House and a walk around all the tracks, artillery, and military vehicles around the museum. The parade grounds nearby is still used for change of command ceremonies. Free admission.
Chris Mahar — Google review
Nice to see ones you get there.
j Cosy — Google review
Excellent
Ken Woldt — Google review
What a great place to spend some time on a hot afternoon. It was around 100 degrees and we were out driving around and one of my kids in the military stationed there said she knew where it was, but had never been. Very pleasant and nice AC.
Tyko Blade — Google review
Extraordinary history and tour! I was impressed by the amount of detail added towards the overall history on every aspect. I will return for the rest of the tour once completed. It will no doubt be worth the visit.
Albert Witherspoon — Google review
If you love history and military, this is the greatest place to visit. Trace the history of the US cavalry from revolution. Very beautiful and great atmosphere in there. In my opinion, this is the greatest place to learning about history for children. Unfortunately, the museum is closed. I don't know because of covid or not. I really wish they will open soon.
ᑕᗩ RRI — Google review
A great museum on F. E. Warren AFB.
Thomas Cox — Google review
What is the purpose of this museum? Or better yet, what has the Army come to? We were at Ft. Riley twice. The first time was for our son's funeral arrangements. I wanted to visit the museum but was told it was always closed. A Sargent Major said he would get it open for us next week when we came back for the memorial service. Came back for the memorial service and it was still closed. So what has the Army come to when a Sargent Major can't even get them to open the museum? If the museum is never going to be open, go ahead and burn it down.
David Reid — Google review
A must see if you're on base. It's informative and breathtaking
Korrine Rudderow — Google review
Very detailed and well curated museum. Definitely one of the neatest things we did on our visit to KS. if you're a military history buff, this is a don't miss.
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.
Park & hill with a castlelike structure built by the Works Progress Administration in 1936.
It's a pretty cool place. Beautiful scenery.
Chad Motter — Google review
Free to public, small but cute, has stairs, not wheel chair accessible, public bathroom but I didn’t use, great views of Kansas
S Peterson — Google review
My favorite sunset spot… hands down :) i haven't seen any sunset photos from up here posted, thought id share mine for anyone wondering how nice the spot is for sunsets i got the wonderful opportunity to take a dslr up their to catch march 28th 2024s sunset though a bit windy at the top i cant say ive ever been disappointed by the view of the sunsets
Ryan Gilman — Google review
First time in Kansas and visited the castle. It was extremely windy compared to Indiana where I am from however found a nice wind breaking spot with great photo ops.
Erin Fulkerson — Google review
Gorgeous place. Serene. Such a beautiful spot to see God's patchwork of land below. Breathtaking. Such a must see. A diamond in the rough. Bring the whole family. Also good for a small hike if your up for it. Bring your running shoes. Can be windy. Might need a light jacket. Wild flowers abound.
Ali Denison — Google review
Interesting place. I would assume it was built (back in the 1930s) as a rest stop for travelers, given the picnic tables and chimneys. However, there needs to be more informational signs to tell people a little history of this unique place.
Corazon Properties — Google review
It's beautiful to look at minus the tagging inside and out I enjoyed looking out the view on top of the castle there is picnic tables inside I ate inside the castle and it stayed cool inside while it was hot outside I would actually come here when it gets cooler so I can go up and down the steep steps
Christie Arce — Google review
This tiny castle is like some of the castles you might see in Europe (in small form). It sits on top of a hill with great views. There are even picnic tables.
Denese Morrison — Google review
Husband took the kids and I here for mothers day .. beautiful place to visit and would definitely recommend
Josephine Turner — Google review
Very Rustic castle with some rock picnic areas. Outhouse type restroom available. Pretty views.
Extremely windy!
J. August — Google review
Breathtakingly beautiful. I feel it's the most beautiful spot on earth. Lived in Kansas 1986-1990. Finally went in 2023. Historically important to Spain 🇪🇸, and the American great depression 🇺🇸 1930s. EVERYONE MUST GO. My jaw dropped. All you hear are birds 🐦 singing. Good place to get married, decompress, escape the big city. I'm in ❤️ love....-sumnercounty1986
SumnerCounty1986 — Google review
Great view of the valley and amazing Kansas sunset. The fort is well preserved and offers a lot of spots to climb, hike or picnic. No touristy signage present.
Morgan Hawker — Google review
Beautiful Historic structire in the middle of Kansas. Roughly 10 minutes northwest from the town of Lindborg. The castle is a short hike up a hill. After the short hike you are treated to beautiful views of neighboring hills, especially from the battlements of the Castle itself. It is easily a half day trip and well worth it.
D. Pops — Google review
It's great view bring fire wood and food sit and enjoy
steven wright — Google review
Profound experience at the Castle!
Scenery was just amazing…
I would recommend
Oluwatuyi Olowoyeye — Google review
Surprisingly easy to find. I wish there would have been more history posted around the castle. It was obvious that some organization tried to make it more of a destination by adding picnic areas and latrines made from the same stone. The picnic areas were almost inaccessible. The “bathrooms” hadn’t been tended to in years or decades. Gross.
Kim Conger — Google review
Free!!
Easy to get to and plenty of space to park right next to the castle. Super fun family outing. We spent about an hour here. They have several fire pit oven areas and really fun walking trails. Very easy trails, stair, and hiking area. Bathrooms are just seats and holes in the ground which were very very dirty. I would love given 5 stars if the toilets were clean and there was a little table, shelf, or area for kids or diaper changing.
Overall a fun place with a good view. We would go back for sure.
Went on a Sunday afternoon, a busy time, and there were 4 other groups there. The first time we went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was just one other group.
Accessibility ♿️: 0/5 rough ground, stairs, and hiking paths.
Kid friendly: 3/5 definitely keep your eye on them as the activities and castle could be quite hazardous. Make sure to go to the fire area by the cedar trees to the right of the castle. There are super cool rock formations.
No changing area and no toilet paper
Sara Smith — Google review
Great place to get out and stretch your legs. About 4 miles off interstate. Not alot to do, but great views of the fields around. Also stopped at sunflower field. It's back east of castle. Took some great pictures of the kids.
Nathan Farmer — Google review
Wonderful historical site! It was fairly easy to walk around. The stairs were a little steep but so much to explore. The toilets were a natural composting (kinda gross)but available if needed. Absolutely beautiful breath taking views.. Great little side trip
Jessica Richmond — Google review
Legend has it this place was built in the 1500s in a search for gold. Well didnt find any gold but with some the best views around definitely worth the trip. There are some moderate trails nothing too strenuous as well as some stair climbing if thats your thing. Happy Trails
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!
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.
Symbol of the city weighing thousands of pounds & host to the annual "twine-a-thon" festival.
Very cool! Huge ball of twine that my son got to add official city twine to from the lovely gift shop across the street. I was told there's a festival every year where they remeasure the ball after it's been added to all year. The town was cute and interesting and worth stopping at on your way through Kansas.
Dani Ray — Google review
Should you visit this ball of twine?
Yes
Will you be wooed?
Mildly
Is this the perfect family trip?
Arguably
Honestly though, do not trust people like me. I will take you to museums, and parks, and monuments, and kiss you in every beautiful place, so that you can never go back to them without tasting me like blood in your mouth. I will destroy you in the most beautiful way possible. And when they leave you will finally understand, why storms are named after people.
Don't forget to sign the guest book!
Kirk Provine — Google review
The Largest Ball of Twine is something that could and would only happen in Kansas. It is so ridiculous that it's just the kind of thing you need to see to believe. From the photos, Its creator seems like a really chill, very quirky fellow. Sometimes you just have to stop being so serious and roll with it and laugh at the unusual while admiring the dedication and achievement.
D. Pops — Google review
The Ball of twine was very interesting to see as well as taking in the unusual antique/oddities museum while visiting. The town has a very good history as to how the town got it's name.
Darlene Richards — Google review
Driving through Kansas and decided to take a small detour just so we can visit the Worlds largest ball of sisal twine. We stopped at the corner first to visit Eyegores odditorium and monster museum who gave us a piece of official city twine to add to the giant ball of sisal twine (and found some other really fun interesting things, it’s a must stop as well!). What a fun experience the kids had when adding twine to the ball, the town is filled with really nice people and lots of cool history. My family is happy we stopped and checked out Cawker City, Kansas!
Gemsofthewild — Google review
The World's Largest Ball of Twine has been on my bucket list for almost 15 years but the problem was, as most experience, when would I be anywhere near Cawker City Kansas? But a fateful cross country trip finally offered the opportunity to mark this long awaited task off my list. Even though Cawker City's lone claim to fame is this ball, it was glorious!😀 I was oddly excited to finally see it it in person and it did not disappoint. The story, which I will let you discover, is fascinating and well worth any side trip across country to lay eyes on this rough, oddly shaped ball of string...ermmm...twine. Make sure to pay patronage to Julie's Classic Rock Coffee in the parking lot. She was a joy to talk to and her coffee was phenomenal. Thanks Julie!!
Bill Williams — Google review
What a unique stop in our travels! We took some pictures, made a world record (for the day) by adding a few rounds of sisal twine and had a pleasant conversation with Linda about the history of the ball of twine. Just a bit of fun!!
Cindy Clough — Google review
Quirky place to stop but several interesting things to see. Always a fun little stop. Our Grand Son's experiencing the Ball of twine. An Old KT Service Station and an old House
Don Nevin — Google review
We just stumbled across this not so little gem when passing through the city. It is super cool. You must read the whole story about the twine. It is on the back wall, and I have added pics. You can even add your own twine to the ball. Definitely worth a stop in Cawker
Lynn Hahn — Google review
This was a fun stop as we passed through Cawker City, KS. We signed the guest book, took pictures next to it, read about the history, and met some friendly travelers doing the same thing.
Amanda Parker — Google review
My man and I had an absolutely amazing time! There was this sweet old lady that stole our hearts😭🖤 she told us the history behind the yarn and how the ball came to be... she even let us wrap some in to add to it🥹 we chatted for a bit, and she took pictures for us! There's a mailbox that you can sign and leave stuff in, highly advised!!! We left pictures of our cats in there in honor of #Tudge 😍😍 if you're passing through, stop for sure because it's definitely worth it🙌🏽
Alyssa Evans — Google review
The world’s largest hall of twine is a nice little gem to check out. It’s right off the 9 highway, so it’s easily accessible. You can walk around the ball, touch it, read some of the information signs, and even participate in making the ball even bigger by adding your own twine to it! It’s a cool little pit stop and one I would highly recommend if you’re in the area.
Frenite — Google review
The main reason I’ve ever wanted to go to the US is to see this, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s a large ball of twine, and definitely worth the drive through the corn fields of Kansas to get there.
Make sure to visit Eyegore’s museum while you’re in town, it’s one of the few things better than a large ball of string that exist on this plane of reality.
Adam-James laveaux — Google review
Been here a couple times. It's one big massive ball of twine. There is twine that you can wrap around the ball and a book to sign your name. Right off the highway and down the street from a store that has an alien outside of it.
William Glaser — Google review
Definitely the oddest thing my brother and I encountered while visiting Kansas and Missouri in November of 2023, and it's even odder when one considers that we learned of this 'attraction' through a post on Instagram about the 'worst attractions in each state.' The Ball of Twine is an odd relic, with its history explained through large boards on site. It is in an open-air environment and can be visited at any time during the day. If you're in the area, take a look - there are some cool photo opportunities to get out of standing next to a 27,000-pound ball of string!
Avinash Veeraraghav — Google review
If you're in the area and looking for something quirky to day you've done, this is it! I mean, it doesn't get any better than the World's Largest Ball of Twine, does it? That said, it's a quick stop and may not be worth going much out of your way for. <grin>
If you do stop by to visit, you may have opportunity to add some more length for the win!
John T — Google review
The site of the ball is clean and informative. Learning the history was interesting.
Unfortunately, the small town itself is not very inviting, especially with an attraction that many people visit.
CR Todd — Google review
Gotta see it to believe it! You hear about it but seeing it is totally different. Sign the guest book in the mailbox
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!
A beautiful place well worth the drive. My 9 year old son and I visited and had a wonderful time. Be warned **there are no bathrooms or anything nearby**. It was not a problem for us. We enjoyed our visit and loved that it was free
TheBudgetFamilySykesAgain — Google review
Be open to some remote adventure reached via dirt roads. We missed the dirt roads part in the other reviews but dove in anyway and the roads are fine. You don’t need 4WD. It’s a lively and lovely drive out to the rocks and worth the trip, considering that there are relatively few places to see between KC and Denver besides small towns and truck stops.
Elizabeth Jamo — Google review
We've been all over the southwest, have seen all the amazing red rock formations and arches of Utah and Arizona many times, and nothing compares to that. But to see this in western Kansas was pretty cool. Unexpected. It's definitely worth it if you're passing through, if you're interested in science and/or history, or if you live within a couple hours it's a fun day trip. Take water, snacks, there's nothing commercial around. It's on private property and the landowners kindly allow access.
I'm sure my photos look like everyone else's but I'll post them anyway. You can see cows grazing through the hole/arch. Plus one with me in it that my husband took to indicate the size perspective.
C — Google review
I made a stop here on my way out west from Ohio and I am so glad I went a little out of my way to see this! So beautiful and such a refreshing sight after driving through hours of flat land. Only saw a few others out there during my time. Nice and quiet, a great place to watch the sunset!
Ashley Posthuma — Google review
Very neat unexpected formations in Kansas. It's a rough ride to get in and out of the area. Watch out for turtles. I moved one out of the road on my way. There were also frogs and lizards around the monuments too but they move out of the way faster. Recommend going to the Fink Museum before visiting here to get the history and to see the fossils found in the area.
Roberta Peek — Google review
It was snowy when I went, and absolutely stunning! There are no plows on the dirt roads and you are definitely in the middle of no where, but it was well worth it to go an hour out of the way. No one was there, but the tracks in the snow indicated that many others has driven through. It was so peaceful.
Annika Gustafson — Google review
Awesome stop, we’ll worth your time. It is private property, so you must be respectful of the owner’s requests.
Stephanie Pieper — Google review
Very cool formation worth taking a look if you’re not too far away. We pulled a travel trailer down the dirt roads and it was not too bad. One spot with the hole in the wall has a little sign that explains in the geology. Just a little further down is another bunch of them that you can walk around and check out.
Russell Milles — Google review
While driving cross country, we were looking for unusual places to see. Well, this was definitely unusual. We never knew that in the middle of the plains in Kansas there would be these massive rock formations that were once part of a 500 foot sea that separated the United States from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico 😳.
The road leading to these rock formations was a deserted dirt road with nothing around for miles and miles. It seemed very sketchy, and I thought about turning around while imagining all the things that could go wrong. But, I’m so glad we didn’t!
As the formations began to appear, I was in awe of their size, appearance and placement. How has this natural sedimentary rock formation lasted in the middle of nowhere for millions of years?
It was definitely worth seeing! I’m surprised it isn’t more well known. We we’re the only people there except for one other couple that drove by.
On our way out, we we’re pleasantly greeted by several donkeys and a pony. The rock formations sit on private property, and I want to thank the owners for offering this amazing opportunity!
Christine Conroy — Google review
Monument Rock in Kansas. It's on private land and it's a monument. So PLEASE treat the monument and the land accordingly. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. IT'S WELL WORTH THE TRIP TO SEE !!!!
Chaz Floyd — Google review
Finally made it here. It is spectacular. It is a must see if you are in this part of Kansas.
M C — Google review
Similar to Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, this is a great 30 minute detour off I-70 - especially if you're making a long cross-country trek & want a scenic place to stretch your legs.
Don't let the dirt road scare you. I did this in my rental car (a Chrysler 300) with no issues. Although I saw 2 other cars driving out, there was only 1 other person when I arrived. Quiet, serene, & private. Views at every turn. Definitely a hidden gem & one of the best slices of Kansas.
There are no amenities or bathrooms.
*Photos are from Jan 1, 2023
Christine Billie — Google review
This was such a beautiful stop on our road trip! We were amazed at these rock formations. Walking around, getting up close. Not crowded at all. There was only one other family there while we visited. You can find some shady spots for a picnic. Free to visit, free to park.
Plan ahead...
Bring sunscreen, water, hat, and sunglasses.
No restrooms
Our GPS took us on a long rural route from the direction we were coming. Leaving, we were able to get to a town more quickly.
R Davis — Google review
Totally worth veering off 70 for a quick visit. The road is not paved once you turn off the highway and it's around 7 miles long. Saw some Antelope along the way. Very cool experience.
Sean Kelly — Google review
There is mystical air about and around the rock formations. It’s off the beaten path,but so worth the effort. Visited mid July , will be going back in the fall.
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.
Rehabilitation & rescue center for animals such as lions, tigers, bears & wolves, open to visitors.
We had an amazing visit to the sanctuary. We arrived with absolutely no expectations to see any of the rescue animals that they have but we're blown away to have been graced with the presence of many. The volunteers are very knowledgeable and it's a good way to get some exercise in on your hike. What a blessing we will be going back!
Jordan Iko — Google review
Incredible animal sanctuary! Its definitely worth the trip to see these magnificent animals up close. It’s also really interesting and inspiring to learn about the amazing work the sanctuary is doing in order to provide a safe haven for all these beautiful animals.
I really enjoyed speaking with a volunteer. He was very friendly but also a wealth of knowledge and taught me so much about the different animals, their stories and how the sanctuary strives to create a safe and comfortable forever home for all the animals regardless of their age or situation.
I would highly recommend renting or bringing binoculars. Some of the animals are easy to see but others can be seen more easily with the binoculars. Plan to spend several hours here as there are hundreds of animals.
They do have two small restaurants where you can purchase drinks and snacks if you get hungry/thirsty. They also have several conveniently located restrooms throughout the sanctuary.
A wonderful sanctuary doing amazing work!
Heather Mires — Google review
Such a cool experience. You get to see the animals they rescued without disrupting their day. We brought food and had a picnic halfway through. Highly recommend. And the entrance fees go to the animals!
Heather Henry — Google review
Beautiful animals that we well cared for! Two MUSTS: 1. binoculars, 2. patience. This isn't a zoo where you are face to face with the animals behind glass. You have a birds eye view of them in very large natural habitats. Some of the tigers are in smaller enclosures for medical care or because they are newly rescued. You do get a pretty up close view of them. Staff and volunteers were all friendly and knowledgeable. Drove up from the Springs and it was worth the trip on a sunny, cool spring day.
Alicia Reeves — Google review
Wonderful place to visit with a wonderful purpose behind it! The walkway is a unique way to experience the wildlife. Good photo opportunities even though the weather wasn't great. My pictures are just from my phone, so if you actually knew what you were doing, opportunities could be great. Facilities and gift shop are also nice.
Lane Stevenson — Google review
I love this place! Always welcoming, make you feel like family. Love doing the 5k &10k Run Into The Wild every year & helping support the Animals. What they do for these animals is beyond amazing! I highly recommended everyone go & experience this amazing place, I promise you won't go just once!
Jesse — Google review
*Must have plan for binoculars* you will not make the most of your ticket/experience unless you either bring your own or pay a few bucks to rent them there. You’ll see SO much more with binoculars/monocular. I seriously cannot imagine doing this visit without magnification.
Please keep in mind this is not a zoo. The animals are peacefully living in their massive natural habitats. It’s an amazing experience to see so many animals now given the best life possible.
I’d recommend waiting until kids are at an age for a 2 hour attention span with animals farish away. They have awesome accessibility and offer motorized power chairs to rent for those who might struggle with the walk.
Kerren Kollock — Google review
This sanctuary is breathtaking and heartwarming! There are hundreds of rescued animals from lions, bears, tigers, wolves, leopards, jaguars, and horses and camels!
Every visit you get to see different animals being able to enjoy being free and living their lives in love and compassion.
This is great for family outings and outings with friends!
Plan to send a lot of time here as the gift shop and cafes are amazing as well!
Adrienne Randol — Google review
What a fantastic place to see! Earlier in the morning provided us with lots of animals storing, walking around and just soaking up the sun. We say new baby foxes, tigers, lions, ligers, bears and a variety of wolf, coyotes, and other beautiful cats. Don’t forget to look for the camels.
Debbie Hunt — Google review
We took our kids there and had a great time! I was unsure what to expect but it was incredible. My 17 year old and 11 year old both had a super fun time!
We easily saw MANY beautiful and fun exotic animals from the safety of the walkway and yet the animals were roaming freely and safely in habitats that allow them significantly healthier and freer than what I’ve seen at zoos. Rescued tigers, foxes, bobcats, lions, bears, ostriches, emus, wolves, lynxes, and more.
It’s a drive to get there but worth it! Plan to do a lot of walking. But the time flew by and before we knew it we had easily spent over two hours enjoying the park.
We had good luck with the weather. Might be less enjoyable on really hot or really cold days because you’re outside, exposed to the elements most of the time.
They said mornings are the best because the animals are usually more active. That definitely seemed the case for us. By the time we left around lunch, many of the animals were napping in the sun.
It’s not inexpensive ($50/adult) but seems like a great cause and was worth it for us to see so many awesome animals rescued and taken care of.
Josh B — Google review
The Wild Animal Sanctuary was awesome. We had a really good time. It's great how everything they do is centered around making the animals comfortable and healthy. We spent more time on the walk than we planned because we spent so much time enjoying watching the animals. Definitely worth the drive and the walk. The indoor entrance has plenty of bathrooms and a great little cafe, gift shop and ice cream shop. All of these areas are clean and inviting. Going in mid May the weather was perfect. The visit was worth the $50 day pass and I would gladly come again.
Odin Javans — Google review
We had a great visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary. We got there at opening and spent a delightful 3 hours. The volunteers were great and explained the animals and answered questions.
You should bring binoculars or rent them from WAS. There are a few animals close by, but most animals are best seen through binoculars. I always wondered where the large animals that are rescued go, and now I know. Many of them are here.
The big surprise is that the food in the Lions Den Cafe is actually pretty good. It is definitely better than your average zoo food. We all enjoyed our lunches.
Take the 50 minute drive from Denver and experience this jewel of a wildlife sanctuary.
Daniel Bader — Google review
This was a pretty cool experience but I thought it was extremely expensive for what it was. We did have a great time and I would consider going back but $50/adult and $30/kid is a lot for a family of 4. It took a while for our girls to enjoy themselves but once we got going and started seeing more animals they became more interested. We were some of the last people there as the park was closing and the sun was setting which actually ended up being a treat for us because many of the lions and bears were rawring and it could be heard from all over the park. So that was pretty unique. Overall I’m glad we did it but it will be a while until we return because of the high prices.
Katie Fiola Jones — Google review
The animal sanctuary is absolutely incredible. We will be life long members and contribute what we can to support the crucial work they’re doing. The stories of what these animals have been thru is absolutely heartbreaking.
Thank you, animal sanctuary, for your vision, compassion and love for all the animals in the world.
Nicole Haberberger — Google review
This is the best experience I’ve had since living in Colorado the past 2.5 years. Incredible wildlife, staff, and facilities. Highly recommend bringing or investing in binoculars to make the experience that much better, however they do provide you with a monocular that you get to keep. Staff is incredible and passionate about the animals. My crew spent over 5 hours here and we easily could have spent 2 more. Other than the animals in the sanctuary we saw wild fox, bald and golden eagles flying by. 11/10 experience, we’ll see you soon!!
Angelo Andino — Google review
To come this close to wild life is what I love I definitely love the wildlife and outdoor nature activities. I loved the time I had here definitely will be back! Until next time!🦁🐅🧸
Sophia Denning — Google review
This beat my expectations. We had family friends in town and were looking for things to do with a 13 year old. We decided on the Wild Animal Sanctuary and went at 4:30pm because we heard going closer to dusk you had the chance to hear the animals start to rawr - and we absolutely did (it sounded unreal). The prices are obviously more than going to a zoo but we all felt fine with that since the money went to a good cause. This sanctuary is helping rescue so many abused animals. Our group did bring binoculars but I saw so much without them I probably only used them 3 times - but I imagine this can differ by times of day, etc. Amazing place.
Sarah J — Google review
Bought a Family Plan and took three of the grandkids. Will be back to see more in the near future. Pretty cool when the lions started roaring.
Clean and warm restrooms.
Sorry, no dogs.
Dale Kluth — Google review
Such an amazing place that rescues animals no matter the size or shape. The volunteers took the time to explain the animals situations and the care they get. Just an amazing experience. It taught my kids a lot about illegal animal trade and how bad conditions are for those animals. It was very educational. The animals have lots of room and are not in small cages.
Sarah Scholtes — Google review
Great visit. So lots of tigers, lions, bears, and wolves plus some bobcats, linx, etc. Docents are great to help you find the animals or share a story about their rescue.
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.
Expansive park with hiking trails, rock climbing walls, wildlife viewing opportunities & more.
Fantastic area to hike and run. There's a good amount of parking there, with a few restrooms/portas at the lots. A big loop will take you around 6-7 miles, but you can go smaller loops or even a simple out and back - the scenery is pretty regardless. Enjoy some quality outdoors time out here.
Peter Steenhuis — Google review
Beautiful state park! We explored mostly the surface because our daughter is still fairly small. But she enjoyed the playground and managed to walk down and back up from the creek. There were mosquitoes at the bottom so plan accordingly. Parking is $10 but definitely worth stopping to see all the natural beauty this spot has to offer.
Beth Hee — Google review
Pros:
Really, really beautiful scenery. Plenty of hikes. There is a dam and you can hike parallel to a creek. At one point you have to cross the creek which makes it a little adventurous. Overall, the hikes are mild to moderate and kids of all ages can do it easily. There are plenty of picnic area, some spots have sheds, and plenty of parking. Dog friendly.
Cons:
Most of the hiking trails are in open so if it's sunny, you will feel the sun. Carry plenty of water.
Salil Jha — Google review
Absolutely stunning park. Gorgeous views. The trail into the canyon does have some steep footing but go slow and you should be fine.
Mary Ash — Google review
I thought I'd try a trail run this morning on the 4 mile East trail. I quickly realized that parts of the trail were challenging to find. I was grateful for the piles of rocks/stacked rocks marking the trail. Needles to say it's not a great trail running 'trail' in several spots, but it was a great trail! I'll be back when I have more time to wander in there. I'd definitely recommend it as a hike. I'm adding a few pictures that look like landscape when they are actually part of the trail (they're obviously not the ones with a paved sidewalk or view of the canyon). I also added a quick video from under the bridge, I thought it was cool how they made space to go under the highway. The stacked rocks were my guide! I got a little lost in one area and noticed when I backtracked that the stacked rocks were toppled over, so I really did depend on them. If you hike this trail, watch for the trail markers and give yourself plenty of time, and most of all enjoy the journey!
Hethyr Fouse — Google review
This state park is the scene of a dam failure in 1933. The canyon is filled with rock formations with Cherry Creek running below, it provides a great habitat for a variety of wildlife. There is a viewing platform near the bridge. There are two accesses to the park, the main one off CO 83 and the 2nd off CO 86 coming out of Franktown. From CO83 you can really explore the Canyon. From the CO86 side, you can see the failed Dam and the homestead. There are several beautiful trails on this side also. Both sides have plenty to explore. You can't drive from one side to the other, but you can hike.
Lisa Rogers — Google review
Very near to centennial Colorado. It took me and my son 2hrs 30min to do a loop from castlewood state park parking towards the mountain in middle you see one side of dam and then post looping down and back you see other end of the dam. We also came across a rattle snake on the trail so took pictures and maneuvered around it. It was hot but it rained a bit that kept the temperatures down. Loop is around 6 miles and runs around many bridges with flowing water. Scenes down hill are also amazing. Nice to do this trails over weekend.
Mahesh Karekar — Google review
Our family loves this place. Great trail with wildlife and greenery. Dog friendly and family friendly. With picnic areas and public restroom. Lovely creek and educational posts along the trail way. Watch out for cactus, mountain lions, poison ivy, and snakes.
Christina Carbajal — Google review
We were looking for somewhere along our route south of Denver where we could get in a short hike. We found Castlewood canyon to enjoy a 2 mile hike. We were happy we stopped.
Linda Radford — Google review
One of the most beautiful places that I've been in a really long time. My boyfriend took me for my birthday he is so amazing he knows exactly what I love to do it took an hour for us the hike through the canyon and I absolutely loved it I would recommend it to anyone it's a little dangerous for someone who's not familiar with hiking or has the proper Footwear so make sure you get ready before you go
Kimberly Sandoval — Google review
This is a beautiful park with a lot of history. My daughter loves looking at the old buildings and the plaques describing what they were used for. There are a lot of trails criss-crossing around so be careful not to get lost. I also love the way the park smells in the spring there are so many wildflowers and Russian olive trees and it smells amazing here. The trails are very easy with slight changes to elevation and only a few trip hazards here and there. Just take care not to go off trail because there are cacti.
Sakura Windsong — Google review
What a great find!!! The upper trails are very easy, wheelchair/stroller accessible! Once you go down into the gorge it’s absolutely stunning, more rugged and the stream is so bubbly! I didn’t make it to the dam site..next time! Highly recommend!
Dana Pustinger — Google review
Moderate hiking trails (with a lot of paved walkways) through a beautiful state park full of unusual lobed "cobble" rock formations and the ruins of a mass century dam. Because it's a little off the beaten path, there are few other hikers. Dogs allowed on certain trails. And the visitor's center was a delight, with Sid & Nancy (two bull snakes) and Tig (a tiger salamander) on view.
Daniel McGee — Google review
This is an amazing trek around the cherry creek canyon. The trail is known for bird sightings and a great hike. Entry will cost you $10 and they have plenty of parking space and restrooms near the visitor center. Compared to other great trails across the region it may not the best but worth visiting once for an early morning hike. Do not carry your bikes or skateboard.
Biswanath Das — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous area! Unfortunately, we didn't have enough time to stop and explore before heading to the airport. The scenic drive was fantastic, low-stress, and riddled with wondrous sights to behold! The plains appear vast, in comparison to the mountains in the west.
Jenni Hoover — Google review
It's amazing that there are so many state parks so close to the city of Denver. We just got chance to explore only two of them. This is a unique place in that you will be on flat land one minute and the next you are seeing these beautiful canyon made by cherry creek. We had a great time hiking some beautiful trails within the park and saw lots of birds, wild flowers and some nice people along the way.
Keshava Mysore — Google review
Nice place to visit, walk and hike around. Saw several people with dogs, beautiful birds and completely brush and trees. I could see this as a great place for a wedding, with beautiful views all around. Misty people stop at the first two parking lots to see the gazebo you can see from the highway. But make sure you go ask the way back further to the west. Great place for picnics with places for covered gatherings
B K — Google review
Beautiful place. Been here many times, but this was the first time when the trails were covered in snow. Walked to the old dam, excellent. Another great Colorado state park.
Paul Galloway — Google review
Big rock, shallow canyon, river walk, bird watching, cliff dwelling, 3 ish mile hike with moderate terrain. Ice lasts a bit into spring in some spots. A very pleasant way to spend a few hours outside, in nature, subsurface exploring with the family. Great place to bring a picnic. Leave no trace.
C — Google review
A hidden gem! From the road you catch yourself thinking “there’s no way there’s anything good out there. Its flat for miles!” WRONG. As soon as you enter the park, you drive into a lovely canyon! Wonderful trails and views! Don’t skip out on this State Park!
Cara Conway — Google review
What a great place to go for easy hiking and viewing the wonders of Colorado scenery. On the East side entrance there is a nice visitors center, great parking with nice paved pathways winding though the rocky landscape. We saw a lot of beautiful wildflowers, magnificent rock formations, cactus, and interesting trees. One of my favorites was the large grasses lining the pathways. some of them were still green, but some of them were turning fall colors of purple, red, pink, orange, & yellow. Take the time to look closely at the natural little rock gardens.
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
The US Air Force Academy is a prominent military training facility in Colorado Springs, which attracts millions of tourists each year. It offers visitors a glimpse into the history and training of pilots and other airmen.
Visited the United States Air Force Academy in early August and was simply awestruck by the history, mission, character and quality of people who first organized the institution, all the graduates over time, and the proud character of the individuals attending the academy. Beautiful campus nestled in the north part of Colorado Springs, with plenty of space and neat, air-themed buildings. The chapel was under renovation/construction when we visited so we could not view it, but there are plenty of images and models around to get an idea of how beautiful and majestic the building is. We don't have any family members in the military, but we greatly appreciated the valuable opportunity to learn about this wonderful institution and the amazing work of the people associated with it. Highly recommended if you're in the area.
Shingo S. Ishida — Google review
Beautiful place and inspiring. The cadet chapel is very nice. It’s a MUST visit place if you are in Colorado Springs area.
Highly recommend it!
Amo Cenare — Google review
We visited the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in hopes that our daughter will be attending next year. It is a highly respected institution that is known for producing some of the most dedicated and skilled military officers in the United States Air Force. With a focus on integrity, excellence, and service, the Academy prepares its students to meet the challenges of military service with honor and distinction.
Beyond its academic and ethical rigor, the Air Force Academy also offers a vibrant and diverse community for its students. Cadets come from all walks of life, and the Academy prides itself on fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
It would be a blessing to be a part of this prestigious academy.
Kelly Haynes — Google review
The price is right. It's a top-level education at zero cost. There are, of course, some strings attached.
Alex Kolkena — Google review
Views from USAFA are inspiring and give citizens understand how our military leaders are developed
Stephen D. Marino — Google review
What an impressive place! Not just the beauty and the organization of it, but the respect for the academy and the respect for the service is present. The size of the grounds is immense, and we only stayed on the roads, not having time to go on any of the walking paths. Even though the chapel is currently closed, we still learned a lot through the visitor's center, and the video they showed was informative as well. Would have loved to have had more time here.
John Landeck — Google review
My husband made a second trip to get my prescription which said on the recording that it would be ready on Friday after 2:00 pm. He tried calling but they would not answer the phone and of course it was not ready again. Have no idea what is happening at the USAF Academy but the prescriptions now are never ready when they say it is in their recording. From now on we are not going to pick it up until we get text from them saying it is ready. Of course I am going to run out of this important medication.
Tamara P Chandler — Google review
The youngest of our military academies, it is worth taking the self guided tour. We were able to see a great deal of the academy and much of its history.
Annette Porter — Google review
Beautiful and inspiring. Love this country! The plane at the entrance is amazing! Whoa!
Patrick Vandiver — Google review
Interesting college. Awesome and incredibly difficult and kind of miserable all at the same time. As a cadet, the best part is the other people the worst part is your own weaknesses. Will make you a stronger person in every way even if you don’t graduate.
Jack Peterson — Google review
Love this training area with museum, planetarium, chapel
Jean Cappellano — Google review
We visited falcon Trail beautiful view 13 mile hike we did a 4.8 in and out next time we go we're going to do the full 13
Dave Pigon — Google review
What a place!! It will stir your patriotism. At the visitor's center, a movie explains how they train the cadets. You can take a walking tour of the beautiful campus, visit their museum, and drive around the beautiful places where the cadets work out and train. It will make you proud to know you are supporting something like this.
Phil Helman — Google review
Einen Abstecher aus Denver ist es wert. Hier schlägt das Herz der US Airforce Ausbildung. Registriert euch kurz am Südeingang und los gehts. Top Gun in echt.
(Translated by Google)
It's worth a detour from Denver. This is where the heart of US Air Force training beats. Just register at the south entrance and off you go. Top Gun for real.
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
A beautiful park with breath-taking sandstone formations and stunning views of the mountains, Garden of the Gods is a popular tourist destination in Colorado Springs. It's perfect for outdoor activities, with plenty to see and do, including hiking trails and a visitor center.
Breathtaking!! We arrived early and was able to get a good parking spot. The Visitor's Center was really informative and cool. The gift shop has some really nice items and the staff was nice. We walked the trails and took some amazing pictures. Nature is beautifully created. And it's free, you can't beat that.
Kay Lafleur — Google review
Such an amazing experience! There are short walks and longer walks. A nice public restroom next to parking lot 2. The visitor center is awesome! They have a nice little gift shop and you can pick up a map there. It also has some amazing views too! It also has a little cafe if you want to grab coffee or snacks before going hiking.
Selena Daryl — Google review
Beautiful rock formations. You will be greeted with balanced rock with a narrow road to the visitor centre. The road is a loop with various scenic spots. I believe the place would be more beautiful during dawn or dusk. Great for hiking, walking or just being with nature !!
Rishikesh Nalapur — Google review
Our first stop was at the Visitor’s Center. The man at the information desk was helpful and courteous. Since we were pushing a baby stroller he pointed the paved route for us. The view from the Center is beautiful and a great place for pictures. It is a good idea to bring water. While the paved hiking is not strenuous the dry climate will leave you thirsty!
Richard Blake — Google review
Such an amazing and majestic place. This was a great place for the whole family. The scenes are gorgeous and the kids loved climbing around on the rocks. It’s super clean and the paths are well taken care of. Add it to your “must-see” list. You won’t regret it.
Stevie Torres — Google review
This place is amazing. Such beautiful vistas, I could spend an entire day just taking it all in. You can drive your car up the road and there's a parking lot that meets a trailhead. The path is concrete and well maintained. In fact, the entire area is meticulous. We got a good way down the path and turned back because it started to rain. But this is a wondrous place that is good for the soul.
Nathan Wadman — Google review
One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. No joke. There is something for everyone here! There are concrete sidewalks throughout the park, as well as more primitive trails with some elevation if that’s your thing. The visitor’s center is also very nice.
Kenny Spade — Google review
Fun experience walking around and seeing the formation of the rocks there and the surrounding areas. The park is kept very clean and tidy. You can see caution signs if you're not clear if you can go or do certain things. Maps are well placed around to make sure you know where you are at all times. People there are friendly and the views are even better. Everywhere you look is a sight to see. Traffic is not that bad, but I didn't go at their peak times. It was open till late, which was great as we got to see the sunset.
ngawang sherpa — Google review
We visited on a Monday afternoon, not too crowded. The visitor center is really cool, all the touch screens actually work! The staff were very helpful and the gift shop has some cute stuff. Everything is very accessible on the paths, if you have a wheelchair or stroller you can navigate safely. It’s a great time and it’s free! The weather was great, just a little snow here and there.
Corey Green — Google review
Absolutely amazing place to venture. We spent hours enjoying the sights and could have easily spent longer. There are many trails. Animals to watch for. The restrooms are very well maintained, as is the whole park. Dog, kid friendly. There are areas that are not mobility friendly for wheelchair access and strollers, but there are plenty of other areas to explore that are.
Kayla Escudero — Google review
It's absolutely beautiful. Did the Siamese Twins trail. It was a little tricky to stay on coarse. We started at the trading post, its probably better from the actual trailhead. the paths were clear but it just wasn't clear if you were on the correct path. The map was not too helpful. But we had GPS on so could always see where the trading post was and the other people on trail were helpful in letting us know if we were on the right track. But aside from that the scenery is absolutely amazing. We saw deer and a cute, way too accustomed to humans squirrel. And lots of cool birds. Could spend all day just staring at the beautiful views of valleys hills and rock formations. Super grateful there is no charge to enter,although we did our part by spending money in the gift shop and trading post!
Leila D. — Google review
It doesn't matter whether it's your first time or you've been a hundred times it will always be breathtaking and connect you with nature no matter what time of year it is! The drive is absolutely beautiful through the park. Trails are well maintained and many are handicap accessible. Access to Rampart Road will take you on a fun 4-wheeling drive.
Bucket list stop for visitors for sure. Beautiful trading post with lots of local gifts.
Amanda Tolles — Google review
Unique, wonderful, picturesque place to go for a hike/walk.
Mountain Biking, there is a designated area for mountain biking.
Only downside, it is so popular that it can be a bit crowded and difficult to find parking at times.
Most enjoyable at off-peak times.
J C — Google review
This was amazing. It was so cool to see and actually walk around and climb on these rocks. So many trails and spots to park. There are some trails that are shared with horses. So watch out for horse droppings. They even have picnic areas with tables so you can bring your own food and eat with your family and friends. Pretty cool to actually see and touch all that stuff. One of my favorite spots I found.
isaac sapp — Google review
they have a cafe in the visitors center and a cute gift shop. there are plenty of paved paths to walk along around the park, along with dirt paths that are less busy. we saw many people climbing on the rocks and the weather was great so there were many animals wandering around. lots of birds too
Jade F — Google review
My overall experience has been incredible here. Definitely not a place that you get to explore in a few hours or even a whole day. I'd say to plan the spots that you want to explore and revisit if you have time. If you are a hiker, on the map the Scotsman Picnic Ground has a great trail, just watch out for horse poop everywhere as this is a pretty popular riding for horse owners.
Carla Gorosito Cox — Google review
Such a beautiful place! I went hiking one day but didn’t get to see everything before the sun went down. I went back the next day to catch the sunrise and see what I missed the day before. There are so many cool things to see all over the place.
I went later in the day on the first day so it wasn’t too crowded. The same for the sunrise, there was hardly anyone there. So amazing that there’s no charge for this park!
Steph West — Google review
It goes without saying that this place is beautiful. The visitors center was really nice all kinds of information about the area. It was a little bit crowded but it seemed to be pack with the kind of people who loved where they were so it was great vibes. My kids loved it and didn't want to stop hiking. There is a lot of area roped off I'm sure with good reason but i wish we could explore around off the path a little bit.
kristina cuddeback — Google review
This was my first time in Colorado Springs and this is a must see. The park is easy to drive in and through. The actual area is at the foot of the mountains and not in the mountains. The terrain is easy to walk. I has areas for you to walk and many, many people do that. It has areas to bike ride and it also has places to horse ride. The are separated places so you can enjoy whatever you are choosing to do. You can drive through the area and it is a nine mile trip, I was told. You can take a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenery. The trails are wide and well worn so that anyone can walk them. There is a lot of traffic but it is worth the effort and be ready to take pictures. You could definitely spend a day just walking and riding. Loved it. There is a trading post there as well. and the nature center is kinda nice but average.
Tom Bush — Google review
Definitely worth a visit if you are in the Colorado Springs area. Best of all, this park is free to the public. Parking is free at the visitor center but it can fill up quickly during the day. There are plenty of parking spaces with free shuttle about 5 minutes from the visitor center. You can drive into the garden but there are limited parking spaces there.
There are lots of hiking trails but if you are looking for a short hike, the park rangers will recommend the 1 mile paved loop around the famous rock formations not far from the visitor center.
If you are interested, you can buy tickets for a 45-minute Jeep tour around the entire park for $20 per person. There are bikes for rent as well.
This park is open from 5 AM to 10 PM in the summer. We also visited the park the following day to take pictures and see the sun rise over the rock formations. It was beautiful and there were very few people in the park during sunrise.
Peter Tan — Google review
Immaculate, breathtaking, mind boggling. These words don't even begin to describe the feelings you get when you try to think about how everything about these dwarfs your existence. When it comes to the time and resources at play to bring you these amazing views. Recommend watching the 15 minute video at the visitor center to get an idea of how these formations can't about.
Gerid Adams (Wired4Sound) — Google review
Free to enter. I wished one of the main parking lots was bigger, it took awhile to find a parking space. You have to sit and wait for people to leave. Hiking is easy and you can go as leisurely as you want. It’s better to do this one in the morning to avoid the massive amounts of tourists coming. You can easily spend a few hours here.
Nicholas P — Google review
No doubt this place is one of the best small hike locations to explore in the area. Lots of beautiful views and hiking paths. Bring water and make sure to stay hydrated. I would also advise proper shoes that cover your ankles and toes, the sand is red and will dust your shoes with a fine coating (easy to clean off, but be aware it's part of the experience) all in all, I highly suggest this park.
TJ D — Google review
Beautiful, great place to walk your dogs (just keep them on their leash and clean up if they go to the bathroom). Lots of parking, great walking paths. Welcome center and visitor center has lots of great info and a little cafe.
Nicole Klor — Google review
This place was absolutely beautiful. We made a trip out to pick up my daughter and she encouraged us to check it out before we left. They did have a picnic area, restrooms, and if you’re into rock climbing they had designated areas for that as well! I would love to fly back to Colorado and explore this place some more!
Amber Russo — Google review
Visiting Garden of the Gods was an awe-inspiring experience. Nestled in Colorado Springs, this natural landmark boasts stunning geological formations, with towering red rock spires and balanced boulders set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The beauty of the park is breathtaking, and the array of colors, especially at sunrise or sunset, is simply mesmerizing. The well-maintained trails offer easy access to explore the landscape and get up close with the unique rock formations. Each viewpoint and trail presents a new perspective of the park's grandeur, making it a photographer's paradise. The visitor center was informative, providing insights into the geological history and the natural ecosystem of the area. Garden of the Gods is not just a feast for the eyes but also a place that ignites the imagination and offers a peaceful retreat into nature. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and geological wonders.
Lady Cornwall — Google review
Here's some more information about this amazing place:
History: The Garden of the Gods was formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion. The Ute people, who inhabited the area for centuries, considered it a sacred place. In 1909, the park was donated to the city of Colorado Springs and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
Rock formations: The park is home to some of the most iconic rock formations in the world, including Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and the Three Graces. These formations have been named for their resemblance to various objects, adding to the park's whimsical charm.
Activities: There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Garden of the Gods, including hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and jeep tours. There are also several scenic trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the rock formations and the surrounding landscape.
Visitor Center: The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is a great place to start your visit. The center has exhibits on the park's geology, history, and ecology. There is also a bookstore and a gift shop.
Getting there: The Garden of the Gods is located just west of Colorado Springs. The park is open year-round, and there is a fee to enter.
Vikas Kumar — Google review
Must visit place in Colorado Springs, CO.
Loved the transition of colors by the evening and view of different mountain rock formations. Really the Garden of Gods.
Could spend entire day here on the trails and view spots.
Got well maintained parking spots, trail heads and restrooms.
inferno d — Google review
Nice place to take a hike on or bike different trails. You can picnic here and see some amazing rock formations. It's nice to just drive through also if not the walking type.
M M — Google review
Climbing is epic! As a new outdoor climber, the grades are sandbagged. There are few bolts, we used trad gear on most sport routes. The first bold is often 15ft+ from the ground, may not be able to get it even with a stick clip. Not a place I would recommend for beginners, but for those up for the challenge, it is a playground of old classic routes with incredible views.
Sharie Dodge — Google review
Incredible experience. We chose to do the audio guided tour in our vehicle. There are many places to park along the way and explore on foot. The views of Pikes Peak were great once the clouds clear.
Chase Griggers — Google review
Love the formations, but not all the tourists... we go when it's not expected to be bust, much better people wise. Big park, drive around to the different spots and park, lots to see. Don't step in the red clay mud, it will ruin your shoes.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a famous tourist attraction located west of Colorado Springs. It features captivating caverns with stunning rock formations, and since being discovered in 1880 it has been a popular tourist destination. There are several tour options available, including spelunking and a zip line & ropes course.
The view from the top of the mountain was absolutely beautiful. There are a number of observation spots for you to take in the view. The souvenir shop was fantastic with such a favorite of gems, cups, clothing, carvings, etc. The tour guide was very well educated and the customer service was a compliment to the field of hospitality. The tour is for all ages and can be completely fairly easily. There are some tighter spaces so I do not suggest wearing a backpack.
Ashley Suarez — Google review
I really enjoyed the cave tour. Anna was an enthusiastic and fun tour guide, and the cave itself was interesting. It was a steady paced 1 hour, and although there were many sets of stairs, it was not a difficult walk.
The view from the terrace at the entrance was glorious, and it’s worth the drive just for the view.
I also did the “zip line” which is more of a zippy ski lift. The 2 minute ride was not quite worth the $15 price tag, but Paul, the operator was such a kind and interesting young gentleman.
Monica Robinson — Google review
My 11 year old son and I did the discovery cave tour and it was great. Some really cool caves, an entertaining and educational guide as well. Then we did the pioneer pass which was the high ropes course the bat-a-pult and the rock climbing wall. That was also a lot of fun. Hanging over the cliff standing on a spinning tube gets your adrenaline going. I capped it off by doing the Terror-dactyl, which was awesome. I thought everything was a pretty reasonable value. The place is also well ran, lots of staff around and all the staff were well trained, seemed to really care about doing a good job and provided great service. Would recommend spending half a day here.
aproush — Google review
My family and I did the regular tour, and our tour guide was Sonia. She was very personable and funny. They have a time schedule to adhere to so sometimes it felt a tiny bit rushed so that the next group could get into that cavern room, but otherwise I still had time to take plenty photos and videos. I really wanted to buy the photo they took, but my husband and daughter weren’t ready when the photo was taken. It would be great if there was an opportunity to retake photos. There might be, but it wasn’t mentioned and I didn’t ask. We plan to visit again when we visit Colorado next. Def recommend!
Ashley Cook — Google review
We had a fantastic tour guide, Kira! The tour was engaging and interesting. The cave was full of great features and formations. We had 3 kids this us ages 9 and 11 and they loved the ropes course and climbing wall. This park provided hours of great sights and entertainment for the family.
Terri Olive — Google review
We had a very enjoyable tour of Cave of the Winds. We had a small tour group (11:45 on a Monday) and a great guide (Olive). She really made the tour fun and interesting for everyone. Spectacular views from the reception area before we ventured into the caves and everyone working there was friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend you visit.
Steven Lyons — Google review
This place is a lot of fun there is plenty of things to do including the cave tour. Definitely recommend doing that. I had the bald tour guide (forgot his name, but he made it very fun). I got a good workout walking in it but learned a lot as well. Worth checking out before or after Garden of the Gods.
Kyle “EK” Warner — Google review
This place was awesome! I really enjoyed the cave tour. It's a really cool place to go to. We had a baby and adults; some areas in the cave are a bit low, so you have to watch your head. The activities are pretty cool. Be ready for an adventure for sure. Everyone in our group had a great time. Very informative tour. I've lived in Colorado practically all my life, and it was my first time visiting. I highly recommend getting out to see it. also has such fresh air.
Yuriana De Luna — Google review
Would give more stars if i could. What a unique and affordable experience! The cave tour was amazing! We did the discovery tour and it was very easy to operate for anyone who may have anxiety/ claustrophobia. Our tour guide was Gale, who was absolutely amazing!!! She is extremely knowledgeable, hilarious, and brought my friends and i much joy. If you are looking for a cave to explore this is the tour! Get there early to soak in the drive up and the observation decks, so beautiful!
carley Miller — Google review
Great experience!
Amazing view, the discovery cave tour is nice and this ride (Terror-Dactyl) where you go "flying" between the canyons is top notch!
My only suggestion is that they could implement a system for "virtual line" for this ride. I had just 8 people on front of me and took a little bit more than an 1 hour in line to go in the ride. I have a small kid so it was challenging, but overall, I would totally go there again. Amazing place :)
Fl?via von Atzingen Lled? — Google review
Had a great time going through the Caverns and our guide Kathrine was amazing. She spoke my language of dad jokes the entire time. My son’s favorite part was when she turned all the lights out and we couldn’t see a thing! It was really cool! I highly recommend this tour!
Matthew Hayes — Google review
We had an absolute blast of a time, We did the lantern tour with Rowan, and it was an awesome experience. She did a great job showing the cave and telling the stories. We had such a good time, we did the discovery tour as well. The caves are natural, so there are some low spots and some slippery spots, as well as stairs. I would recommend if you are scared of the dark or small spaces to stick to the discovery tour. For the lantern tour, Rowan did an awesome job pointing out any obstacles all while keeping the ambiance and flow of the tour. If you've gone through the discovery tour and are looking for a different take on the cave of the winds, I definitely recommend the lantern tour
Braydon Lowe — Google review
Spelunking is pretty awesome. More so when your guide is John. He was very knowledgeable and passionate when touring us. He made sure everyone was safe and comfortable. You do have to do some bending over to pass through the caves. Their are also stairs at certain points. The park also has activities for your children and a cool zip line if you are brave enough. If you are hungry and would like to relax a bit, they have a small restaurant that will whip you up sandwiches, 🍟 and such. Well worth the visit.
Johnny “J Dub” Wilder Jr — Google review
This place is amazing. I came here as a kid, brought the family back and they have made it so family friendly that we stayed ALL DAY, open to close. Mariah our tour guide was very funny and informative. Eric and Ethan on the ropes course and rock climbing wall were awesome to my family. (sorry team the only two names I remembered) whole crew does an awesome job! Very well run team!
If you question if this is a great thing to do for kids.... If they're over 42" the answer is YES!
Dan Hamilton — Google review
This was a fun experience. Driving up the side of the mountain before you get to the entrance is always exciting. We paid $92 for two kids two adults to do a cave tour. It was neat inside, $92 is a bit steep though. We paid an additional $15 for each child to do an activity outside of the entrance. You could pay $25 each to do all of the activities including the batapult which was the ride over the canyon. The workers were friendly.
Michelle Fuhr — Google review
Super cool cave tour. I did the regular (non-lantern) tour. You explore quite a bit but it's definitely a beginner tour. Flooring is level, smooth, and clean. Nothing to worry about with getting your shoes dirty. Couple ladders you need to climb so if you can't climb a ladder for some reason I wouldn't recommend going. Saw people of all sizes on the tour and everyone made it thru the low height spaces. I definitely want to come back and do the haunted lantern tour!
Daniel Ochoa — Google review
My wife and I did the discovery tour. We had about 15 people in our group. The tour lasted about 45 minutes. $26. Our tour guide was Maddie, and she was amazing! She is full of jokes. There are a lot of stairs and a few tight spaces but it was a great experience. I especially loved the part where they turn all of the lights off and you experience cave darkness!
Short Stories and Tall Tales — Google review
This incredible place is located at the top of a small peak in the mountains! It's easily accessible right off the main highway. They offer ziplines and outdoor activities as well as a variety of cave tours. The standard cave tour is about an hour and well worth the money.
You will be in a natural cave and have to climb up a few sets of stairs and will be confined to a small space but you can request to leave if your uncomfortable and someone will escort you out.
It's absolutely incredible the work they've done on the cave since it was first discovered.
They have a small area to hang out and view the mountains and a hut selling snacks and beer/wine products at the beginning of the tour. Be responsible you do have to drive up a cliff side to get here! There's a larger gift shop and cafe once you complete the tour on the other side of the parking lot and large area to enjoy the view.
Jennie Johnson — Google review
First time in a cave and we did the discovery tour and it was awesome! My 6 and 9 year old really enjoyed it, too! Our tour guide Jack was very knowledgeable and educated on caves (he told us he did his undergraduate thesis on that cave which is awesome!). We learned a lot and really enjoyed the whole experience! I would recommend everyone pay a visit to this tour.
Justin Idle — Google review
It was a great experience for my 3&4 year old. The tour was very doable, the stairway was not a lot although we did have to pick the kids up to go through few parts.
The cave itself was alright, since I saw many cave before back in Vietnam I wasn't impressed.
On other note, the road to drive up there was quite scary if you are not familiar with the mountains. It had many sharp turn. We came on a Sunday day and no ice on the road, yet I was so scared driving up. I can't imagine the day of snowing and icing would be like. Please be careful driving there.
I don't like the fact that they try to take pictures at the beginning of the tour to sell it back to us and didn't let us take pictures at that particular spot.
Jolie Li — Google review
Absolutely would recommend taking the cave tours! Our tour guide Jeremy made it so fun and exciting while telling us about the history! Thank you so much Jeremy for making this trip so amazing for my dad, aunt, and I!
I would also recommend the terydactle ride! It was such an adrenaline rush!
Riley ONeil — Google review
My boyfriend and I originally went on the discovery tour with Slim Jim. It was such a fun experience! We enjoyed learning the history of the Caves. They were amazing to see & crazy to imagine people crawling through these tiny spaces. We ended up taking the last haunted tour of the day. We went during the week so it felt like a private tour. It made everything feel sooo much spookier. Let’s not talk about the scary stuff we experienced in the caves while we were in there….It was such an awesome experience. We took the tour with… I believe her name was Chloe? Cleo? I think she had curly red hair. She was so amazing!! Thank you for the experiences! We’ll be back for sure!
Damaris lopez — Google review
Amazing tours, lantern and non lantern alike. The guides were very informative and entertaining. There’s some tricky stairs along the way, but just pay attention and you’ll be perfectly fine. Cool water pools and stalactites/stalagmites. Even got to see their natural “oriental” rock garden. They also take photos at the beginning of the tour (available for purchase at the end)
Katherine Spencer — Google review
Had a wonderful day spending time at the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park. My group had Olive as a tour guide and she made the visit something to remember. I still have her funny cute jokes she made stuck in my head. Would recommend visiting the website to view any specials that may be available as well as the different tours they offer. Olive helped demonstrate what the "Haunted Lantern Tour", and it will be something I'll book in the future when I'm back in the area. Wonderful learning about the history and geology of the area and motives for search. After/before the tour, the mountain has many good views and a deck for viewing the scenery.
Demitrius Gilbert — Google review
We loved the 11 am Lantern Tour with Mariah!! She was a fantastic tour guide with great stories about the history and haunts in the cave. The Cave of The Winds has been open since 1881 so there is definitely a ton of history to talk about.
As part of the tour, there is a 250 foot long area of the cave that you mostly have to stoop down because the cave is only 42” at the tallest. This area is the challenging part of the tour.
The tour was a good 1 hour and 40 minutes long and well worth the price of admission.
Thanks for the memories as we definitely had a GREAT time!! We will be back on our next trip to Colorado.
Randy Bitner — Google review
My family and I visited from out of town over last week. It is a bit overpriced (about $110 for a family of four - Discovery Package), but the tour and the tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. This was my first cave experience and I was truly blown away with information. The view from the patio is breath taking and we loved the photo ops with the stuffed bear and oversized chair. Thank you for the memories.
Jessica Westfall — Google review
We did the Discovery tour, at $28 a person. That may be a little high, but this tour within the cave was absolutely stunning. It boasts 1/2 mile, and 196 stair steps. That may sound like a lot, but it wasn't. It is not handicap accessible simply due to being a cave, however if you are able to walk and climb semi-steep steps, this is worth it. You do NOT have to be in shape to do this tour.
Autumn was our tour guide and she did an amazing job. She was kind, took time to explain different aspects of the cave and its history, and personally I thought her jokes were great.
Highly recommend going. Children will love this but you should make sure they keep their hands to themselves as touching parts of the cave can damage the ecosystem and formation of the cave. Adults of all ages will love this as well- we did!
Tallstar's Sith Holocron — Google review
The cave, which was discovered in 1881 by two brothers, was only officially opened to public business in the 1990s. A lot of man-made facilities were built before open to the public, they preserved most of the cave while letting the public understand this magical geological structure. These artificial facilities allow most short tourists (tourists who are too tall to easily hit their heads during the trip) to be introduced to the tour by the tour guides. Great place for the whole family to have a little adventure together.
Vick Sh — Google review
4.7
(13936)
•
4.5
(4440)
100 Cave of the Winds Rd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, USA
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