Shawnee County, KS

While visiting Topeka, come and learn more about Shawnee County history at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library. The major urban library has a collection of over 450,000 books and serves more than 85,000 registered borrowers. It also has the distinction of being home to the oldest permanent collection of public art in the city. Currently, the library is expanding to add 100,000 square feet. It is being designed by world famous architect Michael Graves. For more information call (785) 233-2040.
Washburn University, located in Topeka, is the only municipal university in the nation. With an attractive and modern campus, the university is home to many special events, festivals and concerts. (785) 231-1010.
If you're looking for adventure, look no further! Lake Shawnee has everything under the sun-- hiking, camping, fishing, boating. With 410 surface acres of water, it is home to every kind of water sport you could want. In addition, this beautiful area on the southeast edge of Topeka is a game sanctuary for water fowl and other animals. Picnic and observation area are located along eight miles of shoreline. All-in-all, the 1,110 acre park is one of the finest recreational centers in the Midwest. (785) 267-1156.
Shawnee North Community Park Nature Trail is a 2.2 mile trail that crosses Indian Creek, winding through native grasses, trees, and flowers. Open year-round. (785) 286-0676.
Don't miss out on historic Lecompton! The city, just east of Shawnee County on old 24 highway, was founded in 1854 and served as the permanent and only official capital of Kansas territory until Topeka became the state capitol in 1861. Today its the location of the territorial Capital-Lane Museum and Constitution Hall. The museum is operated by the Lecompton Historical Society and is open 11a.m. to 4p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 1p.m. to 5p.m. Sunday. (785) 887-6148 or (785) 887-6285. Constitution Hall: (785) 887-6520.
Explore Shawnee County
Heartland Park Topeka
Heartland Park Topeka, one of the world's fastest tracks, is nationally known for record-breaking performances on its ultra-quick, quarter-mile dragstrip. The complex offers a 2.5 mile Grand Prix roadcourse, a 1.625 mile Club Course, a 1.75
Topeka, KS Car RacesBrown vs. Topeka B.O.E. National Historic Sites
On October 26, 1992, Congress passed Public Law 102-525 establishing Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site to commemorate the landmark Supreme Court decision aimed at ending segregation in public schools. Monroe Elementary School (17th & Monroe), and Sumner Elementary School (330
Topeka, KS National ParksFirst Presbyterian Church
The First Presbyterian Church, built over 112 years ago, is the site of a unique presentation of Tiffany Windows. Adorning the sanctuary is the rare artwork of America's foremost designer of stained glass, Louis Comfort Tiffany, who came to Topeka in 1911 and produced these windows for the church.
Topeka, KS Historic ChurchesTopeka Zoological Park
The Topeka Zoological Park occupies a beautiful setting in Gage Park. Intimate views of nearly 400 animals from all over the world add to the reputation of the Topeka Zoo as one of the nation's finest small zoos. Major exhibits include Hill's Black Bear Woods, Animals and Man (
Topeka, KS ZoosEcho Cliff Park
Country Park, located west of Dover in Wabaunsee County, has a rich Indian history. Archeological digs unearthed pot shards and arrowheads dating to 800-1000 AD when the Woodland Indians lived in the Kansas land (Grasshopper Falls Phase). Scenic cliff overlooks Mission Creek and was named "
Dover, KS ArchaeologySage General Store
See a still functioning General Store that was built in 1898 by Alfred Sage, Innkeeper at the 1878 Sage Inn. Old store offers homecooked meals and groceries. It was known for having the best homemade pie in this part of Kansas, baked fresh daily by the then 80+ year old Norma, who passed away in 1
Dover, KS Historic Buildings1878 Sage Inn & Stagecoach Station
Old stone country inn was built in 1865 along Mission Creek where wagons could ford the stream (about 15 miles southwest of Topeka, Kansas). In 1878
Dover, KS Historic BuildingsWashburn University
Established in 1865, Washburn University is one of Topeka's greatest assets and is the only municipal university in the nation. The 160
Topeka, KS CollegesCombat Air Museum, Forbes Field
Much more than a collection of aircraft, Combat Air Museum houses a wide variety of military and aviation oriented memorabilia, ranging in time from the first World War to the space shuttle program. There are approximately 30 aircraft on display with multiple additional static displays.
Topeka, KS MuseumsHeartland Orthodox Christian Museum
The Heartland Orthodox Christian Museum presents the art, history and traditions of the diverse Orthodox communities in America. Discover the region'
Topeka, KS MuseumsKansas National Guard Museum
The Kansas National Guard Museum is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Kansas National Guard and honoring the memories of the soldiers and airmen who, for over 145 years, have served Kansas and the United States whenever the call was made.
Topeka, KS MuseumsPotwin Place
Looking for a scenic drive? View beautiful Victorian homes of the late 1800s situated along brick streets where islands of greenery circle each intersection point in the National Historic District known as Potwin Place. Each Christmas, special decorations can be viewed.
Topeka, KS Tours