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Topeka, Kansas

The W. Clement Stone Nature Center is a 372 acre nature preserve located just west of Topeka, Kansas along the Kansas River.

Rolling prairie, mature woodland and riparian areas create rich habitat for a wide variety of native wildlife. A 3000 year old Indian burial mound on the nature center is evidence of the historical presence of early Native Americans.

The nature center provides environmental education and outdoor programs to over 18,000 people each year. Teachers and scout leaders can choose indoor or outdoor environmental programs from over 30 topics. The nature center has a collection of live education animals that are used in programs. These include birds of prey, snakes, mammals and invertebrates. In addition, it also operates a large Adventure Challenge course that offers teamwork training to schools, military, corporate and law enforcement groups.

The nature center sponsors a wildlife rehabilitation facility operated by over 25 dedicated volunteers and veterinarians that cares for over 1000 animals each year from all over the NE Kansas area. The dedicated volunteers of wildlife rehabilitation operate a daily hotline that helps people who find animals get help quickly. The goal of wildlife rehabilitation at the Stone Nature Center is to release healthy animals back to the wildlife. The trained rehabilitators work hard to avoid the animals in their care from becoming dependent on humans. Persons finding an animal in need of assistance can call (785) 575-1991 to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Carousel in the Park & Gage Park Mini-Train

Two of the most popular attractions in Gage Park are the 1908 restored Carousel and the Mini-Train that circles the park. Built in 1908 by the Herschell-Spillman company of New York, Topeka's carousel offers timeless entertainment housing a 1909 Wurlitzer band organ. Purchased by the city in 1986

Topeka, KS Fun Centers

Combat 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 Museums

Lake Shawnee Recreational Area

Lake Shawnee is a man-made, 411-acre lake offering fishing, boating, sailing and swimming. Within the 1,600-acre park surrounding the lake are foot trails, fish hatcheries (for stocking the lake), a golf course, a marina, tennis courts, shelter houses, horseback trails, ball diamonds, and gardens.

Topeka, KS Recreation

Kansas 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 Museums

First 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 Churches


Things to do near Topeka, KS