Are you looking for the best and most enjoyable activities in Dodge City? You may have a fantastic holiday thanks to the interesting attractions and activities in this city.
Dodge City, the county seat of Ford County in Kansas, was given its name after the adjacent Fort Dodge.
You can choose to take a tour around Dodge City for a good time, stopping at places like the Carnegie Center for the Arts, the Giant Coronado Cross, the Mueller-Schmidt Stone’s residence as well as several other things. The Long Branch Lagoon Waterpark is another option for you to choose to cool off.
For Some nearby attractions that are worth a visit in Dodge City, Read on!
Things To Do In Dodge City (KS)
Check these out!
1. Giant Coronado Cross
The Coronado Cross is one of the historic sites in the region that you should visit while you are in Dodge City.
The traditional narrative that the Giant Coronado Cross conveys is praised for its historical relevance to the region.
This Cross tells the tale of Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, a Spanish nobleman who set out in 1540 with a small army in pursuit of the City of Gold that he had heard so much about.
They arrived at the location that is now Fort Dodge after a very long voyage that involved crossing the Kansas River.
Father Juan de Padilla, who started holding the first Thanksgiving ceremony here on a nearby hill, was known to be among them.
The Ford County Historical Society, which oversaw the Coronado Cross’ construction, created a permanent memorial to honor this remembrance here.
The tower height of the Coronado Cross, which was built in 1975, is 38 feet. Since its creation, it has been standing.
Take to visiting this landmark if you are in the area, a worthy historical attraction for your bucket list.
Address: 11666 US-400, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
2. Boot Hill Distillery
Boot Hill Distillery creates the greatest in-house distillery for your consumption using high-quality locally sourced ingredients.
On Fridays and Saturdays, tours are available at 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. They are open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Location: 501 W Spruce St, Dodge City, Kansas, 67801, USA.
3. United Wireless Arena
Spending time at United Wireless Arena is among the best things to do in Dodge City.
The 17,000+ square foot United Wireless Arena is a venue for sporting events, concerts, family entertainment, trade exhibits, racing, and much more.
This arena, which has a seating capacity of more than 3,000, accommodates some of the major performances and events in the region.
If you come to this arena between November and December every year, you can take part in the public ice skating events that are hosted there.
This is one of the top venues in Dodge City to catch a performance or a sporting event, making it ideal for your bucket list.
Address: 4100 W Comanche St, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
4. Learn History at Boot Hill Museum
Would you be interested in learning more about Dodge City’s past? Investigate the Boot Hill Museum.
Its mission is to preserve the heritage of Dodge City and the surrounding area of the Old West.
Over 20,000 artifacts are on show in this museum. You can visit this location and see their collection which includes authentic weapons and armor.
The museum has an area devoted to entertainment where visitors can enjoy seeing historical reconstructions, gunfights, and saloon shots while learning about the past.
The term “Boot Hill” was created from the nickname given to cemeteries since many of the soldiers buried there died violently while still wearing their boots.
In 1992 some modifications as a result of a fire outbreak were made. That is the museum underwent some changes to the entire structure.
Additionally, there are stores created all around the museum that still maintain their vintage appearance as a means to reflect on the past.
One of the top things to do in Dodge City for history buffs is to pay this place a visit, which will introduce you to the past.
Location: 500 West Wyatt Earp Boulevard, Dodge City, Kansas, 67801, USA.
5. Utilize the Dodge City Trolley to Tour the City
Don’t skip taking the renowned Dodge City Trolley on a tour of the neighborhood while you’re in Dodge City.
This creates a delightful atmosphere for exploring the city while maintaining a nostalgic air.
The Dodge City Trolley operates year-round from June to August, every day of the week from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.
However, their hours of operation are shortened between May and September from 8:30 am to 5 pm.
What to do in Dodge City for some exploring is made possible by this. You should definitely add it to your list of exciting things to do in Dodge City.
Address: 400 W Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
6. Carnegie Center for the Arts
Carnegie Center for the Arts is a dedicated art center that makes it one of the top attractions in Dodge City for art lovers.
This art center, which has large, circular art galleries, was once a library that was converted into an art center.
The Carnegie Center for the Arts is a cultural institution with a historic building in Dodge City’s downtown.
When you visit this center, you will see a two-story structure storing a large number of items that are on display for you.
Visit its gift shop as well; you might find something that piques your curiosity among the artworks and paintings created by regional artists.
The gift shop is a great spot to pick up some trinkets to remember your trip to the city.
Are you a fan of the arts and up for having a good time looking at some pieces? Carnegie Center for the Arts is a perfect place to visit when you arrive.
7. See El Capitan
Most artworks are named by the creator, this was not the case with this longhorn steer statue which currently stands at Wyatt Earp Boulevard. It got its name from a naming contest made in its honor.
Boot Hill Museum in the 1970s chose to honor more than 4,000,000 cattle that took to the trail from Texas to Dodge City between 1875 to 1885.
They commissioned an Arizona sculpture artist by the name of Jasper D’Ambrosi to design a longhorn steer statue that was to be placed in Dodge City.
He saw the creation of El Capitan (The Captain from Spanish translation), which tells of the leadership of the animal, which led other animals to the end of the journey.
After his trip, he appears lanky and lean, yet strong as many of the steers made numerous trips in their leadership position.
The Spanish name also was fitting to this sculpture as it is known that Spanish explorers brought the first longhorns to the continent.
Make sure you check out this amazing location.
Address: 510 N 2nd Ave, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
8. Buy at Dodge City Farmers Market
Would you like to buy some organic goods in Dodge City? The farmers market in Dodge City, which serves your needs, is held every Saturday morning.
Seasonal fruits and vegetables are cultivated here, and there are homemade goods for sale as well.
If you want to take a walk outside in Dodge City when the aroma of various fruits, including cherry and pineapple, is floating through the air, this is a great location to go. Buying any of the home-baked goods will also give you a small breakfast.
You can go shopping for these products during the morning and noontime and see art and craft displays that are set up in various local stores between June and the fall, depending on the weather.
This is one of the best activities you can do on a day off; add it to your bucket list.
9. Gunfighters Wax Museum
Wax museums make a fun way to spend some time exploring wax statues of some of your favorite famous individuals the process, taking some incredible photos.
For an exciting in Dodge City, the Gunfighters Wax Museum offers all the fun that any wax museum could give and more.
Numerous lifelike wax figures of well-known people, like Billy the Kid, Buffalo Bill, Calamity Jane, Festus, Belle Starr, Doc Holliday, and many more, may be found in this wax museum.
The Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame is close to this museum, and getting tickets for both places at a discount is possible.
One of the interesting things to do in Dodge City with the family is to explore the wax museum; children under the age of five are admitted free of charge.
10. Explore Fort Dodge
Exploring Fort Dodge, a nearby unincorporated settlement, is one of the top things to do near Dodge City.
This community offers a nursing facility to Kansas veterans who served in the US Army.
It was initially built to defend individuals using the Santa Fe Trail and railroad personnel from nearby Plains.
Between 1865 and 1882, it served as an outpost on the Santa Fe Trail. However, with a current population of 165, it is still an unincorporated community that offers to care for veterans of the Kansas war. It serves as a retirement community as well.
Take some time during your vacation to visit the area’s historic structures, including the library.
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11. Dodge City Raceway Park
Watching a live match at Dodge City Raceway Park is one of the fun things to do in Dodge City for sports racing enthusiasts.
Racing cars battle against one another for entertainment at Dodge City Raceway Park throughout the year.
The world of outlaws and sprint car nationals are only a couple of the events that are held here. Come and watch the race that takes place on this dirt track.
Taking the family to this raceway during the summer is a great opportunity to spend some quality time together while enjoying some snacks.
This makes what to do in Dodge City for race fans so much fun and is highly recommended.
12. Boot Hill Casino and Resort
The Boot Hill Casino and Resort is one of the top destinations in Dodge City for a lavish getaway.
Being a well-liked tourist destination in Dodge City, Boot Hill Casino and Resort is a great choice if you want to have a good time there.
As a nod to the Old West region, the building that houses the Boot Hill Casino and Resort still retains its vintage appearance.
One of the top priorities here is entertainment. Visit some of your favorite arcades and enjoy a fun meal in their first-rate dining area.
There are roughly 700 slots available for your game time, so you don’t have to worry about a hurry when playing table games like roulette.
Add this to your list of places to visit in Dodge City for enjoyable things to do.
13. Explore Dodge City Trail of Fame
Joining the Dodge City Trail of Fame is one of the best things to do in Dodge City.
A well-known walking tour through Dodge City, Dodge City Trail of Fame connects you with some of the city’s top attractions as you stroll.
During this stroll, you will come across statues and countless medallions honoring some of Dodge City’s most well-known residents on both sides of the pathways.
Additionally, you will come across a few devoted, infamous locals who once roamed these territories.
Some medallions were made in honor of well-known TV personalities who popularized Dodge City through their TV shows and motion pictures.
Take a self-guided tour using the visitor center’s information if you have more time for exploration. You can take a free guided tour of the area if you are traveling in a group.
This is one of the most fun things to do for free in Dodge City, and it’s a terrific way to enjoy the outdoors.
14. Kansas Teacher’s Hall of Fame Honors Teachers
How about going to a museum that celebrates teachers? Sounds nice right?
You can extend your enjoyable museum visit to the Kansas Teacher’s Hall of Fame after spending some time exploring the Gunfighter’s Wax Museum.
This museum was established in honor of educators who have contributed significantly to the growth of the US by inspiring young people to achieve great things.
It is a unique museum devoted to well-known teachers that includes donor plaques, a Hall of Fame display, and details on those who have been admitted into the Hall of Fame.
Additionally, you can take part in some of the educational programs that are held there, which is a pleasant way to learn.
When you visit Dodge City, make sure to check out the Kansas Teacher’s Hall of Fame. It is surely one of the best ways to enjoy a fun-filled day in Dodge City.
15. A Reflection Time at Liberty Garden
The Liberty Garden was created to serve as a memorial and a place of calm for those whose lives were impacted by the 9/11 tragedy.
The area’s historic park, Wright Park, has Liberty Garden, which is dedicated to the memory of all those engaged.
The Garden, famed for containing the Pentagon limestone that traveled far and back to its native land, is accessible to the public as a symbol of honor and sacrifice.
Take note of the 4-foot slab of steel that was brought in from the World Trade Centre during your tour. It is positioned beneath the US flag as a mark of respect.
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16. Animal time at Wright Park Zoo
A trip to Wright Park Zoo is among the best things to do in Dodge City with kids, Children enjoy spending time with animals, and at this zoo, they may have a good time.
A sizable and free zoo, Wright Park Zoo is ready to provide you with hours of entertainment. Consequently, it’s among the top free activities in Dodge City.
There is a plaque with details about the animals housed in each cage outside. Another option is to go to the aviary, which is home to a rare albino peacock.
Leopards, monkeys, and emus are just a few of the creatures you may view at this zoo. Would you be interested in seeing any felines? You may also see some Cougars, Bobcats, and Tigers.
This answers the question of what to do for a fun time in Dodge City.
17. Take a Dip in Long Branch Lagoon Waterpark
Playing water basketball, going down drop slides, or using the diving towers are some of the activities you may do here to maximize your enjoyment.
If you’re thinking about visiting Dodge City during the summer, be sure to include a trip to Long Branch Lagoon on your list of must-see attractions.
18. Do Not Miss the Stone Mueller-Schmidt Home
The Mueller-Schmidt Home of Stone is one of the attractions in Dodge City that you should visit while there. It is a stunning piece of extreme architecture.
The Mueller-Schmidt Home of Stone is still regarded as one of Dodge City’s finest tourist destinations despite having a structure made entirely of stone.
This building is perched on a hill and surrounded by greenery, giving off the impression that it belongs in a picture-postcard landscape.
Despite undergoing extensive renovations, this building is one of the oldest ones in Dodge City still surviving, and architects are still in awe of its understated elegance.
When you visit this house, you can take a walking tour of the structure to see the parlor, bedrooms, and kitchen that were built in 1881.
Plan your visit to coincide with the time the home is open to tourists, which is from June to August. You must make an appointment if you plan to visit out of season.
For something different to do in Dodge City, check out this architecturally stunning sight.
19. Central Station Bar and Grill
It is necessary to spend time at the bar, sipping on some of the best wines and cocktails, after a long day of exploring. You’re covered by Central Station Bar and Grill.
The Central Station Bar and Grill is a terrific spot to sample a variety of delicious beverages, including wines and cocktails.
You can choose to serve it with some of the best dishes and appetizers, like grilled pork chops, pork ribs, and more.
After dinner, you might want to hit the dance floor to let your body move to the music and have a good time.
One of the cool things to do in Dodge City at night is recommended to be at Central Station Bar and Grill.
20. Broadway at Depot Theater Company
The Depot Theater brings you a fun theatre experience to keep you entertained.
Depot Theater Company is a premiere Live Theater in the Southwest area of Arkansas. Since its inception, it has been giving both locals and visitors to this area the beat of theatre entertainment.
In 1984, this theater was first established at the Boot Hill Museum Complex. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad gave the 1889 Santa Fe Depot to the City in 1996, and there was a plan to renovate the structure.
This restoration saw the new home for Depot Theater Company after eight years of repair and in July of 2004, the theatre moved into its new home.
In their new home, the first production was “Anyone Can Whistle,” and they have since taken to giving to the public Broadway-style entertainment.
A visit to this theatre is a great way to have a fun theatre experience, do consider adding it to your bucket list of places to visit in Dodge City.
21. Visit Boot Hill to see the Cowboy Statue
The Cowboy Statue On Boot Hill is a famous statue in Dodge City, and you can see it when taking a tour.
O.H. Simpson, a local dentist, created this statue. This statue can be found in front of the Old City Hall, which is today known as Boot Hill Distillery.
Keep the phrase “This City is built on the ashes of my campfire” in mind.
Take pictures of this statue as you explore Dodge City; it’s a great way to keep the memory of your trip alive.
22. Coffee at Red Beard Coffee
Located in the Downtown Historic District, Red Beard Coffee is your favorite coffee spot in Dodge City.
With the wonderful aroma of coffee permeating the air, Red Beard Coffee offers you a fantastic environment for coffee time.
The baristas are praised for being incredibly courteous and competent, delivering you the ideal coffee to satisfy your taste buds.
They offer regular coffee drinkers and offer quite a range of non-caffeinated such as hot chocolate, teas, juices, and sodas.
They offer dairy-free choices upon request and offer kid-friendly lattes.
Address: Red Beard Coffee, 319 Gunsmoke St, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
23. The Long Branch Saloon
Long Branch Saloon was known in this area as one of the best watering holes from 1874 to 1885, and it as well did provide gambling and live entertainment to its visitors.
The first Long Branch Saloon was destroyed by fire in 1885. At Boot Hill Museum in the City, a new Long Branch Saloon is currently open for your visit.
This new saloon was built modeling the interior of the popular TV drama, Gunsmoke.
The furnishings were created from antiques from the 1800s. The original proprietor of the Long Branch Saloon, Chalkley Beeson, also had a pair of golden eagles.
Enjoy your time at the Long Branch Saloon; it will be entertaining.
Address: 500 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd., Boot Hill Museum, The Long Branch Saloon, Dodge City, Kansas 67801, USA.
24. Santa Fe Trail Tracks
This trail served as the principal highway from the year 1821 to 1872.
Address: US-400, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
25. Western State Bank Expo Centre
The western state Bank expo center is one of the newest facilities in Ford county and can play a venue for several events such as educational seminars, farm and ranch shows, demonstrations, private parties, business meetings etc.
When you arrive, do well to check their itinerary for programs and events that may interest you.
Address: 11333 US-283, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
26. B and B theatres Dodge City Village 8
This is a contemporary multiscreen movie theatre where you can watch some of the latest movies playing at Dodge City Village 8.
Address: 2601 Central Ave, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
27. Bella Italian Ristorante
They offer Italian cuisine, pasta, pizza, and grill dishes with a casual dining experience for customers.
Address: 312 W Wyatt, Earp, Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States
28. Sequoyah Cinema 9
This is yet another place to go catch a movie within Dodge city. All you’ve got to do is buy your ticket early.
Address: 1118 Fleming Street, Garden City, KS 67846, United States
29. Mariah Hills Golf Course
Are you new to Golf courses or are you a Pro Golfer? You should try this one out! It’s indeed an exceptional Golf course.
Address: 1800 Matt Down Road, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States.
30. Ford County Lake
This lake where you can fish is located in the northeastern part of Dodge City, Kansas, and features a trail system that was designed by volunteers. Species of Fish you will find in this lake include the Largemouth bass and Channel Catfish.
You should go see this place when you arrive.
Take note that it is advisable to not eat anything from this water as this location has some patches of green algae bloom. Therefore, even your pets shouldn’t drink water from this water body.
Conclusion
During any of these tours, you will have the opportunity to meet points of interest in Dodge City during your exploration.
Happy Travels!!!
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