1. Kansas State Capitol: Topeka's Architectural Gem
Built over a period of almost 30 years in the late 19th century, the Kansas State Capitol is elegant and a fitting political hub for the Sunflower State. One of the great things about the Kansas Capitol is that tours go right to the top of the dome for excellent views of the interior, although get ready for 296 steps before you reach the summit. Other than that, don't miss the Visitors Center, with its Kansas hall of fame, and the Senate Chamber and Representatives Hall.
2. Kansas Museum of History: An Absorbing Showcase of Heartland History
Located on a huge plot in the west of Topeka, the Museum of History is absolutely fascinating. Exhibits include Cheyenne tipis, the story of 'Bleeding Kansas' (which prefigured the Civil War), and even a reconstructed 1950s diner (burgers not included). There's also a healthy collection of Americana, including General Custer's riding boots, as well as the oldest surviving locomotive from the historic Santa Fe railroad. Basically, if you love history, you'll find yourself immersed in no time.
3. Gage Park: Roses and Railways for Kids at the Heart of the City
One of Topeka's recreational hubs, Gage Park stretches across 210 acres of Downtown acreage, and packs plenty of attractions into the space. Aside from the pleasure of wandering the park trails, Gage Park is definitely set up for kids to enjoy. The model railway snakes around hits pathways, and has done for almost 50 years, while the Children's Discovery Center hosts a fascinating collection of hands-on science-related exhibits. And, if you just want to savor some beautiful heartland flowers, the Reinisch Rose Garden is an absolute delight.
4. Topeka Zoological Park: One of the Mid West's Leading Animal Attractions
Another highlight of Gage Park deserves its own section: the Topeka Zoological Park is one of the finest zoos in the Midwest. Tucked away in Gage Park just of I-70 (so it's very easy to reach), the zoo is home to more than 250 critters, as well as a famous indoor rainforest environment. With black bears, golden eagles, cougars, flying foxes, sloths, Sumatran tigers, elephants, giraffes, and hippos all part of the community, there's something for all animal lovers to enjoy at this fantastic municipal zoo.
5. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site: How Schools Became Desegregated
In 1954, Topeka made waves across the world, when the Supreme Court ruled against the city's Board of Education, in the process deeming racial segregation in schools to be unlawful. Brown vs the Board of Education, as the case became known, opened the floodgates to the Civil Rights movement, as African Americans fought for their rights. Nowadays, even though the city was found to be at fault, the case was celebrated by making Monroe Elementary School a Historic Site. Find out how Kansan schools were revolutionized by this landmark decision and be inspired.
