Top 14 Things To Do In Atchison, Kansas

things to do in Atchison KS
Nicole
Nicole 
Updated
| 7 min read

A picturesque and charming city in Kansas, Atchison is a fabulous place that is overwhelming with natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, a lot of natural park and recreational areas, and marvelous landmarks. It is an ideal hideaway destination for all types of tourists, whether you are an adventure-seeker who’s into nature and physical activities, a history buff, or one that is just longing for some peaceful and quiet time. While in Atchison, swing by the birthplace of Amelia Earhart and get to know this iconic aviator’s life on a deeper level. Also, If you’re looking for a place to unwind, nothing is more soothing than the atmosphere in Atchinson Riverwalk. For a more in-depth guide, here is a list of the best things to do in Atchison, Kansas. Feel free to browse below.

1. Take a trip down memory lane by browsing the vintage displays at Atchison Rail Museum

Posted by Atchison Railroad Museum on Friday, 29 July 2016

A charming city with a rich cultural heritage, Atchison is a paradise for history buffs and academic scholars. The city’s government is firm on preserving its culture and making the history of the city and its artifacts readily available for this generation and the next to come. Atchison Rail Museum is a testament to that. It is a fascinating outdoor museum that revolves around the train history of the city. Here, you’ll find the first trains that were used in the earlier times and even some vintage cars. Browsing through the artifacts in Atchison Rail Museum is like a trip down memory lane.

Atchison Rail Museum

Address: 200 South 10th Street Santa Fe Depot, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Atchison Rail Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

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2. Unwind and savor the serene atmosphere and the picturesque views at Bromley Park

"Did You Know Friday" #DYKFriday Did you know the City of Atchison has a beautifully conditioned tennis court in...

Posted by City of Atchison, Kansas Local Government on Friday, 18 April 2014

A scenic natural park with a serene ambiance, Bromley Park is an ideal place to go to if you feel like you want to unwind and breathe fresh air. What used to be a rock quarry has undergone development and turned into a lovely recreational area in Julia Street. It houses a delightful picnic area where you can relax with yourself or set up a barbecue for your loved ones. Also, it has a superb playground where the kids can play to their hearts’ content. In addition, it has fantastic sports facilities that most of the people in the neighborhood take advantage of, such as basketball and tennis courts.

Bromley Park

Address: 1120 Julia St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Bromley Park

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

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3. Conquer your fear of the paranormal activities at The Sallie House


Located in a quiet residential area in Atchinson, The Sallie House brings chills to everyone who dares to explore it. It showcases a white exterior and an outdated architectural design. It is believed that a demon lives in the house, and because of this, lots of paranormal experts have tried to conquer the place. Neighbors claim that they have seen unexplainable sightings in the house and that every now and then they hear some noises coming from it in the middle of the night. A family that lived in it had experienced violent hauntings, and since then, no one dared to live in it. Later on, it was discovered by psychics that a ghost named Sallie was the one haunting the place - a patient of Dr. Finnley (the first owner of the house) who died of appendicitis.

The Sallie House

Address: 508 N 2nd St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: The Sallie House

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm

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4. Marvel at the beauty and opulence of Cray Historical Home Museum


A stunning mansion in 5th Street, Cray Historical Home Museum is a fascinating 18th-century property that reflects the opulence and grandioseness of the Victorian age. From outside, it very much looks like a castle. Inside, you will be left in awe by the beauty of its well-curated decors, antique furniture, and luxurious vibe. This museum welcomes people who want to explore it and marvel at its architectural and interior beauty. After checking out all the 25 rooms in it, you may watch a short film at the on-site theatre about architecture. Also, it has a cute little gift shop where you can score lovely souvenir items.

Cray Historical Home Museum

Address: 805 N 5th St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Cray Historical Home Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 1pm - 4pm

Price: 5 USD

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5. Pay respect to the fallen aviation heroes at International Forest of Friendship


Your Atchison vacation will not be complete without visiting the International Forest of Friendship in Allingham Drive. It is a serene memorial forest with picturesque views of Lake Warnock and its skyline. Being the birthplace of the iconic aviator Emilia Earhart, it is no wonder that this city has a memorial grounds for the locals who played an important part in the aviation of the country. Also, those involved in space exploration are commemorated here. Because of its natural beauty, weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions are held here.

International Forest of Friendship

Address: Allingham Dr, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: International Forest of Friendship

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

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6. Get to know Atchison on a deeper level at Atchison County Historical Society Museum

The David Rice Atchison World's Smallest unofficial Presidential Library was recently featured on Travel Channel's Mysteries At The Museum.

Posted by Atchison County Historical Society on Tuesday, 21 November 2017

If you are a history buff and you like learning about the culture and history of the places you visit, you should definitely check out Atchison County Historical Museum while in Atchison. It is a charming museum with modern furnishings. It houses exhibits that tackle the life of remarkable people that are Atchison natives, including Emilia Earhart, Lewis and Clark, Jesse Stone, and more. Aside from exhibits, it has a section dedicated to military weaponry, and it houses a delightful library.

Atchison County Historical Society Museum

Address: 200 South 10th Street Santa Fe Depot, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Atchison County Historical Society Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 4pm

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7. Take a lovely stroll at Independence Park

Lurking / Park
Source: Photo by user Epicantus used under CC BY 2.0

Can’t think of a fun thing to do one lazy afternoon in Atchison? Why not take a stroll at Independence Park and enjoy the freshest air and the serene ambiance. If you’re in the city with your family, especially the kids, you can take them to Independence Park and let them have the time of their life in its fantastic playground on site. Also, you can bring some snacks and enjoy them in the picnic area while sharing life stories with your loved ones. Restrooms and a parking space are available in the park for visitors’ convenience.

Independence Park

Address: 102 E Atchison St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Independence Park

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8. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Daylight Donuts


Craving for some sugary delicacies? Satisfy your sweet tooth by giving yourself a treat at Daylight Donuts, situated in Commercial Street. It is a cute little cafe with expansive windows that allow lots of natural light in and exudes a friendly ambiance. Most locals claim that this is the best place in town to gorge on excellent donuts. To top it all off, the prices are reasonable, and the staff are friendly and always pleased to be of assistance.

Daylight Donuts

Address: 714 Commercial St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Daylight Donuts

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4am - 4pm; Sat: 2am - 2pm; Sun: 2am - 1pm

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9. Appreciate nature at Jackson Park

Sara getting ready to climb

Posted by Kimberly Dawn Johnson on Friday, 26 September 2014

Can’t get enough of nature in Atchison? Relax while marveling at the scenic views at Jackson Park. This lovely green space is located in South 6th Street and is open to the public daily. Also referred to as the City Park, Jackson Park houses a lovely picnic area and a fantastic playground. Also, tourists who engage in routine cardio exercises can take advantage of its excellent walking and jogging trails. To top it all off, the views of the Missouri River from the park will surely take your breath away.

Jackson Park

Address: S 6th St; Atchison, Kansas 66002

Website: Jackson Park

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10. Watch a wonderful performance of the classic A Christmas Carol at Theatre Atchison


Theatre Atchison is a wonderful center of the performing arts in the beautiful city of Atchison. It is not only a business but an organization and a community that aims to support the booming talents of the city and also to preserve the art and culture of Atchison by bridging engagement between locals and the performing arts. It showcases delightful performances that you should not miss while in town, such as the well-loved Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol. Check out its website for a list of upcoming shows and their schedules.

Theatre Atchison

Address: 401 Santa Fe St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Theatre Atchison

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11. Be inspired by different art forms at Muchnic Art Gallery


If its arts you’re after, Muchnic Art Gallery on North 4th Street is not to be missed. It is a fascinating gallery where art, culture, and history converge. It features a castle-like exterior and a sophisticated interior with grandiose chandeliers and stunning hardwood flooring. In this 18th-century mansion nests rotating art exhibits featuring local talents. Also, its sculptures, antique decors, and luxurious vintage furniture are displays to behold as well.

Muchnic Art Gallery

Address: 704 N 4th St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Muchnic Art Gallery

Opening hours: Wed: 1pm - 5m; Sat: 1pm - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon - Tue & Thu - Fri)

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12. Drop by St. Benedict's Abbey and say a few words of prayer and well wishes


Another enchanting place to see while in Atchison is St. Benedict’s Abbey. Founded in 1857, it is a stunning place of worship that most tourists visit. It has a wonderful church with tiled walls and which is designed with a muted earth-toned color scheme. In the middle, nests a charming altar with astonishing images and a holy cross. Dorp by St. Benedict’s Abbey and say a few prayers of thanks and well wishes before ending your vacation in Atchison.

St. Benedict's Abbey

Address: 1020 N 2nd St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: St. Benedict’s Abbey

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13. Treat yourself with delicious American fare at Willie's


After days of sightseeing and visiting museums and landmarks, you might want to relax a little and make time run a little slower. Try the food, the drinks, and the vibes at Willie’s. It is a lovely casual restaurant that features a modern industrial interior design with a rustic accent. It has a cool and airy ambiance and lots of natural light. Serving delicious American fare that will treat you to a palatable adventure, you will surely feel satisfied and happy after dining at Willie’s.

Willie's

Address: 701 Commercial St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: [Willie’s(https://m.facebook.com/willies.atchison)

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm

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14. Gorge on delectable eats at Paolucci Restaurant, Deli & Lounge


Another exquisite restaurant in Atchison that is definitely worth a try is Paolucci Restaurant, Deli & Lounge in South 3rd Street. Ready to serve you any time of the day, from a hearty breakfast to a full lunch and a delicious supper, Paolucci Restaurant, Deli & Lounge has a plethora of options for its patrons. Also, they only utilize the freshest locally sourced ingredients for their hearty meals. Not only that, it is very family-friendly as it has a separate section on the menu for kids’ meals.

Paolucci Restaurant, Deli & Lounge

Address: 113 S 3rd St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States

Website: Paolucci Restaurant, Deli & Lounge

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 9pm; Sun: 7am - 1pm

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Fall in love with Atchison

Atchison Kansas Commercial Street
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user w:Malepheasant used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Atchison is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage. It has diverse offerings for all types of tourists, whether you are a history buff, a nature-lover, or just someone who just likes to relax and do some sightseeing. Also, it is an ideal hideaway destination for tourists who want to escape the noise and pollution of the concrete jungle. If you’re planning a vacation in Atchison anytime soon, use this list as your guide in planning an itinerary.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nicole, a writer and traveler, also identifies herself as a free spirit with a wild heart. She is dedicated to telling authentic stories in a relatable manner. Nicole also enjoys exploring new,...Read more

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