Great Overland Station

from Shawnee County Parks + Recreation The Guide Fall 2021

Old Prairie Town

Grounds: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Office: 8:00 a.m.-4 p.m. Museum: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat) 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (Thur.) Noon-4 p.m. (Sun.)

Built in 1927, the building now serves as a museum celebrating Topeka’s rich history as well as a special event and meeting venue. Visitors to the museum can learn about area railroads including the Santa Fe/BNSF, Union Pacific, Rock Island, Missouri Pacific and Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. They can learn about the history of the site from the Oregon Trail, Pappan’s Ferry crossing, and the birthplace of U.S. Vice President Charles Curtis. The BNSF Plaza includes the Corridor of Flags and All Veterans Memorial honoring our nation’s veterans and active military.

Great Overland Station brings Topeka’s railroad heritage to life through photographs, special exhibits, and costumed docents. There are many activities for children to do and things to see. In the “Exploration Station” there is a Baggage Area where kids can weigh their “luggage”; a coloring table with trains for tracing, and The Great Overland Station Telegraph Office; where you can try your hand at Morse Code. The “Big Red Caboose” is “child size” so kids can experience the hand brakes, the tables and chairs, and more.

For more information

about weddings and receptions

785.251.6945 Great Overland Station Birthday Party Package:

Price: $200 Enjoy a 2-hour rental, including your set-up and pack-up time, for your child’s next birthday!

Package includes: Admission for up to 10 people (adults and children), free admission for the birthday child, exclusive use of Exploration Station Children’s Area, use of private cake room, tables and chairs, patio access, 80” television, staff member to assist with loading and unloading, staff clean-up after party. *Each additional attendee beyond 10 must pay regular admission.