BROWN V. BOARD OF EDUCATION NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

The story of Brown v. Board of Education started right here in Topeka, Kansas, and visitors to the area can tour the national historic site and museum commemorating that case! When Oliver Brown and fellow Topeka parents agreed to be plaintiffs in the landmark U. S. Supreme Court case that outlawed segregation in public schools, they didn’t know they would make history. Their legacies are remembered in the halls of the historic Monroe School building in Topeka, where the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is housed. There you’ll gain a better understanding of and appreciation for the role this 1954 decision played in the broader U.S. Civil Rights Movement. In fact, in 2021, Topeka’s Brown v. Board site was added as a stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, which encompasses more than 100 locations across 15 states! After touring the historic site, be sure to wander over to the inspiring Brown v. Board mural just across the street for a photo op in front of this colorful commemoration to justice and peace.

Dream Of Freedom

There’s a dream in the land With its back against the wall. By muddled names and strange Sometimes the dream is called.

There are those who claim This dream for theirs alone— A sin for which, we know They must atone.

Unless shared in common Like sunlight and like air, The dream will die for lack Of substance anywhere.

The dream knows no frontier or tongue, The dream no class or race. The dream cannot be kept secure In any one locked place.

This dream today embattled, With its back against the wall— To save the dream for one, It must be saved for ALL.

–Langston Hughes (Harlem Renaissance Poet, Topeka Native)

In addition to being a hot stop for educational travel and activist tourism, the Capitol hosts various events throughout the year, including Movies on the Lawn, Wednesday Farmers Markets and more.

Kansas State Capitol Building

One of Kansas’ most iconic buildings, the Kansas State Capitol sits in the heart of downtown Topeka and has served as the home of the state’s legislature since near the turn of the 20th century. Having undergone a 14-year renovation, completed in 2014, the Capitol today is shining brighter than it ever has before.

The Capitol is a monument to Kansas history, showcasing its defining moments as a state and how it shaped the history of the U.S. Visitors can appreciate various forms of art and artifacts, including “Tragic Prelude” by John Steuart Curry, John Brown’s cutlass, a larger-than-life statue of Amelia Earhart, and the Brown v. Board of Education mural, to name a few. The building itself is a piece of history, as well as an architectural marvel. Check out where history is made by visiting the Senate Chamber and Representative Hall. Historical documents and more await in the Kansas State Library. Those seeking a bit of a thrill won’t want to miss the daily dome tours – it’s 296 steps to the top, and the view can’t be beat!

Historic Sites

Great Overland Station

A major piece of Topeka’s railroad heritage, the Great Overland Station speaks to a lost age somewhere within the Second Industrial Revolution and the Roaring 20s. Formerly the Union Pacific Station, the building was completed in 1927. It was designed by American architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood. Although no longer a working station, visitors can witness trains pass by the depot daily and take in various traveling and permanent exhibits, while also marveling at the grandeur of this historic building.

Constitution Hall

Experience Topeka’s Constitution Hall, located in downtown Topeka at 429 S. Kansas Ave. In 2022, the site was approved for a $3.75 million BASE grant that will go toward ongoing restoration and transformation of the building. In 1855, it hosted representatives of the Free State Kansas government, elected by the people of the Kansas Territory, who wrote the Topeka Constitution, banning slavery in the future state of Kansas – which earned the building its name. By 1857, the site was the headquarters of Underground Railroad operations on the Lane Trail to freedom in the north.

The Kansas History Museum

As of this publication, the Kansas History Museum is closed for major renovations. While new and exciting exhibits are expected to debut in 2024, visitors can still explore the 2.5 miles of walking trails surrounding the Museum, with the historic Stach Schoolhouse and the Potawatomi Mission located onsite; or browse the State Archives and read letters written by various historical figures, like John Brown or Carrie A. Nation.

Historic Sites

Historic Ritchie House

The Historic Ritchie House, 1116 S.E. Madison St., was built by abolitionists John and Mary Jane Ritchie. It served as a stop along the Underground Railroad and is considered to be Topeka’s oldest home. Located next door to the Shawnee County Historical Society, public tours are conducted Tuesday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For additional information, please contact the county historical society.

Mamie Williams House

The home of acclaimed Topeka educator Mamie Williams is located at 1503 S.E. Quincy St. Williams served Topeka Public Schools for 30 years, including as principal of Monroe School, where the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site now lives. She was also featured in a documentary titled, “75 Years on Quincy Street.” As the house is a private residence, it is preferred that spectators keep a respectful distance.

SKYLINE TRAILS AT BURNETT’S MOUND

Take in a spectacular view of the entire capital city from atop Burnett’s Mound. Located in Skyline Park, the mound is the highest point of elevation in the city. The area is home to hiking and biking trails, but for many people there is a more personal cultural connection. Burnett’s Mound is named after Potawatomi Chief Abram Burnett. After they were forced to leave their homes, Burnett led fellow Potawatomi tribe members from their settlement in Indiana to what is now Topeka.

Museum Of The Kansas National Guard

Established in 1997, the Museum of the Kansas National Guard operates with the purpose of preserving the militia heritage of the Kansas Army and Air National Guard. For those hoping to conduct a deep dive, the museum offers an extensive military research library that contains hundreds of books focusing on the National Guard and associated military history. Outdoor displays surrounding the museum feature more than 30 military vehicles and aircraft, including an M60 tank.

DID YOU KNOW:

The 1974 back cover of the band Kansas’s self titled album was photographed on top of Burnett’s Mound. The photo would go on to be featured on the 2015 documentary of the band’s success, “Miracles out of Nowhere.”

Combat Air Museum

The Combat Air Museum is a beloved stop for flight enthusiasts of all ages. Touting the largest collection of WWI replica aircrafts in the Midwest, Combat Air is one of a handful of major aviation museums in the United States located on an active airfield, and visitors to the museum are regularly treated to flying activities of Air Force fighter aircraft and Army helicopter operations.

FAMILY FAVORITES:

• Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center

• Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

• Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site

• B&B Theatres

• Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library (Sabatini Gallery)

• Rip On Skate Park (near Washburn & 21st)

• Mulvane Art Lab (Kid-focused lab)

CHECK OUT MORE MINI GOLF ON PAGE 49.

Family Fun

Greatplay Topeka

There’s something for everyone at GreatPLAY. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor fun center where you’ll find tons of exciting things to do for the entire family. Activities include a trampoline park, arcade games, laser tag, paintball, FootGolf, disc golf, bike trails and more.

Bonkers

Bonkers brings all the fun and thrills of an amusement park to Topeka! Visit a place where family and friends come together for a funfilled day, featuring a giant play maze with a two-story slide, an arcade with games for all ages, and great food with a chef-inspired menu!

Leap Trampoline Park

From tots to teens, Leap Trampoline Park has your child’s next birthday bash covered with a jump area, rock wall climbing, dodgeball and more. Be sure to check out their weekend pricing and events like Toddler Time and Cosmic Night. Leap takes indoor family outings to a new level with many ways to play.

Sky Zone Topeka

Sky Zone is a great place to work on your coordination, play a game of SkySlam (trampoline basketball) or simply find a new way to be active. Special attractions include the Warrior Course, Freestyle Jump, Ultimate Dodgeball, SkyJoust, Foam Zone and Free Climb.

Sports Center

Generations of children and families have come to love Sports Center, a dynamic family fun center featuring Mini-Golf, Gooney Golf, batting cages, a driving range, and go carts! New in 2023 is a fully renovated clubhouse featuring a snack bar, game room and expanded arcade. Boulevard Brewing Company products are available at the bar. Sports Center will also debut a new 155 yard par-3 course, which will include replicas of “Famous Holes Around the World.” Visitors can try their skills on a replica of Hole 12 from Augusta, or the Island Green from Sawgrass in Florida!

Potwin Pottery

Potwin Pottery offers a first-rate creative experience. Pick a piece of pottery, plan your design, choose colors and paint! Once you’ve let your creativity flow, the piece is fired and made available for pickup. Families and kids can think outside the box with a whimsical color scheme or go for something more traditional. Whether you’re going for a functional piece or an artistic treasure, there is something for everyone. Time to grab an apron and get to work!

While we can’t name all the hot spots on just one page of this guide, you won’t want to miss these local favorites:

• BRADLEY’S CORNER CAFÉ for the best pies around

• COMPASS POINT home of Dirty Girl Adventures

• CORNER MARKET for pre-loved and new décor, furniture, antiques and more

• FIRE ME UP CERAMICS offering pottery classes and items for sale

• KAW RIVER RUSTICS, featuring more than 50 antique and artisan booths

• NORSEMEN BREWING a local brewery with Nordic flair

• ODIN’S LAIR for some axe-throwing fun

• ONYX WELLNESS CAFÉ for coffee or a healthy, sweet treat

• PAPER JUNE for the best in children’s books and activities

• ROUND TABLE BOOKSTORE for a great selection of new and used books for all

• STUDIO 62 for paint-and-sip nights, drag shows and more

NORTH TOPEKA ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

The NOTO Arts & Entertainment District is full of just that! From local shops and eateries (gourmet grilled cheese at The Wheel Barrel, anyone?) to pocket parks and murals, NOTO is a must-visit on your next trip to Topeka. While the district is a delight year-round, stop by on the first Friday of each month to find special deals, outdoor concerts, expanded hours and more!

With close to 40 displays of public art in NOTO alone, you’ll want to wander through the district to spot the various sculptures and murals at each twist and turn! Some of our favorite colorful creations include the “Greetings from Topeka” postcard in Redbud Park; the surreal “Elephants on Parade” painting along N.W. Laurent St.; and the new multicultural mural unveiled in May 2022 that highlights the African American, Hispanic and Native American histories of our area.

When you’re ready to head indoors, stop by the NOTO Arts Center and explore galleries like Amused and Studio 831 for unique finds by local artists. And that’s just the start! Visit ExploreNOTO.org for a complete list of the area’s businesses, as well as a calendar of upcoming events.

FIRST FRIDAYS: Join thousands every First Friday in NOTO for a celebration of art, music, and culture.

Enjoy buskers, vendors, and live music at Redbud Park.

Agritourism

From you-pick farms where you can select produce and flowers by hand to family businesses where you can get involved in the winemaking process, Topeka-area agritourism stops are ready to welcome you! Timing is everything for these activities, as many are subject to seasonal availability. Plan ahead and your adventure is bound to be rewarding!

86TH STREET ORCHARD

Topeka, KS

Apples, pears, peaches, plums

BERRY HILL UPICK FARM

Berryton, KS

Sunflowers, pumpkins, honey, sweet corn for purchase and you-pick

GARY’S BERRIES

Grantville, KS

Fall and winter festivals feature a pumpkin patch, corn maze, corn pit, campfires, and more

MORE NEARBY PLACES TO VISIT:

GRINTER’S SUNFLOWER FARM

Lawrence, KS

BIG SPRINGS BERRIES

Lecompton, KS

REES FRUIT FARM

Topeka, KS

ALMA CREAMERY

Alma, KS

FARM TO TABLE

On the hunt for fresh, locally sourced food without the work? Look no further than northeast Kansas, where you’ll find dreamy farm-to-table dining experiences that delight!

ORIGIN RESTAURANT AT THE BURNING BARREL

Lecompton, KS (BurningBarrelKansas.com)

SALTWELL FARM KITCHEN

Overbrook, KS (SaltwellFarmKitchen.com) Lecompton, KS @historiclecomptonkansas