Bison, Kansas is home to the world’s largest publicly accessible bison herd. The herd, which numbers around 1,500, is managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Visitors to Bison can see the herd up close at the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, which is located just outside of town.
In addition to the bison, Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is also home to deer, elk, coyotes, and a variety of bird species. The refuge offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including hiking trails, picnicking areas, and a visitor center with interpretive exhibits.
For those looking for more of a traditional amusement park experience, Bison is also home to the Iron Horse Park. The park features a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and a carousel. Other attractions at the park include a miniature golf course and a batting cage.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Bison, Kansas
1. Climb the Big Bison
The Big Bison is a 27-foot-tall metal sculpture of a bison located in Bison, Kansas. Visitors are welcome to climb to the top of the sculpture for a panoramic view of the town.
2. Bison History Museum
The Bison History Museum is a small museum devoted to the history of the town of Bison and the surrounding area. Exhibits include artifacts from the Native American tribes who once lived in the area, as well as pioneer settlers and homesteaders.
3. Bison All-Star Sports Complex
The Bison All-Star Sports Complex is a public park with baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a playground. The complex is also home to the Bison Recreation Center, which has a gymnasium, a weight room, and a track.
4. Bison Memorial Golf Course
The Bison Memorial Golf Course is an 18-hole public golf course located on the north side of town. The course features a clubhouse, a pro shop, and a driving range.
5. Bison City Park
Bison City Park is a small park located in the center of town. The park has a playground, a picnic shelter, and a band shell. The park is also home to the Bison Civic Center, which houses a library, a senior center, and a community theater.
6. Walking Tour of Bison
The Bison Chamber of Commerce offers a free walking tour of the town, which includes a visit to the Big Bison, the Bison History Museum, and the Bison All-Star Sports Complex.
7. Bison Drive-In Theater
The Bison Drive-In Theater is located on the outskirts of town and is open seasonally. The theater features double features of first-run movies shown on a large screen. Visitors can watch the movies from their cars or from lawn chairs.
8. Bison Rodeo
The Bison Rodeo is held annually in July and is one of the biggest events in town. The rodeo features bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and steer wrestling, as well as a carnival, a rodeo parade, and a dance.
9. Kansas State Fair
The Kansas State Fair is held annually in Hutchinson, Kansas, about 30 minutes from Bison. The fair features exhibits of agricultural products, livestock, and crafts, as well as a midway, live entertainment, and food vendors.
10. Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge
The Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge is located about an hour from Bison and features hiking trails, fishing lakes, and a nature center. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and bald eagles.
