Larned, Kansas is a great place for families with young children. There are plenty of kid-friendly things to do in the area, including visiting the Fort Larned National Historic Site, exploring the Pioneer Bluffs Preserve, and playing in one of the many parks in town.
Fort Larned National Historic Site is a great place to learn about the history of Kansas and the American West. The fort was an important outpost on the Santa Fe Trail, and there are several restored buildings to explore, as well as a museum with exhibits about the people who lived and worked at the fort.
Pioneer Bluffs Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve with hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. It’s a great place to explore the outdoors and see some of the native plants and animals that call Kansas home.
There are also several parks in Larned where kids can play. Kirby Park has a playground, a sprayground, and a walking trail, and Hodgeman County Park has a playground, a fishing pond, and plenty of open space to run around. Whatever your family enjoys, you’re sure to find something to do in Larned, Kansas.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Larned, Kansas
#1. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area
The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is located just north of Larned, Kansas and is a great place for kids to see a variety of different wildlife. There are hiking trails, boardwalks, and a Visitors Center where kids can learn about the different animals that live in the area.
#2. Santa Fe Trail Center
The Santa Fe Trail Center is a museum dedicated to the history of the Santa Fe Trail. Kids can learn about the trail and see exhibits on the people and places that were a part of it. There is also a walking trail that follows the path of the original trail.
#3. Pilgrim Haven Nature Park
Pilgrim Haven Nature Park is a great place for kids to explore the outdoors. There are hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. Kids can also learn about the history of the area at the on-site museum.
#4. The Kansas Underground Salt Museum
The Kansas Underground Salt Museum is located in a working salt mine and gives kids a chance to see how salt is mined. There are also exhibits on the history of salt mining in Kansas, and kids can pan for salt at the end of the tour.
#5. Fort Larned National Historic Site
Fort Larned National Historic Site is a former army fort that was used during the Indian Wars. Kids can learn about the history of the fort and see what life was like for the soldiers who lived there. There are also hiking trails and a playground.
#6. Larned State Recreation Area
Larned State Recreation Area is a great place for kids to enjoy the outdoors. There are hiking trails, a playground, and a swimming beach. Kids can also fish in one of the two ponds or go boating on the Pawnee River.
#7. David Traylor Zoo
David Traylor Zoo is a small zoo located in Larned, Kansas. Kids can see a variety of animals, such as lions, tigers, and bears, as well as reptiles and amphibians. There is also a petting zoo where kids can interact with some of the animals.
#8. Pawnee Indian Village State Historic Site
Pawnee Indian Village State Historic Site is a reconstruction of a Pawnee Indian village. Kids can learn about the Pawnee Indians and see how they lived. There are also hiking trails and a playground.
#9. Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a reconstruction of a fur trading fort that was built in 1833. Kids can learn about the history of the fort and see what life was like for the people who lived there. There are also interactive exhibits and a gift shop.
#10. Big Beaver Creek Water Park
Big Beaver Creek Water Park is a great place for kids to cool off in the summer. There are slides, a swimming pool, and a sprayground. Kids can also rent paddleboats and go fishing in the stocked pond.
