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7 Great Things To Do In Historic Dodge City

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• Destinations
• United States

Imagine riding a stagecoach into town. As you exit and brush the dirt off of you from the miles of travel across the plains of Kansas, you look for the nearest saloon at which to quench your thirst.

Fast forward a century or more, and as you exit your car, you look for a place to quench your thirst, maybe a coffee shop or a drinking establishment. In either case, you’re in for a treat as you explore the Western flavor of Dodge City.

Fans of Westerns or television series like Gunsmoke will love Dodge City, which proudly celebrates its connection to the Wild West, from its herds of longhorns to its gunfights on the old main street.

Here are seven things to do when you’re in town.

Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock

1. Explore The Trail Of Fame

A must for any visitor, the Dodge City Trail of Fame is a series of more than 30 medallions and handprints along the sidewalks of downtown. Celebrating actors connected to Gunsmoke and other Westerns, as well as local dignitaries and celebrities, the Trail of Fame honors people such as Gene Barry, who portrayed Bat Masterson on television; Bat Masterson himself; Doc Holliday; and Wyatt Earp (who was a deputy marshal in Dodge City).

The main actors in Gunsmoke — James Arness, Amanda Blake, Milburn Stone (a Kansas native), Ken Curtis, Buck Taylor, and Burt Reynolds — have medallions along Gunsmoke Street (named after the series). Dennis Weaver, who portrayed Chester Goode on the show before departing to star in McCloud , was the first Trail honoree, and his medallion is located on Front Street, which was once Dodge City’s main street.

Local celebrities honored include Ramon House, the last marshal to serve Dodge City, and actor Dennis Hopper.

2. Take A Walking Tour

While the Trail of Fame is included in the Historic Dodge City Walking Tour , you’ll see much more as you explore the downtown area of Dodge City. Grab a map at the visitor center, near the Boot Hill Museum, to help you find the key points. Look for the series of storyboards, building plaques, sculptures, and banners. You’ll walk through the town’s history, taking in sights such as the Santa Fe Railroad and various saloons, along with sculptures of El Capitan (a longhorn looking south for the herd to arrive), Wyatt Earp, James Arness as Matt Dillon, and a cowboy on Boot Hill. The self-guided tour passes more than a hundred key spots, all within a 10-to-12-block radius.

3. Walk Through The Wild West At The Boot Hill Museum

Enjoy a walk through Dodge City’s Wild West days at the Boot Hill Museum . The museum, which more than tripled its space with a 2020 addition, offers a look at the lives of the Native Americans, pioneers, and marshals who called the town home. Inside, you’ll find artifacts and memorabilia such as weapons used by lawmakers and cowboys, as well as an early newspaper, jail, and pharmacy.

The museum’s Old Town offers the chance to walk along a boardwalk, viewing Western storefronts. You’ll want to stop in for a sarsaparilla at the Long Branch Saloon and maybe catch a show featuring dancers. The boardwalk also includes a general store (a great stop for souvenirs and gifts) and a one-room church.

Ammodramus / Wikimedia Commons ( CC0 1.0 )

4. Tour The Home Of Stone

Made from Kansas limestone, the Mueller-Schmidt House , also known as the Home of Stone, was built in the early 1880s on a hill overlooking the city. Only two families lived in the house, which is the lone limestone house in the city. John Mueller was a bootmaker who invested in a saloon and cattle. The Muellers suffered financial difficulties when their cattle died in a blizzard and a fire destroyed the saloon. They sold the house and moved away. Adam Schmidt bought the house in 1890, and his family lived there until 1960, when his children sold it to the county.

It has served as a museum since then, showcasing furnishings related to the families’ eras, including a few family heirlooms. The museum has a room dedicated to the stories of area women. The house is rumored to be haunted, and, if you ask, the docents may share their personal tales of ghostly encounters.

5. Visit A Distillery And Brewery

Combine a little history with a taste of New York on a visit to Boot Hill Distillery and Dodge City Brewery.

Boot Hill Distillery sits on a hill overlooking Front Street. Located in a former city hall and school, the distillery is owned by farmers who produce the corn and grain used to make the whiskey, gin, and vodka. You can take a guided tour of the distillery, which includes a shot glass for tastes along the way. Whether you imbibe or not, the distillery tour offers a fun look at the distilling process as well as a primer on the building’s history. Boot Hill has a tasting room for people interested in spending additional time there.

Dodge City Brewery , about a block from the distillery, boasts seven or eight flavors of beer on tap. You can watch the brewing process from almost anywhere in the brewery. The establishment is also known for its New York-style pizza. The owners spent time in New York learning to perfect the hand-stretched, wood-fired pizza , which you’ll receive within minutes of placing your order.

6. Talk To The Animals At Wright Park Zoo

Home to about 125 animals, Wright Park Zoo offers an opportunity to see animals close up. What started in 1926 with two black bears has grown into an accredited public zoo with animals including a black bear, bison, monkeys, wolves, and a variety of birds. Being small, Wright Park Zoo doesn’t charge admission, but it accepts donations.

7. Shop Till You Drop

Be sure to explore the boutiques and shops along Front Street and in downtown Dodge City during your visit.

The fragrance of leather welcomes you at El Jaliciense Western Wear , which sells cowboy boots, belts, hats, Western shirts, and modern Western-inspired attire for women.

With its ever-changing inventory, Boot Hill Antiques offers an opportunity to take a piece of local history home with you — or at least some good deals. You’ll find household items, vintage clothing, and more — you might even find Dorothy’s ruby slippers!

For souvenirs and gift ideas, stop by the Dodge City CVB .

Where To Eat In Dodge City

Dodge City is ripe with impressive places to dine.

You can enjoy lunch or dinner at Central Station Bar & Grill , which is located in a former train station and offers visitors three venues: a sports bar, a dance club, and a restaurant. The restaurant — located inside a converted train car — features menu items such as steaks, pork sirloins, burgers, and salads.

Casey’s Cowtown Club is a throwback to classic steakhouses, with large servings of T-bone steak, chicken-fried steak, and ham steak, along with burgers and sandwiches including a French dip. The decor is vintage Western, with paintings and miniature sculptures of cowboys and Native Americans. There’s even a denim-covered bison near the lobby.

Combining faith, community, and coffee is the focus of Red Beard Coffee . Open since 2018, the coffeehouse is located at the end of Gunsmoke Street, with the Trail of Fame medallion for Burt Reynolds near its front door. The shop offers some unique flavors — try the Snickers, Captain Cranberry, or The Beard. Order your drink and stay a while to take in the art and relaxed atmosphere.

Where To Stay In Dodge City

You’ll find plenty of hotel chains in Dodge City, so you won’t have trouble finding a place to lay your head.

Located on the edge of town is the Boot Hill Casino & Resort , which includes restaurants, a convention center, a casino, and the Hampton Inn & Suites .

If you prefer a more local experience, The Cottage On Boot Hill is a neat vacation rental. Located near Front Street, the two-bedroom bungalow will be entirely yours during your visit; there’s no sharing with others. The Cottage On Boot Hill can be rented through Airbnb .

For more to see and do in Kansas, see this page .

Tim and his wife Lisa have been writing their blog The Walking Tourists for eight years. They live in the Midwest and enjoy writing about its attractions. They focus mainly on the Midwest, but enjoy traveling all over. With daughters living in the Seattle area, they also have a fondness for the Pacific Northwest.

Tim is a freelance writer and online content creator. He has authored two books about Omaha attractions and restaurants: "100 Things to Do in Omaha Before You Die" and "Unique Eats and Eateries of Omaha". A third book about Nebraska tourism -- "100 Things to Do in Nebraska Before You Die" -- will be published in April 2020. He writes magazine, newspaper, and online articles as well as offering ghostwriting services. He loves writing.

As a one-time community journalist, his affection for the stories journalists share has never waned. Having been a manager of people, he is intrigued by people's leadership qualities and practices.

Wyatt Earp and the "Buntline Special" Myth , by William B. Shillingberg, 1976, KanColl

Dodge City, Kansas – Exploring the Wild West and Beyond

timtrudell Dodge City , Kansas 3

Dodge City. The name conjures up thoughts of the Wild West, where a man’s best friends were his horse and his trusty six-shooter. Fresh off a hard trail’s ride, the first thing he sought was a shot of whatever cheap whiskey the barkeep had behind the counter, and then a little friendly attention from the ladies of the saloon.

Fast forward a hundred years, and Dodge City hangs on to those memories, sharing the days of yesteryear with visitors who want to relive that chapter of America’s history. While the cattle drives involve semis and packing plants, you can still find a good drink around the town.

Disagreements are still settled on the street with a shootout…at least as part of a daily show during the summer months. Boot Hill Museum , while open year-round, showcases the gunfights during the height of the tourist season. The museum, which uses Old West storefronts as part of its charm, will expand in 2020 to include a contemporary looking building that can hold thousands more historical artifacts and exhibits.

Fans of the television series “Gunsmoke” may recall Dodge City. Marshal Matt Dillon and his deputy Festus kept the western town safe from vermin and other ne’er-do-wells. The real Dodge City relishes the relationship it developed with the program. From James Arness as Matt Dillon to Kansas native Milburn Stone as “Doc,” the stars reciprocated that affection. Each of the series’ main cast and key supporting actors have been honored by the city along its Trail of Fame , with their images (and most, their handprints) emblazoned on the sidewalks around downtown.

Trail of Fame

Arness, Stone, Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty), Ken Curtis (Festus) and Burt Reynolds are among the cast honored. Buck Taylor, who portrayed Newly, became a regular visitor to the city for its summer festival. Dennis Weaver, who played Chester for nine seasons before leaving to become the lead on “McCloud,” was the first person inducted on the Trail of Fame.

A sculpture of Arness as Marshal Dillon stands outside the visitors center , welcoming people to Dodge City. 

One medallion recognizes actor Dennis Hopper, an award-winning actor who was a native of Dodge City. The actor, who may be best known for his role in the movie “Easy Rider,” also donated two sculptures he created to the city. One – La Salsa Man – stands 24 feet tall and is located across the street from the municipal building. The second is located in another town.

Walking tour

Besides the Trail of Fame, Dodge City showcases its history in a variety of ways part of a walking tour – flag pole art near key locations and storyboards that identify significant buildings, as well as sculptures.

As a fan of historical sculptures, I fell in love with them. So many to enjoy – Wyatt Earp with his long coat blowing behind him. depicting the Kansas wind, as well as El Capitan, the larger than life longhorn looking southward in anticipation of seeing his brethren being herded into town.

Doc Holliday’s sculpture sits at a poker table with one hand reaching for his revolver as he watches the gambling pot sitting in the middle of the table. He is a popular photo attraction as you can actually sit in chairs at the table.

As you enjoy the historical walking tour – mine included deputy marshal Charlie Meade – ensure you take in the architecture.  From churches to storefronts to old libraries, Dodge City features uniquely designed buildings. Now the Carnegie Institute for the Arts, the circular building, which was built in 1907, downtown once served as the town’s library.

Not far from the Carnegie building stands the Mueller-Schmidt House. Also known as the Home of Stone, it was immaculately designed. With only two owners before being donated to the city, the house has largely remained unchanged. With furniture representing the families’ eras, including some pieces that belonged to them, the house also includes museum displays recognizing the role women played in Dodge City’s history.

‘Gunsmoke’ connection

My guide has served the community for several decades. Proud of the personal relationships he enjoyed with “Gunsmoke” stars Ken Curtis and Buck Taylor, Meade reminisced about how Curtis enjoyed pulling a practical joke on him at a festival in Wyoming.

“We were having dinner following an event,” he said. “So, I go to meet him in the bar. I look around and don’t see him.”

Finally, asking the bartender if “Festus” had been to the bar, the man pointed to a dark corner. As he walked over, Meade realized Curtis pulled a fast one on him as he stood up, laughing, dressed in a Hawaiian-print shirt,  khaki shorts and flip flops. Not the cowboy duds, the Dodge City deputy expected.

Later, in Curtis’ final days, they shared one last laugh. 

“I called him to see how he was doing. He said, ‘Do you remember that time I pranked you? That was a good time. I’ve been thinking about that day.'”

Meade smiled in memory of his old friend.

Santa Fe Trail

Located on the Santa Fe Trail, you can still find wagon wheel ruts a few miles west of town at the Santa Fe Trail rut site. During the tourism season, you may want to hop aboard a trolley tour that can take you to the spot.

Its history as a cowboy town plays a role with businesses and attractions. Boot Hill Museum’s love for the Wild West is on display as you stroll down the boarded walk in front of western-style storefronts serving as a general store, hotel and, of course, the Long Branch Saloon. Enjoy a cold drink – adult and soda – at the bar or one of the tables where you can imagine a few card games going on.

A small stage is in the spotlight during peak tourist season as dance hall girls perform. Of course, the costumes may be risqué to some, but the performances are family-friendly.

Since it is a museum, you can view exhibits highlighting early life in the area, including Native American tribes, and European-American settlers. The museum also features types of weapons used by law officers, outlaws and frontiersmen, as well as businesses such as a drug store and newspaper.

Distillery, brewery attractions

While Dodge City embraces its past, the city also enjoys its role in creating contemporary attractions, such as Boot Hill Distillery . Located atop a hill overlooking the city’s main drag,  the site was the original Boot Hill Cemetery. City leaders thought the land was too valuable to bury dead cowboys, so bodies were moved to a new site. A school was built there; and when it outgrew its usefulness, the building became home to city government offices, including a courtroom and jail. Later, the city moved its offices to a new building.

Owned by the Kelman family, Boot Hill Distillery removes the middleman from its business process. Using grain grown by the family farm, the Kelmans handle the entire distilling process themselves.

Using what for gin and vodka and corn to make whiskey, Boot Hill Distillery processes spirits from the farm to the tasting room. They also raise rye, but don’t currently have plans for its use yet.

Handling the distilling process inside the building’s garage, spirits are processed in 500-gallon batches. Bottling and labeling are manually completed. The final products are among the tastiest whiskey and spirits you’ll find in Kansas.

With its beautiful architectural design, the distillery is an attraction itself. Outside the main entrance stands the Cowboy, a sculpture of local Joe Sughrue created in 1927 to recognize Dodge City’s cowboy and cattle trail era.

Down the hill from the distillery is Dodge City Brewing . Creating six to eight flavors of beer, visitors can find the brews on tap in the tasting room. The brewery also serves New York-style pizza baked in a brick oven.

Culinary scene

Dodge City has an impressive culinary scene. From the New York-style pizza to amazing steaks, you can find a dish from almost any style of cuisine.

Central Station Bar and Grill offers three areas for a fun date night. A more traditional steakhouse dining room menu invites you to try great-tasting Midwestern steaks or casual dining inside a converted train car.

Sports fans can shoot pool and enjoy a casual menu while watching games on 16 television sets. The third section – a dance club – welcomes music fans.

A throwback to classic steakhouses your parents and grandparents frequented in the 1960s and ’70s, Casey’s Cowtown Club has called Dodge City home for nearly 25 years. With large and tasty steaks, with portions to match, Mike Casey has created a popular dining destination. Even celebrities such as Willie Nelson crave the menu when traveling through Dodge City.

The restaurant also features western-themed decor featuring photos of cowboys and Native Americans and other memorabilia, including a bison covered in denim.

While popular with gamblers,  Boot Hill Casino and Resort features a couple of restaurants. While Firesides features an upscale dinner menu, the Cowboy Cafe offers a casual menu, with its burgers the most popular items.

Red Beard Coffee

As you tour downtown Dodge City, stop in at Red Beard Coffee for a tasty drink. Since I’m a latte guy, I usually order a vanilla-flavored drink. However, I grabbed a seasonal drink highlighting a maple flavor.  The two-year-old coffeehouse is the only true local coffee shop in town.

During my visit,  I stayed at the recently-opened Hampton Inn and Suites . Located adjacent to Boot Hill Casino, the hotel is a perfect place to stay. I admit I’ve become a fan of the Hampton chain over the years, so I’m always confident I’ll enjoy my visit.

As a kid, I wanted to be a cowboy when I grew up. So,  my visit to Dodge City brought out the cowboy nerd in me. Lisa wants to visit and the visitors bureau recommended a return trip during the summer months. I’m already planning to wear my cowboy hat on our return visit. Since I know I plan to return, I think it’s safe to say I strongly recommend visiting Dodge City.

Tim Trudell

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Nice walking Tour - Dodge City Trail of Fame

• United States    
• Kansas (KS)    
• Dodge City    
• Dodge City - Things to Do    
• Dodge City Trail of Fame

We were limited on the walking tour due to construction. However, we did find the stars of Gunsmoke... read more

If you like the historically accurate and/or fictional American West, you'll like the brief walk... read more

Nice walking Tour

Get a map at the Welcome Center and it covers several blocks but I enjoyed seeing the different television stars from Gun Smoke and other shows that portrayed Dodge City, It is set up pretty nice

Start at Visitor Center to get walking tour map, they are outside too if closed. Cool interesting history of Dodge City. You can sit with Doc Holiday or Stand with Wyatt Earp and locate all the plaques in the sidewalks of the Walk of Fame walking tour. We did it late in the afternoon with less people was nicer.

The best way to learn about Dodge City KS Is though Charlie Meade. One of the very best tours I ever had. We loved his stories of the old west. Such knowledge of his city.

I was cleaning out a drawer and came across the business card of Charlie Meade, Special Deputy US Marshal of Dodge City, that we got from him after staying at a B&B where he did storytelling while we had breakfast. He was fascinating to listen to, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time in Dodge City. I am writing this review now because it seems I didn't post one when we were there a year or so ago, and we still talk about what a fun time we had there. We are from the Cape Cod area of Massachusetts and being "out west" in an area reminiscent of Wyatt Earp, Gunsmoke, etc, etc was fun for us to see. We thought the Boot Hill Museum was very well done, and enjoyed talking with people from the area. While living in the west may not be our thing, many of the locals felt the same about "Boston", but we were very happy to have experienced Dodge. It's a different way of life than back East, but very admirable that so many endured the hardships of a "frontier" life that is in sharp contrast to more populated areas such as ours. Go and enjoy it - it is a step back into the past.

Able to take a self-guided tour with brochure from the Visitor center. So much fun to take a nice walk along Front Street and find the various statues of notable western historic figures and read a bit of history about Dodge City itself. Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Marshall Dillon and the bull El Capitan just some of those represented. Backdrop of simple style buildings now serve as small eateries and shops. Be sure to spend an hour or two to see it all.Next door to Boot Hill/museum (great too). We really enjoyed and have already told friends about it should they be passing through.

It was really fun walking through historic downtown looking for emblems in the sidewalk. My dad was a huge fan of the TV show Gunsmoke so he knew who each and every person was. The most exciting part of this for me was seeing the Doc Holiday and Wyatt Earp statues. So much history here! Be sure to stop at the visitor center before going on your walk for a free brochure which tells you where everything is. It took us a little over an hour to see everything. I definitely recommend this to anyone visiting Dodge City.

17 Best Things to Do in Dodge City KS

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Dodge City exceeded my expectations when I visited Kansas. I’ll be honest, I didn’t know a lot of what had happened in the wild west town and finding things to do in Dodge City KS filled me in on both the sensationalist and important history.

Located in the center of Kansas, Dodge City was an important stop along the Santa Fe Trail . It was home to gunfights and sheriffs. Rich in lore and history, visiting Dodge City you can step back in time to meet the likes of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.

Trust me, like most people, Kansas gets overlooked as a “flyover” destination. But visiting Dodge City checked things off the bucket list I didn’t know I had!

⏳ TL: DR – The best things to do in Dodge City KS: 1. Boothill Museum 2. Long Branch Saloon Variety Show 3. Boothill Distillery

Dodge City was part of a bigger trip in Kansas , filled with fun I think even my teenagers would enjoy.

I worked with Travel Kansas and poured my in-depth knowledge into the research so you don’t have to.

Let’s get to it.

Table of Contents

What to Do in Dodge City Kansas

Dodge City is a great destination for families, offering plenty of historical and cultural attractions. Families can visit the Boot Hill Museum, an iconic landmark that tells the story of the Wild West .

Dodge City also boasts a remarkable collection of Western art and historic sites, which includes over 80 points of interest, statues, and sculptures from Old West towns across America.

With activities ranging from outdoor recreation to museums to living history attractions , there’s something for everyone in Dodge City!

1. Boot Hill Museum

I recently visited the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City, Kansas, and had an amazing experience.

I was really impressed with the gunfight reenactment and the detailed museum which included a variety of artifacts from its storied Wild West history.

The Beeson Gallery portion of the museum is very well done with life-size store fronts and interactive storytellers (via motion-activated screens) that tell the storied history of Dodge City, from Native Americans to the Wild West.

Dodge City, Kansas is a city steeped in rich history. Founded in 1871 at the junction of the Santa Fe Trail and the Great Western Cattle Trail , it quickly became home to cowboys, buffalo hunters, merchants, gamblers, and more. This wildness was so notorious that it earned Dodge City the nickname “The Wickedest Little City in America”. Lawmen such as Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson were brought into town to help bring some order to its lawlessness. Although the Wild West eventually faded away, Dodge City has kept its reputation alive with museums and reenactments. Today visitors can experience a taste of what life was like back in the late 1800s when they visit historic sites like Boot Hill Museum and the Long Branch Saloon.

All of this history is included in the museum.

In addition to the museum, outside you can visit an authentic Front Street of Dodge City in its Wild West hey days. In fact, some of these are original buildings from the 1880s. Additionally, the museum is located on the original site of the Boot Hill Cemetery and you can walk the rustic graveyard behind the storefronts.

The authentic storefront recreations were particularly captivating; it was like taking a step back in time! From visiting the general store to tipping a cold sarsaparilla, back at the Saloon , the living history museum is easily one of the best things to do in Dodge City KS.

My favorite highlight is the Dodge City gunfight reenactment between the lawman and the outlaws of the town. Keep an eye out for these historical reenactors in town. The outlaws roll up from one end of the street where the lawmen try to keep the peace.

According to our guide, it’s different every time she’s seen it.

2. Long Branch Variety Show at Boot Hil Museum

After a rousing gunfight, it’s time to enjoy a show at the Long Branch Saloon, a long-standing staple of Dodge City tourist attractions.

This is a separately ticketed event at the Dodge City Museum and includes dinner and entertainment.

I had a wonderful time at the Long Branch Variety Show at Boot Hill Museum. The singing and dancing by Miss Kitty and her can-can girls were incredible. She had everyone in the audience engaged and they all had huge smiles on their faces.

Miss Kitty comes into the audience often and in fact, singled me out as her competition. I will be forever known as Miss Ruby to my traveling partners!

It was amazing to see such a long-running show still running after all these years! I highly recommend this show to anyone looking for live entertainment with an old-fashioned feel. It’s definitely worth the price of admission!

3. Boot Hill Distillery

Boot Hill Distillery is an iconic stop for travelers visiting the area.

Located in Dodge City, Kansas, the establishment was built in 2009 and opened up to visitors a year later. For those who want to explore the city’s rich history, Boot Hill Distillery offers a unique experience thanks to its location on one of the oldest hills in Dodge City.

The story goes that Boot Hill is where the outlaws were buried . It is in fact right next to the Boot Hill Cemetary and Boot Hil Museum.

The name came from the fact that the graves were so shallow, you could still see their boots.

The distillery is known for making small-batch spirits from locally sourced ingredients. In fact, they are one of the few distilleries that maintain their own grains, giving you a true soil-to-sip experience similar to a farm-to-table.

For those interested in learning more about Boot Hill Distillery’s history, samples of their spirits are available for tasting and can also be purchased onsite.

Don’t hesitate to stop in here with your family as the kids can certainly learn some history about the building, which once served as a school, and then a city hall.

4. Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge in Dodge City Kansas is a must-see for travelers looking for an intriguing glimpse of the Wild West. Located on the Arkansas River, Fort Dodge was built by the US Army in 1865 to protect travelers going west along the Santa Fe Trail.

Visitors can explore preserved buildings and artifacts from that time period, and enjoy stunning views of lush prairie grass and rolling hills.

Today the site is used for retired Kansas veterans, but the historic library and self-guided walking tour is maintained by the Ford County Historical Society.

5. Historic Dodge City Walking Tour

Travelers who embark on the Historic Dodge City Walking Tour will be taken on a journey through time.

The self-guided tour will introduce visitors to the colorful and vibrant history of Dodge City, with multiple locations of interest, original sites, storyboards, pole art banners, and the Dodge City Trail of Fame medallions and sculptures. Stop into the visitor center in downtown Dodge City KS for a map of the sites.

The Dodge City Trail of Fame is a part of the walking tour. It commemorates the infamous citizens of Dodge City, as well as notable movie and television stars that have portrayed them. Yes, if you’re a fan of Gunsmoke or other popular Westerns, you may see a few of these statues as well.

The walking tour is one of those Dodge City KS attractions where you can take your own time, and see the highlights.

6. Historic Dodge City Trolley Tours

Touring Dodge City by a historic trolley is a great way to explore the city and get your bearings.

On the tour, you’ll be taken back in time to 1870s Dodge City.

You’ll visit the original locations of the Longbranch Saloon, Gospel Hill, the “deadline”, Front Street, and more. Learn about Fort Dodge, follow the path of the Santa Fe Trail, and hear some entertaining stories along the way.

Meanwhile, you’ll be able to mark off important locations that you may want to visit later in your trip – all while having a leisurely ride around town on the Dodge City Trolley.

7. Dodge City Roundup Rodeo

Want an exciting experience in a town built by cattle? Head over to the rodeo!

Dodge City’s Roundup Rodeo attracts hundreds of rodeo-goers each year, looking for an exciting night out.

With shows occurring over the summer months, this is a perfect way to spend a balmy evening; cheering on cowboys and cowgirls alike as they compete in events such as bronc riding and steer wrestling.

In addition to these classic rodeo events, visitors can also enjoy Xtreme Bulls nights with 50 bull riders competing for the grand prize.

Whether you are looking to watch the show or even participate yourself, the Roundup Rodeo is a great way to experience this long-standing tradition in Dodge City with a fun and casual atmosphere.

8. Santa Fe Trail

The Santa Fe Trail is one of the most iconic and historically significant trails in the United States. This is one of the free things to see in Dodge City Kansas.

In Dodge City, Kansas, adventurers can explore remnants of its past along with wagon ruts that are still visible to this day. It’s a great place for travelers to understand what the Trail was like back in its heyday as they hike along the dusty path.

Historical markers show the Santa Fe trail ruts, and the National Park Service has a mobile narrated tour of the Santa Fe Trail .

9. South Dodge Drive-In Movies

How about a drive-in movie for one of the fun things to do in Dodge City KS?

South Dodge Drive-in Theater, located in the heart of the city, is one of the last remaining drive-in movie theaters in the area.

If you want to experience a unique and nostalgic form of entertainment, this is your chance.

Take a road trip with friends and enjoy watching a movie from the comfort of your car – it’s like having an outdoor private screening! Grab some snacks and drinks, get cozy, and watch one of the classic movies being shown at South Dodge Drive-in Theater this summer.

10. Dodge City Raceway Park

Dodge City Raceway is a must-see destination for any traveling race fan.

Located in southwestern Kansas, this 3/8 mile dirt track hosts thousands of racing fans each season and boasts an impressive racing schedule.

Everything from modifieds to sprint cars can be seen on the track, so there’s something for everyone.

Plus, the atmosphere around the raceway is lively and friendly – making it an ideal spot to spend an evening out with friends and family. And best of all, tickets are highly affordable – you can have a great time without breaking the bank!

11. Mueller-Schmidt House Home of Stone

The Mueller-Schmidt House of Stone is a renowned landmark in Dodge City, Kansas, standing proudly atop a hill northeast of the town.

Built in 1882 by German immigrants Anna and August Mueller-Schmidt, it was meant to be one of the most impressive homes in the area.

The House stands as an example of German masonry craftsmanship, with fine limestone blocks making up its sturdy structure . Its elegance lies in its simplicity; no other building in Dodge City can claim such clear lines and solid construction as that of the Mueller-Schmidt House. Today, the Mueller-Schmidt House stands tall – surrounded by trees and shrubs planted by the original family – as a testament to what strong work ethic and stone-building artistry can achieve.

Visitors can appreciate its impeccable craftsmanship while also admiring its historical significance. The Mueller-Schmidt House is indeed an impressive site that shouldn’t be missed by any traveler looking to explore historic Dodge City!

12. Gunfighters Wax Museum

Gunfighters Wax Museum is a must-see destination for all travelers who want to have a taste of the Wild West.

Located in the heart of downtown Dodge City this unique museum showcases life-size wax figurines of famous Western personalities such as Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, Doc Holliday, Davey Crockett, Buffalo Bill, Miss Kitty, Frank and Jesse James, Billy the Kid, and many more.

All these characters come to life in an incredibly realistic way and you can even take pictures with them! It’s definitely worth taking a stop off at the museum when you’re passing through Dodge City.

13. Dodge City Days

If you love festivals, you’ll love Dodge City Days, happening every summer in late July.

Enjoy a parade, barbecue, arts & crafts, classic car show and the pinnacle event, a rodeo.

Each year the Dodge City Roundup puts on a spectacle of bull riding, bronco riding, cattle roping, and barrel racing. If you’ve ever wanted to witness a rodeo, the home of the old wild west is the place to do it.

Dodge City Kansas Things to do Nearby

These are Kansas tourist attractions close to Dodge City and worth it if you’re going to spend more than one day in the area.

• Cattle Feedlot Overlook – It may not sound like much, but this is a great road trip stop to learn about the importance of the cattle industry in Kansas. You can learn more about Agritourism and why it’s important here.
• Big Basin Prairie Reserve , just south of Dodge City, is one of the most beautiful places for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rolling hills, breathtaking views, and wide open plains, this area provides an abundance of opportunities for adventure.
• Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway is an 80-mile-long stretch of beautiful scenery in Kansas. It truly shows off that Kansas is not just flat prairie. It takes you through the historical Gypsum Hills and gives you a peek into the area’s past while providing stunning views of the present.
• M.T. Liggetts Political Sculptures is a unique art installation piece in Mullinville, Kansas. You can’t miss this on your drive from Wichita to Dodge City. Be sure to stop in the visitors center here, just off Highway 54, and learn about the man behind these farcical metal sculptures.

The Big Well

The Big Well in Greensburg Kansas was a surprisingly interesting thing to do in near Dodge City.

The Big Well is the largest hand-dug well in the world. Built in 1887, it became a major tourist attraction sometime in the mid-1900s.

The real story is the city of Greensburg. This town was devasted by an EF-5 tornado in 2007 . It leveled 95 percent of the city.

However, rather than call it quits, the town decided to build back in a way that honored its name with green energy. All the new buildings are certified by LEED and renewable energy. The Big Well museum shows the history of the town as well as details of what a tornado could do.

Best Time to Visit Dodge City

Dodge City, Kansas is a great place to visit any time of year. However, for travelers looking to experience the full range of attractions and activities that the city has to offer, the best time of year is definitely in the summer months .

With an average high temperature of over 80 degrees, you can take advantage of all the outdoor activities Dodge City offers such as fishing, boating, or even horseback riding.

Plus, many attractions are not operational during winter months, so summer is an ideal time to make sure you’re able to get the most out of your trip.

Hotels in Dodge City Kansas

There are a number of places to stay in Dodge City including your standard Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, and the like.

Alternatively, if you are also looking for things to do in Garden City , it makes a great central location for all the activities in Dodge City and southwestern Kansas.

🏩 Book Dodge City Hotels here.

Getting Around Dodge City KS

Getting around Dodge City KS is generally best done with a car, as public transport options are limited.

The city itself is quite small, so it’s easy to get from one place to another without too much difficulty.

There are plenty of parking lots and garages available throughout the city for those looking to leave their car during their trip. It may be worth noting that the roads can get a bit congested during peak times. However, with careful planning and some knowledge of shortcuts, it’s possible to avoid the traffic jams and make sure you get where you need to go quickly.

🚗Book your rental car in Wichita here.

How many days in Dodge City

You can see most of the Dodge City Kansas attractions in one day

Is Dodge City Kansas Worth Visiting

Yes, it’s a fun and interactive look into the Wild West of Kansas.

What is Dodge City Famous for?

Dodge City, Kansas is known for its history as a Wild West town. It was the destination of countless cattle drives throughout the 19th century and was home to lawmen like Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson.

What is there to do in Dodge City KS?

Highlights include: Boot Hill Museum Boot Hill Distillery Dodge City Brewing Dodge City Walking Trail and Dodge City Trail of Fame

What are things to do in Dodge City KS at night?

Check out the Boot Hill Casino for its live gaming tables and the opportunity to test your luck on penny slots, video poker machines and more! There’s also the Carnegie Center for the Arts, located right down Main Street, which hosts regular events like music and comedy performances. If you’re looking for some delicious food with a side of entertainment, head over to Coyote Creek Saloon where you can enjoy dinner while being entertained by country music bands or karaoke.

What are free things to do in Dodge City, KS

You can also check out the Kansas Historical Society’s El Quartelejo Ruins State Historic Site. This site displays ruins from a Pueblo Indian settlement established more than 300 years ago. For a unique experience, take a stroll around Fort Dodge, an abandoned military fort built in 1865. Pick up a map at the Visitors Information Center for a self-guided walking tour

What are family things to do in Dodge City?

With attractions such as Boot Hill Museum, the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame, and the Santa Fe Trail Center, there’s something here for everyone. Kids will love exploring Gunsmoke Stables, which offers horseback rides through the famous Dodge City landscape.

Final Thoughts: Dodge City KS Things to do

The trip to Dodge City was a wonderful experience that I’ll never forget. From its old-fashioned saloons to the rodeos, there is something for every traveler here. After spending a few days in this Midwestern town, It’s easy to understand why this place is such an iconic destination for any traveler looking for an exciting adventure! If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Kansas, Dodge Cit y should definitely be at the top of your list. There are plenty of historical sites and entertainment options that will really make your trip worth your while.

Plus, you get the added benefit of experiencing a little bit of true Americana culture while you’re at it! So come on over and join me as I explore more about my adventures in the Wild West.

17 Best Family Vacations in Kansas

Best Things to do in Dodge City

Best Things to do in Garden City

Best Hotel in Wichita, Kansas

Best Place to stay in Kansas City

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Five Fun Things to do in Dodge City

DODGE CITY, Kansas — The city known as the “Queen of the Cowtowns” is a must-visit for those interested in the Wild West. The West was rarely wilder than in Dodge City, which from 1872-1885 was a key stop on cattle drives coming up the Santa Fe Trail.

Notables, including Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson and Doc Holliday, spent time in the town, which was also immortalized in the long-running “Gunsmoke” TV series.

Dodge City celebrates its history with its “Get the Heck into Dodge” campaign; the town was recently awarded the “Cowboy Keeper” award by the National Day of the Cowboy Association for its efforts in promoting the cowboy way of life.

The city embraces its past, but looks to the future as well, with a new casino that sits beside the 5,500-seat United Wireless Arena, which hosts sporting and entertainment events.

Interested in some of Dodge City’s history? Here are five stops to make on the trail:

BOOT HILL MUSEUM,

500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd.

More than 60,000 artifacts from the Old West era populate the Boot Hill Museum, Many were collected by Chalkley Beeson, former sheriff and part-owner of the famed Long Branch Saloon. The brand ambassador for Boot Hill Museum, Brent Harris, is a wonderful source of information about all things Dodge City, and can tell fascinating stories from the attempted assassination of Wyatt Earp to the ghost of Ed Masterson. An audiovisual program in the museum simulates the look and feel of a buffalo stampede in the days when those animals still roamed the prairies in huge herds. In the summer, the museum hosts dinners, mock gunfights and variety shows.

DODGE CITY TROLLEY,

400 W Wyatt Earp Blvd.

If you go during the summer, the 1-hour trolley tour provides an overview of the area and some of its most famous stories, leading up to the current status of the town as a top meatpacking area. Riders will see the location of the original Long Branch Saloon on Front Street (since burned to the ground), as well as Fort Dodge, which now serves as the Kansas Soldiers Home.

DEPOT THEATER,

201 E Wyatt Earp Blvd.

The former El Vaquero Harvey House and Depot has been renovated to its 1898 appearance, where it now houses the Depot Theatre. The former hotel lobby now has been restored to its original appearance, as a photo hanging in the room shows. Many original fixtures, flooring, woodwork and windows are part of the lobby.

The depot still serves its original purpose as well — the Amtrak stop in Dodge City is staffed by volunteer. The Harvey House dining room has been restored and can be used as meeting space.

MUELLER-SCHMIDT HOUSE, 112 E Vine.

Called the “Home of Stone,” this 1881 limestone house was built for the family of boot maker John Mueller. After the 1886 blizzard, he sold it to the Schmidt family, which lived in the house until 1965, when the home was sold to Ford County for use as a museum. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitors can tour the home, filled with period furniture and clothing. The knowledgeable tour guides are dressed in period attire and tell the stories of the only two families to ever live in the home.

DODGE CITY TRAIL OF FAME

The Dodge City Trail of Fame Inc. is a walking tour of the Old Dodge City historic district. Sidewalk medallions commemorate famous Dodge Citians, real and fictional. The 8-foot statue of lawman Wyatt Earp, dedicated in 2005, is a highlight of the tour.

Accommodations paid by Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get Out Of Dodge - Or Not! What To See In This Wild West Town

Dodge City is one of the most iconic cowboy Wild West towns and is a must for anyone passing through today.

Quick Links

Dodge city - the embodiment of the wild west, the reputation of dodge city & fights, attractions in dodge city.

Welcome to Dodge City, Kansas - a favorite of Western movies and one of the most iconic of Wild West towns (like Tombstone, Arizona, where the famous Gunfight At The O.K. Corral took place). The experience to "get the hell out of dodge" hails from Dodge City, Kansas, and comes from the many Westerns filmed there. The movies often depict Dodge City as a lawless frontier town with the sheriff trying to keep law and order and telling the criminals in town to "get out."

Today visitors are greeted by a laid-back Kansas town - a stark contrast to what it was once like. It is well worth visiting and has plenty of family-friendly attractions. Perhaps the most iconic landscape of the Wild West is the Sonoran Desert, with the famous cactuses and being close to the border with Mexico.

" In its heyday, Dodge City epitomized the “Wild West.” Daily gunfights arose in the main street, which was lined with saloons and brothels. "

Expedia.com

Dodge City today has a population of around 28,000 and is one of the most famous towns in American culture for its history as a wild frontier town. It has been immortalized many times in the film as representative of the Old West.

• Population: 28,000

The settlement of the area around Dodge City dates from 1847 when it was still a part of Mexico, but the actual city dates from 1871. A fort was built there to provide protection for travelers making their way along the Santa Fe Trail. After the Civil War, the American Frontier Wars began to heat up and Fort Dodge was built. Soon the railroad arrived, and Dodge City thrived on the cattle trade.

• Founded: 1871
• Heyday: 1883-1884
• Cattle: Dodge City Was A Cattle Trading Town

Soon Dodge City became a boomtown with thousands of cattle passing through its stockyards. The peak of the cattle trade was 1883-1884. It even earned itself the nickname "Queen of the Cowtowns."

Related: Think You Could Survive Cowboy Days In The Wild West? Here's What They Had To Eat

No town matched Dodge City's reputation as a frontier settlement of the Wild West. It even had more gunfighters working there at one time or another than any other town in the West. One can learn all about that and more with the Dodge City Trail of Fame .

In 1883 the Dodge City War broke out. The conflict was a showdown between Luke Short and his supporters and the Dodge City mayor, who tried to force Short to close the saloon and leave town (aka get the hell out of Dodge). While it was a bloodless conflict, it produced one of the most iconic photos of Western gamblers and gunfighters of the West.

• Dodge City War: A Bloodless Showdown Between The Mayor And Luke Short

After a few years, the cattle trade moved on, and Dodge City became a sleepy Kansas town.

In its day, Dodge City had the typical collection of gambling halls, brothels, and saloons. Some of the most notable were the Long Branch Saloon and the China Doll brothel. It even had a bullfighting ring with Mexican bullfighters would perform.

Related: Wild West Ghost Towns: 25 Images Of Forgotten Places In The Desert

Dodge City has plenty of museums, landmarks, and historical sites. The downtown is promoted as historic Old Dodge City and has plenty of Western-themed attractions.

One of the things to do is to take a trolley ride around the historic district or to take the Dodge City Trail of Fame walking tour.

• Boot Hill Museum: Exhibits The Frontier Days Of Dodge
• Cowboy Hall of Fame: Tells Stories of The Area's Most Famous (and Infamous) Frontiersmen
• Long Branch Saloon: Rebuilt To Look Exactly As It Once Did
• Boot Hill Cemetery: Captures The Violence of The Wild West
• Dodge City Roundup Rodeo: Cowboy Performance With Roping Contests, Horse Shows, & More

Boot Hill Cemetery reminds one of the violence of Dodge's history - it is so named because many of the men buried there died with their boots on. Boot Hill Museum has plenty of artifacts as well as partial reconstructions of downtown Dodge City.

Plan one's trip with the official Visit Dodge City website and delve into the rich Old West heritage of the United States.

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Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Walking tour of dodge city, 8/31/2015.

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