Hays Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Hays is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Gateway to the West," Hays has a rich heritage dating back to the pioneer days, and this is evident in its well-preserved historic downtown.

Begin your exploration of Hays by strolling down Main Street, where you'll find an array of charming shops, boutiques, and eateries. Admire the beautifully restored 19th-century buildings that house these establishments, and immerse yourself in the small-town ambiance that permeates the area.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Ellis County Historical Society Museum is a must. This museum showcases the region's fascinating past, from the indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area to the arrival of European settlers. Explore the exhibits that showcase artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, and gain a deeper understanding of Hays' historical significance.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the stunning landscapes that surround Hays. Just a short drive away, you'll find the impressive Wilson Lake. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it's the perfect spot for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on the shore. Additionally, the nearby Wild West-themed Cedar Bluff State Park offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

No visit to Hays would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its mouthwatering steaks and barbecue, and you'll find numerous establishments serving up these delectable treats. From hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Alternative names: Founded: 1867 (157 years ago)Population: 21.1 thous.Area: 8.14 mi²Elevation: 2034 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°53'6"N, 99°19'6"W

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KansasUnited States

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Hays Top Attractions

Hays Attractions - What to See and Explore

Hays offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Fort Hays, Fort Hays State University, First Presbyterian Church, St. Joseph's Church and Parochial School. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Military museum
Fort Hays
Fort Hays, originally named Fort Fletcher, was a United States Army fort near Hays, Kansas. Active from 1865 to 1889 A.D. it was an important frontier post during the American Indian Wars of the late 19th century.
Universities and schools
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University is a public university in Hays, Kansas, United States. It is the fourth-largest of the six state universities governed by the Kansas Board of Regents, with a total enrollment of approximately 15,100 students.
Church
First Presbyterian Church
The First Presbyterian Church in Hays, Kansas is a historic stone Presbyterian church building at 100 W. 7th Street. It was built in 1879 and added to the National Register in 1973.

Day trips

Hays – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Hays, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Fort Larned National Historic Site (Larned), Basilica of St. Fidelis (Victoria), Kansas Barbed Wire Museum (La Crosse).

49 milesS
Historical place, Military museum, Museum
Fort Larned National Historic Site, Larned
Fort Larned National Historic Site preserves Fort Larned which operated from 1859 to 1878. It is approximately 5.5 miles west of Larned, Kansas, United States.
9.2 miE
Church, Sacred and religious sites
Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria
The Basilica of St. Fidelis, commonly known as the Cathedral of the Plains, is a Romanesque-style Roman Catholic parish church in Victoria, Kansas, United States. It was raised to the status of a Minor Basilica in 2014 and is also known as The Basilica of the Plains. The twin towers are 141 feet tall.
25 milesS
Museum
Kansas Barbed Wire Museum, La Crosse
The Kansas Barbed Wire Museum is a barbed wire museum located in La Crosse, Kansas, United States, known as the “Barbed Wire Capital of the World.” The museum focuses on barbed wire and its history, displaying over 2,000 different forms of the wire and its history.
44 milesE
39°3'28"N • 98°32'17"W
Grassroots Art Center, Lucas
Art museum, Museum
31 milesW
Park
Cedar Bluff Reservoir, Cedar Bluff State Park
Cedar Bluff Reservoir is a reservoir in Trego County, Kansas, United States. Built and managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation for irrigation and area water supply, it is also used for flood control and recreation.