Hutchinson, Kansas, offers something for everyone – space explorers, budding scientists, history buffs and nature lovers! Just two hours from Manhattan, Hutchinson is a great weekend adventure or even a day trip.
Family Friendly Attractions in Hutchinson
Many of these attractions are featured on the Sunflower Summer App so be sure to check before you purchase admission tickets.
Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Plan for a half day to explore this expansive museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and even a dome theater featuring space-themed films. The Hall of Space features artifacts from famous space mission and other important historical events.
Strataca
Explore an underground salt mine museum known as Strataca (previously known as Kansas Underground Salt Museum). This unique attraction allows visitors to ride a mining train, learn about salt mining history, and experience the underground environment. A double-decker hoist will send you 650 feet underground in less than 90 seconds!
Hedrick’s Exotic Animal Farm
This family owned farm offers tours where kids can feed and interact with a variety of exotic animals, including kangaroos, camels, lemurs, zebras and more. It’s an exciting hands-on experience for animal lovers. Tours are by reservation and take about an hour. The farm also features a bed and breakfast if you want to stay the night!
Dillon Nature Center
Dillon Nature Center is a 100-acre urban sanctuary on the northeast side of Hutchinson. It is home to more than 300 species of woody plants, hundreds of varieties of wildflowers and native grasses, 200 species of birds, and a large variety of other wildlife along three miles of National Recreation trails. You can hike, fish, and enjoy the playscape for kids. This is a great place to bring a picnic lunch!
Salt City Splash
Cool off during the summer months at Hutchinson’s water park, featuring a tiny tot pool, shallow water play pool, slides, diving boards, basketball, and large floating toys. Concessions stands offer a full menu.
Where to Eat in Hutchinson
Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q
It’s not fancy, but it’s tasty! Whether you are craving brisket, pulled pork, ribs or sausage links, Hog Wild will satisfy you.
Bogey’s
A local favorite for more than 30 years, Bogey’s offers shakes and burgers. You’ll have more than 101 shakes to choose from so come hungry!
