Butler County Ks Gis Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Butler County, Kansas – a charming destination that offers a mix of rural beauty, Midwestern hospitality, and urban amenities. Located in the heart of the state, Butler County is home to a range of attractions, from historical landmarks and cultural sites to outdoor adventures and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone here.

Top Attractions

1. El Dorado Lake

One of the most popular attractions in Butler County is El Dorado Lake, a 8,000-acre reservoir that offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and scenic views, making it a great spot for picnicking and hiking.

2. Kansas Oil Museum

The Kansas Oil Museum is another must-visit attraction in Butler County. The museum showcases the history of the Kansas oil industry and its impact on the state’s economy and culture. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits, including vintage oilfield equipment, historical photos, and interactive displays.

Hidden Gems

1. The Coutts Memorial Museum of Art

The Coutts Memorial Museum of Art is a hidden gem in Butler County that’s worth a visit. The museum houses a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.

2. The Augusta Historic Theatre

The Augusta Historic Theatre is another hidden gem in Butler County that’s worth a visit. The theatre was built in 1935 and has been restored to its original Art Deco style. Visitors can catch a movie or live performance and enjoy the theatre’s unique ambiance and history.

Food Scene

Butler County has a thriving food scene that offers a mix of local and international cuisine. Some of the top restaurants in the area include:

The Breadbasket Bakery and Cafe
The Beacon
The Rusty Needle Sports Bar and Lounge
La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips for saving money in Butler County:

Visit the county’s many free attractions, such as the Augusta Historic Theatre and the Coutts Memorial Museum of Art.
Enjoy a picnic or hike at one of the county’s many parks and natural areas.
Check out the local farmer’s markets for fresh produce and affordable souvenirs.
Take advantage of happy hour specials at local bars and restaurants.

Outdoor Adventures

Butler County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor activities in the area include:

Fishing and boating at El Dorado Lake
Hiking and picnicking at the Flint Hills Nature Trail
Biking and horseback riding at the Prairie Sunset Trail
Birdwatching at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Historical Landmarks

Butler County is home to a range of historical landmarks and sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Some of the top sites to visit include:

The Kansas Oil Museum
The Augusta Historic Theatre
The Chase County Courthouse
The Cassoday Stone Arch Bridge

Family-Friendly Activities

Butler County is a great destination for families with kids. Some of the top family-friendly activities in the area include:

Visiting the Butler County History Center and Kansas Oil Museum
Exploring the interactive exhibits at the Coutts Memorial Museum of Art
Taking a picnic or hike at one of the county’s many parks and natural areas
Catching a movie or live performance at the Augusta Historic Theatre

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something unique and off the beaten path, check out these experiences in Butler County:

Take a hot air balloon ride over the county’s rolling hills and scenic views.
Visit the Butler County State Lake and Wildlife Area for a day of fishing and wildlife spotting.
Explore the historic Santa Fe Trail, which runs through the county.
Take a guided tour of the county’s many ghost towns and abandoned homesteads.

Natural Wonders

Butler County is home to a range of natural wonders that offer breathtaking views and unique experiences. Some of the top natural wonders in the area include:

The Flint Hills Nature Trail
The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
The Cassoday Wetlands Preserve
The Chikaskia River

Vibrant Nightlife

Butler County may be a rural area, but it still offers a range of nightlife options for visitors. Some of the top bars and clubs in the area include:

The Rusty Needle Sports Bar and Lounge
The Beacon
The Brickyard 20 Ale House
The Brickyard 20 Ale House

Local Markets

Butler County is home to a range of local markets and shops where visitors can find unique souvenirs, gifts, and products. Some of the top markets in the area include:

The Augusta Farmers Market
The El Dorado Farmers Market
The Cottonwood Falls Farmers Market
The Emporia Farmers Market

Beaches and Mountains

Butler County may not have beaches or mountains, but it still offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking at the county’s many parks and natural areas.

Cultural Immersion

Butler County is home to a range of cultural sites and experiences that offer a glimpse into the region’s unique heritage and traditions. Some of the top cultural sites to visit include:

The Coutts Memorial Museum of Art
The Kansas Oil Museum
The Augusta Historic Theatre
The Cassoday Stone Arch Bridge

Art and Music Scene

Butler County has a thriving art and music scene that offers a mix of local and international talent. Some of the top venues and events in the area include:

The Brickyard 20 Ale House
The Augusta Historic Theatre
The Prairie Rose Chuckwagon Supper
The Tallgrass Film Festival

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Butler County is on foot. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the county’s many historic sites and landmarks, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

Architectural Marvels

Butler County is home to a range of architectural marvels that showcase the region’s unique history and culture. Some of the top sites to visit include:

The Chase County Courthouse
The Augusta Historic Theatre
The Cassoday Stone Arch Bridge
The Butler County Courthouse

Historical Sites

Butler County is rich in history, with a range of sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s past. Some of the top historical sites to visit include:

The Kansas Oil Museum
The Augusta Historic Theatre
The Chase County Courthouse
The Cassoday Stone Arch Bridge

Biking Routes

Butler County is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with a range of scenic routes and trails to explore. Some of the top biking routes in the area include: