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Leavenworth, Kansas

Leavenworth, the "First City of Kansas", invites you to take a walk back in time and explore the history of "Where the West Began" by visiting our Historic Wayside Tour.

Waysides are interactive displays located throughout Leavenworth that feature unique local artwork depicting images of significant historical people, structures or events associated with that site. State-of-the-art digital technology allows you to hear a recorded narrative with the mere push of a button. There are 13 Waysides located in the riverfront downtown area that can be experienced as a walking tour as well as eight Waysides as a driving tour. .

From Abraham Lincoln, to Buffalo Bill Cody, to Susan B. Anthony, to the Star of the West Saloon, to the Underground Railroad to our African-American "Unsung Heroes", we know you will be captivated by Leavenworth's abundant history. The citizens of Leavenworth, past and present are eager to share their warm hospitality and unique history and heritage with you.

Call for a Wayside brochure and map or order one from the Leavenworth Convention & Visitors Bureau, 518 Shawnee or pick one up at the Welcome Center located at the north entrance to town on North HW 7/73.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

C.W. Parker Carousel

Ride a restored antique wooden 1913 Parker carousel and tour the museum dedicated to telling the remarkable story of C. Parker, the "Carnival King". There are two other carousels in the museum. One is the oldest operating, hand-cranked, wooden carousel, built around 1860 and the other is a 1950

Leavenworth, KS One Of A Kinds

University of St. Mary

No longer a private institution, this four year college is located across the street from the Veterans Administration Center. The College's administration building, St. Mary Hall, was completed in 1870. Visitors are welcome to visit the De Paul Library's Special Collections:

Leavenworth, KS Colleges

United States Penitentiary -

Leavenworth is best known for the "Federal Pen" or "Big House", which is now a medium-security prison. Construction of this historic prison began in 1897, with the first cell house opening in 1906. The Federal Penitentiary has been the home of Kansas City Boss Tom Pendergast, George "Machine Gun"

Leavenworth, KS Penitentiaries

First City Museum

The museum houses collections of early frontier memorabilia and artifacts including buggies and cutters manufactured in Leavenworth. There is also a mock-up of the United States Penitentiary, plus other prison memorabilia.

Leavenworth, KS Museums

Riverfront Convention & Community Center

One of Leavenworth's "jewels" is the totally renovated and expanded 1888 Union Pacific Train Depot, now called the Riverfront Convention & Community Center. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 123

Leavenworth, KS Community Centers

Things to do near Leavenworth, KS