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Lawrence, Kansas

Since its opening in 1866, the University of Kansas has had a major influence on the city of Lawrence. With an enrollment of more than 25,000 students on its Lawrence campus, KU is a focal point for numerous academic, cultural and recreational activities. Its beloved mascot, the Jayhawk, is a familiar image all over the city. Its campus, situated high on Mount Oread, is acclaimed as one of the most beautiful in the country.

The University of Kansas stands high on a hill overlooking Lawrence. Early traders, explorers and families climbed the ridge that is now Jayhawk Boulevard to head west along the Oregon Trail. Erosion and construction have worn away the wagon wheel ruts but as the University grew, Jayhawk Boulevard emerged running parallel to the Oregon Trail. Sixteen buildings in styles from collegiate Gothic to modern brick stand along its tree-lined, half-mile arc, five of which are named on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings contain world-class museums, classrooms, laboratories, auditoriums, cafeterias, a library and a chapel, reflecting more that 125 years of campus history.

KU is known for high-quality education at a low cost. U.S. News and World Report ranks KU among the top national universities for price and quality of education, and Barron's Best Buys in College Education highly recommends KU. The 2002 Fiske Guide to Colleges (and pervious editions since 1982) gives KU four stars in academics, social life and quality of living.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Lied Center at the University of Kansas

The University of Kansas' $14.3 million performing arts center will enthrall you with Broadway favorites, magical family entertainment, breathtaking dance and elegant music. Ranked by International Arts Manager Magazine as one of "The Top U.S. University Presenters,"

Lawrence, KS Arts

Lawrence Arts Center

The Lawrence Arts Center serves the community and region by providing an extensive calendar of exhibitions, performances and classes. Housed in spacious, new quarters, the Arts Center is the hub of arts activities in Lawrence.

Lawrence, KS Arts

Depot and Visitors Center

During its post-Civil War rebuilding, one of Lawrence's main goals was to establish itself as the railroad hub of the Midwest. In 1882, Union Pacific spent $40,000 buying lots in North Lawrence and announced that it would build a new passenger depot. The 1889

Lawrence, KS Railroad History

Douglas County Courthouse

The Douglas County Courthouse was built of native limestone in 1904. It was saved from demolition in the 1960s when a modern courthouse was built, and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is currently in use by the county.

Lawrence, KS Historic Courthouses

Opera House/Liberty Hall

Liberty Hall was rebuilt in 1911 as Bowersock Opera House after fire destroyed the original Liberty Hall. Renovated in the 1980

Lawrence, KS Historic Buildings

Things to do near Lawrence, KS