Museum · Topeka, Kansas
Kansas Museum of History
Kansas history museum west of Topeka, with themed galleries, a steam locomotive from the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad and the 1914 Longren biplane.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kansas Museum of History
The Kansas Museum of History is the state history museum, housed in a 1984 building about 9 km west of downtown Topeka, next to the state historical society headquarters. The galleries are organized by theme and tell the story of Kansas from Indigenous peoples, the trails to the West, the war over slavery, the railroads, cattle drives, wheat, aviation and social movements.
On the central ramp are some of the best-known pieces: Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe steam locomotive number 132, a log cabin and the biplane built in 1914 by the Longren brothers, aviation pioneers in the state. The exhibitions also cover topics such as the temperance movement and women’s suffrage, with original objects and documents.
Next to the museum, a trail crosses the prairie and leads to the old Potawatomi Mission, built of stone in 1849. Check opening days before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Best time
At any time of year; on very hot or cold days it’s a good indoor option.
How to get there
It’s on SW 6th Avenue, about 9 km west of downtown Topeka, near I-70. You need a car.
Tip
Allow time for the prairie trail and the Potawatomi Mission next to the museum.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kansas Museum of History
What is in the Kansas Museum of History?
Galleries about the state’s history, including a Santa Fe steam locomotive, a log cabin and the 1914 Longren biplane.
Where is the Kansas Museum of History located?
About 9 km west of downtown Topeka, near I-70.
How long does a visit to the Kansas Museum of History take?
From an hour and a half to two and a half hours.
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