Attractions

McPherson offers many things to see and do. Below are some of the more popular attractions. If you are interested in a tour of any of our attractions, please see our Tour Guide.

MCPHERSON MUSEUM
1130 E. Euclid St.
(620) 241-8464
Hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday -Saturday;
Closed on Mondays and HolidaysReturn to the elegance of the 1920's in the historic Vaniman Mansion, which features original imported wall paper, hand-crocheted lace-edged curtains, vintage furniture and the maid's own stairway. Other historical exhibits are as varied as rare fossils, American Indian pottery, antiques, tools, dolls and a man-made diamond. Model Trains are available for viewing. See the incredible level of detail in N and HO scale layouts. Tours available. Donations only.

MCPHERSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
Corner of N. Maple St. and Kansas Avenue
(620) 241-8149
Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday -FridayThe courthouse is currently listed in the National Register of historic places. The 105 foot tower houses a clock that was added to the courthouse in 1908. It is a prime example of the Richardsonian Romanesque Architectural style of Kansas' 19th Century courthouses. Tours available by appointment only.

STATUE OF GENERAL MCPHERSON, MEMORIAL PARK
100 Block of N. MapleThe city and county of McPherson bear the name of the highest ranking Union officer to die on the battlefield during the Civil War, General James Birdseye McPherson. This statue was dedicated on July 4, 1917. McPherson Kansas is the only city named after the general.

MCPHERSON OPERA HOUSE
221 S. Main
(620) 241-1952 This three-story architectural showpiece with a seating capacity of 900 was built in 1888 at a cost of $42,000. The building is Romanesque Revival style with many kinds of decorative brick. The Opera House is currently under restoration/preservation. Tours not given during 2006, due to renovations.

ANTIQUE AUTO RESTORATION, MCPHERSON COLLEGE
1600 E. Euclid
(620)241-3340
The only accredited bachelor of liberal arts degree program of authentic antique automotive restoration emphasizes hands-on skills and historical research. A glimpse of antique auto restoration in process. Tours available only by appointment.

MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS
(620) 241-7669
The wetlands are managed primarily for waterfowl and other hunting during the season and wildlife viewing the rest of the year. A wide range of migratory birds can be found on the area during fall and spring migrations. A strong pheasant population is also a strong attraction on the area. Public hunting is allowed on most of the area, which now encompasses over 4,000 acres. Sportsmen should check with the Wildlife Manager before each visit for possible change in areas open to hunting.

MAXWELL WILDLIFE REFUGE
(620) 628-4455 or (800) 324-8022
Located six miles north of Canton, Kansas a 2,800 acre Wildlife Refuge with McPherson State lake on west side. A designated refuge and home to 200 head of bison and 50 head of elk. Tram tours are available every week-end starting on Memorial Day and continuing through October. This is your best chance to see the prairie, buffalo and elk, up close and personal. Special tours on wildflowers, bird life, and other topics are available by reservation. Campfire meals are also available.

KANSAS SAMPLER CENTER
Inman, KS
(800) 324-8022
The Kansas Sampler Center, which is in a country setting, offers a variety of programs for tour groups and conferences. The center's auditorium comfortably accommodates groups of fifty. Its climate controlled acoustically designed interior and large screen makes it a perfect setting for a variety of programs.

MCPHERSON WATER PARK
(800) 324-8022 or (620) 245-2578
600,000 gallons of FUN for all ages. It is a family, quality of life water experience. You can select from an assortment of activities; cruise the 500 foot lazy river, a giant water slide, deep diving area, 8 lane 50 meter pool, and a children's spray recreation area. Open Summers Only.