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Travel

2012-06-01 11:00:59

Great day trips in SEK

Q: This summer our family is staying close to home so I thought I would make it an adventure and see all of the local things everyone takes for granted. What sights and attractions would you recommend?

A: What a great idea! SEK will not disappoint you. The area is filled with fun, educational, and exciting things to do and you should have no trouble keeping your family entertained. Naturally, you will want to check out the many attractions based on agriculture, like the Barnhart’s Honey-Berry Farm where you can pick your own berries and buy awesome skin care products. Bauman’s Cedar Valley Farms is another great place where you can learn about organic farming and enjoy pony drawn wagon rides. If you love nature, don’t miss Schermerhorn Park in Galena. Open year round, this 50-square-foot park is one of the best places to see Mississippian limestone. For history buffs, there is a treasure on every corner. You will not want to miss out on the several historical societies and museums in the area, including Crawford County, Allen County, Anderson County, and Coffee County. There are also many historic tours, sights and attractions well worth your time. In Baxter Springs, the Civil War Tour is a visitor favorite and takes you to 12 points of interest related to the attack on Ft. Blair and the battle at Baxter Springs. Another attraction popular with all ages is Galena Mining and Historical Museum. SEK is also rich in arts and culture. You do not have to look long or hard to find great choices like the Bowlus Fine Arts and Cultural Center in Iola, home to a performing arts center and art galleries. In Independence, check out William Inge Center for the Arts, one of the leading rural arts organizations in the nation. Little House on the Prairie fans should make time to visit the actual location of the books. Visitors can see a replica of the home (built in 1977) and other notable landmarks. After visiting the site, head over to Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence where Dr. George Tann (tended them when they had “fever and ague.” If your family loves the water, be sure to stop in at Aquatic Center in Pittsburg. It has something for everyone including water slides, lazy river, and a toddler pool. You also do not have to go far to cast your line and enjoy some fishing fun. There are many superb places to go fishing locally, such as Bone Creek and Lake Crawford. It is impossible to cover all of the worthwhile attractions and sites and there are many, many more, but this should spark your spirit of adventure.