Built in 1921, the Pottawatomie County Fair Pavilion is one of the few remaining round barns of its kind in Kansas. The building brings together the county’s history and a rare architectural form—a concrete starting point for getting to know Pottawatomie County through its historic places.
Landscapes and Historic Trails
Pottawatomie County lies in both the Glaciated Region and the Flint Hills Uplands. These two physiographic designations describe the county’s landscape. The Native Stone Scenic Byway is also designated as a scenic route in Pottawatomie County, adding a designated route to this perspective.
The history of the trails can be traced through two distinct routes: the Oregon Trail passed through Pottawatomie County, while the Pike’s Peak Trail ran along its northern edge. This distinction is useful when exploring the area’s historical development: one route crossed the county, while the other touched its northern edge.
St. Marys and the County’s History
In St. Marys, the Jesuits founded the Indian Mission in 1848. The St. Marys Indian Pay Station Museum Complex focuses on the early years of the St. Marys Mission, the Indian Pay Station, the original St. Marys College and the town of St. Marys. These subjects offer several concrete points of reference for local history: the mission, the pay station, the college and the town.
The Columbian Theatre also brings together architectural history and culture. Built in 1895, it presents professional productions ranging from Broadway musicals to concerts. The current program may vary. The venue offers a different way to explore the county’s history than the historic trails or early mission history: here, a theater building is connected with today’s productions.
Museums and Discoveries in Wamego
In Wamego, the Wamego Historical Museum and Prairie Village features authentic 19th-century buildings. It also traces local history from the Konza and Potawatomi Indigenous peoples to the Underground Railroad. The buildings and historical themes are part of the museum experience together, with a story that spans more than a single era.
The OZ Museum offers a different cultural focus: it presents more than 100 years of Oz history and displays original costumes and props from the 1939 MGM film. Those interested in film history will find a tangible connection here in the objects used in the film. Wamego’s Tulip Festival, meanwhile, takes place every spring. As exact dates may vary, it’s best to check them before making plans.
On Foot, by the River and in the Prairie
Oregon Trail Nature Park encompasses 19 acres of Kansas natural ecosystems. Its three nature trails pass lakes, streams and wooded areas. A silo in the park also features an original mural by local artist Cynthia Martin. This brings together natural scenery and a specific work of art within the park’s description.
Mount Mitchell connects the landscape with the history of Bleeding Kansas, the Kansas Territory and the Underground Railroad. The site also offers a climb to the summit through original, unspoiled prairie. The historical connections and the described climb offer two different perspectives on the same place: history on the one hand and the prairie as landscape on the other.
Paddling is possible on the Kansas River between Manhattan and Wamego. The area by the boat ramp has picnic areas, restrooms and a parking lot; restroom status may change, so it’s a good idea to check for current information before visiting. These details offer practical guidance for a visit to the Kansas River.
Wine and Tastings
Wine is another discovery to make in the county. 456 Wineries offers tastings and sells wines from several wineries. At Oz Winery, visitors can sample wines in the tasting room. The descriptions distinguish the two offerings: 456 Wineries focuses on wines from different wineries, while Oz Winery features its own tasting room.
Together, historic buildings, museums, nature sites, paddling opportunities and tastings showcase different sides of Pottawatomie County. You can plan your stay around the topics that interest you most—from historic trails and film history to prairie, river and wine.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Miami, Dickinson County, Lane County, Kearny County, Cloud County, Phillips County.
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