Founded as a railroad town in 1867, it started out as a collection of saloons, brothels and gambling houses; and its citizens—including the famous "Wild Bill" Hickok—were usually not on their best behavior. These days, a much tamer Hays welcomes you, but you’re guaranteed a great time learning about “The Wild, Wild Midwest”!
Ellis County Historical Society Museum
The Ellis County Historical Society Museum is filled with fascinating facts and figures; for instance, did you know that "Wild Bill Hickok" was actually the sheriff of Hays in 1869? You can pick up a map and guide from the museum for a DIY walking tour of Hays; points of interest include where Tommy Drum's Saloon and Kelley's Faro House once stood. Faro was a card game that was popular on the frontier, but since marked cards were allowed, arguments about cheating were frequent and sometimes even deadly. The historical society is located inside the First Presbyterian Church, one of the oldest stone churches in Kansas. If you visit during the Wild West Festival in July, you might even see "Wild Bill" walking the city streets right in front of you!
Discover the Past at Fort Hays State Historic Site
Step onto the grounds of the Fort Hays State Historic Site and you're stepping into military history. Founded in 1865, the main mission of the fort was to protect construction crews on the Union Pacific Railway and to guard the mail. Buffalo Bill spent time here, and Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer often visited. Four of the original buildings are still standing today—as you wander past the officer's quarters and the guard house, you can let your imagination run wild and imagine how life used to be here. A small museum and visitor's center provide additional information.
Fossil Hunting at Sternberg Museum of Natural History
For exploring history a bit further back than the 1800s, head out to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History at Fort Hays State University. You can let the kids get their hands dirty looking for "fossils" in the dig pit and learn how Kansas was once underwater, covered by a vast inland sea that left plenty of fish-like fossils behind. You can step into a re-created cave and follow a pathway into a prehistoric garden that is filled with life-sized, animated dinosaurs, including even a huge T-Rex! The Discovery Room displays real fossils, making the ancient world tangible. The Excavations gift shop has T-shirts, toys, souvenirs and more.
Finger-Lickin' Chicken and Barbeque
Kansas is big on barbeque, and Hays does it right. TK's Smokehaus (110 W. 11th St., Hays) is the go-to place for ribs, pulled pork and chicken—all smothered in a sweet, tangy barbeque sauce. They've come up with some crossover dishes, too, such as BBQ nachos with pulled pork, sour cream, bacon and jalapenos! Whether you're craving a bowl of spicy chili or a fully loaded baked potato, it's all here. Don't forget to try the Redneck Shortcake—its cream-filled sponge cake topped with strawberries and a mound of whipped cream will have you begging for more!
Fried chicken is another local staple, and Al's Chickenette (710 Vine St., Hays) is a favorite destination for deep-fried chicken, mashed potatoes, corn and coleslaw. You can also try the chicken-fried steak or fish and chips, with a big soft-serve ice-cream cone for dessert.
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