Kansas: Go West, RVer! America’s frontier lives on in colorful towns

Experience America’s westward migration on this trip along Wild West pioneer routes. From the convergence of wagon trails in Olathe to life on the range in Dodge City, you’ll see westward expansion in a whole new light. Tour the Old West with the modern conveniences found among some of the finest parks, trails and restaurants in the Midwest.

Drive 353.6 miles, 6 hours, 39 minutes

1. Olathe

Starting Point

A major stopover for farmers and fortune-seekers as they headed west in wagon caravans, Olathe provides a lens into the lifestyle of America’s pioneers. Start with a house tour organized by the Olathe Historical Society and discover the classic architecture and living quarters of the earliest settlers. Next, head to the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, a working 19th-century agricultural museum. From livestock to blacksmiths and cooking demos, the farm reveals an intimate view of life on the prairie. Take a drive west on the old Santa Fe Trail —now U.S. Highway 56—to see the route that led to the gold rush.

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2. Topeka

55.8 miles, 1 hour, 11 minutes

Despite its relatively small size, Topeka has exerted an enormous influence on America’s past. It’s worth making an appointment to visit the Ritchie House, one of the oldest homes in the city, to learn about Kansas’ abolitionist movement. An important stop on the Underground Railroad, today the house serves as a window into Topeka’s antebellum history. Nearly 100 years later, the city was again the epicenter of Civil Rights during the Brown v. Board of Education case that ended school segregation. Located in a middle school, the historic site commemorating the case is now an interactive museum

3. Wichita

143.7 miles, 2 hours, 20 minutes

Once the heart of Old West cattle drives, Wichita is now home to innovative museums and an exciting arts and culture scene. Start the day at the Old Cowtown Museum, a living history museum that puts you smack in the middle of an 1865 frontier town. Blending an educational experience with fast-paced action—there are gun-slinging reenactments every day—the museum is a well-loved family destination. Wichita also knows how to keep visitors entertained, with restaurants and music venues galore. Tour the brick-lined streets of the Old Town district for a more refined take on the city’s part.

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4. Dodge City

154.1 miles, 3 hours 9 minutes

No town epitomizes the Wild West frontier quite like Dodge City. The home of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, Front Street—the town’s main drag—played host to legendary gunfighters and saloons. The first stop on a visit these days is still the Long Branch Saloon, created along much of downtown to look like it did in 1876. Favorites like the Boot Hill Cemetery and Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame are also must-sees. Guided walking and trolley tours of the historic area can be organized at the town visitor center.