6 Best Things to Do in Dodge City, Kansas

By VI Staff on October 26, 2021 - Updated

Wendy Kaveney/stock.adobe.com

Dodge City was once referred to as the most wicked town in the west. Established as a frontier cowtown in the 1800’s, the town soon became synonymous with wild and violent behavior. Gun-battles in the street were almost an everyday occurrence and lawlessness was rife. To get a taste of the bad old days visitors can see a re-enactment of gun-fights at the Boot Hill Museum and see life-size sculptures of notorious Dodge City characters at the Gunfighter’s Wax Museum. History enthusiasts can take a self-guided walking tour along the Dodge City Trail of Fame in the historic downtown, and visit the Home of Stone to get a glimpse of everyday life during the pioneer days Certain attractions may be temporarily closed or require advance reservations. Some restaurants are currently offering pickup only. Hours/availability may have changed.

1.Home of Stone

As the only limestone house in the town, the historic Meuller-Schmidt home is widely known as the Home of Stone. The elegant old homestead was intended to impress when it was built in 1881 and it remains a landmark in Dodge City. All the stonework and woodwork was hand-made by German craftsmen and the house remains intact on its original site. Visitors are invited to step inside and take a trip back in time to the 19th century. One of the most impressive features of the home is the beautifully crafted spiral walnut staircase which rises majestically from the foyer. Visitors can admire original furnishings in several of the rooms.

Home of Stone, 112 E. Vine Street, Dodge City, KS 67801, Phone: 620-227-6791

2.Dodge City Trail of Fame

Setting off along the Dodge City Trail of Fame is a highlight of any trip to Dodge City. Along the course of this interesting walking tour through the Dodge City National Historic District you will be guided by sidewalk medallions and statues commemorating historic figures and the movie stars who have brought their characters to life on the big screen. The walk starts at the Dodge City Convention Center, where you can pick up a map at the Visitor’s Center. A few of the highlights of the tour include the Matt Dillon sculpture, the Doc Holliday sculpture and the Wyatt Earp statue. Unsurprisingly, most of the features of the trail are found along Gunsmoke Street.

Dodge City Trail of Fame, Gunsmoke Street, Dodge City, KS 67801

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3.Fort Dodge, Dodge City, Kansas

Fort Dodge is located about 5 miles from Dodge City and was once home to an important defense post. Back in the 1860’s, Fort Dodge was established to offer protection to the wagon trains along the Santa Fe Trail, many of whom would stop here to rest and regroup on their way to New Mexico. Indian attacks at the campground were common and the fort was sorely needed. Today the old fort has been converted into a retirement home for Kansas veterans and most of the original buildings are still in use. Visitors can go on a self-guided walking tour of the fort and visit the small onsite museum and library to learn more about the history behind the old buildings.

Fort Dodge, East Highway US-154, Dodge City, KS 67843, Phone: 620-227-2121

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4.Coronado Cross, Dodge City, KS

The Coronado Cross marks a historical spot near present-day Fort Dodge, which adds another element of history to your tour of Dodge City. Back in 1540 the Spanish nobleman Francisco Vasquez de Coronado set off from Mexico with a small expedition team to find the legendary cities of gold. After an arduous journey the team finally crossed the Arkansas River and held a thanksgiving mass at the site where the cross now stands. The Coronado Cross, which was sponsored by the Ford County Historical Society, was erected in 1975 to pay tribute to the pioneer adventurers who held the first Christian service in the interior a good 100 years before the arrival of the Pilgrims.

The Coronado Cross, 11666 US-400, Dodge City, KS 67801

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5.The Long Branch Saloon, Dodge City, KS

The infamous Long Branch Saloon was a popular watering hole in Dodge City from 1874 to 1885. In addition to serving drinks the saloon also provided live entertainment and gambling and was the scene of many an altercation. Although the original Long Branch Saloon was burnt to the ground in 1885, visitors to Dodge City can visit a new Long Branch Saloon at the Boot Hill Museum and Theme Park in the city. This new saloon is based on the saloon in the long-running TV drama Gunsmoke and the exterior was modeled on photographs of the original building. It is furnished with original period pieces from the 1800’s including a pair of golden eagles which belonged to the original owner, Chalkley Beeson.

The Long Branch Saloon, Boot Hill Museum, 500 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801, Phone: 620-227-8188

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6.Red Beard Coffee, Dodge City, KS

Conveniently located in the heart of Dodge City’s Downtown Historic District, Red Beard Coffee is your go-to café for excellent coffee and a great atmosphere. The amazing coffee aromas wafting through the cozy interior set the scene for an excellent cup of quality java. The baristas are said to be very knowledgeable and friendly and will pull you the perfect cup of coffee your taste-buds are craving. They offer all the regular specialty coffees you can imagine and there is also a good range of non-caffeinated drinks including teas, hot chocolate, sodas and juices. Dairy-free options can be requested and they also serve kid’s lattes.

Red Beard Coffee, 319 Gunsmoke St, Dodge City, KS 67801, Phone: 620-789-0095

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