Looking for rich history, small-town charm, and Midwestern hospitality? Head to Fort Scott! Located in southeastern Kansas, Fort Scott offers a glimpse into 19th-century frontier life with well-preserved historic sites, brick-lined streets, and scenic trails. Whether you're touring a frontier fort, enjoying live theater, or exploring prairie landscapes, Fort Scott is a welcoming destination with deep roots.
Fort Scott, KS Highlights:
- For Families: Visit the Fort Scott National Historic Site – Walk through restored barracks, officers’ quarters, and interpretive displays that tell the story of soldiers, settlers, and conflict on the frontier.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike the Riverfront Heritage Trail – Scenic walking and biking paths along the Marmaton River offer nature views and peaceful surroundings.
- For Kids: Ride the miniature train at Gunn Park – A local favorite, this riverside park has playgrounds, trails, picnic areas, and a seasonal train ride for children.
- For an Adventure: Kayak or fish the Marmaton River – Paddle the gentle waters or cast a line near the banks of this scenic regional waterway.
- For Shoppers: Explore Historic Downtown Fort Scott – Discover antique stores, unique boutiques, and local art galleries in this walkable historic district.
Best Time to Visit Fort Scott, KS
The best time to visit Fort Scott is from April through October. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, blooming prairies, and colorful foliage. Summer is perfect for festivals and outdoor activities, while winter provides a quieter, cozy experience with holiday events downtown.
How to Get to Fort Scott, KS
- By Car: Fort Scott is located at the junction of U.S. Highways 54 and 69, about 90 minutes south of Kansas City and 1 hour from Joplin, MO.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Kansas City International Airport (MCI), approximately 2 hours away by car.
- By Bus: Bus service is limited; driving or renting a car is the most convenient way to access Fort Scott.
Where to Stay in Fort Scott, KS
- The Courtland Hotel & Spa – Historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown with vintage charm and a relaxing spa.
- Sleep Inn & Suites Fort Scott – Comfortable modern lodging with free breakfast and easy access to local attractions.
- Azure Sky Motel – Budget-friendly accommodations with clean rooms and classic roadside Americana appeal.
Best Things to Do in Fort Scott, KS
1. Fort Scott National Historic Site
Explore 1800s buildings and learn frontier history on an educational family trip.
The Fort Scott National Historic Site is named after Winfield Scott, a distinguished general during the Mexican-American War in 1846-1848. The historic site was established on the American frontier to protect settlers migrating west from the Eastern United States. The fort had a dual purpose – to protect the settlers from the Plains Indians and to protect the Indians from encroachment by the settlers. It also saw service during the American Civil War. When you visit the site today you can see a collection of surviving buildings including several barracks, a military hospital, stables and more. There are several interpretive exhibits which bring the pioneer days of the 1840’s to life. After touring the site you can take a self-guided hike through the surrounding tall-grass prairie.
Fort Scott National Historic Site, Old Fort Boulevard, Fort Scott, KS 66701, Phone: 620-223-0310
2. The Lowell Milkin Center for Unsung Heroes
Discover inspiring stories and admire global changemakers on an unusual cultural visit.
The Lowell Milkin Center for Unsung Heroes is a really unique attraction in Fort Scott. The center was established as an educational facility to encourage students and educators to research and highlight unsung heroes from all walks of life. To find out more about the many unsung heroes throughout history who were brave enough to take extraordinary actions to improve the lives of their fellow men, visitors can take a tour of the Hall of Unsung Heroes Museum which is open to the public from Monday to Saturday. Hopefully, visitors will leave with a new perspective of the amazing positive consequences that can occur due to a single person standing up to effect change.
The Lowell Milkin Center for Unsung Heroes, 1 South Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701, Phone: 620-223-1312
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Gordon Parks Museum
Celebrate a creative legacy and see powerful images on an inspiring weekend trip.
The inspirational Gordon Parks Museum was established to showcase the life and works of the internationally acclaimed photographer, writer, film maker and musician, Gordon Parks, who was born in Fort Scott in 1912. The museum strives to honor this distinguished self-taught artist who brought the world’s attention to issues such as civil rights, race-relations, poverty and urban life in general. The Museum contains many of his accolades and personal effects including personal photos, medals, honorary degrees and other awards. You will also be able to admire a collection of 30 of his most famous photos. The Museum is open to the public from Monday to Friday during the regular academic year.
Gordon Parks Museum, Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton, Fort Scott, KS 66701, Phone: 620-223-2700
4. Fort Scott National Cemetery
Honor fallen soldiers and walk peaceful grounds on a quiet retirement visit.
Of special interest to history buffs and Civil War historians, the Fort Scott National Cemetery holds the distinction of being the first listed U.S. National Cemetery. The cemetery started as a small burial plot adjacent to Fort Scott in 1842. During the Civil War the cemetery became the final resting place of many Civil War soldiers who died in battles in the area. Later many other interments were moved to the cemetery from other areas and today there are more than 7000 military veterans buried there. The cemetery is still in operation today and all veterans and their immediate families are entitled to be laid to rest here.
Fort Scott National Cemetery, 900 E National Ave, Fort Scott, KS 66701, Phone: 620-223-2840
Where to Eat in Fort Scott, KS
- Crooners Lounge – Stylish supper club ambiance with steaks, seafood, cocktails, and live music downtown.
- Nate’s Place – A favorite for brunch and dinner offering creative American fare in a charming historic house.
- Sharky’s Pub & Grub – Fun, casual sports bar known for burgers, wings, and a laid-back vibe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Good Ol’ Days Festival (June) – A classic small-town celebration featuring parades, crafts, food, carnival rides, and live entertainment.
- Christmas on the Bricks (December) – Downtown transforms with holiday lights, carriage rides, and festive shopping experiences.
- Fort Scott Bourbon County Fair (July) – A traditional county fair with 4-H exhibits, livestock shows, food vendors, and games.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Fort Scott, KS:
- Pittsburg, KS (35 min) – Visit local museums, enjoy fried chicken at a historic restaurant, or explore Pittsburg State University’s campus.
- Frontenac and Arma (30–40 min) – Discover mining heritage and small-town hospitality in these nearby coal country communities.
- Mound City and Mine Creek Battlefield (40 min) – Learn about the Civil War’s largest cavalry engagement west of the Mississippi.
- Erie and Big Hill Lake (45–60 min) – Enjoy boating, hiking, and swimming in this peaceful outdoor setting.
- Nevada, MO (35 min) – Explore Prairie State Park, antique shops, and historic architecture across the state line.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What makes Fort Scott a great getaway destination?
- Fort Scott is located about an hour from Kansas, offering city dwellers the ideal rural getaway destination.
- What historic attractions can visitors explore in Fort Scott?
- Historic attractions include the Fort Scott National Historic Site, the adjacent Fort Scott National Cemetery, and an interesting self-guided walking tour of the Fort Scott Historic District.
- What other activities are available in Fort Scott?
- Visitors can join a guided Trolley Tour or take a self-guided driving tour to see more than 50 beautifully preserved historic homes. Additionally, you can visit unique museums or enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, or biking at Gunn Park.
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