Located in the heart of Kansas, Junction City and Geary County offer much to do and see, whether your interests are in pioneer or military history, golf, or the great outdoors. Historic Junction City offers a number of historical sights. Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas, provides the resources for fishing, swimming, boating or camping. Known as the birthplace of the 7th Cavalry, Fort Riley is an active duty post with many points of historical military interest. A four-star golf course is right at home in Junction City, with several other courses nearby in the county. The people are friendly, and the small town atmosphere invites you to stay awhile. Best Western Junction City Kansas.
Things to do in Junction City
Buffalo Soldier Memorial
A memorial to 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments, located in Buffalo Soldier Park at 18th and Buffalo Solider Drive. Call 785-238-2885 for more information.
Custer Hill Golf Course
Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Custer Hill is located on Fort Riley, and is open to the public. Call 785-784-6000 for more information.
Episcopal Church of the Covenant
The sanctuary of this historic church was built of native limestone in 1859 and has been in continuous use ever since. Located at 314 N Adams. Call 785-238-2897 for more information.
First Territorial Capitol State Historic Site
The First Territorial Capitol historic site tells the story of the territorial and national conflict over slavery, as well as depicting life on the Kansas frontier. The beautiful stone building was rebuilt from ruins by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1928. A scenic view of the Kansas River is offered by the Kaw River Nature Trail. A museum store features unique Kansas gifts. Exit 299 on I-70, via Huebner Road in Fort Riley. Call 785-784-5535 for more information.
Fort Riley
Named after Major General Bennett C. Riley, Fort Riley was established in 1853 as a military post to protect the Oregon-California and Santa Fe trails. Today, it remains an active duty post and continues to play an important role in the defense of our nation and the training of our soldiers. Many of its historical points of interest are open to the public.
Geary County Historical Museum
The Geary County Historical Museum tells the story of Geary County and its people through a series of exhibits. Periodic living history presentations, demonstrations and lectures are offered at the museum. The building also houses the Jeffries Research Center, a genealogical and historical research resource. Located at 530 N. Adams. Call 785-238-1666 for more information.
Geary County State Lake
Located eight miles south of Junction City, Geary County State lake offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and free camping. Call 785-238-3014 for more information.
Milford Lake and State Park
At nearly 16,000 acres, Milford Lake is the largest blue water lake in Kansas. Its close proximity to Junction City makes it a popular recreation area for swimming, boating, camping, fishing, and hiking. Three swimming beaches are located on the lake. The park features several hiking and equestrian trails, a wildlife viewing tower, a number of campgrounds for both primitive and utility camping, a public 18-hole golf course, and two full-service marinas. Special events are often hosted by the park. Call 785-238-3014 for more information.
Milford Nature Center/Fish Hatchery
The Milford Nature Center/Fish Hatchery is dedicated to providing understanding and appreciation for Kansas' natural communities. Live animal exhibits feature native animals such as snakes, frogs, prairie dogs, and birds. Nature trails offer scenic views of prairies, marshes, woodlands, and lakes, showcasing the diversity of the Kansas landscape. The center is home to the state's only warm-water intensive culture fish hatchery; guided tours are given on summer weekends and by appointment. Located at 3115 Hatchery Drive. Call 785-238-5323 for more information.
Rolling Meadows Golf Course
Consistently named by Golf Digest as one of the top public Kansas courses to play, Rolling Hills is located below Milford Lake at 7550 Old Milford Road. Call 785-238-4303 for more information.
Starcke House Museum
The Starcke House Museum displays a variety of furnishings and artifacts from different eras. Located at 503 N. Adams. Call 785-238-1666 for more information.
U.S. Cavalry Museum
One of the finest military museums in the region, The U.S. Cavalry Museum is located at at Fort Riley. Originally built as a hospital in 1855, the museum depicts the colorful history of the American mounted horse soldier from the Revolutionary War-World War II. Call 785-239-2737 for more information.
Wetzel Log Cabin Church
The home of C.F. Wetzel, the restored cabin was moved to Grandview Plaza from its original location at Clark's Creek. The St. Paul's Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, the first Lutheran parish in the state, was organized in 1861 in this cabin. Located at Grandview Plaza, I-70 exit 300. Call 785-238-2885 for more information.