Located in an area of flat plains and rolling hills, Parsons began as a railroad town and is still a transportation hub served by the Union Pacific railway and US Highways 59, 400, and 160. The town is small enough to maintain a strong sense of community, yet large enough to offer a community college, a fine medical center, excellent schools and a beautiful park system. The highways provide easy access to the metropolitan cities of Kansas City, Tulsa, and Wichita, while the surrounding countryside is known for excellent fishing and hunting with over 17,000 acres of public hunting area. Best Western Parsons Kansas.
Things to do in Parsons
Big Hill Lake
Southwest of Parsons, an oak-bluestem forest provides the beautiful setting for Big Hill Lake. The clear lake is well known for excellent fishing, and also offers a sandy swimming beach, boating, hiking & horse trails, and camping. Located near the state’s Big Hill Wildlife Area, the area also offers excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife observation and birdwatching. Call 620-336-2741 for more information.
Carnegie Arts Center
In the process of renovation, the historic and Carnegie Library, a beautiful limestone building, is now known as the Carnegie Arts Center. Located across from the Municipal Auditorium.
Hendershot Gallery
Hendershot Gallery presents a variety of art shows and exhibits throughout the year. Works by Kansas artists Birger Sandzen and Margaret Whittemore are on display. Located on the campus of Labette Community College, 200 S. 14th. Call 620-421-6700 for more information.
Historic Oakwood Cemetery
Set in a beautiful oak forest, Oakwood Cemetery is the final resting place for 375 Civil War veterans. An elaborate Civil War memorial pays tribute to those who gave their lives in the war. South of Main on Leawood. Call 620-421-7020 for more information.
Iron Horse Museum
Housed in a replica of a 1900 depot from the “KATY” line, the Iron Horse Museum exhibits a collection of railroad memorabilia, including china and silver from dining cars, equipment, photographs, and more. A MK&T (Missouri, Kansas & Texas) locomotive and caboose are also on display on the grounds. Located west of the Parsons Historical Museum on 18th and Corning. Call 620-421-1959 for more information.
JP's Golf
JP’s Golf features a driving range in addition to an extensive selection of golf equipment and accessories. Located at 1755 E. Main. Call 620-421-6600 for more information.
Katy Parsons Golf Course
Katy Parsons is a 9-hole course open to the public. A pro shop and grill are on the premises. Located at 22nd and North Blvd. Call 620-421-4532 for more information.
Lake Parsons
Located seven miles northwest of Parsons, the 980-acre Lake Parsons offers opportunities for boating, swimming, camping, fishing, and picnicking. Park facilities include picnic areas and shelter, a beach area, and boat ramps. Call 620-421-7020 for more information.
Parsons Arboretum
The Parsons Arboretum is a center for nature study and observation. The 9-acre arboretum showcases a variety of beautiful trees, flowers, colorful gardens, babbling brooks, wetlands area, gazebo, and visitors center. Located at the north end of Glenwood Park at 21st and Briggs. Call 620-421-7088 for more information.
Parsons Historical Museum
Open May through October, the Parsons Historical Museum features exhibits that trace the history of Parsons, the everyday life of its citizens, and the impact of world events on the city. Located at 401 S. 18th. Call 620-421-2109 for more information.
Parsons Municipal Auditorium
The beautifully restored Parsons Municipal Auditorium dates from the 1920s. The 1,600-seat auditorium hosts a variety of events ranging from community-based concerts and holiday programs to appearances by famous entertainers, lecturers and political dignitaries. Located at 112 S. 17th. Call 620-421-7000 for more information.
Theibaud Theatre
The Theibaud Theatre at Labette Community College features a variety of lectures and entertainment throughout the year. 200 S. 14th. Call 620-421-6700 for more information.