10 Best Architectural Buildings in Topeka, Kansas: A Must-See Guide

Topeka, Kansas, is home to a remarkable array of architectural wonders that reflect its rich history and cultural significance.

These buildings range from grand state capitol structures to innovative modern designs, showcasing the city’s diverse architectural styles.

Why are these buildings significant? They not only add to the city’s aesthetic appeal but also tell the story of Topeka’s development and heritage.

This article will explore some of the most notable architectural gems that define Topeka today.

1. Kansas State Capitol

The Kansas State Capitol in Topeka is a significant architectural landmark. It houses the executive and legislative branches of the Kansas government.

Construction of the Capitol started in 1866 and took 37 years to complete. The land was donated by Cyrus K. Holliday, a founder of the Santa Fe Railroad.

The Capitol’s design features classic-inspired architecture by John G. Haskell.

Visitors can enjoy dome tours that offer a unique view of Topeka. The Capitol is not only a functional building but also a historical monument for the state.

2. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site commemorates a pivotal Supreme Court decision that aimed to end racial segregation in public schools. It was established on October 26, 1992, in Topeka, Kansas.

Located at 1515 SE Monroe Street, this site offers various exhibits that tell the story of the landmark case and its significance in the Civil Rights Movement.

It provides a deep look into the history and legacy of the fight against segregation.

3. Great Overland Station

The Great Overland Station is a historic site in Topeka, Kansas. Built between 1925 and 1927, the station was designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood. It originally served as a passenger station for the Union Pacific Railroad.

In 1971, the last passenger train departed from the station. Today, the building is a museum that showcases exhibits and artifacts related to Topeka’s railroad history.

The station remains an important symbol of the city’s connection to the rail industry.

4. Topeka High School

Topeka High School is a significant landmark completed in 1931. It stands out with its 165-foot-tall Gothic tower. The building is a key example of Collegiate Gothic architecture.

The high school was designed by Topeka architect Thomas W. Williamson. It was the first million-dollar high school west of the Mississippi River.

The school’s historical features include a brick thought to have come from ancient Rome’s Appian Way and an outdoor Constitution Plaza.

Topeka High School is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can schedule tours to explore this iconic building.

5. Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site

Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site is a notable landmark in Topeka, Kansas. Located on the Oregon Trail, this 6-acre site includes historical buildings and a botanical garden.

Visitors can explore an 1800s village featuring an 1880s barbershop, doctor’s office, and stable. One highlight is the 1880 Everest Church, showcasing historical architecture.

Guided tours of Old Prairie Town are available from Tuesday to Saturday. The historic site is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

6. Curtis House Museum

The Curtis House Museum, located at 1101 SW Topeka Boulevard, stands as a significant piece of Topeka’s history. This stately brick mansion was once the residence of Charles Curtis, the first U.S. Vice President of Native American heritage.

The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can tour the home on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with admission proceeds going toward upkeep and utilities. Discover the unique heritage and legacy of Charles Curtis during your visit.

7. Kansas Museum of History

The Kansas Museum of History is a prominent landmark in Topeka. It spans 30,000 square feet and showcases the state’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Visitors can explore various exhibits, including a Southern Cheyenne tipi and a 1950s diner.

A highlight of the museum is the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe locomotive with two cars.

The museum also features a striking “White Buffalo” sculpture outside.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 2-17. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Kansas history.

8. Kansas Expocentre

The Kansas Expocentre, now officially known as the Stormont Vail Events Center, is a major venue in Topeka. Built in 1987, this multi-purpose arena can seat up to 10,000 people.

The Expocentre has hosted various sports teams, including the Topeka Sizzlers and Kansas Koyotes.

It’s a key spot for concerts, conventions, and other large events. With its central location in Topeka, it is easily accessible for both locals and visitors.

Frequent events and community gatherings make it a bustling hub in the city. For more details, visit Kansas Expocentre.

9. Charles Curtis House

The Charles Curtis House is a significant historical landmark in Topeka. Located at 1101 SW Topeka Blvd, it was the residence of Charles Curtis, the 31st Vice President of the United States. Curtis was notable for being the first Native American to serve in Congress and as Vice President.

The house features unique architecture and has been preserved as a museum.

Visitors can explore its historical exhibits and learn more about Curtis’s life and legacy. For detailed visiting hours and admission information, check the Curtis House.

10. Topeka Performing Arts Center

The Topeka Performing Arts Center is a standout architectural building in Topeka, Kansas. Opened in 1939, it was constructed in the Art Deco style, showcasing elegant design and architectural detail.

Renovated in 1991, the center boasts a seating capacity of 2,425.

It has hosted notable entertainers such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. The building is known for its outstanding acoustics and accessible amenities, making it a cherished venue for performances in northeast Kansas.

Architectural Styles in Topeka

Topeka showcases a variety of architectural styles, each reflecting different historical periods and design philosophies.

From ornate Victorian designs to sleek Modernist buildings, the city’s skyline offers a rich tapestry of architectural beauty.

Victorian Architecture

Victorian architecture in Topeka features intricate detailing, vibrant colors, and unique structural elements such as turrets and bay windows. These buildings often have steeply pitched roofs and elaborate woodwork.

One of the most iconic examples is the Topeka High School, known for its gothic style and the famous brick thought to have come from ancient Rome’s Appian Way.

This style emphasizes verticality and ornate decorations, bringing an old-world charm to the city’s landscape.

Modernist Structures

Modernist structures in Topeka are characterized by their clean lines, minimalistic design, and innovative use of materials.

The Kansas State Capitol exemplifies some modernist elements with its impressive bronze statue of a Kansa warrior added in 2002, perched atop its dome.

These buildings often use glass, steel, and concrete to create open, functional spaces. The sleek and simplistic design contrasts sharply with the more decorative styles of earlier periods, representing a forward-thinking approach to architecture.

Neoclassical Elements

Neoclassical architecture in Topeka borrows heavily from ancient Greek and Roman designs, emphasizing grandeur and symmetry.

The Kansas State Capitol is a prime example, notable for its imposing columns and the grand staircase leading to the dome.

The layout of these buildings usually includes large, open spaces, and detailed facades, aiming to convey a sense of power and stability.

Historic Significance

The architecture in Topeka showcases a blend of historical preservation and the work of influential architects who left a lasting impact on the city.

Preservation Efforts

Topeka places high importance on preserving its historic architecture.

Constitution Hall, a key historic site located at 429 S. Kansas Ave, received a $3.75 million BASE grant in 2022 for ongoing restoration.

This effort aims to maintain its significance as a site where Free State Kansas representatives met in 1855.

Seven National Register Historic Districts in Topeka include over 435 properties. These districts reflect the city’s growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Efforts to preserve these buildings ensure that Topeka’s rich history remains accessible to future generations, highlighting the community’s dedication to its architectural heritage.

Influential Architects

Several influential architects have shaped Topeka’s architectural landscape.

The Kansas State Capitol stands 304 feet tall, a few feet higher than the U.S. Capitol, showcasing grand design elements.

Architect John G. Haskell contributed significantly to Topeka’s architectural identity. His designs include the Kansas State Capitol and many other historic buildings.

Another notable architect, Thomas W. Willson, designed the Topeka High School, known for its Gothic Revival style, which remains a landmark.

These architects integrated styles and designs that reflect both historical relevance and architectural innovation, leaving a permanent mark on Topeka’s skyline and heritage.