20 Best Architectural Buildings in Kansas: A Must-See Guide

Kansas boasts an array of stunning architectural buildings that reflect its rich history and diverse cultural influences.

From the iconic skyscrapers of Kansas City to the hand-carved stone structures in small towns, the state’s architectural landscape offers something for everyone.

What makes Kansas unique is the blend of historic and contemporary styles that can be found throughout the state.

Architecture enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the stories and design elements of Kansas’s buildings.

The variety in architectural designs—from Art Deco and Neo-Renaissance to modern styles—showcases the state’s evolving aesthetic over the decades.

This article will guide you through some of the most remarkable architectural wonders that Kansas has to offer.

1. Allen Fieldhouse

Allen Fieldhouse is part of the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence, Kansas. It is the home for the Kansas Jayhawks men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Named after Phog Allen, a former player and long-time head coach, the arena has a rich history.

Known as “The Phog,” it is one of college basketball’s most iconic buildings.

The arena, dedicated on March 1, 1955, has been hailed as one of the best places in America to watch college basketball.

It hosts an enthusiastic crowd, often drawing large audiences and providing a vibrant atmosphere for games.

2. Kansas State Capitol

The Kansas State Capitol, located in Topeka, stands as a prime example of classic-inspired architecture.

Designed by John G. Haskell, its construction began in 1866 and was completed in 1903.

The Capitol occupies a 20-acre site generously donated through efforts led by Cyrus K. Holliday. It serves as the home to both the executive and legislative branches of Kansas.

Visitors can view the Capitol’s intricate architectural details and explore its historical significance.

The Kansas State Capitol remains a central figure in Kansas’s government and culture.

3. Wichita Art Museum

The Wichita Art Museum is a cultural gem in the Museums on the River District near Downtown Wichita.

Visitors are greeted by the stunning 15-foot-tall Dreamers Awake sculpture by Tom Otterness.

The museum also features a beautiful Art Garden with about a dozen large-scale sculptures.

Inside, art enthusiasts can explore an extensive collection of American art spanning multiple centuries.

The museum offers rotating exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to see.

For more details, visit the Wichita Art Museum.

4. Prairie Museum of Art and History

The Prairie Museum of Art and History is located in Colby, Kansas. It spans 24 acres and features both indoor and outdoor exhibits.

The museum opened in 1988 and showcases life on the High Plains, reflecting the experiences of pioneers who settled in the region in the 1870s.

Notable highlights include a 1930s farmstead, a sod house, a one-room school, and the Lone Star Church.

One of the main attractions is the Cooper Barn, which is considered the largest barn in Kansas, measuring 66 feet wide and 114 feet long. Visit the museum here.

5. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, Kansas, commemorates the landmark Supreme Court case that ended racial segregation in public schools. This site is housed in Monroe Elementary School.

Visitors can explore exhibits about the Brown v. Board decision and its impact on American society.

The site is at 1515 SE Monroe Street and is part of the National Park System. It is open year-round, providing a space for education and reflection.

Learn more about the history and significance of this site here.

6. Coffeyville Aviation Heritage Museum

The Coffeyville Aviation Heritage Museum is located in Coffeyville, Kansas. It is housed in an original 1930s-era hangar from the Pfister Park Airport. The hangar was built as a Works Progress Administration project.

The museum features displays on Funk Airplanes, local aviation history, and experimental aircraft.

Visitors can also see tributes to local aviators and their contributions.

Tours are available by appointment and can be scheduled with the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce. Find more details on their official site.

7. Haskell Indian Nations University

Haskell Indian Nations University is located in Lawrence, Kansas. It was founded in 1884 as a residential boarding school for Native American children. Over time, it evolved into a university.

The campus features several historical buildings.

One notable structure is Navarre Hall, named after Peter Navarre, the first graduate from the Haskell Institute Printing Department in 1901.

The university is operated by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs. It aims to preserve Native American culture and education. The Memorial Arch at the football stadium is another iconic feature.

8. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is located two miles north of Strong City, Kansas. The preserve protects a significant remnant of the once vast tallgrass prairie ecosystem.

Covering 10,894 acres, the preserve features rolling hills and native grasses.

The main ranch house on the property showcases Second Empire architecture, a blend of Renaissance influence and Plains Vernacular.

By visiting, one can explore well-preserved areas of tallgrass prairie, which is one of North America’s most important ecosystems. Learn more about this historic site on the National Park Service website.

9. Spencer Museum of Art

The Spencer Museum of Art is on the campus of the University of Kansas. It was funded by the Kenneth A. and Helen F. Spencer Foundation. The museum first opened its doors in 1978.

Designed by Robert E. Jenks, a Kansas City architect, the building features a neo-classical structure built from Indiana limestone.

The museum houses the Kress Foundation Department of Art History and the Murphy Library of Art and Architecture.

10. Sedan’s Emmett Kelly Museum

Sedan’s Emmett Kelly Museum is housed in a historic limestone Opera House built in 1895. This small-town museum is dedicated to Emmett Kelly, a famous circus clown who grew up in Sedan.

The museum features a mix of local memorabilia and items related to Kelly’s career.

It also boasts the world’s largest collection of commemorative Jim Beam bottles. For more details, visit the Emmett Kelly Museum website.

11. Museum of World Treasures

The Museum of World Treasures is located in Wichita, Kansas. It offers a range of exhibits from dinosaur fossils to ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Visitors can explore three floors filled with unique exhibits, including Ivan the T. rex and dazzling gems.

Established in 2001, the museum resides in a historic 1914 warehouse in downtown Wichita. It attracts around 45,000 visitors annually.

12. The Keeper of the Plains

The Keeper of the Plains is one of Wichita’s most iconic landmarks.

Standing 44 feet tall, this Cor-Ten steel sculpture is located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers.

Created by Kiowa-Comanche artist Blackbear Bosin, the statue honors the region’s Native American heritage.

A ceremony dedicated the statue as a Wichita Bicentennial project in 1974.

The statue stands elevated on a 30-foot rock promontory, surrounded by a plaza.

Pedestrians can reach the area via two cable-stay bridges designed to look like bows and arrows.

13. Lawrence Arts Center

The Lawrence Arts Center is a regional hub for visual and performing arts located in Lawrence, Kansas. It offers a variety of programs, including contemporary exhibitions, film screenings, and lectures.

Classes in ballet, modern dance, theater performance, and visual arts follow National Core standards.

The center also benefits the community by fostering creativity and well-being.

Its presence enriches the cultural landscape of Lawrence, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Learn more about the Lawrence Arts Center.

14. Union Station Kansas City

Union Station Kansas City, opened in 1914, is a historic train station known for its grand architecture.

It features a stunning Beaux-Arts design with a massive waiting hall, beautiful chandeliers, and intricate details.

The station underwent a $234 million restoration and is now considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Today, it serves as a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions, events, and a science center.

15. Combat Air Museum

The Combat Air Museum is located at Forbes Field in Topeka, Kansas. This aviation museum offers a rich collection of aircraft, artifacts, and technology related to aviation history.

Founded as a non-profit organization, the museum serves as an important educational resource for the local and regional communities.

Visitors can explore displays of historical planes and learn about the development of aviation.

For more details, visit the Combat Air Museum.

16. Chapman’s Courthouse

Chapman’s Courthouse is a standout example of neoclassical architecture in Kansas City.

The building’s grand columns and detailed stonework reflect its historical significance.

Erected in the early 1900s, Chapman’s Courthouse has long served as a hub for legal proceedings.

Its design draws visitors and architects alike, keen to appreciate its blend of form and function.

17. Marysville’s Historic Koester House

The Koester House, situated in Marysville, Kansas, provides a rare glimpse into Victorian-era life.

Built in 1873 by Charles F. Koester, it is renowned for its period furnishings and artifacts.

Located at 919 Broadway, this house is celebrated as “The Most Beautiful House in Kansas” due to its exquisite design and gardens.

It has been preserved to reflect the ambiance of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The rich history and architectural beauty make it a must-visit landmark.

Learn more about the Koester House here.

18. Atchison’s Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum

The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum is a historic Gothic Revival home in Atchison, Kansas. Built in 1861, it overlooks the Missouri River. This building is where the famous aviator Amelia Earhart was born on July 24, 1897.

Situated at 223 N. Terrace Street, the museum offers insight into Earhart’s early life.

Visitors can explore various exhibits showcasing her achievements and personal history. The location also provides free street parking on Santa Fe Street and N. Terrace Street.

The house, a blend of history and architecture, is a significant landmark in Atchison.

19. Leavenworth Historical Museum

The Leavenworth Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the rich past of Leavenworth, Kansas. Housed in a historic building, it preserves countless artifacts that tell the story of the town.

Visitors can explore exhibits on early settlers and local industry.

The museum also features displays on military history, given Leavenworth’s connection to Fort Leavenworth.

Renowned for its architecture, the museum showcases elements from different periods, making it a visual treat.

The C.W. Parker Carousel Museum is also located nearby, highlighting the town’s unique attractions. More details can be found on the Leavenworth Historical Museum website.

20. Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott National Historic Site is located in Bourbon County, Kansas. It preserves 20 historic structures and a large parade ground.

The fort was built in 1842 and played a key role in the military events from 1842 to 1873.

Visitors can explore renovated and reconstructed buildings around the parade ground. The site also includes five acres of restored tallgrass prairie.

This historic landmark showcases diverse architectural trends from the mid-19th century, providing a glimpse into America’s past.

Learn more about Fort Scott National Historic Site by visiting the official National Park Service page.

Historical Significance of Architectural Buildings in Kansas

Kansas boasts a rich history reflected in its diverse architectural styles. The influence of European architecture and the preservation of historical structures show the state’s commitment to maintaining its cultural heritage.

Influence of European Architecture

Kansas’s architectural landscape is influenced by European styles brought by settlers. Initially, these styles included elements of German and Scandinavian architecture.

Buildings in towns like Leavenworth feature distinct characteristics of these influences.

For example, the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum in Leavenworth showcases ornate wooden details reminiscent of European craftsmanship. The Carroll Mansion, another landmark in Leavenworth, also highlights Victorian influences with its intricate design and historical significance.

These structures are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a reminder of the cultural heritage of Kansas.

Preservation of Historical Structures

Preservation efforts in Kansas ensure that historical buildings remain intact for future generations. This includes sites such as the Fromme-Birney Barn, one of the few round barns left in the state.

Originally used to house horses, its architecture now serves as a historical example of agricultural practices.

Additionally, historic theaters like the Augusta Historic Theater provide a glimpse into the past. These venues not only entertain but also educate visitors about the history of performing arts in Kansas.

Efforts by organizations like the Kansas Sampler Foundation help preserve these structures, allowing regions to retain their historical identity and cultural significance.

Architectural Styles in Kansas

Kansas features a variety of architectural styles, uniquely reflecting different periods and cultural influences. From ornate Art Deco buildings to the sleek lines of Modernist trends, Kansas showcases a rich architectural history.

Art Deco

Art Deco architecture is prominent in Kansas, particularly in Kansas City. This style emerged in the 1920s and is known for its symmetrical shapes, bold geometric patterns, and lavish decoration.

A prime example is the Municipal Auditorium, which opened in 1935 and signifies Kansas City’s status as a modern 20th-century city.

The building features intricate designs and large, open spaces, making it a landmark in the Art Deco movement.

Another notable building is the Kansas City Power and Light Building, an iconic skyscraper completed in 1931. Its exterior includes decorative elements and a lighted tower that exemplifies the grandeur of Art Deco design.

Modernist Trends

Modernist architecture in Kansas emerged in the mid-20th century, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials like steel and glass. Buildings in this style often feature clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

One significant example is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art extension completed in 2007.

This sleek addition contrasts with the original Beaux-Arts building and represents forward-thinking design in Kansas.

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is another fine example, characterized by its use of innovative materials and a modern aesthetic.

Role of Local Architects

Local architects in Kansas have played a crucial role in shaping the city’s skyline. Their work not only highlights architectural innovation but also brings cultural and economic benefits to the community.

Notable Architects from Kansas

Several prominent architects have emerged from Kansas. One key figure is Tom W. Williamson, known for designing the iconic Kansas State Capitol dome.

Another important name is Adrienne Adams, an award-winning architect recognized for her work on sustainable housing projects.

These architects have left a significant mark on both public and private buildings, including educational institutions, museums, and corporate headquarters.

Impact on Local Community

Local architects have made a significant impact on Kansas communities. Their designs promote economic growth by attracting businesses and tourism.

For instance, the Cosmosphere Space Museum is a popular destination, featuring a digital dome theater and interactive exhibits. This has not only become a cultural landmark but also created jobs and educational opportunities.

Architects also prioritize sustainable design, ensuring new constructions are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

This focus on sustainable building practices contributes to better living conditions and long-term savings for residents.

For more about the architectural impact on Kansas City, visit the Architecture In Kansas City: 15 Unique Buildings.