Topeka, Kansas’ capital city, has an extensive and often turbulent history. As one of the centers of antislavery agitation leading to “Bleeding Kansas”, in 1854, Topeka played an essential role.
At its center is Kansas City, home of state government, legislature, governor, and various offices. It also offers visitors from other states an unforgettable tourist experience.
Topeka’s History
Topeka has long been at the forefront of civil rights activism. The city was host to one of the landmark Supreme Court cases that ended segregationist school policies – Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 – prompting residents to stand up for their children and fight segregation. Many residents became active activists, successfully campaigning for change; historic sites and landmarks throughout Topeka, such as its domed, neoclassical State Capitol and Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade, remind Topeka’s efforts towards social justice.
Topeka underwent rapid industrial expansion from the late 19th century through World War II, with floods occurring in 1903, 1951, and 1966, causing disruptions of land-use patterns; mobilization for war brought new industries; postwar annexations and suburban housing developments extended its limits further afield.
Topeka derives its name from Kansa-Osage words meaning “a good place to dig potatoes,” although crops are no longer produced in large quantities here. Manufacturing and government/military are two major sectors, while transportation, warehousing utilities, and wholesale trade industries comprise its vibrant economy.
Topeka, Kansas, is widely known for its murals and art-oriented culture, being one of the state’s leading cities for mural art. Topeka boasts some of the best examples, including John Steuart Curry murals at the State Capitol and the Great Mural Wall at 20th and Western, featuring over 80 colorful paintings. Samuel J. Sheldon’s Christian social novel In His Steps, published in 1897, is evidence of this city’s long tradition of progressive thought; furthermore, its Menninger Clinic and Sanitarium established it as an internationally recognized psychiatry center.
Topeka offers many attractions, restaurants, and events focused on history, culture, arts, and adventure. Additionally, Topeka is a premier shopping and entertainment destination with numerous casinos, malls, theaters, and sporting arenas to visit – plus, its tourism website provides comprehensive information on things to see and do in Kansas’ capital city!
Topeka’s Attractions
Topeka offers vacationers plenty of memorable experiences to take part in during their visit, from world-class museums and an energetic art community to outdoor adventures that offer something for every type of traveler – animal enthusiasts, history fans, or thrill-seekers will find plenty to keep themselves busy with during their time in Topeka. Newcomers will have unforgettable stays filled with lasting memories.
Gage Park, one of the city’s favorite parks, will take you back in time. Kids will delight in a ride on its historic 1908 carousel while adults can explore exhibits such as Tropical Rainforest, Black Bear Woods, and Camp Cowabunga or stroll through Reinisch Rose Garden with over 400 varieties of roses!
History enthusiasts will love Washburn University Museum, which boasts the oldest accredited art museum on the west coast. Here, visitors can discover paintings, sculptures, decorative art, and photographs from various eras in American history.
Downtown Kansas City is a thriving and historic destination, featuring popular restaurants, bars, and galleries as well as some unique local landmarks – most notably, the Kansas State Capitol building – which hosts tours every day with access to its iconic copper dome – not suitable for those fearful of heights!
Travelers can immerse themselves in the city’s culture at Helen Hocker Theater, an award-winning community theatre offering musicals, plays, and improv performances. Additionally, NOTO Entertainment District boasts public art such as impressive sculptures, eye-catching murals, and boutiques, bars, and restaurants for an exciting visit.
Topeka was established in 1842 and features a rich pioneer town atmosphere. Topeka played an essential role in America’s Civil Rights Movement and remains home to several landmark sites commemorating that period, such as Brown vs Board of Education National Historic Site in memory of the 1954 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that ended racial segregation in schools; Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site offers visitors an experience back into time at turn-of-the-century settlement where dinner service may include hosts dressed in period attire; while Topeka’s Kansas Museum of History also presents history of this region as part of an immersive immersive history experience!
Topeka’s Restaurants
Topeka offers an abundance of food-service establishments to suit any palette imaginable, ranging from Thai, Italian, and Indian restaurants to Mexican and American options. There are also popular chains such as Five Guys or IHOP to consider, but many local establishments that have served their communities for decades often prove more satisfying for diners.
Bradley’s Restaurant stands out as an example, providing patrons with burgers, sandwiches, all-day breakfast options, and beer. Their homemade pies stand out among them – many people claim they offer some of the best pies!
Jorge’s Cantina, a Mexican restaurant offering authentic cuisine in an inviting and exciting atmosphere, is also a popular spot. Not only can the cuisine satisfy everyone in your group, but what truly sets this place apart is its friendly staff, who make each visit enjoyable.
Nanny’s Soul Food offers classic southern fare like homemade gumbo, fried catfish, and oxtail for those searching for something different in soul food. Additionally, their menu provides items suitable for people with dietary restrictions.
For an upscale dining experience in downtown Topeka, The Weather Room should be on your list. Here, you can enjoy drinks and appetizers like giant soft pretzels, creamy tomato bisque, grilled cheese sandwiches – and so much more.
Jong’s Thai Kitchen offers delicious Asian food that should satisfy any craving, making this restaurant an essential visit for anyone interested in tasting something unique and different.
Tagine offers Moroccan food in an exclusive setting that shares space with Josey’s Bakery; their delicious baked goods pair perfectly with your meal at Tagine! Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner service. You should stop in when in the area!
Topeka’s Events
Capital City, Kansas, boasts an exciting arts scene with plenty of cultural activities. Take in a concert at the multipurpose Kansas Expocentre or witness stunning dance performances at Topeka Performing Arts Center; alternatively, visit any number of family-friendly attractions like Topeka Zoo in Gage Park and Yesterday Motorcycle Museum for cultural enjoyment!
Kansas Capital City prides itself on preserving history through educational experiences throughout its city. Kids can enjoy learning through fun at The Kansas Museum Of History scavenger hunt, pay their respects to heroes of Kansas past at Governor’s Mansion State Historic Site, or explore life in the 1800s at Old Prairie Town, which recreates an environment typical of small Kansas towns with one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop replicas, authentic general store and even church replicas re-creations. This unique attraction creates a small Kansas town experience complete with one-room schoolhouse replicas and replicas of one-room schoolhouses, blacksmith shops replicas, and authentic general stores and churches!
Topeka is committed to community growth, evidenced by its many civic projects and volunteer initiatives. Topeka is working hard to make its downtown more pedestrian-friendly, recently awarded as one of the nine best small places in the US for overall well-being.
Community spirit was central to the city’s impressive response to the 2013 tornadoes, where cooperation among governmental agencies, media, and the public reduced damage and death rates significantly, while excellent storm spotter activation and underground sheltering options may have also played an instrumental role in making such an impressive feat possible.
Topeka takes great pride in celebrating its diversity; a critical aspect of that identity is celebrating its various cultures. One such event is Culture Fest Kansas – a four-day festival showcasing African-American roots through music, dance performances, culinary delights, interactive experiences, and business and health panels – including an inaugural sold-out gala event! Other cultural events in Topeka include India Mela, Fiesta Topeka, and IrishFest.
