Sherman County: History, Art and Experiences

Sherman County offers a variety of reasons to visit, from regional history and distinctive architecture to outdoor experiences. A specific point of reference is Goodland. The town is located on Interstate 70 near the Kansas–Colorado border. Close to downtown Goodland, the High Plains Museum presents local history; other attractions range from a historic theater and Carnegie architecture to walking trails, fishing and motorsports.

History and Culture on Different Scales

The High Plains Museum is supported and operated by the City of Goodland. It preserves more than 8,000 objects representing over a century of history in northwestern Kansas. Through its collections, exhibitions and educational programs, the museum presents both the history of Goodland and that of Sherman County. Its scope therefore extends from the local community to the region’s past.

One of the early events in the county’s history was the Kidder Massacre, which occurred around July 2, 1867, and is considered the first recorded event in Sherman County. Those involved were 25-year-old Lieutenant Lyman S. Kidder and his ten-member patrol, along with the Sioux scout Red Bead. The Sherman Theatre offers a glimpse into another era: it opened on August 2, 1926, as a movie and vaudeville theater for silent films. Relics from the past can be seen in the lobby and auditorium.

Architecture and art come together at the Carnegie Arts Center. It is housed in the historic Goodland Public Library, built in 1913 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in September 1985. Denver architects Barrensen Brothers designed the building in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. It is one of 59 Carnegie libraries in Kansas. The Arts Center includes a modern visual arts gallery, a gift shop and classrooms; some offerings may change, so it is worth checking the current program before visiting.

The Big Easel is another striking sight, notable for its dimensions: its steel frame is 80 feet tall and weighs 40,000 pounds. These measurements give the structure a scale all its own—a clear contrast with the historic buildings, whose architecture and former uses take center stage.

Trails, Water and Motorsports

For time outdoors, the Topside Trail offers a connection to the landscape: visitors can enjoy the surroundings and open air along the trail. The project also strengthens opportunities for health, recreation and quality of life in Goodland and Sherman County. Soldiers Memorial Park–Smoky Gardens has walking trails and fishing opportunities. These two activities offer different ways to spend time outdoors.

Steever Water Park offers water slides, a main pool area and a concession area. Since seasonal operating hours may vary, check visiting options for your travel dates in advance. Motorsports add a very different dimension: Sherman County Speedway is a semi-banked, three-eighths-mile dirt racetrack. It hosts races in the Cruiser, Bomber, Super Stock and Modified classes. The track’s specific features and the classes listed clearly set it apart from walking trails or a museum visit.

Events Throughout the Year

The annual Flatlander Fall Festival draws thousands of people and includes a car and motorcycle show and a vendor show. Shindig at the Smoky typically takes place on the last Saturday in June. Annual August events include the Northwest Kansas District Free Fair and the Runway Revelry Fly-in Event. The annual Simply Chic Spring Fair craft and vendor market takes place in March or April. Exact dates and programs for these events may vary from year to year, so check the dates for the year you plan to travel.

When looking for a vacation rental in Sherman County, your planned activities are a good place to start: would you like to focus on history and architecture, nature and recreation, water or an event? For seasonal activities and events, it also helps to check that they align with your travel dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Morris County, Kearny County, Wabaunsee County, Harvey County, Cloud County, Neosho County, Sedgwick

For the broader travel overview: Kansas.