Hays is a charming city in the state of Kansas, United States, located more exactly in Ellis County and being the county seat at the same time. The history of Hays began in 1866, when the construction of the Kansas Pacific Railway started. Then, Hays was founded in 1867 and became incorporated by 1885. In the late 1900s, Hays began to modernize, as numerous upgrade plans were starting to take shape. Now, Hays is a major regional economic and cultural hub, as well as an important trading center and shipping point. According to the 2010 census, there are 20.510 people living now in Hays, making it the largest city in northwestern Kansas. This is definitely a not-to-be-missed city!
Top Attractions within Hays
The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is a great cultural institution, located in one of the buildings of the Fort Hays State University. The museum puts on display more than 100.000 square feet of fossils and prehistoric animals, including dinosaurs, giant sea-swimming fish and lizards, which date back over 70 million years. Moreover, you will also be able to see impressive collections of history, geology, botany, ethnology, paleontology, mammalogy, entomology and many others.
The Fort Hays Historic Site is the best place where you can learn more about the history, culture and traditions of Hays. You will see here four historic buildings, including a stone blockhouse (1867) and a stone guardhouse (1872). Also, the site hosts a great exhibit of Native American artifacts.
The Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course will please the heart of every golfing enthusiast. The 18-hole length regulation course will provide every player with exciting golfing challenges, no matter the skills or training level. Those who do not know how to play, nor are willing to learn, can visit the surroundings, especially since the aforementioned historic site is located nearby.
Hays Aquatic Park is one of the best providers of family fun in the area. This recreational facility is managed by the Hays Recreation Commission and it will delight every visitor with its amazing features, including two slides and a lazy river.
