Industrial & heritage museums in Kansas

The Great Plains Transportation Museum (GPTM) is a transportation museum situated in the heart of Wichita, the largest city in the US state of Kansas. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history of transportation in the region, with a particular focus on the railway industry.

The Old Depot Museum, situated in Ottawa, Kansas, is a history museum that primarily focuses on the regional history of Franklin County. It emphasizes the significance of trains in the development of small towns. The museum features the history of local Native Americans, local industries, and provides accurate recreations of historical rooms.

Strataca, formerly known as the Kansas Underground Salt Museum, is a unique attraction located in Hutchinson, Kansas. The museum is situated within one of the world's largest deposits of rock salt, which was formed 275 million years ago. This offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore a significant geological feature and learn about the history and processes of salt mining.

The Great Overland Station, also known as the Union Pacific Railroad Passenger Depot, is a museum and former railroad station located in Topeka, Kansas. This historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its significant role in the history of American railroads. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about the station's past and its impact on the development of the region.

The Kansas Barbed Wire Museum, situated in La Crosse, Kansas, United States, is recognized as the “Barbed Wire Capital of the World.” This title reflects the museum's focus on barbed wire and its significant role in the history of the United States. The museum is a unique destination for those interested in learning about the different forms of barbed wire and its impact on the settlement of the country.

Located in West Mineral, Kansas, Big Brutus serves as the centerpiece of a mining museum. This impressive machine was used in coal strip mining operations, providing a tangible link to the region's industrial history.

The Atchison County Historical Society Museum is a dedicated institution for preserving the rich history of Atchison County, Kansas. The museum is named after the United States Senator and legendary 'President for a day', David Rice Atchison. It is located in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Freight Depot in Atchison, Kansas. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the Lewis and Clark expedition, Amelia Earhart, Jesse Stone, the railroad history of Atchison County, and a military collection with over 200 weapons spanning the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and both World Wars.

The C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, also referred to as the Leavenworth Carousel Museum, is situated in Leavenworth, Kansas. It is among the various museums that are sponsored by the Leavenworth Historical Museum Association. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural and historical landscape, offering visitors a unique insight into the history of carousels and their significance in the region.