Dillon Nature Center
Located on 100 acres in northeast Hutchinson, this National Urban Wildlife Sanctuary showcases both plant and wildlife.
Over 200 species of birds and a diverse variety of other wildlife have been recorded on the site. The spring-fed upper pond is stocked as part of the Urban Fisheries Program.
The "Closer Look at Nature" gallery is filled with interactive exhibits about Kansas ecology that are educational and fun for the whole family. This building also offers a meeting room, natural science classroom, wildlife observation deck, natural library, and wonderful gift shop.
Guided tours are available to groups throughout the year.
Hours for Grounds & Discovery Building:
Summer: Monday - Friday 8 am to 7 pm | Saturday 10 am to 5 pm | Sunday 1 to 5 pm
Yoder Amish Community
Ever wanted to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life?
It's as easy as a trip to Yoder. This authentic Amish community
transports visitors into a different way of life for a fascinating
experience. (Please respect the Amish people's simple lifestyle).Stroll down the streets in the quiet and quaint community that boasts several unique and timeless treasures in its welcoming stores. Enjoy the intricate beauty of hand-stitched quilts, stores filled with antiques, handcrafted furniture, as well as the old- style hardware store. Don't forget to treat yourself to a fresh, delicious cinnamon roll at the bakery. Top off your visit with a family-style dinner at the local restaurant.
Experience all of the great shopping and sights of Yoder with a simple walk, or take a relaxing ride aboard a quaint surrey that departs from the local meat and specialty store.
Hutchinson Zoo
Experience the native animals of Kansas at the Hutchinson Zoo! Meet animals with special defenses, great hunting skills, or the ability to live alongside man.The zoo also features the Kansas Wildlife Aviary with non-predatory birds and river otters as well as the Lagoon Overlook, offering the chance to look through the telescope for a close-up view of the wild waterfowl. Across the lagoon, sneak a peek at
the bison on the prairie home.
The attractive zoo also includes prong horn,
coyote, ringtail, bobcat, reptiles, porcupine,
and native birds in free flight.
Another popular feature is the Prairie Dog Complex, where children can safely view these timid creatures in their natural environment through a specially designed tunnel.
Prairie Thunder Railroad takes passengers on an eight-minute ride through Carey Park. Tickets for the train ride are available at the Visitors' Center where the Friends of the Zoo Gift Shop has nature-inspired toys for all ages.
HUTCHINSON ZOO
6 Emerson Loop in Carey Park | 620-694-2693
Hours:
May-September: 10 am to 4:45 pm, 7 days a week
October-April: Weekends Only - 10 am to 4:45 pm
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year's Day
Disabled Accessible | Free Admission
http://www.hutchgov.com/department/index.php?fDD=18-0
Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm
Take a walk on the wild side during a unique experience at Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm.
Whether it's petting a zebra, riding a camel or feeding a giraffe, this one-of-a-kind attraction offers the opportunity to come face-to-face with several unusual animals. It's an animal adventure not to be forgotten and one that is truly
unlike any other in the Midwest!
The farm also features a tamer side and bed and breakfast with all the creature comforts one could want.
Tours are available year-round by reservation only. For more information, call 888-489-8039 or check out their website at www.hedricks.com. Hedrick's is located 8 miles west of Hutchinson on Highway 96 at 7910 N. Roy L. Smith Rd.
Indian Creek Bison Ranch
SHARE THE PRAIRIE WITH BISON. This land along the Arkansas River, where Native Americans for centuries hunted the great herds of bison, is now Indian Creek Bison Ranch. Tours are available of this family farm operated by Jerry and Linda Schmidt. Tour groups are transported on trailers to the pastures for an up-close visit with these majestic creatures as they graze. Visitors hear the history of Native American bison, view a display of artifacts and bison products, and learn about the methods used to raise and care for bison.
13010 East Lake Cable Road, Haven
620-465-2468