20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Lawrence (Kansas)

Lawrence is famous among the top vacation spots in the United States.

A beautiful city in the state of Kansas at the county seat of Douglas County.

For travelers, Lawrence doesn’t just hold a lot of engaging activities to keep you occupied, it thrills you uniquely!

Food, Music, Nature centers, and even museums highlight the beauty of this state in the United States.

Check our list of the best and most fun things to do in Lawrence, Kansas.

Things To Do In Lawrence, Kansas

1. Spencer Museum of Art

Do you want somewhere in Lawrence where you can explore some cool artworks and spend a quiet time or you are inquisitive about contemporary pieces of art?

Visit the Spencer Museum of Art!

This museum in Lawrence is a popular tourist attraction site where you can explore to see art objects from around the world.

It holds a collection of over 47000 artworks and artifacts in all media. Visitors here will be able to see European and American art from ancient to contemporary periods.

Also, you will be able to find broad holdings of East Asia art. 

The exhibition likewise features medieval art, European and American paintings, sculptures, prints, photography, and Japanese Edo period art.

Another thing to look at is the Chinese paintings; and the ethnographic collection at KU, which has about 10,000 pieces that reflect Native American, African, Latin American, and Australian cultures.

If you have some free time, you should see the gallery here as well.

Moreover, the staff are knowledgeable and will help you out in any way you want.

Take some time to come reflect in this museum while checking out the artworks.

Address: 1301 Mississippi St, Lawrence, KS 66045, United States.

2. Clinton State Park

Looking for somewhere in Lawrence to have outdoor activities?

Check out Lawrence Clinton State Park!

This outdoor area and spot is a reservoir recreation space.

Clinton State Park is a recreation park situated on the northern shore of Clinton Lake of Lawrence.

Its 1,500 acres space is notable for its clear water and good channel catfish, walleye, and crappie fishing. 

For visitors, you will be able to explore varieties of bird species that vary with the seasons. 

There are also extensive hiking and biking trails.

Athletes can choose this spot to work out, bike or even jog.

Also, there is a wildlife area in this park where you can explore and check out the wildlife.

Photography is something interesting to do here too, the variety of wildlife here makes it an attractive spot to capture photos.

Moreover, if you love archery, there is an archery range here where you can give it a go with the bows.

You can likewise visit here for a picnic or even host outdoor events or even camping with friends.

Add to your to-do list while in Lawrence, you need the tranquility this park has!

Address: 798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049, United States

3. Clinton Lake

Want somewhere feasible for water sports around Lawrence? Looking for somewhere you can take a group or partner for camping activities?

Check out the Clinton Lake!

This area in Lawrence is an outdoor space where visitors can enjoy water sports, lakeside parks, and even camping activities.

Gorgeous woods, a lake, and beautiful scenery are what this lake site offers.

Fishing is one of the fun things to do while in this park.

You can visit here to fish and if you are looking for a quiet time while behind a fishing line and hook, this place is perfect.

Great place to go camping as well!

Campsites here are really comfortable, spacious, and safe.

If you are having a night out or want to celebrate an after-party with a tent, this place in Lawrence is somewhere to look out for!

Moreover, there is a beautiful beach here, you can spend time dipping into it or letting its waters splash on your legs.

Look carefully and you will be able to find some collections of seashells and sea rocks.

Since it’s quiet and has all these great facilities, it is a scenic spot to take photos.

Bring a partner here or even come here alone to have a picnic on its sand.

Overall, it is a great place to kill some time and take unique pictures.

Address: 798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049, United States

4. Watkins Museum of History

Want to explore a museum in Lawrence?

Are you a history lover and want to glance at some thought-provoking art pieces and documentation?

You should see the Watkins Museum of History!

This popular tourist attraction site in Lawrence is a place where you can get refined options of historical exhibits.

The Watkins Museum of History is a history museum in Lawrence, Kansas that is notable for its pieces and history of Douglas County. 

Popular about this museum is its educational programs and public events.

Also, in this museum, you will be able to access educational resources and activities and a lot of exhibits about the heritage of Douglas County. 

Even if you haven’t been to the Watkins before, it’s worth a visit. 

If you go on a tour around this museum, you will find a lot of thought-provoking pieces.

Take your time to see the John Brown exhibit here.

Moreover, you will find themes throughout all the permanent exhibits showing the Lawrencians nationwide struggles for justice.

They also have so many fun slice-of-life artifacts from all throughout the city’s history. 

Overall, those exhibits there will thrill you, take your time to check them out!

You’ll be impressed by what you’ll see.

Address: 1047 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

5. Lawrence Arts Center

The Lawrence Arts Center is a place in Lawrence showcasing art, theatre, music, and an art museum. 

It is a place in Lawrence for visual and performing arts, contemporary exhibitions, film, and lectures. 

On a tour of this center, you will be able to find an extensive calendar of exhibitions, performances, and classes. 

Moreover, this Arts Center features exhibitions by artists from around the world in five gallery spaces. 

There is also a 300-seat theatre and a Black Box Theater which is a performance space for a variety of theatre and musical productions.

There’s also a Steinway piano for concerts in this center. 

Additionally, you can enroll in classes and workshops here in fully equipped studios for drawing, painting, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and printmaking, and financial aid is available. 

Also, visiting artists are invited to exhibit, produce their artworks, perform, and instruct students in workshops and classes.

This place is a complete box of fun and engaging activities, you should try to take a class here if you have time!

Children will have a fun time here and tourists will be able to enjoy performances.

If in Lawrence, schedule to find some time to spend here, and add it to your to-do list!

Address: 940 New Hampshire St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

6. Prairie Park Nature Center

Want to check out a fun preserve in Lawrence or want to see wetlands and nature broadly?

Then visit the Prairie Park Nature Center!

This nature center in Lawrence, Kansas is a natural preserve with animals and a lake of about 100-acres of wetlands.

Also, a lot of woodlands, prairie habitats, and a nature center with live birds.

Located on Harper Street, just on the east side of the city, this nature center is one of the best attraction sites in Lawrence. 

Since its opening in 1999, this park has become home to varieties and different species of birds.

Additionally, in this nature center, there are five acres of a lake known as Mary’s Lake. Not only is this lake popular amongst locals but it is highly attractive since it is a rich fishing spot.

It is a popular fishing spot, stocked by the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks, with varieties of fish all through the spring and summer.

For bird watchers and nature lovers, this spot in Lawrence is a must-see.

You can go bird watching or even explore the atmosphere.

You’ll find birds of prey, deer, bobcats, beavers, prairie dogs, birds, snakes, reptiles, lots of turtles, spiders, and even scorpions here.

They’ve got lots of critters for the kids to learn about, some local and some exotic.

Their staff is also helpful and willing to educate kids by showing them the animals up close. 

If you’re looking for some fun and engaging activity for the whole family, the Nature Center is a great place to go!

Address: 2730 Harper St, Lawrence, KS 66046, United States

7. Bluejacket Crossing Vineyard & Winery

The Bluejacket Crossing Vineyard & Winery is a winery and wine tasting spot in Lawrence.

BlueJacket Crossing Vineyard is a little family vineyard situated in Northeast Kansas, west of Kansas City, just 5 miles east of Lawrence, Kansas. 

For wine lovers who want to go wine tasting around Lawrence, this spot is a top pick.

Here you will find varieties of wines like Nortons (Cynthiana), St. Vincent, Seyval, Chambourcin, Fredonia, Vignoles, and Traminette vines. 

Also, you can tour the vineyard which now covers approximately 8 acres in Eudora, Kansas. 

If you are looking for wines with well-balanced acidity and alcohol, this place is perfect.

Moreover, the scenery here is nice and is a perfect spot for picnicking. 

Pack a basket and come here for Picnicking, get some wine and enjoy a day off.

Also, you can host events here!

Weddings, engagement parties, little get together and even birthday parties will be fun to do here.

Apart from this, they even have an Airbnb which you can book!

You should take some time off and spend a day here, watch the sunset rise and even tour the vineyard!

Address: 1969 N 1250th Rd, Eudora, KS 66025, United States

8. Crescent Moon Winery, Lawrence

Another great winery and wine tasting spot in Lawrence!

This winery is one of Lawrence’s best wineries and a total gem!

At Crescent Moon Winery, you get to buy and taste very good dry white wines, and they also have an apple and pear cider on tap.  

There are varieties of wines and you can choose whichever is fitting for you!

Taking a tour around this winery is something fun to do while here.

You can go around and watch the grapes being crushed and how the wines are made from the start to finish.

It is definitely worth the stop if you like wineries and finding good locally made wines.  

They even grow a significant portion of their grapes on-site and you could look through it while here.

Besides, the beautiful setting of this winery highlights it and makes it a perfect spot for certain outdoor events.

If you are hosting a wedding and looking for a perfect spot in Lawrence to pick out some wines, this place is perfect!

Additionally, if you are looking for a great spot to hold weddings, book this place.

Not only is the setting scenic, but it is also vast and can accommodate a good number of guests.

Engagement parties and even bridal showers are great to do here.

Moreover, they have a guest house and a wine bar where you can relax if you want to.

Also, they also offer Airbnb services, and it will absolutely thrill you.

Make time and explore here, add to your to-do list while in Lawrence!

Address: 15930 246th St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

9. Davenport Orchards & Winery

This tourist attraction site and the area is a winery, vineyard, and wine tasting spot.

Davenport Orchards and winery is one of the top vineyards and wineries in Lawrence, Kansas.

Things to do in this winery include taking a tour of the area.

The winery in this state has a serene setting and the atmosphere here is comfortable.

Besides, they offer great service with their stellar wines tasty and refreshing.

Moreover, the prices of wines here are relatively cheap and affordable.

You can go here for wine tasting, the wines here are exquisite and will give you a perfect filling.

There is something engaging for everyone to do here.

Also, you can take a tour around the orchard here while at it.

Apart from that, they have tables out at the back and you can get snacks and refresh yourself.

While here take your time to go through the processing area and check out how the wines are processed and made here.

Overall, stay and watch the sunset, you can also take photos while here.

Add this to your to-do list while in Lawrence.

Address: 1394 E 1900 Rd, Eudora, KS 66025, United States

10. Baker University Wetlands

The Baker Wetlands is a nature preserve and artificial wetland.

It is located 927 acres south of Lawrence, Kansas.

This area in Lawrence is a very tranquil and calm place to enjoy.

Moreover, there are cool trails and lots of informative checkpoints about the wildlife in the wetlands here. 

While on a tour here, you will see lots of birds, frogs, small fish, some snakes and there are even some beehives. 

Anyone wanting to experience a little of Kansas nature and relax should take time to come here and enjoy the calmness.

Very great place to go for a stroll or a family walk! 

Address: 1365 N 1250 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66046, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Lawrence? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Topeka!

11. South Park

South Park is one of the best parks and gardens and outdoor recreational areas in Lawrence, Kansas.

This beautiful little park flanks Massachusetts street on either side. 

In this park, there are a lot of fun facilities and areas to spend quality time in.

After a long travel and wanting to stretch your legs, this park is a good spot to come to.

Also, in its gardens, you’ll find big trees and varieties of flowers around here.

The setting and adornment the flowers give this park make it beautiful and relaxing.

Moreover, the big trees here house several birds so you can do bird watching while in this park.

There are trails for strolling and cycling too.

On a good day, you can come here to jog and stretch your calves.

Picnic tables are here too in case you want to go picnicking or enjoy some alone time with your partner.

Pavilions, gazebos, and play pieces of equipment too!

Nevertheless, it is a very nice place for a relaxing walk. Check it out while in Lawrence. 

Address: 1141 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

12. Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is a Park and garden in Lawrence, Kansas.

This popular attraction site in Lawrence is a clear definition of mother nature.

Nature sightings here are incredible and will thrill you all the way.

There are trails here where you can go hiking or even run in.

Jogging is one of the things you can also do while here, you can take a stroll in this park in the evening.

Moreover, this place is pet friendly so you can bring your pets or even take them for a walk around this park. However, make sure they are kept on a leash.

Also, there is a golf course where you can try golfing while here.

You can visit here to play golf or bring a partner to play golf here, it is a fun thing to do while here.

Outdoor events like weddings, engagement parties, and even birthday parties are perfect for this area.

Overall, boat ramps are here too in case you want to rent a boat and explore the waters while in this park.

Address: 1594 N 3rd St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

13. Phoenix Gallery, Lawrence

The Phoenix Gallery is an art museum showcasing art at its peak.

This popular tourist attraction site is one of the best art galleries in Lawrence, Kansas.

In this museum in Lawrence, you’ll see various exhibits and pieces of artwork.

Additionally, the store offers pieces by local artisans’ that are unique, fun, and functional. 

Also, the gallery setting here offers the best display of all using natural and regular lighting. 

In this Museum, you’ll see arts of different categories, including wall arts.

Jewelry, pottery, clay, sculpture, mixed media, artwork, handmade kitchenware, blown glass, etc. 

Potters will find it interesting checking out the pieces of pottery here.

Sculptors also will find looking through the sculptures here very interesting.

It’s definitely the right place to pick up gifts for friends and family.

However, there is a request not to take pictures inside the gallery so as to respect the work of the artists.

If you take time to explore this gallery while working on a project, ideas will pop in that will help you.

Take your time to check out this Museum in Lawrence!

Address: 825 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

14. Lawrence Rotary Arboretum

The Lawrence Rotary Arboretum is a garden in the state.

This garden in Lawrence is a top tourist attraction site and a beautiful spot in the state.

It is one of the most beautiful gem pieces you will find in Lawrence.

If you are a flower lover or you generally love to see flowers, this place is a great place to hang out.

Flowers of different varieties and origins adorn this area in Lawrence.

Its shiny and bright colors radiate and show off the beauty of this Arboretum.

Since this park is very tranquil and airy, it is a great place to take a walk or even stroll.

Also, there is a pond in this Arboretum where you can watch and see geese.

Botanists can also visit here to check out the flowers here, they’ll have a good time exploring the different flowers here.

Interestingly, every tree here is well marked. All trees have individual markers with each indicating the tree species and the donor’s honoree.

Host an event here or even a birthday party.

Get-togethers, weddings, and engagement parties are also things to host here.

Take pictures while at it and enjoy the space here.

Moreover, fishing is also something you can engage in if you have the time!

Address: 5100 27th Street, Lawrence, KS 66047, United States

15. Buford M. Watson Jr. Park

This Park in Lawrence is an enduring park with picnics and play sit.

It is a long-standing community park with a lot of picnic areas, open space, and a 1902 locomotive on display. 

Buford M. Watson Jr. Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Lawrence.

There are 2 pieces of play structure equipment here with one of them having gates for little kids.

They have giant climbing webs, spinning buckets that you can sit in and spin, swings with circular seats, and so much more.

Also, there is a basketball court in this park. The basketball court here is in good condition and a good place to play basketball.

Whether you are learning how to play basketball or you just want to exercise, this place is a perfect spot.

Moreover, there are a lot of rooms in this park to run. 

If you want to play running games with your partner or a group, there is a lot of space here for that.

Furthermore, there are tables in this park where you can eat lunch or even use for picnics.

Visit here and enjoy the beautiful scenery of this park, it’s worth it!

Address: 727 Kentucky St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

16. Lawrence Bloomington Beach

Bloomington Beach is a popular tourist attraction site and a beach in Lawrence, Kansas.

This beach in Lawrence is a place with a lot of engaging activities for tourists to explore.

On hot and sunny days, you can hang out on this beach to cool off.

It is a great place to soak in the water and sunbathe.

The waters on this beach are very clean and you can come here to cool off.

Besides, you can surf in this lake here or even kayak in these waters.

Also, if you want to swim or teach swimming courses around here, this spot in Lawrence is a perfect spot.

There are trees here and this contributes to the chilly atmosphere here.

Camping sites are here too, and they are really conducive for camping.

In addition, there are lots of boats and jet skis to rent and explore the waters. 

You can also come here for picnics. Sands on this beach are clean and are a great pick if you want to go for picnics.

Bring a blanket and relax on the sands here.

Overall, you can take paddling classes here too.

There are just a lot of things to do here and if you take your time, you’ll find something fitting for you!

Address: Lawrence, Kansas, United States.

17. Booth Family Hall of Athletics

This is a modern museum in Lawrence showcasing exhibits on the history of the University of Kansas athletics.

The Booth Family Hall of Athletics is located at the KU Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas. 

Although it is devoted to all the sports at the University, this place is a must-visit for fans of College Basketball. 

With a space of over 26,000 square feet, this museum is vast and includes a gift shop. 

If you tour this Museum, you will find two hallways that lead from the Booth Family Hall of Athletics into the Allen Fieldhouse.

You will also find displays of retired basketball jerseys. 

Basketball lovers will love to check out this Museum in Lawrence.

Also, the original “Beware of the Phog” banner is also on display in this museum.

Other things to see here include the most famous Kansas Sports memorabilia,13 Original Rules of Basket Ball written by Dr. James Naismith in 1891. 

Another object of interest here is the original rules written on the side of the hallway, just opposite the “Wall of Quotes,” and can be easily missed as you walk down the hall.

However, they are not visible until you press the button next to their display case.

Moreover, the lighting is dim and there is also a record of Dr. Naismith talking about writing them.

Take a tour around this Museum when you have the time, it’s a thrilling experience!

Address: 1651 Naismith Dr, Lawrence, KS 66045, United States

18. Burcham Park

Another place you should explore in Lawrence is Burcham Park!

Burcham Park is a city park in Lawrence with a playground, trails, and a view of the Kansas River.

Also notable about this park is its preserved cottonwood forest.

If you go down the trails leading from the park itself, there are some amazing places to see.

Trails here are relatively smooth and are accessible for hiking activities.

Biking along the paths here is something fun to do here too.

The shelter with tables offers a great view of the river. With its picnic tables, it’s a great place to go picnicking while enjoying the scenery of this park.

Moreover, this park has multiple recreation areas.

Pack your bags and come camping here!

Campsites here are conducive and are well spaced.

Nevertheless, this place is a solid pick if you want to explore Lawrence and get outside the town a little.

Host a birthday party here or come here for a get-together with a group of friends.

Capture the moments you spend here and enjoy the breeze.

Overall, visit here and spend quality time, the atmosphere is great!

Address: South Powerhouse Road, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States

19. Overlook Park, Lawrence

Looking for a scenic place to spend time around Lawrence? Want somewhere with sporting facilities to train or explore?

Visit the Overlook Park in Lawrence, Kansas!

Overlook Park is a vast urban park in Lawrence, Kansas, United States. 

This park is on Clinton Lake, just outside of Lawrence, Kansas.

Facilities in this park for visitors to enjoy are accessible playgrounds, restrooms, bike trails, group shelter, hiking trails, horseshoes, potable water, softball fields, and volleyball.

If you want to play softball or even learn how to play, this park should be a top pick!

Playing volleyball is something you can also do here! Bring your partner or even family and come play volleyball on Overlook Park volleyball courts.

Moreover, if you are looking for somewhere you can hike on smooth trails, jog or even stroll comfortably, you’ll find this place useful.

Also, picnicking is something you can do here. Lots of picnic benches are here and the view of the lake will give you a whole new definition.

Pack a basket of food and desserts and head out to have a picnic in this park.

Check out the waterfalls here too and take pictures!

Host birthday parties and other outdoor events here, it will be fun to do!

Furthermore, there are some very interesting bee nests at the Overlook parking area as well.

Cook some hamburgers on the grill out of the asphalt jungle!

Overall, there are lots of spaces, lots of fun and so many engaging activities!

Address: N 1402 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049, United States

20. Lawrence Aquatic Center

Want to explore an aquatic center around Lawrence? Looking for somewhere to go for a dip?

Try the Lawrence Aquatic Center!

Lawrence Aquatic Center is a public outdoor pool for kids and adults.

In this large outdoor public pool, you will find 2 slides, a diving well, a children’s play area, and also a 50 meters lap section.

Things to do in this Aquatic Center are plenteous, and there is something for everyone to do.

During the summer and very hot seasons, this place in Lawrence is a top pick.

Additionally, in very hot seasons, you can come to this center to soak in and cool off.

If you are a swimmer and you want to take classes or even come to swim long laps, you should try its 50 meters lap section.

You can also do high dives here!

Moreover, if you’re looking for a good place where you can have a little privacy while watching the kids, this center is somewhere fun to check out!

Leave the children in the kid’s area and you can enjoy the water slides or even try the swimming laps.

Also, it is conveniently located in the center of the town and relatively easy to get to from anywhere.

There’s lots of affordable family fun to explore!

There are also concession stands and even party rooms.

Overall, come here for a pool party, a birthday party, or even enjoy the indoor pool here!

Enjoy snacks at the snacks bar while at it, make sure to check out this place in Lawrence.

Address: 727 Kentucky St, Lawrence, KS 66044, United States.

Final Remarks

Lawrence, Kansas is a place thriving with so many fun and engaging activities.

Take out time to tour this State!

Undoubtedly, the kind of fun it offers is one of a kind.

Moreover, its richness in activities and History will appall you!

Make sure to take pictures and keep them as souvenirs!

Jolly Travels!