Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Colby, KS

  • Published 2023/04/11

Colby is a relatively small city in Kansas, best known for its warm weather and historically significant establishments that often attract tourists and history buffs!

Found in Thomas County, Colby is one of the oldest cities in the state with a lot of rich history, which you can learn all about on your trip.

Despite its size, you can still find a variety of things to do in this elegant city, whether it’s visiting a museum or attending a music festival!

Its community is also friendly and welcoming, ensuring an enjoyable stay that can also make you feel right at home.

Colby is perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway while enjoying shopping sprees for a great price and other fun recreational activities!

Here are the best things to do in Colby, Kansas:

Buy Some Souvenirs at Southwind Antique Mall

Side facade of Southwind Antique Mall

melissamn / Shutterstock.com

Southwind Antique Mall is a must-visit place for visitors who want to purchase unique, one-of-a-kind items in Colby!

With a constantly changing inventory and a wide array of items to choose from, there’s so much to see and buy at this antique shop.

Southwind Antique Mall is found just a short drive toward the southern end of the city.

Some items are even rich with history that can take you back in time!

Whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a gift, or household decorations, Southwind Antique Mall has it in-store just for you!

Learn about Colby’s Local History at Prairie Museum of Art & History

Prairie Museum of Art & History is a popular tourist attraction in Colby with its rich information on local history.

Found minutes within the city’s heart, this museum houses various artifacts that date as far back as prehistoric times!

Prairie Museum of Art & History is popular for being the home to Kansas’ largest barn, known as the Cooper Barn, also one of Kansas’ Wonders, which you’re free to tour!

Their most well-known collection is their Kuska Collection, named after Nellie Kuska, who is responsible for the curation of these artifacts.

These collections include various items that cover a wide range, some of which are articles of clothing, ceramics, paintings, and more from varying periods of time that each tells a different story.

You can even view their art exhibits that are open to the public!

There’s so much to see and learn at Prairie Museum of Art & History, so try and add this museum to your itinerary while visiting Colby!

Take a Trip to Fike Park

The city of Colby is home to many parks, but one of their most popular state parks is Fike Park!

Spanning over 9.9 acres, this spacious area often attracts both locals and visitors alike who wish to spend the day outdoors.

You can find gazebos to relax under when the sun is shining or simply play out in the open grass on their volleyball and tennis courts.

You may even opt for a lovely picnic on their picnic tables and pavilions for some great quality time with your family and friends.

Kids are also welcome to spend their energy and run around on their giant playground!

Attend the Pickin’ on the Plains Music Festival

Pickin’ on the Plains is the city’s most sought-after music festival, having been a part of the community’s tradition for over 25 years!

This festival takes place within the city center, making it easily accessible for those who wish to drop by!

You can sing and dance along to the featured bands who play a wide range of genres to cater to all musical tastes.

They’re most known for their Bluegrass music and more live entertainment.

This family-friendly event also hosts a variety of activities and games for kids of all ages to keep them preoccupied and provide an enjoyable time!

You may even spot some food trucks during this event where you can try out some of their food samples!

Catch a Movie at Colby Cinema

Colby Cinema is the best theater in Colby city, showing the latest release movies for you to catch!

Also known as Colby Cinema and Arcade, this cinema house also features some arcade games and a pool table to keep you entertained while you wait for your show.

Their concession stand sells traditional theater snacks such as popcorn and more for you to snack on as you sit back and enjoy the movie in their comfortable seats.

They also host random giveaways, which you’re more than welcome to participate in to get a chance to win lucky prizes.

Drop by Colby Cinema and watch the latest, most-talked-about shows and your favorite franchises!

Beat the Heat at Colby Aquatic Park

Kansas is known for its warm temperatures and all-around sunny weather, so you might be looking for a nice way to cool off.

Beat the heat at Colby Aquatic Park, just minutes away from the heart of the city!

This aquatic park features various large swimming pools, kiddie pools, and even a water slide!

You can spend the entire day on the water, floating on a swimming ring, taking a ride down their water slide, or sunbathing to get that tan!

You may even catch some water activities such as water walking or aquatic Zumba with fellow tourists and community members.

Whether you’re going by yourself or bringing the whole family, Colby Aquatic Park is the place to be when it gets hot!

Purchase Local Goods at Thomas County Farmers Market

There’s nothing better than shopping for locally grown produce at a farmer’s market on a sunny day!

Thomas County Farmers Market is less than a mile away from the heart of the city and sells a variety of fresh produce you can choose from!

In addition to fresh meat and vegetables, you can also find vendors selling sweet treats such as pastries and more to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Some stalls even sell iced drinks and refreshments to keep you cool and energized!

This diverse marketplace is a great place to spend your morning as you stroll through each stall and see what they have to offer.

Play a Friendly Round of Golf at Meadow Lake Golf Course

Meadow Lake Golf Course is Colby’s go-to golfing facility for those who wish to practice their putting skills!

Whether it’s your first time holding a golf club or if you’re a seasoned golfer, this golf course can cater to varying skill levels for all players!

Since 1953, Meadow Lake Golf Course has been one of the oldest golf courses in the entire state.

This 9-hole course also hosts various events for couples, men’s leagues, and more!

You can also grab a light meal at their restaurant and bar to keep you full and energized as you challenge your family and friends to a friendly round of golf or two!

Polish up those golfing skills at Meadow Lake Golf Course!

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Goodies and Things

Goodies and Things is a family-owned and operated business in Colby that sells only freshly made sweets, pastries, and desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth!

In addition to its dessert menu, this eatery also sells ready-made, delicious meals to make your lunch and dinner more convenient!

This local diner originally opened in Gem, Kansas, before expanding its business to Colby in 2022, serving this community with its tasty treats.

With an ever-changing menu and new additions to their shop, you can purchase a wide variety of food items here at Goodies and Things!

Despite being one of the newest additions to Colby, this pastry shop is quickly becoming a crowd favorite with its delicious desserts that you should try yourself!

Go Fishing at Villa High Lake

Since its opening to the public in the 1960s, this park has been known as the “Oasis on the Plains” in Colby!

Villa High Lake is the ideal place to go fishing in this city, with its large fish population thriving beneath the surface.

You can catch your dinner at this lake, cook it over the fire, and enjoy it in one of the picnic pavilions available.

Over 20 acres in size, you can also play various sports at this spacious park or let the kids run loose at the playground.

Disc golf is also available in case you want to try your hand out at this sport!

Enjoy Freshly Made Meals at City Limits Bar & Grill

City Limits Bar & Grill is known for serving up delicious, freshly-made meals in a homestyle and cozy environment!

This eatery is found a short drive away, just a little under 3 miles towards the southern end of Colby.

City Limits Bar & Grill has also become a community favorite with its popular beef steak meals, salads, and homemade soups that may just remind you of your grandmother’s cooking!

Their bar is also open for refreshments if you’re looking for a nice cold beverage, an alcoholic drink, and more.

Drop by and see why this restaurant is a local favorite in the city of Colby!

Join the Activities at the Thomas County Fair

Fairs and events are a common occurrence in Colby, and you should come to be a part of them too!

Thomas County Fair lasts for about six days and has varying themes each year for an eventful, fun-filled week!

Each day of the event has a designated activity and sport, ranging from rodeos to barbecues, Derbys, auctions, and tractor shows.

This event is also family-friendly, so you’re welcome to bring the kids and let them in on all the fun and excitement!

A variety of booths can be found at this fair, including food and drinks, small souvenir items, and more.

This fair is open to everyone, and for a small price, you get access to the entire event!

Thomas County Fair only gets better and better each year so make sure you stop by!

Camp Out at Colby RV Park

Planning to camp out in an RV? Colby RV Park located on East Willow is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.

The campground gives you easy access to I-70 and offers a spacious leveled pull-through site.

They have daily, weekly, and monthly rates, along with a daily tent rate for campers.

You can get full hookups provided with 30 and 50-amp electricity and free Wi-Fi access throughout the park area.

Other amenities you can use at the campground include a bathhouse and laundry facilities.

If you want to explore some local attractions, Colby RV Park is also close to The Prairie Museum of Art and History, Aquatic Park, and Community Events Center.

Enjoy the Attractions at the Sunflower Festival

Join the locals for a whole day of fun and activities at theSunflower Festival.

This annual event happens on the fourth Saturday of August in Colby’s downtown area.

This lively event is run by local volunteers, businesses, and organizations and aims to attract visitors to Colby through fun attractions and events.

Proceeds from some event registration go back to support the community; however, all kids’ events are free.

Catch various vendors selling local goods and food trucks offering mouthwatering specialties.

Watch sports tournaments like sand volleyball, mini-triathlons, and table tennis, along with games like horseshoe and cornhole tournaments.

The Sunflower Festival caps off with fun street dances and brew fests in the evening.

Watch Exciting Car Races at Thomas County Speedway

Get the adrenaline rush as you watch speeding cars race to the finish line at Thomas County Speedway.

This sports venue is located on South Range Avenue and showcases seasonal races for different IMCA classes on its 3/8 mile progressive banked clay track.

Feel the excitement as you catch hobby stock, sport mod, and stock car engines gear up and vie for first place.

You can also catch special sprint car races so be sure to check the schedules on their social media page.

On a regular season, you can watch the Friday Hot laps at Thomas County Speedway.

Marvel at the Historic Thomas County Courthouse

Exterior of the Historic Thomas County Courthouse

barteverett / Shutterstock.com

If historic buildings fascinate you, come and drop by the Thomas County Courthouse right in downtown North Court.

The Romanesque Revival-style structure was built in 1906 replacing the original county courthouse; it was also designed by Architect James C. Holland.

At the courthouse facade, you’ll notice the five-story clock tower built with a Seth Thomas clock, along with the detailed Syrian arch and projecting wings at each side of the tower.

You’ll also see the “Spirit of the Prairie” Sculpture, a centennial project which represents the early pioneers’ unwavering spirit when they reached the county’s boundary; this sculpture was created by Charles Norton in 1985.

Drop by the Memorial Wall built in honor of county citizens who gave their lives serving the country.

Take pictures of the Thomas County Courthouse and admire its architectural style; this historic site was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Take a Relaxing Stroll at the Colby Walking Trails

Get some fresh air, ride a bike, or just take a leisurely stroll along the Colby Walking Trails.

The idea of building a recreational trail was first thought of by the Thomas County Wellness Committee decades ago.

The goal was to encourage the community to make healthier choices and improve their health through outdoor activities.

Through the help of local individuals and businesses, the project finally became a reality when the 2.2-mile walking trail opened in 2014.

Follow the route and enjoy running, biking, or walking to see some downtown views.

Little ones will surely love playing in the modern play area, too.

Whether it’s a morning jog or an afternoon stroll, you’ll enjoy the relaxing views along the Colby Walking Trails.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Admire the Monument Rocks

Daytime view of Oakley's Monument Rocks

BeautifulEarth / Shutterstock.com

The City of Oakley is said to give visitors a vibe of the “real, wild West” due to its natural beauty and for housing numerous landmarks.

One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Monument Rocks, a large rock formation that resembles a chalk-like design that also contains a handful of fossils.

It is said to reach over 50 feet in the air and continue 300 feet below the surface, making this one of the largest rock formations in the entire state of Kansas.

A Monument Rock at Oakley

krnshprd1975 / Shutterstock.com

The Monument Rocks are also rich with history as it was used by hikers and travelers in the late 1800s to serve as their guide.

After it was voted as another one of Kansas’ Wonders, these rock formations have continued to attract visitors and tourists from all over the world.

Be reminded that the Monument Rocks are located on private property, so be mindful of your surroundings and take pictures without disrupting the owners!

A window through Monument Rocks

Terry M. Tate / Shutterstock.com

See Artifacts at Fick Fossil & History Museum

In the neighboring city of Oakley, just 20 minutes away from Colby, you can find Fick Fossil & History Museum!

This museum often attracts aspiring scientists, paleontologists, and even history buffs.

Home to a wide array of fossils from varying species, there’s so much to learn and see in this museum.

They’re best known for their dinosaur fossils that date back hundreds of years ago, including some ancient finds such as old and used tools, mineral folk art, and other specimens.

Their gift shop is also the perfect place to purchase some books, jewelry, and even a replica of the fossils for you to take home and show off to your friends.

Stop by and see what all the fuss is about at Fick Fossil & History Museum!

Final Thoughts

Despite being one of the oldest cities in the state and its small size and population, Colby is a thriving city packed with a variety of things for you to do and enjoy!

From museums to music festivals and everything in between, this city has everything you’re looking for to have the perfect getaway!

You can also indulge in the different local eateries that this city has to offer and even go on a food trip with your loved ones.

Its convenient location also makes it easy to access nearby cities in case you’re looking for more things to do outside of Colby.

Look no further and book your next vacation to Colby, Kansas, for a memorable, exciting, and fun-filled vacation!

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