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Must-See Museums and Exhibitions in Marion County

Marion, Kansas, is packed with historical charm and plenty of hidden treasures. Local museums and exhibitions bring stories to life with unique artifacts, creative art, and interactive displays.

What is the difference between a museum and an exhibition? A museum preserves and displays history, art, and culture. An exhibition is usually a temporary or special display inside a museum.

Plan a museum-filled adventure or take things slow with a relaxing getaway. Either way, the Historic Elgin Hotel is the perfect place to stay. With timeless charm, cozy rooms, and rich history, it’s part of the experience itself. Ready to start planning your next historical adventure? 

Explore Local History at Top Museums

You may ask, "Is there anything fun to do in Kansas?" The answer is yes! Marion County has a lot to do. And a lot of history! It’s all just waiting to be explored. Local museums and exhibitions share fun stories about pioneers, old railroads, and community traditions. 

Every spot has something different, hands-on stuff for kids, and fascinating artifacts for history buffs. Here are some of the best museums you’ll want on your list.

Marion Historical Museum

Step back into the 1800s with vintage photos, pioneer tools, and fascinating everyday items. The City of Marion Historical Museum makes history personal by showcasing the everyday experiences of early residents.

Harvey House Museum

Step inside the golden age of railroad travel at this beautifully preserved local treasure. The Harvey House Museum shares stories of elegant train dining and Fred Harvey’s pioneering hospitality. It’s one of the last standing Harvey Houses in Kansas and was Fred Harvey’s first restaurant with a hotel, right here in Florence.

Hillsboro Museums Complex

Interactive exhibits and a striking Dutch windmill make this spot a family favorite. The Hillsboro Museums Complex includes the Mennonite Settlement Museum, showcasing early settler traditions and cultural heritage.

Pioneer Adobe House

Built in 1876, this limestone-and-adobe home gives a vivid glimpse into prairie life. Its rooms are filled with early settler tools, clothing, and household goods. Friendly docents share stories that make each artifact feel alive. It’s just 11 minutes from Elgin.

Chaplain Kapaun Museum

Just 14 minutes from Elgin, this heartfelt museum in Pilsen honors Fr. Emil Kapaun. He was a Kansas farm boy, Army chaplain, and Medal of Honor recipient. Photos, relics, and stories reveal his legacy of sacrifice and faith during the Korean War. His journey to sainthood continues, drawing history lovers and pilgrims worldwide.

a tall stone clock tower with two large clock faces flying the american flag and another flag against a cloudy sky with some trees in the foreground

Visit Unique Exhibits and Art Displays

If you love art, you’re in for a treat in the region. Local galleries show everything from bright Kansas landscapes to quirky handmade pottery. The Prairie PastTimes Arts & Crafts is a favorite for seeing regional artists do their thing. The Copper Shed is another cool stop where you can see a local artist craft items from copper.

If you’re here for a fall getaway, Marion’s Art in the Park and the Hillsboro Arts and Crafts Fair are packed with creativity and charm. It’s an easy way to add a splash of culture to your trip.

Step inside Historic Buildings and Landmarks

Some places in Marion, Kansas, feel like stepping back in time. The Historic Elgin Hotel is a historic jewel — a stunning 19th-century building filled with vintage charm. Wander our halls, admire the woodwork, and imagine the travelers who stayed here a hundred years ago.

Historic churches around town showcase towering steeples and colorful stained-glass windows. Downtown Marion still has classic storefronts that keep that small-town, old-fashioned vibe alive. The Marion County Courthouse also stands proudly, its stone architecture telling stories of years past.

The Marion City Library lives inside the restored 1912 Santa Fe train depot. Original features — like the ticket counter and freight room — now house books, computers, and cozy community spaces. This award-winning preservation project reopened in 2002 and continues to impress.

Every landmark has its own story, and the best part? You can explore it all. Our hotel keeps you close to Marion’s rich history and charm.

Experience Interactive and Engaging Exhibits

History doesn’t have to feel stuffy or boring in Marion County. Many historic landmarks here are designed to keep things hands-on and fun. Kids can touch, explore, and get involved with the displays. 

Even local art spaces sometimes host interactive workshops. It's perfect for families who love to try new things. The museums and exhibitions here make learning feel more like playtime than a lesson.

a historic black and white steam locomotive train traveling down a railway track with a bridge and small buildings in the background

Learn about the Area's Rich Cultural Heritage

Marion has a deep cultural heritage. You’ll hear stories of pioneers, railroads, and the hardworking communities that built this area. 

Museums and exhibitions share unique cultural treasures, making it easy to connect with the past. Local festivals celebrate small-town traditions with food, music, and family-friendly fun.

Even the recipes at local diners, with their hearty, homemade meals passed down for generations, tell history. You’ll feel the mix of history and hometown pride everywhere you go.

Plan Your Museum Visit Today

Ready to dive into Marion County’s fascinating history? The museums and exhibitions here truly make every trip unforgettable.

And the best part? The Historic Elgin Hotel puts you right in the middle of it all. After a day of exploring, relax in a beautiful 19th-century inn that’s a historic landmark itself. How perfect does that sound?

Book your stay at the Historic Elgin Hotel today for a getaway to remember. Use our travel guide to plan your visit.


Photo Credit: © Monkey Business Images via canva.com, © Redheadedhornet from Getty Images via canva.com, © David Savill from Photo Images via canva.com