Great Bend

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Great Bend's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Great Bend
morning
:

Start your day with a bike ride along the Arkansas River pathway, enjoying the scenic views. Stop by the Great Bend Batty to witness the local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Great Bend Zoo to see a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts. Grab lunch at a nearby café to refuel for the rest of the day.

evening
:

Relax at the Great Bend Sports Complex where you can watch a local game or enjoy a peaceful picnic. Dine at a local restaurant and savor regional cuisine.

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Head to the Cheyenne Bottoms, one of the largest wetlands in the U.S., for a birdwatching adventure. Bring your binoculars and capture moments as you explore.

afternoon
:

Continue your nature exploration with a hike in the nearby state park. Enjoy a packed lunch while listening to the sounds of nature.

evening
:

Return to Great Bend and visit the local farmers' market if it's open. Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant for the freshest ingredients.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Great Bend Arts Center, where you can view local artworks and exhibitions. Participate in a workshop if available to unleash your creativity.

afternoon
:

Take a walking tour of historic downtown Great Bend, visiting unique shops and cafes. Enjoy a light lunch at a quaint bistro.

evening
:

Attend a performance at the Great Bend Community Theatre or check out any local events. Treat yourself to dessert at a nearby coffee shop.

day 4
Water Fun
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Great Bend Aquatic Center for some swimming fun. Enjoy the slides and various pools before lunchtime.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head over to the local splash park for more water activities. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park adjacent to the splash area.

evening
:

Unwind by the Arkansas River, where you can try paddle boarding or kayaking. Grab dinner at a riverfront restaurant for a picturesque view.

day 5
Food Exploration
morning
:

Start the day with coffee at a local café, trying out their pastries. Make sure to chat with locals for favorite food spots.

afternoon
:

Embark on a food tour, visiting popular eateries and sampling signature dishes. Don’t forget to explore food trucks that often offer unique cuisines.

evening
:

Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare a local dish. End the night with dessert from a renowned bakery.

day 6
Adventure Day
morning
:

Kick off your adventure with a morning hike in the nearby parks. The trails offer beautiful landscapes that are perfect for photography.

afternoon
:

Go for a thrilling ATV tour in the surrounding areas to explore more of the local scenery. Be sure to have a hearty lunch packed for energy.

evening
:

End your adventure with a sunset view from a lookout point. Head back to town for dinner at a steakhouse to refuel.

day 7
Wildlife Watching
morning
:

Visit the Great Bend Zoo early to see the animals during their feeding times. Enjoy learning about various species up close.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby nature reserves to discover native wildlife. Have a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas.

evening
:

Attend a local wildlife seminar or presentation to learn more about conservation efforts. Dine at a restaurant known for its sustainable practices.

day 8
Music and Fun
morning
:

Start your day at a local café where live music may be playing. Enjoy breakfast while soaking in the tunes.

afternoon
:

Check out any local music festivals or street performances happening in Great Bend. Grab lunch from a food stall nearby.

evening
:

Join a karaoke night at a local bar or pub to showcase your singing talent. Share some laughs with friends over dinner.

day 9
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Barton County Historical Society to learn about the region's rich past. Take a guided tour for deeper insight.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic architecture of Great Bend by walking its downtown streets. Find a charming lunch spot to relax.

evening
:

Visit a local museum or art gallery to discover more about the culture of Great Bend. End your day with dinner at a historic inn.

day 10
Health and Wellness
morning
:

Start your day with a yoga class at a local studio, focusing on mindfulness and relaxation. Enjoy fresh juice at a health café post-workout.

afternoon
:

Join a local fitness group for hiking or biking to stay active. Pack a healthy lunch to refuel after your workout.

evening
:

Attend a wellness workshop on nutrition or meditation in the community. Enjoy a light dinner at a health-conscious restaurant.

Discover Great Bend

Read more in our Great Bend 2024 Travel Guide.

Great Bend Travel Guide