Looking to take a day trip in Kansas? Well, Kansas is speckled with plenty of beautiful, tiny towns worth a visit, but one of the most interesting ones to visit is undoubtedly Atchison.

Atchison, Kansas has a major claim to fame: aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart was born here. The town has plenty of attractions dedicated to Earhart and even holds an annual festival celebrating the icon. But Atchison is also simply a quaint Kansas town with lots of history, great food, and intriguing sights, making it the perfect day trip destination.

Atchison is the birthplace of famous aviator Amelia Earhart, and this town is darn proud of it. One of the highlights in Atchison is visiting the home she was born in, now a tribute to Earhart.

Loni J/TripAdvisor

Check out the massive Amelia Earhart Earthwork from the nearby overlook and you really get a sense of their love for Earhart.

Jacque P/TripAdvisor

Guess whom this bridge is named after.

Kansas Traveling Dad/TripAdvisor

That’s not all – there is even an aviation museum so you can learn more about the planes that made Earhart famous.

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum/Facebook

But don’t worry if you’re not all that into planes. Atchison offers plenty of other delights, especially if you’re into ghosts.

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Yep, Atchison is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in the country, let alone in Kansas. You can take a ghost tour to learn all about Atchison’s legends.

OHOverlandParksKS/TripAdvisor

Atchison is filled with beautiful homes from the 1800s to admire, and just walking around the town feels like stepping back in history. Plus there are plenty of shops and art galleries to admire.

Sheryl D/TripAdvisor

Benedictine College is also located in Atchison, and the campus is absolutely gorgeous and worth a stroll. Plus, you’ll find cool stores, bars, and restaurants by the college.

Benedictine College/Facebook

So if you’re long admired the legend of Amelia Earhart or could care less about planes, Atchison, Kansas is an ideal day trip: It’s a beautiful town with plenty of history and things to do.

Loni J/TripAdvisor

Jacque P/TripAdvisor

Kansas Traveling Dad/TripAdvisor

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum/Facebook

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OHOverlandParksKS/TripAdvisor

Sheryl D/TripAdvisor

Benedictine College/Facebook

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Address: Atchison, KS, USA