Finding enjoyable activities that don’t cost money can transform any trip, and Hays, Kansas is one of those places where you can experience history, culture, nature, and community without spending a single dollar. Whether you’re a traveler passing through western Kansas, a family looking for an affordable day out, or a student at Fort Hays State University searching for budget-friendly fun, you will discover many free things to do in hays ks that are both memorable and meaningful.
Hays is a vibrant college town with a warm atmosphere and a wide variety of free attractions. Known for its frontier history, public art, prairie landscapes, and welcoming community spaces, the city offers an easy pace that makes exploring enjoyable. This guide takes you through the best free things to do in hays ks, highlighting outdoor spaces, historic sites, self-guided activities, and cultural experiences that allow you to connect with the real character of the region.
Introduction to Hays and Its Free Attractions
Hays was once a bustling frontier settlement where soldiers, settlers, and notable figures like Wild Bill Hickok left their mark. Today, the city blends this deep sense of history with modern amenities, a thriving university, and a walkable downtown full of art and personality. With so many free things to do in hays ks, you can explore both sides of the city—the old and the new—without stretching your budget.
Travelers often appreciate the relaxed and friendly nature of Hays. The trails are inviting, the public spaces are clean, and the cultural offerings are surprisingly rich for a smaller community. Because several of the city’s best attractions require no admission, you can easily fill a full day or even a weekend with free activities.
Why Free Activities Matter in Hays
Exploring free attractions isn’t just about saving money. It’s about enjoying authentic experiences that bring out the heart of a place. When you walk through downtown, visit public parks, or explore historic sites on your own, you are connecting directly with the story and culture of Hays.
Here’s why the free things to do in hays ks are worth your time:
• Cultural value – Historic trails, public art, and educational markers enrich your understanding of the city.
• Outdoor wellness – Parks, nature areas, and walking paths help you relax and stay active.
• Family-friendly – Most free attractions appeal to visitors of all ages.
• Educational – Many historical sites provide panels and outdoor displays that teach without cost.
• Accessibility – Nothing feels rushed; you can enjoy each spot at your own pace.
Hays is designed in a way that makes free exploration both easy and enjoyable.
Historic Downtown Hays
A perfect starting point for anyone visiting the city is the historic downtown district, often called The Bricks because of its charming red-brick streets. This is one of the most interesting free things to do in hays ks, offering a mix of history, small shops, murals, sculptures, and unique architecture.
Downtown is walkable and filled with character. Old storefronts have been preserved, many displaying plaques explaining their connection to Hays’s frontier past. Some buildings once served soldiers, settlers, and railroad workers, and the markers tell stories that bring these places to life.
Photographers will love the colorful murals painted by local artists. These public artworks add vibrancy to the district and make great backdrop locations for pictures.
Hays, Kansas – Quick Bio Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ellis County, Kansas, USA |
| Founded | 1867 |
| Famous For | Frontier history, Fort Hays, murals, parks, university life |
| Population | Around 21,000+ (approx.) |
| Main University | Fort Hays State University (FHSU) |
| Known Attractions | Historic Downtown, Fort Hays grounds, ARC Park, murals |
| Best For | Budget travel, history lovers, families, nature seekers |
| Climate | Semi-arid, hot summers, cold winters |
| Transportation | Easily accessible via I-70, local buses, walkable downtown |
The Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour
One of the most popular free things to do in hays ks is the downtown walking tour. It requires no guide, no ticket, and no schedule—just curiosity and comfortable shoes.
This tour takes you past historical markers that explain the lives of early settlers, military leaders, and boundary-pushing pioneers. As you explore, you’ll learn how the city transformed from a wild frontier post into the thriving college community it is today.
The tour is ideal for families, history lovers, and casual travelers who enjoy learning through exploration.
Fort Hays State Historic Site Grounds
While some indoor exhibits may have seasonal admission, walking the grounds of the Fort Hays State Historic Site is completely free. This location is important to the identity of Hays and remains one of the most meaningful free things to do in hays ks.
On these grounds, you can view historic officer quarters, walk the parade field, and stand on the same paths once used by frontier soldiers. Interpretive signs explain the significance of each structure, allowing you to learn without entering any buildings.
The open prairie surrounding the fort adds to the atmosphere. The quietness here creates a reflective environment that helps visitors imagine what life was like more than a century ago.
Parks and Nature Spaces Around Hays
Nature lovers will appreciate how many free things to do in hays ks involve beautiful outdoor spaces. The city’s parks are well-kept, peaceful, and ideal for walking, picnicking, or spending time with friends and family.
ARC Park
This inclusive park is one of the most impressive public recreation spaces in the city. It features modern playground equipment, wide walkways, shaded seating, and open green areas for group activities. It was designed to be accessible for children of all abilities, making it a favorite local spot.
Massey Park
A quiet neighborhood park where families gather for fresh air, games, or afternoon playtime.
Vineyard Nature Area
This peaceful natural zone allows visitors to escape the noise and enjoy soft trails, open skies, and prairie plants. Walking here is relaxing and perfect for those wanting a slower pace.
Hays Dog Park
A spacious, fenced area where dogs can run free, socialize, and burn energy. It’s one of the most pet-friendly free things to do in hays ks, especially if you’re traveling with animals.
These parks are spread conveniently across the city, so no matter where you stay, a relaxing green space is just minutes away.
Public Murals and Sculptures
Hays is well-known for its growing art scene. Murals decorate many corners of the city, from downtown walls to hidden alleys and university areas. Exploring these creative masterpieces is another enjoyable way to experience free things to do in hays ks without a plan or schedule.
Artists often reflect themes like Kansas landscapes, wildlife, heritage, and abstract concepts. The sculptures placed around public parks and sidewalks add to the city’s artistic identity.
Art lovers will find that every walk reveals something new.
Free Events and Community Activities
Depending on when you visit, you might stumble into seasonal events, street shows, or festivals that don’t cost money.
Some of the best free activities include:
• First Friday Art Walk – Galleries open, musicians perform, and shops host special displays.
• Community concerts – Several free performances happen throughout the year.
• Holiday parades and street events – Always cheerful and family-oriented.
These events support local artists and bring life to the historic district.
Hays Public Library
The library is more than a quiet reading zone. It regularly hosts free events for adults and children, including craft hours, educational workshops, book clubs, and seasonal programs. It also holds historical archives that help visitors learn more about Ellis County.
If you are exploring a long list of free things to do in hays ks, stopping by the library is a peaceful break.
Exploring the Fort Hays State University Campus
FHSU’s campus is open to the public and offers beautiful scenery. The landscaped paths, modern sculptures, lakeside views, and tree-filled walkways make it one of the most relaxing free things to do in hays ks.
Many visitors take photos near the university lake or enjoy an afternoon walk through the quiet academic areas. The campus atmosphere is welcoming, warm, and peaceful.
Photography Spots Throughout the City
If you enjoy photography, you’ll find several attractive locations across Hays:
- Murals downtown
- Historic brick buildings
- Fort Hays grounds
- Prairie landscapes
- Lake views on campus
- Sculptures and public art
Capturing these moments adds a creative dimension to your list of free things to do in hays ks.
A Full Free Day in Hays – Suggested Itinerary
If you want to explore as much as possible in one day, here’s a simple, balanced plan:
Morning: Walk through historic downtown and visit murals.
Late morning: Explore the self-guided walking tour.
Afternoon: Visit ARC Park or Vineyard Nature Area for peace and scenery.
Evening: Stroll around the Fort Hays State University campus.
Night: Enjoy First Friday Art Walk if your visit matches the schedule.
This itinerary highlights the best free things to do in hays ks without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
Hays showcases the best of western Kansas hospitality, offering a surprising amount of free, memorable experiences. From its historic streets and frontier landmarks to its parks, murals, and community events, the city encourages exploration at your own pace.
If you want to enjoy genuine small-town charm without worrying about costs, the variety of free things to do in hays ks makes this destination ideal for travelers of all ages.
FAQs
Q: What are the most popular free things to do in Hays KS?
A: The most popular free activities include exploring Historic Downtown, walking the Fort Hays Historic Site grounds, enjoying ARC Park, viewing public murals, and strolling the FHSU campus.
Q: Is Hays KS a good place for budget-friendly travel?
A: Yes, Hays offers many free attractions, walkable areas, scenic parks, and cultural sites that make it perfect for low-cost travel.
Q: Are there free outdoor activities in Hays KS?
A: Absolutely. You can enjoy nature walks, local parks, public art trails, prairie views, and historic outdoor landmarks.
Q: Can families enjoy free things to do in Hays KS?
A: Yes, most free attractions—like parks, murals, and historic sites—are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Q: Do I need reservations for free attractions in Hays KS?
A: No, most free activities such as parks, walking tours, and downtown exploration require no reservations.
