Junction City: Rivers, Art, and History

Junction City brings together several themes: the confluence of two rivers, downtown art and architecture, and monuments with specific historical connections. You can tailor your stay to your interests—for example, the cityscape, memorial sites, or public spaces.

Rivers, Art, and Urban Culture

Junction City lies at the confluence of the Republican River and the Smoky Hill River; the two merge to form the Kansas River. In downtown, murals, statues, and historic architecture shape the streetscape, complemented by an arts scene. This gives the city center a different focus from the historic memorial sites: here, art and architectural forms take center stage in the public cityscape.

The Junction City Arts Council offers art walks, classes, and workshops for families. Dates may change, so check in advance which activities are taking place during your stay.

Churches and Stages

The First Presbyterian Church of Junction City is an example of a church in the Neoclassical Revival style. Its history includes more than 150 years of service to the community and Fort Riley; it is also one of the earliest churches of the frontier era. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod was founded in 1861 at Wetzel’s Log Cabin Church, and is described as the state’s first Lutheran congregation. The two churches represent different historical connections: one to architecture and its longstanding ties to the community, the other to the early history of the Lutheran church in Kansas.

After a seven-million-dollar restoration, the C.L. Hoover Opera House reopened to the public on October 3, 2008, as a center for the performing arts and civic events. Past programming included music, dance, theater, musical theater, comedy, and classic and independent films; children’s programs were also part of the offerings. If you would like to attend an event, check the current schedule.

The Geary County Historical Museum also explores the region’s history. One exhibit includes a railroad depot, a one-room schoolhouse, and “Businesses Through The Ages.” These three examples range from transportation and school life to business history, offering different themes to explore during a museum visit.

Monuments and Memorial Sites

The Buffalo Soldier Memorial honors the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments on horseback, known as the Buffalo Soldiers. It includes a wall of native limestone and a nine-foot bronze statue of a Buffalo Soldier beside his horse. At Buffalo Soldier Park and Memorial, nine panels provide information about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. The monument and panels offer different ways to engage: after reflecting on the regiments, visitors can learn about their history using the information panels.

The Junction City GAR Monument stands in Heritage Park: it is about 35 feet tall, made of natural stone, and topped with two cannons. A PDF walking tour of the park’s monuments and memorials is available, prepared by staff of the Geary County Historical Society. Heritage Park has also served as a venue for Run For The Wall and the weeklong Fourth of July Freedom Fest celebration.

Public Spaces and Seasonal Dates

Riverwalk Landing includes a large pond, a walking path, and a pavilion. Junction City’s public spaces also include hiking and biking trails, river access, ball fields, and historic monuments and memorials. When planning, you can choose between visiting cultural and historic sites and spending time in public spaces with trails, sports fields, or river access.

The Main Street Market is held weekly on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May through September. The market features local vendors, activities, and seasonal events. Dates and times may vary, so check before visiting.

Spring Valley Historic Site west of the city

West of Junction City, Spring Valley Historic Site includes three historic buildings. Tours and activities can be arranged through the Geary County Historical Society. If you are planning a visit, confirm the current arrangements with the Historical Society before you arrive.

For the broader travel overview: Geary County.