Fort Hays - Plan your visit
African American "Buffalo Soldiers" are part of the rich Fort Hays history that includes names like General George A. Custer; William "Buffalo Bill" Cody; and James B. "Wild Bill" Hickok. Established in 1865 in the land of the Cheyenne and Arapaho, the fort protected railroad workers and travelers on the Smoky Hill Trail. Learn more about the soldiers and the people they were protecting when you visit Fort Hays. A finalist in the 8 Wonders of Kansas History, and buffalo statue named one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art.
- 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday
- Closed most state holidays
Admission
-
$5 adults; $1 students; Kansas Historical Foundation members and children five and under admitted free
- Portions ADA accessible. Please notify us prior to your visit if you or a member of your party requires accommodation for special needs or disabilities.
- Pets are welcome on the grounds of Fort Hays but are not allowed in the buildings. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
Admission for tours
- For groups of more than 10, we request two weeks prior notice.
- School groups can schedule guided site tours with two weeks prior notice.
- Find more information about tours: Grating, Grinding and Shaving, Native Americans and the Buffalo, and Victorian Secrets.
- Site administrators: Connie Schmeidler or Tammy Younger
Museum Store
Discover a variety of Kansas books, souvenirs, and other gifts at our Museum Store.
- Became a state site in 1901
- In Kansapedia
- In Kansapedia on post surgeon
- In Kansas Memory
- National Register nomination, listed in 1971
Local travel links
Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau
Chestnut Street District, Hays