Discover Ellis

When looking for a hotel in Ellis, you can choose places to visit based on the themes you want to shape your stay: railroad history, the story of the Chrysler home, or the collection about Bukovina. The cultural attractions differ in subject and type of visit. You can first consider which perspective interests you most and plan accordingly, rather than grouping all the sites under a single theme.

Railroad History and Model Railroading

The Ellis Railroad Museum preserves the history of the Union Pacific Railroad in Ellis. The railroad focus also includes a working model railroad layout covering more than 5,000 square feet, built by the Western Kansas Model Railroad Club. This brings local history and model railroad construction together as two distinct perspectives: the museum focuses on the Union Pacific in Ellis, while the layout explores railroads on a model scale. Its size and working condition give model railroading a concrete place alongside the historical focus.

Another facet is the miniature passenger train, the General Motors Aero Streamliner. It travels along a 0.75-mile route and passes the original railroad roundhouse and Big Creek. The train ride differs from the model railroad layout in its route and the two named points along the way. The railroad theme thus encompasses both the history of the Union Pacific and model railroading, as well as a ride on the miniature train.

The Chrysler Home and Its History

The Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home offers a different historical focus. The house was built in 1889 and occupied by the Chrysler family until 1908. It officially opened as a museum in 1954. The construction date, family occupancy, and museum opening mark different phases; the museum was established considerably later than the family’s time living there. Directions are also provided to help you plan your visit: the house is at the intersection of 10th Street and Washington in Ellis. From I-70, take Ellis Exit 145, head south, and continue for ten blocks to the traffic light.

Bukovina Collection and Tour

The Bukovina Society Headquarters Museum preserves a collection of artifacts from Bukovina and maintains a small library of books. It offers a distinct focus alongside railroad history and the Chrysler home: here, the emphasis is on the collection and library. You can arrange a tour by emailing info@bukovinasociety.org in advance; volunteers coordinate visits. If you plan to take this tour, allow time to make contact beforehand.

Walking Trail and Big Creek

Ellis also has attractions for interests beyond museums. The Dennis Schoenthaler Memorial Walking Trail is a named trail in town. Big Creek also runs along the western edge of a park, where fishing access is available. These two features appeal to different activities: the trail is a place to go for a walk, while the creek is associated with the park and fishing access. When planning, you can consider cultural attractions and outdoor activities as different aspects of your stay.

Discover more destinations: Hays.

For the broader travel overview: Ellis County.