When most people think of Leavenworth, the "Big House" comes to mind. And while everyone wants to avoid the hospitality of the famous U.S. Federal Penitentiary, they do enjoy the hospitality, architecture and sites.

This picturesque town is known as the "First City in Kansas," established in 1854 and located on the west banks of the Missouri River. Visitors enjoy browsing Leavenworth's historic riverfront downtown, which offers many antique and unique shops.

The Carroll Mansion, built in 1882, is adorned with magnificent woodwork and beautiful stained glass windows. It is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday.

Adjacent to Leavenworth is Ft. Leavenworth, the oldest continuously-operating fort west of the Mississippi River. Today Ft. Leavenworth is considered one of the most beautiful and well-maintained forts in the United States. It contains several historical sites, including the Frontier Army Museum, Santa Fe and Oregon Trail cuts, the National Cemetery, Buffalo Soldiers Monument and the Berlin Wall Monument.

Both Leavenworth and Fort Leavenworth have Historical Wayside Tours (walking and driving). Waysides are interactive modules that feature unique local artwork depicting images of significant historical people, structures or events associated with that particular site. Brochures with map available.

For additional information, please contact the Leavenworth Convention and Visitors CVA at 800-844-4114. You can also visit Leavenworth online at www.lvarea.com/CVA.

Directions from downtown

Kansas City, Missouri to Leavenworth, Kansas
I-70 West to Highway 7-73 North to Leavenworth (11 miles)
Leavenworth CVA: (800) 844-4111.