In far southwest Kansas, where the horizon rolls for miles and the sky never ends, sits a community shaped by generosity. Before it was a town, Liberal drew travelers to its “liberal well” so named because S.S. Rogers gave free water to pioneers, unlike neighbors who charged for every bucket. As more settlers passed through, “the liberal well” became simply “Liberal.”
That same welcoming spirit defines Liberal today.
The town blends history, unique attractions, and classic hospitality. Visit Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz, the official home of Dorothy Gale, with a guided tour starting in a lovingly restored 1907 farmhouse, and continue into a complete Oz experience full of movie memorabilia.
For aviation fans, the Mid-America Air Museum holds more than 100 aircraft, from experimental designs to one of the smallest Air Force One planes ever used. The collection started in 1986 and has grown immensely since then.
At Baker Arts Center, local and national artists display their work, while workshops and community events fill the calendar.
Don’t skip the Coronado Museum, named for Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, see prized artifacts, including an ancient Spanish horse bit, and explore displays on Native American heritage and frontier life.
Each Shrove Tuesday, the International Pancake Day celebration takes center stage, featuring a transatlantic race (pots of pancakes in hand) with Olney, England. The day includes parades, children’s races, and special community services.
Beyond the big events, Liberal offers golf, a water park, movies, and birdwatching at the Arkalon wildlife area. Since its earliest days, Liberal has welcomed newcomers with kindness, tradition, and hometown pride.