About the Venue
Heartland Park Topeka’s ¼ mile drag strip has landed itself on the racing map. Heartland Park Topeka is the host for multiple local as well as national drag racing events. The NHRA has been burning up the strip since the very beginning and returned in June for the NHRA O’Reilly Summer Nationals.
Venue Pictures
City Guide
Topeka, KS
Topeka is the capitol city of Kansas and is a little hidden gem. It is home to diverse cuisine. Experience a dish at one of the locally-owned restaurants, or enjoy a traditional dish at one of the national chains. From out-of-this world barbecue to authentic world cuisine, you’ll find it all in Topeka.
With twelve art galleries and five world-class performing arts facilities, there’s no denying that arts and entertainment are a priority. Topeka’s galleries and facilities showcase some of the best local, regional and national talent. Topeka hosts several arts and cultural-themed events throughout the year, such as the Coleman Hawkins Jazz Festival, Fiesta Mexicana and the Inter-Tribal Pow Wow. Please click here for event information.
Getting to Topeka
Topeka is serviced by only municipal airports with little or no access by the major or regional carriers. Flying into Kansas City International Airport (www.kansas-city-mci.com) (MCI) will be your best bet. It is only about 55 miles from Topeka and is serviced by all major airlines and car rental agencies.
Driving to Topeka
Topeka is within driving distance from several major cities; below are just a few:
Columbia, MO, 190 miles
Denver, CO, 540 miles
Des Moines, IA, 260 miles
Kansas City, KS, 55 miles
Oklahoma City, OK, 295 miles
Omaha, NE, 165 miles
St. Joseph, MO, 100 miles
What to Do
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site (www.nps.gov/brvb)
The story of Brown v. Board of Education, which ended legal segregation in public schools, is one of hope and courage. When the people agreed to be plaintiffs in the case, they never knew they would change history. Brown v. Board of Education NHS is located in the former Monroe Elementary School, one of four African American elementary schools. The school has recently been rehabilitated to its 1954 appearance.
Features include; an award-winning short-film Race and the American Creed, the “Education and Justice” gallery where you will learn about the people, places and events that shaped the years right before and after the decision, and “The Legacy of Brown v. Board of Education” gallery where you will discover events that happened as a result of Brown, and the continuing struggle for equality. Open daily 9-5pm. Free; however, a donation box is available. Located at 1515 SE Monroe St, Topeka, KS 66612.
Kansas Museum of History (www.kshs.org/places/museum.htm)
The Kansas Museum of History features award-winning exhibits on the state's colorful past fill the spacious main gallery. You'll see a full-sized Cheyenne tipi, a fully stocked covered wagon ready for a trip on the Oregon Trail, a 1950s diner made by the Valentine Industries, and many other outstanding features. The centerpiece is a locomotive made in 1880 for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. The Discovery Place is an exciting hands-on gallery for children of all ages at the Kansas Museum of History. Open Tues-Sat 9-5pm; Sun 1-5pm; Closed Mondays and state holidays. Adults, $5; seniors, $4; students, $3 (Kansas residents get a $1.00 discount). Located at 6425 SW 6th Ave, Topeka, KS 66615; (785) 272-8681.
Combat Air Museum (www.combatairmuseum.org)
Much more than a collection of aircraft, the Combat Air Museum houses a wide variety of military aviation artifacts ranging in time from the First World War to the present day. Aircraft engines of many sizes and types are on exhibit as well. A simulated field kitchen is set up and ready to prepare and serve a meal and a field chapel, complete with portable organ, is ready for services. A re-creation of a German POW barracks was constructed based on first hand experience of two museum members, authentic down to the bare light bulbs, straw-filled mattresses and barbed wire. Exhibits include an extensive display of artifacts and dioramas and a growing gallery of military aviation art. Mon-Sat 9-4:30pm; Sun Noon-4:30pm (no visitors admitted after 3:30pm). Located at Hangars 602-604 "J" St, Forbes Field, Topeka, KS; (785) 862-3303.
Kansas State Capitol (www.kshs.org/places/capitol/dome_tour.htm)
You will want to take advantage of the incredible opportunity to explore history in a whole new way! The spectacular Kansas State Capitol tour will literally take your breath away. There are 296 steps to the top and no elevator. You will marvel at the elaborate architecture of the inner and outer domes. At the summit, you will see the city of Topeka, Kansas from a most unique viewpoint. Accomplishing this feat will give you bragging rights to having successfully overcome your fear of heights and open spaces. Tours start at 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. Tours are free of charge. Located at 10th and Jackson, Topeka, KS 66612, (785) 296-3966.
Shopping
Brookwood Shopping Center (www.shopbrookwood.com)
At the heart of a vibrant community, Brookwood Shopping Center stands as a symbol of originality, timeless quality and discerning taste. Here you will find 29 of Topeka's most intriguing specialty stores, one-of-a-kind shops and favorite restaurants. Located at 2909 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS; (785) 273-3111.
Downtown Topeka (www.downtowntopekainc.com)
Downtown Topeka is an increasingly vibrant district wrapped around the city's most visited tourist attraction, the Kansas State Capitol. In addition, to several historical attractions the district offers a growing list of interesting restaurants, specialty shops and entertainment options. Downtown Topeka is the city's central business district.
West Ridge Mall (www.simon.com/mall/default.aspx?ID=179)
West Ridge Mall promises a successful and fun shopping experience! Anchored by Dillard's, JCPenney, Macy's, Sears and Burlington Coat Factory. West Ridge Mall features more than 115 specialty stores including; Bath & Body Works, Old Navy, Christopher & Banks, Briman's Leading Jewelers, Eddie Bauer, Aeropostale, Gap Outlet, PacSun, The Limited Too, Yankee Candle, Kay Jewelers, Helzberg Diamonds, Rack Room Shoes and American Eagle Outfitters. When you're done shopping, you might sit and relax at Long Horn Steak House, The Olive Garden, Red Lobster, or Chili's Grill & Bar. Open Mon-Sat 10-9pm; Sun noon-6pm. Located at 1801 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS 66604; (785) 272-5119.
