Nicodemus National Historic Site
Formerly enslaved African Americans left Kentucky at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction period to experience freedom in the "Promised Land" of Kansas.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
About Nicodemus National Historic Site
Formerly enslaved African Americans left Kentucky at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction period to experience freedom in the "Promised Land" of Kansas. Nicodemus represents the involvement of African Americans in the homesteading movement across the Great Plains. It is the oldest remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi River.
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Driving times from Nicodemus National Historic Site, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Park Hours
- Mon
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Tue
- Closed
- Wed
- Closed
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Sat
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Sun
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Activities
Getting there
Northwest Kansas has a four-season climate typified by long, hot summers, cold winters, short spring and fall seasons, and a nearly constant breeze. Humidity is relatively low compared to the eastern portion of the state. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and gusty winds frequently occur during the spring and summer. Tornados are possible but are less common in Kansas than they are in several other states. Snow accumulation from winter blizzards occasionally causes site to close.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Nicodemus National Historic Site?
- Popular activities include Guided Tours, Junior Ranger Program, Park Film, Self-Guided Tours - Auto, Self-Guided Tours - Walking.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Nicodemus National Historic Site?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Fort Larned National Historic Site (2 h 5 min), Santa Fe National Historic Trail (2 h 17 min), Homestead National Historical Park (3 h 28 min), Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park (3 h 51 min), Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (4 h 2 min), Amache National Historic Site (4 h 7 min).