At first glance, Fort Riley might seem like it doesn’t have a lot to offer. You just have to dig a little deeper and keep an opening mind while finding this to do in this Kansas duty station.

This Army duty station is located in north central Kansas. Most notably, from 1955 to 1996 the post was home to the famed 1st Infantry Division, also called “Big Red One”. Whether you’re a newbie getting ready for their first tour here, or hosting some out-of-town guest, this list of ‘Top Things to do in Fort Riley’ might spark some inspiration.

Here are The Best Things To Do In Fort Riley, Kansas

On Post

Follow Fort Riley’s Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation for the best on-post info about events and activities. There are races, festivals, and even concerts to keep Soldiers and their families entertained. Find a hobby with arts and crafts, the auto center, hunting and fishing or the aquatic center.

Milford Lake

Spend a day on the largest man-made lake in Kansas. Fort Riley’s FMWR offers a marine and water craft rentals.

Have a blasting Country Stampede

If you’ve happened to be in the area on the last weekend of June, you’ll have a chance to experience some good country music during the Country Stampede.This three-day country music and camping festival located at Tuttle Creek State Park in Manhattan, KS. Even if the music isn’t your cup of tea, you’ll have tons of fun and beyond. Reminder: lots of booze.

Visit the US Cavalry Museum

A dedicated place that traces the history of the US Cavalry in the form of uniforms, tools, equipment, and weapons from different time periods. The museum is located adjacent to Cavalry Parade Field. You’ll love the diaramas, castings, actual historical pieces, and the tanks outside. NOTE: A sign in pass and a background check are mandatory for entering the premises.

Aggieville

Aggieville in Manhattan is advertised as the oldest shopping district in Kansas. It offers over 100 businesses for shopping, dining and a night out with friends. Whether you’re looking for a nice dinner or a cute trinket, explore Aggieville before you leave Fort Riley.

Custer House

Located on the parade ground of Ft. Riley, this is the simple interpretation of the quarters where George Armstrong Custer lived before he set off for the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Except for certain restrictions like the picture without flash, the Custer House is open to visitors. A must see if you are a history buff.

First Territorial Capitol of Kansas

The legendary place where the first territorial legislature convened in 1855. Walk-ins aren’t welcome here. Open to visitors from March to November (Friday – Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm). The capitol has announced a memorial to the brave hearts that gave their life for a better tomorrow and became a history museum in 1928.

Fort Riley 1st Infantry Division Museum

Everyone should visit this museum highlighting the creation and subsequent involvement of the 1st Infantry Division in WW1 (1917) at least once. It is an exemplary building that pays homage to the physical and spiritual losses Fort Riley has witnessed.

Pools

If the Aquatic park on post isn’t available, try the Junction City Municipal Swimming Pool. It is a public swimming pool that features water canons, toddler wading pool, and jumping jets. The pool requires a seasonal pass.

Ready to explore the highlights of Fort Riley with these must-do, must-see things? What else should be added to the list?

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The Best Things To Do In Fort Riley, Kansas