Spring Excitement and Summer Adventures in Dodge City

In spring, Dodge City comes alive with energy and anticipation of the upcoming travel season. The Annual Southwest Kansas Winter Expo — the trade show with something for everyone — draws hundreds of vendors and live performers for three days of shopping, food, gun show, and more, attracting visitors from across the region.

Dodge City's reputation as the "Wickedest Little City in the West" was earned during the cattle drive era of the 1870s and 1880s, when the city served as the terminus of the Chisholm Trail and the Long Branch Saloon was the most famous watering hole on the frontier. Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, and Doc Holliday all walked these streets.

Boot Hill Museum preserves and celebrates this legendary history with exceptional authenticity. The museum's recreated Front Street features the Long Branch Saloon, the general store, and other period buildings, staffed by costumed interpreters who bring the Wild West era to life. Live gunfight reenactments are performed daily during the summer season.

The Dodge City Roundup Rodeo — held every July — is one of the premier rodeos in the country. The event draws top professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country for four days of competition, including bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and steer wrestling.

Boot Hill Distillery produces award-winning spirits that celebrate Dodge City's frontier heritage. The distillery's tasting room is located in the historic downtown, and tours are available throughout the week.

For more information, visit visitdodgecity.org.