Grinter Place State Historic Site - an old log cabin sits on a grassy hill
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Grinter Place State Historic Site

4.5
·148 reviews·Kansas City, United States

Explore the 1857 Grinter Place, Wyandotte County's oldest house, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Kansas life with period furnishings and river vi...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
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Grinter Place State Historic Site - an old log cabin sits on a grassy hill

Grinter Place State Historic Site

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the 1857 Grinter Place, Wyandotte County's oldest house, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Kansas life with period furnishings and river views.

4.5
(148 reviews)

"A well-preserved piece of history, Grinter Place offers an educational and scenic escape into Kansas's past."

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TIP

Respect the Farm Blooms

Do NOT cut or take flowers. It's a working farm and this threatens public access. :flowerplayingcards:

Support with Purchases

Admission is free, but buying from the gift shop helps preserve history. :shopping_cart:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1857 Hilltop Farmhouse

1857 Hilltop Farmhouse

Main House

Explore a beautifully preserved 1857 farmhouse with authentic period furnishings and artifacts.

Panoramic River Views

Panoramic River Views

Hilltop

Enjoy scenic views of the Kansas River from the historic farmhouse's elevated position.

The Vintage Kitchen

The Vintage Kitchen

Main House Kitchen

Discover the charm of the past in the well-preserved kitchen, a favorite spot for many visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect the Working Farm

Grinter Place is a working farm. Please refrain from cutting or taking blooms, as this jeopardizes public access. Visitors have noted this has become a significant issue.

Free Admission, Consider Donations

While admission is free, supporting Grinter Place through gift shop purchases or donations helps preserve this historic site. It's a valuable part of Kansas history.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Crowd
Low
When
When Grinter Sunflower Farm is in bloom
Why
Combine with stunning sunflower fields
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

First trip to Grinter’s. New to KS, thank you to everyone who suggested this trip.

Respect the Farm Blooms

Do NOT cut or take flowers. It's a working farm and this threatens public access. :flowerplayingcards:

Support with Purchases

Admission is free, but buying from the gift shop helps preserve history. :shopping_cart:

reddit.com

Help me (new resident) fall in love with Kansas?

Educational Tours

Tours are informative and engaging, even for teens! :books:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around the historic house and grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

Respect the Farm Blooms

Do NOT cut or take flowers. It's a working farm and this threatens public access. :flowerplayingcards:

Support with Purchases

Admission is free, but buying from the gift shop helps preserve history. :shopping_cart:

Educational Tours

Tours are informative and engaging, even for teens! :books:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around the historic house and grounds. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(148 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Grinter Place for its free admission and the educational value of its guided tours, highlighting the well-preserved 1857 farmhouse and its historical significance. The scenic river views are also a noted positive. However, some reviews mention issues with the 'event side' facilities, suggesting it may not be ideal for large gatherings.

"From Kansas and had not heard of Grinter Place. Admission is free, however, l purchased items from the gift shop and gladly donated to such a well preserved part of our history. We also visited the Grinter sunflower farm. Lovely day trip with my Aunt Rose who added a bit of family history to the tour."

Tracy Inman-Cox

"A little history about this place. House was built in the 1800s and it amazing to see what they used and how very modern yet vintage it is. It was a nice little tour and if you want to check it out, do so. I had fun exploring and seeing this place. My favorite room is definitely the kitchen. Lots of cool stuff."

Chi H (Chi Chi)

"Great little informative tour. Not too long and quite educational! The oldest house in Wyandotte County presents its amazing architecture and grandiose."

Madelyn Raines

What People Like

Free admission
Informative tours
Historic farmhouse

What People Dislike

Event venue issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grinter Place is located on a hilltop overlooking the Kansas River. Specific driving directions can be found on their official website or by using GPS. It's a scenic drive, often combined with visits to nearby attractions like the Grinter sunflower farm. Reddit

Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors at Grinter Place State Historic Site. Reddit

Absolutely! Grinter Place is a perfect destination for a day trip, especially when combined with the nearby Grinter sunflower farm or other attractions in Wyandotte County. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Grinter Place State Historic Site is free. However, visitors are encouraged to support the site through gift shop purchases or donations. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Grinter Place State Historic Site website or call ahead to confirm current hours before your visit. Reddit

Typically, advance booking is not required for general visits as admission is free. However, for group tours or special events, it's advisable to inquire about reservation policies. Reddit

Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities should be confirmed directly with the site. Some historic homes may have limitations. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect a guided tour of the 1857 farmhouse, showcasing period furnishings, artifacts, and offering insights into the history of the Grinter family and the region. The hilltop location also provides lovely river views. Reddit

Tours at Grinter Place are generally described as informative but not overly long, making them suitable for a variety of visitors, including those with limited time. Reddit

Grinter Place focuses on historical preservation and guided tours. While educational, there are generally no specific hands-on activities designed for very young children. Reddit

Photography policies inside historic homes can vary. It's best to check with your tour guide or site staff regarding their specific rules on interior photography. Reddit

Grinter Place is significant as the oldest house in Wyandotte County, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and the history of early Kansas settlers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Grinter Place State Historic Site itself does not typically offer dining facilities. Visitors usually bring their own snacks or plan to eat at nearby restaurants in Kansas City or surrounding areas. Reddit

While there might not be designated picnic areas, enjoying a picnic on the grounds with a view could be possible, depending on site regulations. It's best to confirm this with the site staff. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the historic farmhouse, the scenic river views from the hilltop, and the surrounding grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. The vintage kitchen interior can also be very picturesque. Reddit

Photography rules inside historic sites can vary. It's recommended to ask your tour guide or site staff about their policy on interior photography to ensure you comply. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Grinter Place offers an educational experience that can be engaging for older children and teenagers, particularly those interested in history. The guided tours provide a narrative that brings the past to life. While there aren't many hands-on activities, the visual aspect of exploring a historic home and the stories shared by guides can capture young imaginations. Reddit

Consider combining your visit with the nearby Grinter Sunflower Farm (seasonally) for an added element of visual appeal that kids often enjoy. Ensure children understand the importance of respecting the historic artifacts and the working farm environment to make the visit smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

📚 History Buffs

For those passionate about history, Grinter Place is a must-visit. As the oldest house in Wyandotte County, it offers an authentic glimpse into 19th-century Kansas life. The well-preserved furnishings and knowledgeable guides provide deep insights into the Grinter family's story and the broader historical context of the region. Reddit

Take your time during the tour to absorb the details and ask questions. The site's preservation efforts ensure that you're experiencing a genuine piece of history, making it a rewarding destination for anyone interested in local heritage and early American settlement.

📸 Photographers

Grinter Place offers a unique blend of architectural and natural beauty for photographers. The exterior of the 1857 farmhouse provides a classic, historic subject, while the hilltop location offers scenic river views. Reddit

If visiting during the sunflower season, the nearby Grinter Sunflower Farm presents an incredible opportunity for vibrant, colorful shots. Remember to check the site's policy on interior photography if you're hoping to capture the charming vintage kitchen or other rooms inside the house.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into 19th Century Life

Grinter Place State Historic Site offers a remarkable window into the past, preserving the 1857 hilltop farmhouse built by Moses and Sarah Grinter. This historic home is the oldest house in Wyandotte County, Kansas, and its preservation allows visitors to step back in time. The interior is furnished with period-appropriate items, providing an authentic feel of 19th-century domestic life. Many visitors find the kitchen particularly fascinating, with its vintage appliances and layout. Reddit

The guided tours are a highlight, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the Grinter family and the historical context of the area. Even teenagers have reportedly enjoyed the tours, which speaks to the engaging nature of the information presented. While there aren't many hands-on activities, the educational value is high, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts. Reddit

Beyond the house itself, the site's location offers scenic views of the Kansas River. This elevated vantage point provides a beautiful backdrop and a sense of the strategic importance of the area in earlier times. It's a place where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge.

The Grinter Sunflower Farm Connection

While Grinter Place State Historic Site is a historical landmark, it's often visited in conjunction with the Grinter Sunflower Farm. This nearby farm is famous for its stunning fields of sunflowers that bloom seasonally, attracting photographers and nature lovers. Reddit

Visiting both locations can create a wonderful day trip, combining historical exploration with the vibrant beauty of nature. The sunflower fields offer a stark contrast to the historical interiors of the farmhouse, providing a diverse and memorable experience. It's important to remember that the sunflower farm is also a working agricultural space, and visitors are urged to respect the crops and refrain from picking the flowers to ensure continued public access. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider timing your trip to coincide with the sunflower bloom for a truly spectacular outing. This combination of history and natural spectacle makes the Grinter area a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a unique Kansas experience.

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