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Marlatt Park Top of the World

4.6
·19 reviews·Manhattan, United States

Experience the serene beauty of the Kansas prairie at Marlatt Park's 'Top of the World,' a peaceful, pet-friendly escape with scenic overlooks.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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Marlatt Park (Top of the World) - Image 1

Marlatt Park Top of the World

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the serene beauty of the Kansas prairie at Marlatt Park's 'Top of the World,' a peaceful, pet-friendly escape with scenic overlooks.

4.6
(19 reviews)

"A beautiful park with a peaceful scenic overlook, making you think Kansas is beautiful."

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TIP

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Trails are very sunny with little shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for comfort.

🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures

Dogs are allowed here, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Remember to leash and clean up!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Overlook

Scenic Overlook

Top of the World

Enjoy a peaceful, scenic view of the surrounding prairie. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating nature's beauty.

Open Prairie Trails

Open Prairie Trails

Various loops

Experience the unique beauty of wild prairie on unpaved, mowed grass trails. Great for a brisk walk or training for longer hikes.

Picnic Spots

Picnic Spots

Throughout the park

Find a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic amidst the open prairie. A relaxing way to spend an afternoon surrounded by nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Prairie Sun

Marlatt Park's 'Top of the World' offers sunny, open prairie trails. Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is minimal. Perfect for a peaceful outdoor escape within city limits.

Pet-Friendly Prairie Escape

Unlike nearby Konza Prairie, Marlatt Park welcomes pets! Remember to leash your furry friends and always clean up after them to keep this beautiful spot pristine for everyone.

Best Times

When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet and serene experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Trails are very sunny with little shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for comfort. Reddit

🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures

Dogs are allowed here, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Remember to leash and clean up! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The trails are unpaved mowed grass, so wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Reddit

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be limited, especially on busier days. Arrive early if possible. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Trails are very sunny with little shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for comfort. Reddit

🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures

Dogs are allowed here, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Remember to leash and clean up! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The trails are unpaved mowed grass, so wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Reddit

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be limited, especially on busier days. Arrive early if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(19 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Marlatt Park's 'Top of the World' is praised for its peaceful prairie scenery and pet-friendly atmosphere, offering a quiet escape within the city. Visitors appreciate the natural, unpaved trails and scenic overlooks, though some note limited parking and the intense sun exposure due to a lack of shade.

"Beautiful park with a peaceful scenic overlook. Nice very sunny trail. This place makes me think Kansas is beautiful"

Laurel Hannah

"Not a bad place to enjoy the outdoors in a quiet setting while still in the city. Parking is decent and not a whole lot of people traffic (I went Saturday afternoon). Unlike Konza, it does allow pets (but please pick up after them). There are a few available loops, all of which provide decent views. Not too bad!"

Miss

"This park is a fantastic walk if you have pets. It's pretty quiet and feels remote with so much open prairie. It's a quick loop if you want just a quick jaunt, but is great too for picnicking."

Miriam C.

What People Like

Peaceful prairie views
Pet-friendly trails
Quiet, natural setting

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Intense sun exposure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marlatt Park is located within city limits, making it easily accessible. While specific directions to 'Top of the World' might vary, general park entrances are straightforward to find. Parking is available but can be limited, so consider arriving early. Reddit

Information on public transport routes directly to Marlatt Park is not widely available. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for convenient access. Reddit

As Marlatt Park is within the city, you can use standard GPS navigation. Search for 'Marlatt Park, Manhattan, KS' and follow the directions provided. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Marlatt Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and trails for free. Reddit

Marlatt Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local city park regulations for any specific operating hours. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required for Marlatt Park. It's a public space open to all visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The 'Top of the World' is a scenic overlook within Marlatt Park offering peaceful views of the open prairie. It's a highlight for its natural beauty and tranquility. Reddit

The trails at Marlatt Park are primarily unpaved and consist of mowed grass. This offers a more natural hiking experience. Reddit

Yes, Marlatt Park offers several short loops suitable for hiking. The irregular terrain on the mowed grass trails can provide a good workout. Reddit

Absolutely! Marlatt Park is pet-friendly, unlike some other nearby prairie parks. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. Reddit

You can expect beautiful, expansive views of the open prairie. The 'Top of the World' area provides a particularly nice vantage point. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Marlatt Park is a natural park and does not have any on-site dining facilities. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks if you plan to spend an extended time. Reddit

Yes, Marlatt Park is a great spot for a picnic. There are open areas perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal amidst nature. Reddit

Since Marlatt Park is within city limits, you'll find various dining options in nearby Manhattan. Explore local restaurants and cafes for a meal after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Top of the World' overlook offers stunning panoramic views of the prairie, ideal for landscape photography. The open fields also provide opportunities for capturing the vastness of the Kansas landscape. Reddit

While not a primary wildlife sanctuary, the open prairie environment may offer chances to photograph local birds and small prairie creatures. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance these opportunities. Reddit

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the prairie. Midday can be very bright due to the lack of shade. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marlatt Park offers a simple yet engaging outdoor experience for families. The open prairie trails are great for kids to explore and burn energy, and the 'Top of the World' provides a nice spot for a family picnic. Reddit Since the park is pet-friendly, it's an excellent destination if you have a dog that your children love to bring along. Reddit

Keep in mind that the trails are unpaved mowed grass, so ensure children wear appropriate footwear. The lack of shade means planning for sun protection is essential, especially during midday. Reddit It’s a good place for a casual outing, offering a taste of the Kansas prairie without the commitment of a longer, more rugged hike. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Marlatt Park is a dream come true for dog owners looking for a natural escape. It's one of the few local prairie parks that welcomes pets, allowing your canine companions to join you on the trails. Reddit The open, grassy terrain provides plenty of space for dogs to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Remember to always keep your dog on a leash for their safety and the comfort of other visitors. Crucially, always pick up after your pet to help maintain the park's pristine condition. Reddit The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed walk or a more active outing with your furry friend. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking solitude and a connection with nature, Marlatt Park's 'Top of the World' is an ideal destination. The peaceful, quiet setting and expansive prairie views offer a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. Reddit+1 The unpaved trails provide a grounding experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural landscape.

The park's accessibility within the city makes it a convenient spot for a quick escape or a longer contemplative visit. Reddit The lack of crowds on weekdays further enhances the sense of tranquility. Reddit Come prepared with sun protection and water, and enjoy the simple beauty of the Kansas prairie. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Prairie Trails

Marlatt Park's trails offer a unique prairie experience, distinct from more developed parks. The paths are primarily mowed grass, providing an authentic feel of walking through wild grasslands. This terrain can be a bit uneven, making it a good place to train for backpacking or simply enjoy a more strenuous walk than a paved path would offer. Reddit The park features several short loops, allowing for a quick visit or a more extended exploration depending on your time and energy.

The open nature of the prairie means shade is minimal. Visitors should come prepared with sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially during warmer months. Reddit Despite the lack of shade, the peaceful and quiet setting is a major draw, offering a serene escape within the city. Reddit

For those looking for a natural hiking experience without a long drive, Marlatt Park serves as a convenient alternative to places like Konza Prairie. Reddit Its accessibility and the opportunity to experience the Kansas prairie landscape make it a worthwhile visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the grassy, uneven terrain. Reddit

A Pet-Friendly Oasis

One of the standout features of Marlatt Park, particularly for pet owners, is its pet-friendly policy. Unlike some other popular prairie destinations in the area, Marlatt Park explicitly allows dogs, making it a fantastic option for those who want to include their furry companions in their outdoor adventures. Reddit This welcoming atmosphere allows for a more inclusive experience for families and individuals who consider their pets part of the family.

When visiting with pets, it's crucial to adhere to park regulations. Leashing your pet is generally required to ensure the safety of both your animal and other park visitors, as well as to protect local wildlife. Equally important is the responsibility to clean up after your pet. This practice helps maintain the park's cleanliness and natural beauty, ensuring it remains an enjoyable space for everyone. Reddit

The open prairie setting provides ample space for dogs to enjoy a walk or run (under supervision and on leash), and the peaceful environment makes it a relaxing outing for both pets and their owners. Reddit Marlatt Park offers a rare combination of natural prairie beauty and pet accessibility, making it a beloved spot for many locals. Reddit

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