Fall semester is just around the corner and we are so excited to welcome all of our students to campus! We know that many of our students are new to the beautiful and historic town of Independence, Kansas, and may not know some of the special features it has to offer. Here's a list of things you're going to want to do/see:
1.) ICC's campus, of course
Nestled on 64 acres, the main campus hosts a variety of activities for students. The beautiful scenic campus offers an 18-hole disc golf course, a stocked fishing pond, a movie theater, video game center, coffee bar, cyber cafe, performance theater, fab lab, and recreational room with mini-basketball, table tennis and shuffle board.
2.) Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
This place has everything. Miniature golf, carousel, train, playgrounds, shelter houses, Shulthis Stadium, bears, monkeys, a donkey, etc. What other town of this size do you know of that has all that to offer? You just can't beat it. The park and zoo are conviently located right next to eachother. Oh, and admission to zoo is FREE, while tickets for the carousel, mini golf and train are ridiculously cheap.
3.) Elk City Reservoir and State Park
Perfect for the outdoors enthusiast or someone just seeking some fresh air (and fresh views). This treasure is located about five miles northwest of Independence. It is absolutely breathtaking and it's basically in our backyard! Any fun outdoor activity you can think of... this place has got it. Head out for a hike.. whatever you like!
4.) Neewollah
The biggest and oldest annual festival in Kansas. Luckily, you'll be in the middle of the action as the celebration is held the last full week of October. Grab yourself a delicious treat from one of the many food stands, win a prize through the array of games, take your pick from the variety of thrilling rides, or sit back and be entertained by the musical show or grand parade.
5.) Riverside Beach and Family Aquatic Center
Maybe you won't be here when it's open, but come visit during the summer! It's located right near the park. It features diving boards, slides, lazy river, lilly pads and more. A great spot for summertime fun and relaxation.
6.) Little House on the Prairie
You've heard of it, now go see it! This historical site is located just 13 miles southwest of Independence. It's open March 1- October 31, so you have plenty of time to go visit the place where Laura Ingalls Wilder lived as a child. Don't forget about the gift shop and 1872 schoolhouse.
7.) Independence Cinemas
Newly rennovated, modern and unique. This 4-screen movie theater features luxury reclining seats and the latest digital audio and projection. There's a great variety of concessions including a new ICEE machine. See showtimes here: http://www.independencecinemas.com/showtimes.html
8.) Ane Mae's Coffee Shop
A cozy corner coffee and sandwich stop perfect for doing a little bit of studying, reading or catching up with a friend. They have everything you could imagine for breakfast or lunch... everything is delicious. And who doesn't love a little coffee break?