Sterling: Unique Museums for the Curious Wanderers
Sterling, KS is a city in Rice County originally named “Peace”. It was founded in 1872, a few years after the county was founded. Its name was finally changed into “Sterling” in 1876, after Sterling Rosan.
Best Time to Visit
It is highly recommended to visit Sterling during the months of April through June and August through October, for the nice weather. The busiest months are usually May through July. People are least likely to visit in November. Every September, Warrior Fest is held to welcome back the students of Sterling College. It is a way for them to become acquainted with the local community, as college football players interact with young fans and local entrepreneurs participate in street sales.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Strataca, a Hutchinson-based salt mine museum, is a must-see when in Sterling. Located in one of the biggest rock salt deposits in the world, it is one (1) of 14 salt mines in the country; but it is the only one accessible to the public. Kansas Cosmosphere is also an interesting attraction. A space museum with dedicated STEM education center, it is home to more than 13,000 spaceflight artifacts. This is the world’s biggest collection of American and Russian spaceflight artifacts. Four (4) main sections of the museum include Dr. Goddard’s Lab, The Carey Digital Dome Theater, The Hall of Space Museum, and The Justice Planetarium. The finest Sterling, KS hotels with compelling rates include the Lyons Inn, the nearby Comfort Inn & Suites, and the budget-friendly Fairfield Inn & Suites Hutchinson.