As I am writing this column, I am in my office with a space heater on, listening to the wind whip by my window. Yes, it is winter in Kansas. But winter can be a great opportunity to check out some of the local Wyandotte County attractions. I promise, they are all warm inside.  

   First of all, I would encourage you to visit the two museums in the Quindaro area dedicated to preserving the history and telling the story of the Underground Railroad and the town of Quindaro. The Quindaro Underground Railroad Museum is located at 3436 N. 27th St. The Old Quindaro Museum is located just around the corner at 3432 N. 29th St.  Both offer compelling stories of the families who escaped from slavery and were the first settlers of this town.  On a warmer day, make sure you stop by the Quindaro Ruins Overlook where you can see the stone and brick foundations of this important part of our city's history.  

   Next, head to 720 N. 4th St. to the Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center. This Queen Anne style home built in 1887 features a museum that preserves the diverse ethnic cultures that Eastern European immigrants brought to Kansas City, Kan., in the early 1900s.  If it’s sunny out, head to 7th and Ann to the Huron Indian Cemetery.  This cemetery, located right next to the 7th Street Casino, was established in 1843 after the forced migration of the Wyandotte Nation.  

   When was the last time you visited the Grinter Place State Historical Site at 1420 S. 78th St.? This home to Moses Grinter, one of Kansas’ earliest pioneer settlers, is believed to be the oldest farmhouse in Kansas.  Just recently updates have been made to the house with new period drapes, lighting and other furnishings.  

   And to complete your tour of Wyandotte County attractions, make sure you stop by the Wyandotte County Historical Society and Museum, 631 N. 126th in the Wyandotte County Park in Bonner Springs. Here you will find Native American artifact collections including stories of the three immigrant tribes to Wyandotte County, the Shawnee, Delaware and Wyandot. Also on display is the Conley sisters’ double-barrel shotgun. There is a great Kansas City, Kan., Fire Department display that includes a 1905 Metropolitan Steam Pumper Fire Engine.  

   To find out more about any of these locations, including directions and dates and times of operation, go to www.visitKansasCityKS.com. 

   Bridgette Jobe is the executive director of the Kansas City, Kan., Convention and Visitors Bureau.