Atchison

Historic Atchison, Kansas, is perhaps best known as the birthplace of world-famous aviator Amelia Earhart. Her grandparents' Victorian home (where Earhart was born) is now a museum operated by the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots established by Earhart in 1929. The museum, located at 223 North Terrace St.,was restored to its original condition in 1997.

Sitting on a slope near Atchison's Lake Warnock is the International Forest of Friendship, comprised of trees representing the 50 states and more than 35 countries. The forest also was founded with assistance from the Ninety-Nines. A walkway bearing plaques honoring more than 700 men and women for their contributions to the advancement of aviation and aerospace winds through the forest.

The Atchison Trolley, which begins its journey at the old Santa Fe depot, is one of the most popular (and convenient) ways to tour this picturesque city. After leaving the depot, the trolley provides a narrated tour past 18 sites on the National Register of Historic Places. The trolley also passes the downtown mall, antique stores, museums and the city's massive stone courthouse and post office, both built in the 1890s. Visitors can step off the trolley at several points along the way.