Artisan Demonstrations
Artisan Demonstrations bring the Old West to life at Fort Hays. Skilled craftspeople showcase traditional frontier trades through live workshops that visitors can watch up close — and sometimes even join in. These hands-on moments create some of the most memorable experiences in the Old West Town.
No reservations are required. All demonstrations are included with admission.
Artisan Demonstrations
Artisan Demonstrations bring the Old West to life at Fort Hays. Skilled craftspeople showcase traditional frontier trades through live workshops that visitors can watch up close — and sometimes even join in. These hands-on moments create some of the most memorable experiences in the Old West Town.
No reservations are required. All demonstrations are included with admission.
About the Artisan Demonstrations
The Artisan Demonstrations celebrate the everyday skills that once shaped frontier communities. From hammering hot iron to creating stamped leather keepsakes, each shop preserves a piece of Western craftsmanship. Visitors can wander from one workshop to another at their own pace, discovering how these trades supported life on the frontier.
You’ll find the artisans throughout the Old West Town, each offering a different look at historically inspired craftsmanship.
About the Artisan Demonstrations
The Artisan Demonstrations celebrate the everyday skills that once shaped frontier communities. From hammering hot iron to creating stamped leather keepsakes, each shop preserves a piece of Western craftsmanship. Visitors can wander from one workshop to another at their own pace, discovering how these trades supported life on the frontier.
You’ll find the artisans throughout the Old West Town, each offering a different look at historically inspired craftsmanship.
Blacksmith Demonstration
The blacksmith shop is one of the most popular stops in the Old West Town. The forge glows, the hammer rings, and the scent of hot iron fills the air — creating a vivid, authentic frontier atmosphere.
Visitors can watch the smith shape metal into tools, hooks, and decorative pieces using traditional techniques.
This shop offers safe viewing zones and great photo angles.
Leather Stamping
Leather stamping is an interactive, family-friendly activity where guests can create small, frontier-inspired souvenirs.
Using metal stamps and wooden mallets, visitors press patterns into leather pieces to take home. This station offers the perfect blend of history and creativity — and produces a keepsake unlike anything you’ll find in a typical gift shop.
Leather Stamping
Leather stamping is an interactive, family-friendly activity where guests can create small, frontier-inspired souvenirs.
Using metal stamps and wooden mallets, visitors press patterns into leather pieces to take home. This station offers the perfect blend of history and creativity — and produces a keepsake unlike anything you’ll find in a typical gift shop.
Rope Making
Rope making was an essential trade in the Old West, and here you can see exactly how it worked. Visitors help twist fiber strands using a hand-cranked mechanism that pulls the rope together. Watching the rope form in real time brings history to life — and kids especially love helping turn the crank.
Penny Press
The penny press is a guest-operated machine that flattens and stamps souvenir pennies featuring Old West artwork. It’s simple, fun, and a great way to mark your visit with a small collectible. Choose your design, turn the crank, and watch your keepsake appear.
Demonstration Times
Artisan Demonstrations operate daily during the primary visitor season. Each craft shop opens at staggered times, and demonstrations rotate throughout the day. For the smoothest experience, plan to explore the Old West Town in the morning or early afternoon when most artisans are active.
For seasonal hours, visit the Plan Your Visit page.
Demonstration Times
Artisan Demonstrations operate daily during the primary visitor season. Each craft shop opens at staggered times, and demonstrations rotate throughout the day. For the smoothest experience, plan to explore the Old West Town in the morning or early afternoon when most artisans are active.
For seasonal hours, visit the Plan Your Visit page.
Demonstration Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Are The Artisan Demonstrations Included With Admission?
Yes — all demonstrations are included with regular admission to the Old West Town.
Can Visitors Participate In The Activities?
Yes. Leather stamping and rope making often offer hands-on opportunities for guests of all ages.
Are The Demonstrations Scheduled Or Continuous?
Most operate in rotating intervals throughout the day. Times may vary by season.
Is There A Cost For The Penny Press?
Yes — standard penny-press pricing applies, and guests may need a penny and small fee.
Are The Workshops Safe For Young Children?
Yes. Safety boundaries are in place around the blacksmith forge, and staff guide children during interactive activities.
See the Artisans in Action
Experience the Old West through live craftsmanship, interactive workshops, and traditional trades across the Old West Town.