The Historic Chestnut Street District is located inside The Bricks of Downtown Hays on Main Street and is the center of the Hays community. The District follows the original footprint of Chestnut Street prior to 1929 when it was renamed to Main Street. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its restored historical and architectural ambiance creates a culturally unique destination.

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​While you will no longer find a street named Chestnut, look for one of the three gateway markers memorializing the district as you enter the downtown to know you’ve arrived. Located at the corners of Eighth and Fort, Eighth and Oak, and Seventeenth and Main, each marker was designed and built by local artist, Pete Felten. The Chestnut Street District is home to the oldest arts council in the state and host to several world-renowned artists and their studios.