Discover The Best Of Kansas Towns
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable travel experience, look no further than the charming towns of Kansas. From the rolling hills of the Flint Hills to the vibrant city of Wichita, there’s something for everyone in this Midwestern state.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Kansas is the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. This stunning park offers miles of hiking trails, beautiful scenery, and a chance to see some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie in North America.
Another must-see attraction is the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. This space museum is home to one of the largest collections of space artifacts in the world, including the actual Apollo 13 spacecraft.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Garden of Eden in Lucas. This quirky attraction features a concrete sculpture garden created by a local eccentric in the early 1900s.
Another hidden gem is the Konza Prairie Biological Station. This research station offers guided hikes and tours of the beautiful Flint Hills, as well as a chance to see some of the rare plant and animal species that call this area home.
Food Scene
Kansas is known for its delicious barbecue, and there’s no better place to try it than Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. This award-winning restaurant has been featured on numerous food shows and is a must-visit for any foodie.
For a taste of local flavor, head to the Kansas City Farmers’ Market. This vibrant market offers fresh produce, artisanal products, and a chance to mingle with locals.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re looking to save money on your trip to Kansas, consider visiting during the off-season. Prices for hotels and attractions are often lower in the winter months, and you’ll still be able to enjoy all that this beautiful state has to offer.
Another budget-friendly tip is to take advantage of the many free attractions in the state, such as the Kansas State Capitol Building or the Wichita Art Museum.
Outdoor Adventures
Kansas is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, and there’s no better way to experience it than by hiking or biking one of the many trails in the state. The Flint Hills Nature Trail offers 117 miles of stunning scenery, while the Prairie Spirit Trail offers 51 miles of biking and hiking.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, consider a hot air balloon ride over the Kansas countryside or a kayaking trip down the Kansas River.
Historical Landmarks
Kansas played a crucial role in the history of the United States, and there are many historical landmarks throughout the state that offer a glimpse into the past. The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement, while the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City offers a fascinating look at life in the Wild West.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in Kansas. The Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita is one of the largest zoos in the country and offers a chance to see animals from all over the world.
The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park is another great option for families. This working farm offers a chance to see and interact with farm animals, as well as a playground and other activities for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Oz Museum in Wamego. This museum is dedicated to all things Oz, including the famous book and movie.
Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Lucas Area Community Theater. This small theater puts on productions throughout the year and is a great way to experience local culture.
Natural Wonders
Kansas is home to many stunning natural wonders, including the Monument Rocks in western Kansas. These towering rock formations are over 80 million years old and offer a unique and breathtaking view of the Kansas countryside.
The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is another natural wonder worth visiting. This wetland area is home to hundreds of species of birds and other wildlife, and offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Kansas may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those looking to have a good time. The Old Town district in Wichita is home to many bars, restaurants, and live music venues, while the Power & Light District in Kansas City is a popular spot for dancing and nightlife.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out one of the many farmers’ markets in Kansas. The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in the state and offers fresh produce, artisanal products, and live music.
The Lawrence Farmers’ Market is another popular option and offers a chance to mingle with locals and try some of the best food the state has to offer.
Beaches and Mountains
While Kansas may not have traditional beaches or mountains, there are still plenty of options for those looking to enjoy some outdoor recreation. The Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri is a popular destination for boating and fishing, while the Ozark National Scenic Riverways offer stunning views and a chance to float down the river.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning more about the culture and history of Kansas, be sure to visit the Kansas Museum of History in Topeka. This museum offers exhibits on everything from the state’s Native American history to its role in the Civil War.
The Wichita Art Museum is another great option for those interested in art and culture. This museum features over 7,000 works of art, including pieces by famous artists such as Edward Hopper and Mary Cassatt.
Art and Music Scene
Kansas has a thriving art and music scene, and there are many venues throughout the state that offer live music and other performances. The Stiefel Theatre in Salina is one of the best-known venues and hosts everything from Broadway shows to concerts.
The Lied Center in Lawrence is another great option for those interested in the performing arts. This beautiful venue offers everything from ballet to Broadway shows.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore the towns of Kansas on foot, there are many walking tours available. The Wichita Historic Museum and Tours offers a variety of walking tours throughout the city, while the Lawrence Walking Tour offers a chance to explore the historic downtown area.
The Topeka Walking Tour is another great option for those interested in history and architecture. This tour takes visitors through the historic neighborhoods of Topeka and offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful homes in the state.
Architectural Marvels
Kansas is home to many stunning architectural marvels, including the Kansas State Capitol Building in Topeka. This beautiful building features a dome that is higher than that of the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.
The St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict is another architectural marvel worth visiting. This stunning church was built in the 1800s and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
Historical Sites
If you’re a history buff, there are many historical sites throughout Kansas that offer a glimpse into the past. The Fort Scott National Historic Site is one of the best-known sites and offers a chance to see what life was like on the frontier in the 1800s.
The Mine Creek Battlefield State Historic Site is another great option for those interested in history. This site was the site of one of the largest Civil War battles in Kansas and offers a chance to see some of the most important landmarks from that period of history.
Biking Routes
Kansas is home to many great biking routes, including the Prairie Spirit Trail and the Flint Hills Nature Trail. These trails offer miles of beautiful scenery and a chance to get some exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.
The Katy Trail in Missouri is another popular biking route that is easily accessible from Kansas. This trail offers over 200 miles of biking and hiking and is one of the most popular trails in the Midwest.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and recharge, there are many wellness retreats throughout Kansas that offer a chance to do just that. The Prairie Lake Lodge in Topeka offers a variety of wellness programs, including yoga and meditation.
The Heartland Spa and Wellness Retreat in Gilman is another great option for those looking to unwind. This beautiful retreat offers everything from massages to healthy cooking classes.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for a thrill, there are many adventure sports available in Kansas. The Kansas Speedway in Kansas City is home to NASCAR races and other exciting events, while the Zipline Safari at the Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Wichita offers a chance to soar over the park’s animals.
The Hays