admin Kansas Map Of Counties
Introduction
Located in the heart of the United States, Kansas is a state with a rich history and diverse landscape. From prairies to rolling hills, and from bustling cities to quaint towns, Kansas offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, this travel guide has got you covered.
Top Attractions
1. Wichita
Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and a hub of culture and entertainment. Visit the Sedgwick County Zoo, the largest outdoor zoo in the United States, or explore the Old Town district, with its historic buildings and trendy shops and restaurants.
2. Kansas City
Located on the border of Kansas and Missouri, Kansas City is a vibrant metropolis with a thriving arts and music scene. Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, one of the best art museums in the country, or catch a show at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
3. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Experience the beauty of the prairie at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the only remaining tallgrass prairie in North America. Take a guided tour, hike the trails, or watch the bison roam.
Hidden Gems
1. Monument Rocks
Located in western Kansas, Monument Rocks is a natural wonder that features towering chalk formations that date back millions of years. Explore the area on foot or by car, and take in the stunning views.
2. Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
Take a scenic drive through the Gypsum Hills, a region of rolling hills and rugged terrain. Stop at the historic towns of Medicine Lodge and Coldwater, and enjoy the scenic vistas.
3. Mushroom Rock State Park
This unique state park features mushroom-shaped rocks that were formed millions of years ago by erosion. Take a hike along the nature trails, and don’t forget your camera.
Food Scene
Kansas is known for its hearty Midwestern cuisine, with a focus on meat, potatoes, and comfort food. Don’t miss out on the famous Kansas City-style barbecue, or the delicious fried chicken at Stroud’s Restaurant in Wichita. For a sweet treat, try the famous cinnamon rolls at the Swedish Crown Bakery in Lindsborg.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Kansas has plenty of affordable options. Visit the free museums in Topeka, including the Kansas Museum of History and the Combat Air Museum. Take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails throughout the state, or pack a picnic and enjoy a day at one of the many state parks.
Outdoor Adventures
With its diverse landscape, Kansas offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hike the trails at the Flint Hills Nature Trail, one of the longest rail-trails in the country, or go fishing at the Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside.
Historical Landmarks
As a state with a rich history, Kansas is home to many historical landmarks. Visit the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, the site of the landmark Supreme Court case that ended segregation in public schools. Learn about the history of the Wild West at the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City, or visit the historic Fort Scott, a former army post that dates back to the mid-1800s.
Family-Friendly Activities
Kansas is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, one of the largest waterparks in the world, or head to the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, a museum dedicated to space exploration. Take a ride on the historic Midland Railroad, or visit the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, a working farm with animals and interactive exhibits.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Kansas has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visit the Oz Museum in Wamego, a museum dedicated to all things Wizard of Oz, or explore the quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Take a tour of the underground salt mines in Hutchinson, or visit the World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City.
Natural Wonders
From the prairies to the hills, Kansas is home to many natural wonders. Visit the Monument Rocks or the Mushroom Rock State Park, or explore the caves and rock formations at the Castle Rock Badlands. Take a scenic drive through the Flint Hills, or go birdwatching at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Kansas may be known for its laid-back lifestyle, it also has a vibrant nightlife. Visit the Power and Light District in Kansas City, a lively entertainment district with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Check out the nightlife scene in Lawrence, a college town with a lively bar and music scene, or head to the bars and clubs in Wichita’s Old Town district.
Local Markets
Experience the local flavor of Kansas by visiting one of the many farmers’ markets throughout the state. Visit the Overland Park Farmers’ Market, one of the largest in the region, or check out the Lawrence Farmers’ Market, which features locally grown produce and handmade goods. Don’t miss the weekly farmers’ market in Wichita’s Old Town district.
Beaches and Mountains
While Kansas may be landlocked, it still has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visit the Sand Hills State Park in western Kansas, which features sand dunes and hiking trails. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Cheney Lake, or head to the ski slopes at the Snow Creek Ski Area in Weston, Missouri.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the rich culture of Kansas by visiting one of the many cultural institutions throughout the state. Visit the Wichita Art Museum, which features a collection of American art, or the Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence, which showcases art from around the world. Learn about the Native American history and culture at the Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence.
Art and Music Scene
Kansas has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of opportunities to experience both. Visit the First Fridays Art Walk in the Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City, or catch a show at the Granada Theater in Lawrence. Check out the local music scene in Wichita’s Old Town district, or visit the Wichita Art Museum for a dose of culture.
Walking Tours
Explore the history and architecture of Kansas by taking a walking tour. Visit the historic homes in the College Hill neighborhood of Wichita, or take a self-guided tour of the historic sites in Topeka. Explore the downtown area of Kansas City on foot, or take a guided tour of the historic sites in Dodge City.
Architectural Marvels
Kansas is home to many architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern structures. Visit the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka, a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture, or the Art Deco-style Orpheum Theatre in Wichita. Check out the modern architecture of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, or the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Allen House in Wichita.
Historical Sites
As a state with a rich history, Kansas is home to many historical sites. Visit the historic Fort Larned National Historic Site, a former army post that dates back to the mid-1800s. Learn about the history of the Civil War at the John Brown Museum in Osawatomie, or visit the Nicodemus National Historic Site, a former African American settlement in western Kansas.
Biking Routes
Kansas has many scenic biking routes, from urban trails to rural roads. Take a ride along the Prairie Spirit Trail, a 51-mile rail-trail that runs from Ottawa to Iola. Explore the Flint Hills on the Flint Hills Nature Trail, or take a leisurely ride through the countryside on the Prairie Pathways Scenic Byway.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, Kansas has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Visit the Prairie Flower Bed and Breakfast in Abilene, which offers yoga classes and massage services. Relax at the Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton, which features a spa and wellness center. Or, head to the Kansas City area for a spa day at the Woodside Health and Tennis Club.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Kansas has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Go skydiving over the countryside with Skydive Kansas, or take a whitewater rafting trip on the Kansas River. Explore the caves at the Kansas Underground Salt Museum, or go rock climbing at the Vertical Relief Climbing Gym in Lawrence.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a little rest and relaxation