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Things to Do in Kansas, United States - Kansas Must-See Attractions

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kansas

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Sep 26, 2022

The midwestern state of Kansas is most famously known as the backdrop for the American film classic The Wizard of Oz, but the Sunflower State has so much more to explore than what most people know from the movie.

As the 15 th largest state by size, Kansas is rooted in agriculture, as evidenced by the endless fields of wheat and corn, and the tallgrass prairies, which remain one of the state's most important natural attractions.

A strong Native American history is proudly showcased in displays like the Keeper of the Plains and the Mid-America All-Indian Center in Wichita.

While Kansas has a tranquil, historical, and natural ambience, the state also immerses visitors in the authentic flavor of the wild west by preserving historical areas like Boot Hill and Fort Larned , which have changed little since Buffalo Bill came through in the 1800s.

Kansas is also a great place to visit for art and music lovers, as well as those who thrive on speed and adventure. Catch a race at the Kansas Speedway or daydream about becoming a daredevil at the Evel Knievel Museum.

Learn more about the best things to do with our list of the top tourist attractions in Kansas.

1. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens

2. kansas state capitol, topeka, 3. sedgwick county zoo, wichita, 4. eisenhower presidential library, museum, and boyhood home, abilene, 5. tallgrass prairie national preserve, 6. cosmosphere, 7. boot hill, dodge city, 8. evel knievel museum, topeka, 9. spencer museum of art, lawrence, 10. flint hills discovery center, manhattan, 11. monument rocks, 12. fort larned national historic site, 13. keeper of the plains and mid-america all-indian center, wichita, 14. kansas speedway, 15. overland park arboretum & botanical gardens, 16. oz museum.

Visiting Botanica, The Wichita Gardens is one of the top things to do in the city of Wichita . The gardens celebrate horticulture in a magnificent manner.

Open year-round, the facility has nearly 30 themed gardens to explore. Try a walk into the imaginative and educational Downing Children's Garden to experience the Monster Woods exhibit or watch kids play in the treehouse.

Stroll through the Shakespeare Garden to see plants and flowers representative of the Elizabethan era. Enjoy the Butterfly gardens and the Koi pond pavilions as you walk the 17-acre site, taking in the beauty of the landscape, the sculptures, and more than 4,000 species of plants.

Address: 701 Amidon Street, Wichita, Kansas

Official site: http://www.botanica.org/

Brush up on your Kansas knowledge with a walk through the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka.

This capitol complex covers about 20 acres in the heart of downtown and is considered a treasure among architectural enthusiasts. The French Renaissance-style building took 37 years to complete after the first stone was set in 1866.

The murals, sculptures, and regular programs at the capitol are always captivating, but for a truly unique experience take the free Dome Tour . This is for visitors who are physically capable of walking up the 296 steps for a close-up view of the dome and a spectacular panoramic view of Topeka from the top.

Address: SW 10th and SW Jackson, Topeka, Kansas

Official site: http://www.kshs.org/capitol

One of the top attractions for families in the state of Kansas is the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita.

Children will be thrilled with over 3,000 animals across 400 species. Highlights include elephants, gorillas, lions, chatty kookaburras, and even tigers.

You can tour the zoo on foot or take the free tram, which runs on the hour with ongoing narration. If you find yourself at the zoo on a weekend, an even better option is to take the boat tour, which leaves every half hour (additional fee).

Animal interactions are available and include spending time with penguins, rhinos, tortoises, and others for an additional fee. The easiest, and cheapest, animal interaction is giraffe feeding. These gentle giants slowly extend their long necks down to you and grab the vegetables from your hand with their giant tongues.

Address: 5555 W Zoo Boulevard, Wichita, Kansas

Official site: https://scz.org/

Even if you know nothing or very little about President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a visit to his boyhood home and Presidential Library while sightseeing in Abilene will make you appreciate his contributions to American politics and society.

The complex features five buildings: The Presidential Library with exhibits and research archives; a museum; a visitor center, which sits on the site of Eisenhower's former elementary school; a meditation building; and his boyhood home.

The museum has recently been updated to include the latest interactive exhibits. Now you'll be able to hear and see Ike and Mamie speak about the causes closest to their hearts. Be sure to look in the gift shop for unique politically themed gifts and some replica "I Like Ike" campaign memorabilia from the 1952 Presidential election.

Address: 200 SE 4th Street, Abilene, Kansas

Official site: http://www.eisenhower.archives.gov/#

Have you ever wondered what the American West looked like before farms with orderly fields of corn and wheat? If so, plan a visit to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in the Kansas Flint Hills .

With less than four percent of America's original 170 million acres of land left as tallgrass prairie, this location is one of the only places to visit in America to experience the majesty of this unique ecosystem in its original form.

You can take a bus tour, a self-guided cell phone tour, or hike the area at your leisure. One of the most special ways to experience the tallgrass prairie and its ties to America's heartland is during one of the special events that are scheduled throughout the year. One of the most popular is an open-air symphony concert.

Location: 2 miles north of Strong City on K-177, Kansas

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/tapr/index.htm

One of the most popular family attractions in Kansas is Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, which is focused on space education. This facility has hands-on experiences to help visitors relate to the advancements in space exploration.

Dr. Goodard's Lab is popular with kids as they engage in live demonstrations showing the power of rockets. Younger kids have their own section of the museum at CosmoKids, which is filled with interactive play experiences teaching about things like gravity.

Take in one of the daily shows at the Justice Planetarium with a full sensory experience. Through the immersive projection shows, learn about how the night skies change with the seasons as well as the efforts underway to make traveling to Mars a reality someday.

There is also a Digital Dome theater that shows 4K documentaries throughout the week.

Address: 1100 N Plum Street, Hutchinson, Kansas

Official site: https://cosmo.org

Do you want to experience what the Wild West was like during the 1800s? Then plan a visit to Boot Hill in Dodge City, where things have changed very little since 1870.

The Boot Hill Museum has thousands of artifacts and photographs depicting Dodge City in its early years, from businesses to the social scene.

To put things into perspective, take a stroll through some of the historic buildings like the schoolhouse and Fort Dodge Jail. Get a glimpse into what the General Store and local Saloon were like in the early 1900s.

The best time to visit is when there are special events, like the re-enactment street shootout of the Boot Hill Gunfighters, which takes place twice a day in the summer.

Address: 500 W. Wyatt Earp Boulevard, Dodge City, Kansas

Official site: http://www.boothill.org

There was only ever one true American daredevil–Evel Knievel–who wowed audiences with his death-defying motorcycle stunts.

The Evel Knievel Museum is located in the Historic Harley-Davidson store in Topeka, with an impressive collection of artifacts and information about the legendary stuntman.

The building has two stories of collections, which range from Evel Knievel's motorcycles and helmets to colorful costumes. If you have ever wanted to be like the daredevil, you can try the 4-D jump experience or the Broken Bones interactive display to get the full scope of what living life on the edge is like.

Address: 2047 SW Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kansas

Official site: http://evelknievelmuseum.com

What makes the Spencer Museum of Art unique for art lovers is that it is the only art museum in the state that houses more than 45,000 pieces in all forms of media. The collection is located on The University of Kansas in Lawrence, so it has an academic slant that cross-connects art and experience in an interdisciplinary way.

The permanent collections include African, Asian, European, American, Latin American, and Native American art among others. There are regular changing exhibitions that focus on various artists and mediums, as well as visitor programs throughout the year to engage art connoisseurs on a deeper level.

Address: 1301 Mississippi Street, Lawrence, Kansas

Official site: http://www.spencerart.ku.edu/

One of the most fascinating interactive centers in Kansas is at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan.

While the center focuses on the history of the Flint Hills, it is actually a deep lesson on some of America's most fundamental nature, wildlife, inventions, and pop culture. The museum is part science and part culture, with exhibits that look at things like conservation of the North American bison and the ecosystem in the tallgrass prairies.

Catch a showing in the Immersive Experience Theater , where you will feel the winds of the Flint Hills blowing your hair as you watch the film on the history and evolution of the area.

Be sure to step out on the rooftop terrace for a panoramic view of the city and wrap up your visit with a bite to eat or purchase a locally made gift at the nearby Blue Earth Plaza.

Address: 315 S. 3 rd Street, Manhattan, Kansas

Official site: : https://www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/

Seeing the natural formations at Monument Rocks is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the natural beauty that exists in Kansas. This National Landmark is also called the Chalk Pyramids. While they sit back a distance from the highway, you can still see them.

The formations are located about 20 miles south of Oakley in western Kansas and are accessible near US-83, where you will find a few signs for the turnoff. It is believed that the massive formations developed over 80 million years ago, when the area was underwater. Definitely take your camera!

Military history buffs will appreciate a visit to the Fort Larned National Historic Site in Larned .

The site is set up like an 1860s army post called the "Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail," which housed troops. The site has a fort and other buildings that have been preserved from when Buffalo Bill came through the area.

The complex is a thorough education on the Indian Wars, which are an important part of American history. You'll find exhibits and educational programs, but the most exciting way to visit is during a re-enactment and one of the scheduled living history events.

Address: US Highway 156, Larned, Kansas

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/fols/index.htm

Native American roots run deep in Kansas, and to get an understanding of their importance, visit the Keeper of the Plains statue at Keeper Plaza in Wichita.

The 44-foot-tall Keeper of the Plains steel statue stands over the public plaza, where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers merge through downtown. The land in the area is sacred to Native Americans, and the plaza commemorates the important history and role that Native Americans have in the area.

Stroll around the plaza and make your way to the Mid-America All-Indian Center to learn more about the Native American culture. The must-see event at the plaza is the "Ring of Fire" spectacular display, which takes place nightly for 15 minutes. Times change in the summer and fall.

Address: 650 North Seneca Street, Wichita, Kansas

Fulfill your need for speed at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City .

The speedway is known for its spectacular fan experience, with more than 200 motorsports events throughout the year. The track hosts NASCAR touring series races and special events throughout the year, including concerts.

Race fans can try a garage experience or get pre-race passes that get you up close to the drivers and track. The ultimate fans can keep an eye out for the Richard Petty Driving Experience, which is available at the track a few times a year.

Address: 400 Speedway Boulevard, Kansas City, Kansas

Official site: http://www.kansasspeedway.com

The beautiful landscape at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is one of the top experiences in the state. Located close to Kansas City, there are more than 300 acres that transition from gardens to open prairies and water.

Nature enthusiasts can print a map and seek out the variety of gardens to identify some of the 1,700 species of plants. Some of the notable gardens are the International Sculpture Garden, the Children's Garden, the Xeriscape Garden, and the Train Garden where you can enjoy the view from the deck of a caboose.

Most people enjoy taking a self-guided tour of the grounds, but daily guided tours are available for a fee. Make a full day out of your visit and plan for a hike on the arboretum's six miles of trails where you can experience more of the diverse ecosystems that the center supports. A highlight is the bridge system suspended over the Blue River tributary.

Address: 8909 W. 179th Street, Overland Park, Kansas

Official site: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/arboretum-botanical-gardens/

Fans of the classic movie The Wizard of OZ will enjoy the OZ Museum in Wamego, which is dedicated to everything related to the pop culture classic. Get lost along the yellow brick road inside as you explore the exhibits, with more than 2000 artifacts on display.

The museum has collected historical information from the making of the movie and its characters. It has also preserved iconic memorabilia, including a commissioned pair of Dorothy's famous ruby red slippers, which are covered in more than 3,500 Swarovski crystals.

More than 100 years of OZ-related history is housed in the exhibit halls, from books and music to board games. Some of the more whimsical exhibits include a replica of the Haunted Forest sign made famous in the film and set props used for the munchkin house. You will also see rare items like production notes that were used for filming.

Address: 511 Lincoln Avenue, Wamego, Kansas

Official site: https://ozmuseum.com

More on Kansas

Getty Images/Moment RF

Wicked witches and yellow-brick roads, pitched battles over slavery and tornadoes powerful enough to pulverize entire towns are some of the more vivid images of Kansas. But the common image – amber waves of grain from north to south and east to west – is closer to modern reality.

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Fort Larned National Historic Site

Six miles west of town, Fort Larned National Historic Site is a remarkably well-preserved 1860s fort in an evocative setting. It's well worth the trip to…

Garden of Eden

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Eisenhower Presidential Center

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Tourist information
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.5 By foot
• 10.2.1 Tornadoes
• 10.2.2 Winter storms

Kansas is a state in the Great Plains region of the United States of America . Thanks to The Wizard of Oz , many non-Kansans (and some Kansans as well) think of it as a place from which to escape; however, there are a lot of great places to visit, particularly if you are interested in the history of the American West. With a little exploration, almost every little town has something of interest.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 39.055833 -95.689444 1 Topeka – capital and third-largest city of Kansas, and the site of the Kansas State Historical Society Museum.
• 37.688889 -97.336111 2 Wichita – largest city in Kansas, is "the Air Capital of the World" because of the large number of aerospace firms located there, from the smallest Cessna to the 787 Dreamliner, or Airbus 380 Wichita has a hand in the design and/or manufacture of the plane. It has a large air museum. It is also home to Wichita State University, which hosts a top engineering school and highly ranked business school.
• 38.971667 -95.235278 3 Lawrence – home of the University of Kansas. Lawrence boasts the strongest art, music and bar scenes - not only in the state, but anywhere between Chicago and Denver. Lawrence was founded by anti-slavery fighters ("Free-Staters" or "Jayhawkers") shortly before the start of the Civil War. This heritage led to the creation of the University of Kansas' imaginary bird mascot, the Jayhawk.
• 39.106667 -94.676389 4 Kansas City and environs – smaller half of Metro Kansas City, which spills across the border into Missouri . Kansas City as a whole is much larger and more cosmopolitan than Wichita. The second largest city in Kansas is not Kansas City, Kansas, but Overland Park , Kansas, a wealthy yet nondescript suburb of Kansas City. Overland Park, along with Kansas City suburbs like Leawood, Olathe , and Lenexa make up Johnson County , which is the largest county by population in Kansas, and one of the richest counties in the United States by per capita income.
• 37.759722 -100.018333 5 Dodge City – historical cattle town, home to Dodge City Community College, Historic "Old Dodge City", and the professional indoor football team, The Dodge City Law.
• 38.060833 -97.929722 6 Hutchinson – home to the second largest space museum in the world. The museum houses over 13,000  spaceflight  artifacts - the largest combined collection of US and Russian  spaceflight  artifacts in the world, and is home to internationally acclaimed educational programs. The Kansas State Fair is held there annually. The Kansas Underground Salt Museum is the only museum 650 feet below ground in North America. On the state fair grounds is the Annual Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.
• 37.043333 -100.928056 7 Liberal – named after pro-liberty settlers. Home to Dorothy's recreated home, a funny name, and a big aircraft museum
• 39.191667 -96.591667 8 Manhattan – home of Kansas State University. Aggieville is one of the most vibrant places in this college town. The town is affectionately nicknamed "the Little Apple."

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 46.0036 -108.009 1 Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail – between May 1804 and September 1806, 32 men, one woman, and a baby traveled from the plains of the Midwest to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. They called themselves the Corps of Discovery

Understand [ edit ]

Kansas is named after the Kansa Native American Tribe that lived in the region. It is generally considered the center of the country in geographical terms, and one of its nicknames is "the Heart of America." The state's official nickname is "The Sunflower State", due to the abundance of wild sunflower fields in the state, but other nicknames include "The Free State", an homage to the Jayhawker movement that fought against slavery, and "The Wheat State", the most popular crop from Kansas.

Although Native Americans have lived in Kansas for thousands of years and the first Europeans visited in the late 1500s, most Kansas communities date from the early to mid-1880s. The real development of Kansas didn’t take place until the 1850s when anti-slavery settlers from the North flooded the area to ensure that Kansas be founded as a "free state" (a state that outlaws slavery). Pro-slavery advocates from Missouri attacked Kansas communities during its formative years, including, and most notably, the city of Lawrence, Kansas. This period of "Bleeding Kansas" included a great deal of violence and some people consider this area to have been the cradle of the Civil War. Many organizations and businesses in the state (Free State Brewing in Lawrence, as an example) still proudly display the "free state" name.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Travel Kansas website

Talk [ edit ]

Most residents of Kansas speak a neutral American Standard English. However, in the southeastern region there is a faint southern influence – both in accent and word choice. This dates back to the Civil War era; many pro-slavery citizens moved into this part of the state to land grab and sway elections. Many of the communities in the area still have connections to southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas communities.

Curiously, the farther west you go you may increasingly run into German, Russian, or even Swedish speakers. This is due to the large number of immigrants that settled in Kansas during the late 1800s. However, this tends to be a dying trend as younger generations switch to standard English.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

If you are driving to Kansas from the east or west, it would be best to take Interstate 70, which runs east to west across the state, running through many towns. There are tolls from Kansas City to Topeka along I-70, amounting to a couple of dollars for a standard passenger vehicle.

I-35 travels from the south center of the state and passes northeast, meeting I-70 in Kansas City. It is the obvious route if you are driving between Oklahoma City and Wichita or Kansas City, and there are tolls on this road.

I-135 travels from Wichita to Salina , connecting the other two major interstate highways.

By plane [ edit ]

The vast majority of people flying in to Kansas enter through Kansas City International (IATA: MCI), which is in Kansas City, Missouri. Wichita has the only major airport in the state, with service to about a dozen cities. Several other smaller cities have very limited commercial service. In the southern part of the state, some people drive to Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, or Tulsa, for a larger selection of connections and airlines.

By train [ edit ]

The only regular Amtrak train service is the Southwest Chief , which travels east-west across the state, passing through Kansas City , Lawrence , Topeka , Newton , Hutchinson , Dodge City and Garden City . This train continues to and from Chicago daily from/to the east and Los Angeles from/to the west. Additionally, Kansas City is served by the twice-daily Missouri River Runner from St. Louis .

By bus [ edit ]

• Greyhound Lines provides daily regular service to and from many destinations in Kansas including Wichita, Topeka and Dodge City.
• Jefferson Lines (+1 800-451-5333) offers service from Kansas City, Missouri to Coffeyville, Kansas with stops at Iola and Chanute.
• Beeline Express (+1 316 201-6700). The red line operates from Pueblo, Colorado to Wichita with several stops in between.

By foot [ edit ]

The American Discovery Trail connects Kansas with Colorado , Missouri , and both coasts.

Get around [ edit ]

The only way to travel in Kansas is to drive. Part of the experience of being in the state is to spend time on the road, which is as interesting an experience as you make it. Take the time to plan a route off of the main highways and see the country. Otherwise, if you require public transportation, Kansas may not be a place for you. Even the larger cities like Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City, buses offer very limited public transportation.

Intercity bus transportation in central and western Kansas is provided by Bee Line Express (+1 316-201-6700). Beeline Express is part of Prestige Bus Lines). Keep in mind that these buses do not have frequent departures. Beeline Express has two routes: blue and red. The blue line runs from Salina to Wichita with stops in Lindsborg, McPherson, Hutchinson and Newton. The redline runes between Wichita and Syracuse with stops in Kingman, Pratt, Greensburg, Dodge City and Garden City.

Information on transit can be found here .

Eat [ edit ]

Kansas is regarded to have some of the best BBQ in the nation, particularly on the eastern side of the state, the best known regional food being Kansas City-style BBQ, associated with the metropolitan Kansas City area including Wyandotte County and Johnson County, as well as portions of Missouri. It is a slow "pit" style barbecue; sauce is usually an important component to the finished meal. Well-known restaurants include Rosedale and Wyandotte BBQ in Kansas City, Kansas, Hayward's Pit BBQ and KC Masterpiece and Gates BBQ in Overland Park (Gates, however, is based in Kansas City, Missouri -- an important distinction to some), and Zarda BBQ in Lenexa. KC Masterpiece in Overland Park is the original restaurant that started the chain and its nationally distributed "sweet sauce." In the small town of Spring Hill, K&M BBQ was voted the best BBQ in the Kansas City metro area.

A less famous, but even more traditional, Kansas favorite is the bierock. This is a hot, savory pastry usually containing hamburger, onions, and cabbage that was imported to the state by Volga Germans in the late 19th century, and which has become so well loved that it's even served in schools. It is similar to a Polish pierogi, and perfect for cool fall evenings.

In Crawford County, in the extreme Southeastern corner, there are six "chicken houses." These serve fried chicken dinners, and the side dishes differ from each house. Fried chicken is a distinctive dish in Southeast Kansas, making the region known for their chicken dishes.

The Flint Hills finds the small town of Olpe being home to the state-wide famous "Olpe Chicken House", where fried chicken baskets, potatoes, and steaks are served. Other small towns in Kansas are home to smaller mom and pop restaurants

Lawrence is home to a wide variety of restaurants, much of which are on Massachusetts Street in the historic downtown. Limestone serves delicious, locally sourced, minimally processed & hand-crafted pizza. For gourmet burgers, shakes, and fries, head to The Burger Stand. If you're looking for Mexican food, the Taco Zone is the place to go for affordable and tasty street eats.

Drink [ edit ]

Kansas has very complex and restrictive liquor laws. The short of it is that, in many counties, only 6% ABV (or below) packaged beer may be sold outside of retail liquor stores. Drinks by the glass were only restricted to private "clubs" until 1987. Kansas has three dry counties, and the state has not ratified the 21st amendment as of 2020.

The only craft beers easily found throughout the state are Boulevard (Kansas City), Free State (Lawrence), and Fat Tire. Fans of Mexican beer rejoice! There is a huge variety of cerveza that rivals what can be found deep in the heart of Texas.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Crime [ edit ]

Crime rates in Kansas are some of the lowest in the nation. Accordingly there is hardly any crime in the state; however, this does not mean that one should be naive during their travel to the state. Always take common sense precautions no matter where you find yourself, but pay particular attention in the more populous areas such as East Topeka, older areas of Kansas City, and North Wichita . All in all, you are very unlikely to experience any problems while traveling through the state.

Severe weather [ edit ]

Tornadoes [ edit ].

Kansas is part of Tornado Alley where strong thunderstorms and violent tornadoes develop. They usually occur in the spring but can occur any time of year.

If you are visiting Kansas for a long period of time, it is a very sensible idea to learn about tornado safety and safety for severe thunderstorms . One day could be hot and sunny, another could have violent storms forecasted. Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms with high winds and hail are very common in this so-called "tornado alley" during the spring and summer months. Make sure you keep a radio on in the car, as most Kansas radio stations will update listeners on weather alerts. Should you hear the tornado sirens sounding, locate a suitable tornado shelter at once – do not stay outdoors to get a picture! Also, do not try to outrun the tornado in your car. Tornadoes can shift their paths very suddenly and you may wind up driving directly into it.

Should the skies be cloudy, and the light take on a greenish-yellow cast, this is an indication of an imminent hail storm – again, seek shelter at once.

Refer to the tornado safety article for analysis of the issues here.

Winter storms [ edit ]

Ice storms and blizzards are also common during the winter. As with most weather in the region, these storms tend to be intense, but roll in and out fairly quickly due to lack of natural obstruction (e.g., mountains).

Go next [ edit ]

• Nebraska - Much like Kansas, the state's northern neighbor has a rich agricultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into America's heartland.
• Missouri - The state's eastern neighbor featuring St. Louis and the Missouri side of Kansas City.
• Oklahoma - Kansas' southern neighbor has been a state since only 1907 and retains some of the pioneer spirit from its early days as a frontier, along with a lot of Native American history and culture.
• Colorado - The Rocky Mountain state borders Kansas to the west and offers a mind-boggling array of outdoor activities.

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Wichita is a vibe. It's a movement. Excitement. City Pride. Friendly faces - all committed to creating a city to visit and a place to call home. It’s a city that offers amazing experiences delivered with heart. From arts to attractions, nightlife and sporting events, you'll feel the energy at every turn. Wichita is a city that welcomes all and celebrates all. Come see us. We think you’ll love it here.

There's a Lot to Do Here

Pace yourself.

Experience Wichita

Like a local.

Where can I go for a milkshake that ruins all other milkshakes for me? Where can I get barbecue that melts in my mouth and melts my heart? Where’s the best dive bar? No, divey-er. Wichitans love to show you Wichita—from the mainstream to the hidden gems. Let them be your guide to the heart of the country.

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See Yourself, Be...

From the equality house to noto's rainbow walk,..., guía de visitantes, brown v board national..., separate is not equal: a fight for desegregation, more than a capital, discover the city of topeka, ks, featuring areas like oakland & the 6th street..., inclusive topeka, topeka welcomes all, get outdoors this summer in topeka, welcome to #topcity.

Within the land of the prairie, there lies a city teeming with pivotal points of history , unparalleled novelties and attractions , and natural beauty that pairs perfectly with Kansas’ notably expansive horizon. Topeka has a bright legacy all its own when one considers its ties to the Civil Rights Movement (see Brown v. Board National Historical Park ); its small but undeniable influence on an influential 20th century daredevil (see Evel Knievel Museum ); and its dedication to green and recreational spaces dedicated for the public to enjoy (see Gage Park , Historic Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade or  Lake Shawnee) . Not only a Capital City that leads in politics and business, Topeka shines for its diversity of thought and experience – as well as the crowd it draws. When venturing around Topeka, you will quickly recognize the warm, inviting nature of our community. We look forward to dazzling you with new adventures, good food and great times to ensure we are always on your short list for future getaways. 

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Clear your calendars and check out everything Gage Park has to offer in 2024. From new animal Read More

Experience Topeka's Thriving Visual and Performing Arts Scene

EXPLORE TOPEKA’S PERFORMING ARTS SCENE With venues big and small, Topeka is no stranger to the

Indoor Activities for Families

Don't let the Kansas weather keep you from getting out and about this winter! Topeka is full of

Gage Park: Your one stop shop for family fun!

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Local Favorites + Diners, Drive-ins and Dives

Topeka has become known in recent years for its flourishing foodie scene, which continues to grow

Historic Sites You Shouldn't Miss

Don’t just read about it, go see Topeka’s history in person this summer! From our railroad heritage

Spend the Day Shopping in Topeka

DOWNTOWN Newly revitalized, Topeka’s historic downtown has enjoyed over $150M in private and public

Sign up for our Visit Topeka e-news! Discover new attractions, things to do, events, and more! Read More

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Kansas Tourism

Kansas: to the stars.

In Kansas, we love fast cars and slow-cooked brisket. We touch the sky but stay grounded in the things that matter most. We live out loud and embrace the solace of silence. We conquer rocks and celebrate on the rocks. We ride like the wind and live for the water.

The Kansas experience is a salute to the real.

To the rowdy. to the wide-eyed wanderers. to the dreamers..

Planning your vacation to Kansas?

Find information about Kansas cities, things to do, restaurants, places to stay, events and travel tools.

Tourism is an Economic Development Driver

Every new resident is a visitor first and each new business investment begins with a trip. Tourism is the welcoming committee for capital investment. The marketing efforts of Kansas Tourism highlight the lifestyle and amenities of the state.

Tourism in Kansas

$33.7 Million

Total Visitors

$11.2 Billion

Total Economic Impact

Direct Visitor Spending

$700 Million

Tax Revenues for State and Local Governments

Total Jobs Supported

$3.1 Billion

Total Generated Labor Income

Kansas Tourism Team

Bridgette Jobe, Director

(785) 250-8253

[email protected]

Kelli Orender, Industry Relations Manager

(785) 213-7420

Jordan Roemerman, Marketing Manager

(785) 338-6066

Colby Sharples-Terry, PR & Communications Manager

(785) 230-4888

Andrea Etzel, Publications Manager

(785) 213-0126

Jaimee Salalac, Administrative Specialist

(785) 289-7032

Mona Carver, Travel Information Centers Manager

(785) 821-0543

Hunter Feyerherm, Website and Database Manager

(785) 230-9952

Carrie Doud, Fiscal & Grants Manager

(785) 249-0182

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Things To Do

With a thriving creative arts scene, robust craft brewing culture and die-hard sports—plus so much more—it’s no wonder why the center of the country is quickly becoming the center of attention.

Entertainment

From live music at T-Mobile Center and dive bars on 39th Street West to shopping at the Country Club Plaza, there’s never a dull moment in the Paris of the Plains.

Attractions

Uncover Kansas City’s charm by exploring its treasured attractions and institutions. Examine the Great War at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, let curiosity guide you at Union Station and walk in the steps of America’s 33rd president in Independence.

Arts and Culture

Creativity thrives in Kansas City. Internationally known museums, dynamic gallery districts and unforgettable performances combine into a colorful artistic palette unlike anywhere else in the world.

Source craft goods and luxury fashion statements alongside antique picking and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to truly taste the retail experience in Kansas City, the Midwest’s marquee shopping destination.

Sports & Recreation

Take it from the loudest fans in the country: KC is a sports town. Get loud throughout the year with Royals baseball, Chiefs football, Sporting KC soccer and NASCAR races at Kansas Speedway.

KC BBQ Experience

Track your barbecue escapades with this KC-exclusive app, your ultimate resource for enjoying the city’s signature cuisine.

Free Admissions

For sightseers on a shoestring budget, Kansas City offers an abundance of free adventures that everyone can enjoy.

Film Tourism

Kansas City’s film scene goes far beyond being a burgeoning industry attracting more attention by the day—it’s one of the city’s oldest and most culturally significant pastimes.

Keep your visit to Kansas City fun and affordable by exploring all the region has to offer at a fraction of the cost. It’s just our little way of saying, “Welcome to the New Midwest."

Eat & Drink

Kansas City's best restaurants, bars, cocktails, breweries and other top drinking and dining favorites.

Memorial Day Weekend in Kansas City

Start your summer right.

As the sun fades and the city's skyline begins to glow, majestic melodies swell across one of the city's favorite lawns. Warm days and favorite local traditions lie ahead. It’s Memorial Day Weekend in KC, a time to reflect, celebrate and usher in the summer season.

33 Free Things to Do in KC

What's New & What's Next in Kansas City's Museums

20 Reasons to Visit Kansas City

Fun Things to Do With Kids in KC

Featured Things To Do

J. Rieger & Co.

National WWI Museum and Memorial

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Welcome to Hutchinson

Located on the beautiful Kansas Prairie, Hutchinson is your one-stop destination for family fun and adventure. Here, you can catch a basketball tournament, be immersed in the history of the space race, head underground for a subterranean adventure, zip down a waterslide, shop at a trendy boutique, and dine at one of our locally-owned restaurants.

With world-class attractions, entertainment, culture, and outdoor recreation - Hutchinson has something for everyone.

Families will enjoy exploring the Cosmosphere’s hands-on science exhibits, splashing around in our free water parks, savoring a picnic at the zoo, exploring our nature center, taking a bike ride, and cheering on their favorite sports teams.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find that Hutchinson is the perfect spot to set up camp when spending the weekend fishing, biking, or hiking.

Thrill seekers can also find their home in Hutchinson. Prepare to head 650-feet underground to explore the dark caverns of a working salt mine or meet exotic wildlife at the Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm.

Those who simply want to relax will enjoy staying in one of our newly built or renovated hotels, having a spa treatment in town, playing a round of golf, and ending the day at one of our fine restaurants.

Whatever you are looking for – you’ll find it in Hutchinson, Kansas.

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Hutchinson Sports Arena

Charlotte, NC – The NJCAA has announced a schedule change for the upcoming 2025 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship, presented by Zurich Insurance. The...

Charlotte, NC– The NJCAA has awarded Visit Hutch a bid to host the 2026 NJCAA Division I Volleyball Championship. Visit Hutch will host the four-day championship at the...

Charlotte, NC – The NJCAA has announced the beginning of a new event with the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship Luncheon, presented by...

Charlotte, NC – Individual session tickets are now on sale for the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship, presented by Zurich Insurance. The tournament will...

Murals in hutchinson

Hutchinson boasts over 40 murals created by local artists that hide around corners and down alleyways. 

Tag us @visithutch on social media with photos of you finding all of our fun murals! 

Visit our murals page to start exploring!

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Sunflower Summer

Sunflower Summer is a program of Kansas Tourism for Kansas residents May 25 - August 11, 2024.

This is a great way to explore our state with free admission to various museums, zoos, historical attractions, and nature centers. Have even more fun by participating in the  Manhattan Passport  for prizes!

Take a moment to explore the many things that make Manhattan with our Minute in Manhattan video series ...

Come spend time in the Midwest and experience our college-town charm. There’s an energy here with all these students that lifts you up and makes you excited to engage in life.

So many opportunities and adventures await in the beautiful rolling hills of the Flint Hills region. Discover a zest for activity from the eclectic shopping stores, unique local dining, and one-of-a-kind attractions.

We’re here to make suggestions, offer advice, and get you excited to experience all we have in Manhattan, Kansas!

check out what’s going on in Manhattan!

What’s manhappenin’.

Experience Manhattan’s diverse and amazing events that are sure to delight your senses!

Upcoming Events

Arts in the park - summer concert series, kansas cowboy poetry contest - finals, riley county fliers 31st annual air show / fly-in, dockdogs®at little apple splash | wild card.

Check out Our Visitors Guide to learn all there is to know about Manhattan!

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Atchison soccer camp, summer sounds 2024 – atchison jazz express, opening event for fabulous works of faith: hidden treasures by everyday people featuring dwayne anthony, theatre atchison presents “clue on stage”, queen bee customs grand opening, next featured event, atchison historical trolley tour.

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Taste of Haunted Atchison – Ghost Hunt

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2024 Muddy River Music Festival featuring Tigirlily Gold, Jordan Fletcher, Carter Faith, Tequila Mockingbird

For more than a decade, paranormal enthusiasts, brave travelers and those who like otherworldly diversions have been flocking to Atchison, intent on exploring its rich haunted history.

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Visitor Information Center

Located in the Santa Fe Depot, the Chamber’s Visitor Information Center is open 361 days a year. Brochures on Atchison and Northeast Kansas. The Warming Hut Gift Shop carries an abundance of Kansas and Atchison souvenir items, including t-shirts, lapel pins, hats, and much more. Phone 913-367-2427 for Visitor Information.

April - October Saturdays: 10am - 4pm Sundays: Noon - 4pm

January-February Saturdays: 10am - 4pm Sundays: Noon - 4pm

November, December, March Saturdays: 10am - 4pm Sundays: Noon - 4pm

Map of Atchison, Kansas

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Available Brochures

The Atchison area is blessed with a wealth of interesting attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, scenic views, wonderful shops and restaurants.

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Storms Snarl Memorial Day Travel After at Least 23 Killed

The weather disrupted flights at airports from Atlanta to Boston on Monday after powerful winds and rain battered towns across the South over the weekend.

Severe Storms and Tornadoes Cause Destruction in Several States

Severe weather hit several parts of the united states over the weekend, killing more than 20 people and leaving hundreds of thousands without power..

[NO SPEECH]

By Katie Benner and Ernesto Londoño

Follow our updated coverage of Tuesday’s severe weather here .

Severe weather stretching across the Midwest and East Coast on Monday disrupted plans for millions of Americans trying to make it home after a busy weekend that was expected to break records for Memorial Day travel. The disruptions followed storms and tornadoes that killed at least 23 people in the South and left hundreds of thousands without power.

Flights at airports from Atlanta to Boston experienced ground delays and stops as severe weather, including heavy rain and potentially damaging wind and hail, moved into much of the Eastern United States on Monday afternoon and evening.

Parts of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania were under severe storm watches through late Monday, and a tornado watch was issued for an area from northern Maryland through eastern North Carolina, including Washington, D.C. Heat and more thunderstorms were forecast for Texas and the Southern Plains on Tuesday, including possible hail and strong winds.

Officials with the Federal Aviation Administration said that they had worked with the airlines to plan for the expected weather disruptions over the Memorial Day weekend. On Friday, 2.9 million people were screened at U.S. airports , the Transportation Security Administration said — a single-day record.

By midday on Monday, La Guardia Airport in New York City had reported average ground delays of 100 minutes. Flights were also delayed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest in the world. And ground stops and major delays were reported or expected at airports in Chicago, Virginia, Baltimore, Washington, Philadelphia and Cleveland because of the storms, according to the F.A.A.

In Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency on Monday morning after four people were killed over the weekend. On Monday afternoon, Gov. Beshear announced a fifth storm-related death in the state, a person who died from a heart attack while cutting fallen trees. More than 150,000 customers in the state were without power at midday after damaging winds.

Elsewhere, a tornado left at least seven people dead in North Texas, including two children ages 2 and 5. Eight people were killed in Arkansas, and two died in Oklahoma as severe storms swept through the region, flattening hundreds of buildings and blowing away homes. And severe thunderstorms in Virginia resulted in at least one fatality, officials said.

Share of customers without power

Thousands of others in the South and the Midwest were without power on Monday, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us .

Later on Monday, severe thunderstorms were expected from Texas to New York, the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center said . Flash flooding was possible from Maryland to the Catskill Mountains in New York, the Weather Service said , and tornadoes were possible in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Forecast risk of severe storms for Monday

The system was the latest to pummel the region over the past few days. Five people were killed and part of a city was obliterated in Iowa last week after a powerful tornado hit.

President Biden issued a statement of condolence to those affected by the storms, and he thanked emergency responders for their work.

“Jill and I are praying for those who tragically lost their lives as a result of devastating tornadoes that tore through Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma, leveling entire communities and leaving a path of destruction in their wake,” Mr. Biden said.

Mr. Biden said that the federal government was “ready to provide support as needed.” He noted that the Memorial Day holiday storms came just weeks after counties in the Midwest and South were recovering from severe weather.

On Sunday, severe thunderstorms in Howell County, Mo., produced hail the size of baseballs and tornadoes that downed trees and damaged homes near the town of Mountain View, said Kelsey Angle, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Springfield.

In Kentucky, Governor Beshear deployed the National Guard to help state forestry workers clear downed trees and dangerous debris. He activated the state’s price-gouging statute to prevent price increases on necessary supplies, and said he believed that the state would qualify for public assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Emergency workers have reported high water, fallen trees and other dangerous conditions in about a third of Kentucky’s 120 counties, mostly in the western part of the state, Jim Gray, the Kentucky transportation secretary, said at a news conference. The storms also impacted nearly 100 state highways.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott s igned a severe weather disaster declaration that covered 106 counties. Officials estimate that nearly 100 people were injured over the weekend, more than 200 homes were destroyed and over 220 buildings were damaged.

Johnny Diaz and Mike Ives contributed reporting.

Katie Benner is a correspondent writing primarily about large institutions that shape American life. More about Katie Benner

Ernesto Londoño is a Times reporter based in Minnesota, covering news in the Midwest and drug use and counternarcotics policy. More about Ernesto Londoño

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Travel Guide

Travel updates, kansas travel updates, guidance & resources.

Looking for any travel news in updates happening in Kansas. You've come to the right place. We have information on road closures, toll roads, and public health updates. Whether you just heard something in the news and want to fact-check it, or just want to know a little more about Kansas before you get here, our list should help you find what you're looking for!

Travel Resources

• Kansas Department of Transportation  (KDOT)
• Cashless Tolling - Coming July 2024
• U.S. Travel Association

Public Health Links

• ​ Kansas Department of Health and Environment
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)

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Transportation + rentals.

Getting to and around Kansas is easy to do by car, train, and air. While you're here take a trolley or wagon ride!

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Reports regarding traffic incidents, winter road conditions, traffic cameras, active and planned construction.

Weather + Climate

Kansas' "big sky," dramatic sunsets, and great variability in temperature and precipitation are all important aspects of the…