tourist attractions in the state of kansas

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

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Kansas (KS) » 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kansas

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kansas

Kansas , also known as “The Sunflower State” and “The Wheat State”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty. Did you know the state has the longest railroad bridge, called the Rock Island Bridge.

1. Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark

The Monument Rocks were one of the first landmarks to be declared a National Natural Landmark. The large chalk formations are impressive and unmissable, rising unexpectedly from the flat farmland surrounding them on all sides. They reach up to 70 ft in places and it is possible to see fossilized sea life embedded in the chalk. The famous ‘Keyhole’ is a large gap in one of the monuments and offers the perfect window on a setting Kansas sun. Afterwards, pay a visit to the nearby Keystone Gallery. The gallery describes itself as fully “off-the-grid”, generating its own power from solar and wind energy. Here you will find fossils on exhibit and for sale, alongside art and souvenirs, making it the perfect excursion for geology fans.

2. Mushroom Rock, Mushroom Rock State Park

The Mushroom Rock State Park features many captivating rock formations called ‘hoodoos’. These strange formations are formed through uneven erosion and weathering, giving the rocks the appearance of mushrooms. The small state park offers unique surroundings and has been labelled one of the ‘Eight Wonders of Kansas Geography’. The rocks have historically been used by Native Americans and pioneers alike as landmarks and meeting places, evidenced by generations-old graffiti on some of the rocks.

3. Drinkwater and Schriver Flour Mill, Cedar Point

The Drinkwater and Schriver Flour Mill (commonly known as the Cedar Point Mill) has been a Kansas landmark since 1875, when the stone building we see today was completed. Standing by a stone dam in the Cottonwood River, the mill was originally a sawmill. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the mill is a historical landmark situated in idyllic surroundings. Both the mill and the river are reminders of pioneer America. The mill is currently being renovated to represent this time more accurately to visitors.

4. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area

Cheyenne Bottoms is the largest wetland in mainland United States. It is a resting area for millions of migrating birds, and home to many other types of animal including raccoons, beavers, turtles and snakes. This makes it an ideal wildlife-watching spot. The Wildlife Area features trails for walkers and is a perfect getaway for nature-lovers.

5. Wetlands near Lawrence

The Baker Wetlands are an incredibly diverse natural habitat for a number of birds, animals and plants. Baker University currently manages the wetlands and uses the land to teach students about biodiversity. The university has made extensive plans to increase the acreage of the wetlands and ensure proper conservation of the land. The site has a Discovery Centre that offers useful information on conservation, wildlife, and the wetlands’ history.

6. Flint Hills near Alma

The Flint Hills is one of the world’s largest areas of tallgrass prairie, spanning 4,000,000 acres. Conservation programmes mean that parts of the prairie remain completely wild, featuring untouched rolling landscapes, fields of wildflowers, and a rich habitat for bison, birds and other wild animals. The Flint Hills are often considered to be the beating heart of Kansas.

Wichita is Kansas’s largest city and offers plenty of culture and entertainment amongst the wild countryside. Wichita was historically a meeting place and trade post for Native Americans. Now, it’s home to the world’s largest ‘western-wear’ store where you can pick up a new cowboy hat or boots. Nicknamed Cowtown from its historical importance in the cattle trade, Wichita is a top destination for arts and culture. It features a science centre, an aviation museum, and museums on African-American and Mid-American Native American cultures.

8. The Sauer Castle

The Sauer Castle is an extraordinary gothic-style mansion in Kansas City. It used to be home to several generations of the Sauer family. The home is considered by many to be haunted due to the unfortunate histories of its ex-residents. The house has a troubled past that includes disease, suicide, drowning and – more recently – vandalism. This means that renovation on the castle faces an uncertain future. Cursed or not, the castle features gorgeous architecture and beautiful grounds that are worth visiting.

9. Waterfalls at the Geary County Lake

The Geary Lake Falls flow during the spring, forming one of Kansas’s most well-known waterfalls. The site is wonderful for hikers with trails leading through woodland to the lake and falls. The falls are 35 ft tall and are joined by trails to the Geary County Fishing Lake, a perfect spot for spectacular views.

10. St Fidelis Church, Victoria

This Catholic Church is also called the ‘Cathedral of the Plains’ and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a minor basilica of the Catholic church and receives over 16,000 tourists every year. The current church was completed in 1911, built to provide a larger and more beautiful place of worship for the local people of Victoria. The church resembles Romanesque features, reminiscent of classic basilicas in its impressive and gorgeous architecture.

11. Kansas Lavender Fields, Topeka

Topeka and its surrounding areas are big producers of lavender. Many farms in Kansas sell lavender products including lavender honey, lavender-infused furnishings and raw lavender. Some farms allow you to pick your own lavender at harvest time. The sight of acres of lavender stretched out across the Kansas plains is an unforgettable one – and so is the floral and intoxicating scent.

12. Oxford Grist Mill

Oxford is a historical Kansas location with much of its industry based around the Ninnescah River. The Oxford Mill is the town’s most famous landmark, having produced flour for decades. Now the mill is used by a local school for community events. It has recently been restored, maintaining its pretty façade and serene surroundings. Be sure to pay a visit to the local Carriage House, the first brick building in Oxford and a good example of early-19th century American architecture.

13. North of Lyons

Lyons is situated in rural Kansas, away from tourist centres or sights. It is a slice of authentic Kansas life, nestled in the heart of the countryside. Lyons is home to friendly residents, honest eateries and historical architecture. Explore the surrounding plains for a feel of the pioneer lifestyle.

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kansas:

• Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark
• Mushroom Rock, Mushroom Rock State Park
• Drinkwater and Schriver Flour Mill, Cedar Point
• Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area
• Wetlands near Lawrence
• Flint Hills near Alma
• The Sauer Castle
• Waterfalls at the Geary County Lake
• St Fidelis Church, Victoria
• Kansas Lavender Fields, Topeka
• Oxford Grist Mill
• North of Lyons

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20 Top Things to Do in Kansas

Jess Hoffert is the custom projects editor at Meredith Travel Marketing, where he gets to dream up and produce inspiring print and digital content for clients including Kansas Tourism, Visit North Carolina, Explore Minnesota, Travel Wisconsin and Visit Montana. He holds a B.A. in journalism from Drake University in Des Moines, and was previously a staff editor at Midwest Living. When he's not on the road, you can find him building LEGO sets and watching the latest binge-worthy show with his partner, Andrew, and cats, Leo and Max.

Like its endless-sky sunsets, the Sunflower State expands horizons with urban exploration in Wichita; treks through OZ and otherworldly rock formations; and cultural experiences in Topeka, Salina, Dodge City and beyond. Top off your adventures with saucy barbecue in Kansas City, Swedish cuisine in Lindsborg or nostalgic eats along Route 66.

Roam Free in the Flint Hills

Though cattle and cowboys still roam these pastoral lands, there's no need to saddle up to experience this last big stand of tallgrass prairie in North America. Get oriented at the interactive Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, then hike the nature trails that crisscross nearby Konza Prairie Biological Station. In the heart of the Flint Hills, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve immerses visitors in its 11,000-acre prairie with ranger-guided tours and Southwind Nature Trail hikes to bison pastures and scenic overlooks. Continue your adventure along the 47-mile Flint Hills National Scenic Byway.

Marvel at Wichita Museums

Five of Wichita's culturally rich museums make their home along the Arkansas River, and a riverfront walkway provides easy access. Actors in costume recapture Wichita's frontier days at the Old Cowtown Museum. See a miniature version of 1950s Kansas with more than 50 animations at Exploration Place, then observe some of the 10,000-plus works of American art at the Wichita Art Museum. The most popular piece of art along the river, though, is the 44-foot-tall Keeper of the Plains by local artist Blackbear Bosin. See more of his work at the Mid-America All-Indian Museum.

Make a Splash in Kansas Lakes

Red sandstone cliffs and pillars interrupt the shoreline of Wilson Lake, the self-proclaimed Clearest Lake in Kansas. Within Wilson State Park, lake lovers fish, paddle, boat and swim while mountain bikers conquer the 25-mile Switchgrass Trail that snakes through Smoky Hills canyons. Steady breezes draw a seafaring following to Cheney Lake, one of the nation's top sailing and windsurfing lakes. In Lawrence, fish Clinton Lake's clear waters for channel catfish and walleye. A one-stop marina with 590 boat slips and rentals provides the perfect launch point for fun on the water.

Salute Eisenhower in Abilene

Abilene's star attraction, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home received a major upgrade in 2019 to coincide with the 75th anniversary of D-Day. In exhibits using multimedia, Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower tell their life stories in their own words, sharing how the hometown boy became a war hero, Army five-star general and president of the United States. A young Ike likely heard tales of Abilene's cattle town days, re-created in Old Abilene Town , where make-believe gunfights erupt in the street. Next to the historic depot, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad embarks on trips through the Smoky Hill River Valley.

Rock Your World in Northwest Kansas

For decades, travelers would speed right past Kansas' best natural secret: the state's largest Niobrara chalk formation, tucked in a valley between Scott City and Oakley. Today, this mile-long treasure chest of 100-foot-tall rock faces and pillars is Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park . Hike a scenic rim trail around the towering city of stone. At Monument Rocks, a surrounding sprawl of shortgrass prairie makes these 70-foot-tall Niobrara chalk pillars and arches look taller than they are. In the far northwestern reaches of Kansas, the yucca-studded gullies of the Arikaree Breaks sprawl for more than 30 miles. Stop at Lookout Point for the best views.

Uncover History in Topeka

Topeka's Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site , formerly Monroe Elementary School, recalls the 1954 Supreme Court desegregation case. Engage with park rangers, powerful photos and videos, plus the restored kindergarten classroom, to understand the landmark decision triggered at this school. Head across the street to see a 130-foot-long mural that depicts the legacy of the case. The nearby State Capitol soars 17 feet higher than the U.S. Capitol in D.C. Tilt your head up for a dazzling view of the inner dome, featuring 256 glass panels and a 900-pound chandelier.

Soak Up the Beauty of Kansas Gardens

Open year-round, Wichita's Botanica celebrates the seasons with flower festivals, concerts and the illuminating finale: gardens aglow with 2 million holiday lights. Sculptures, water features, 4,000 plant species and a restored 1949 carousel accent more than 30 themed areas. Once a rarity on the treeless prairie, the wooded Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine (30 minutes south of Wichita) flourishes a century later with flowering pathways and a rich pastoral spirit. Robin Macy, a founding member of the Dixie Chicks, tends the haven and its events, beginning each April with Art at the Arb set amid 40,000 tulips.

Catch a Game or Sports Event in Kansas City

Game on! Catch a Sporting KC soccer match under the canopy roof of Children's Mercy Park, voted one of the most intimidating to play in all of Major League Soccer. (The fans are passionate.) Be a spectator at Kansas Speedway or get behind the wheel yourself during the NASCAR Racing Experience, which lets adrenaline fiends take an exhilarating ride along the oval track. In 2021, the T-Bones of the American Association of Professional Baseball became the Monarchs, honoring the KC team that dominated the old Negro Leagues for decades. Watch them knock one out of the park at Legends Field.

Cruise Kansas Route 66

The 13 miles of Route 66 that clip southeast Kansas come pre-packaged with vintage delights. In Galena, a 1951 Hudson Hornet modeled after Doc Hudson's character in Cars sits near the 1939 gas station housing Gearhead Curios. Tow Tater, the inspiration for Tow Mater in Cars, welcomes visitors to Cars on the Route, a 1934 service station. Continue the nostalgic trip by pulling a glass-bottled soda from a red metal cooler at Nelson's Old Riverton Store. At 98 years old, it predates the Mother Road itself. Leave your mark by signing the guest book walls at the Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center inside a 1930s-era Baxter Springs gas station.

Get Schooled in Lawrence

The city of Jayhawks hums with energy both on and off the University of Kansas campus. Exhibits on dinosaurs, bugs and mammals win the KU Natural History Museum national recognition. The museum gallery at the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics displays the world's largest stained-glass American flag. And KU's Spencer Museum of Art holds 45,000 works spanning eras and continents. Not far from campus, pedestrian-friendly Massachusetts Street buzzes with indie shops, hotels, restaurants and bars. Try Neapolitan-style pies made with Kansas flour at Limestone Pizza Kitchen Bar and sip highbrow cocktails at John Brown's Underground.

Dig into Kansas Barbecue

Kansas City crowns itself as the Barbecue Capital of the World for having more than 100 places to savor slow-roasted meat in the metro area. Hungry visitors line up outside a former gas station to try the signature Z-Man brisket sandwich at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Q. In a small house-turned-restaurant, Woodyard Bar-B-Que lists chili topped with burnt ends among its specialties. With more than 30 barbecue restaurants in Wichita, the intoxicating smell of meat cooking over smoldering wood is never too far away. Seasoned with 14 spices, the spareribs at Bite Me BBQ cook 16 hours for juicy, fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

Savor Swedish Heritage in Lindsborg

Visitors from Scandinavia say Lindsborg feels more Swedish than Sweden with all of its traditional festivities. Get the lay of the land from atop Coronado Heights, a 300-foot-tall bluff with a castle-like stone shelter. Then feast like royalty at Crown and Rye, a bar and restaurant serving Köttbullar (meatballs with egg noodles in a beef cream sauce). Another Swedish tradition is the Dala horse, inspiration for a herd of Wild Dala Horses found around Lindsborg. To locate the painted wooden creatures, grab a guide in town or online. If you like the look, take home a personalized Dala-shape house sign from Hemslöjd.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Oz

At Wamego's OZ Museum, learn how a children's novel about a Kansas farm girl swept up in a tornado became one of the most-watched movies of all time. A whimsical facade invites visitors inside to see more than 2,000 artifacts, including L. Frank Baum books, photos signed by the stars and 1939 movie production artifacts. Dorothy herself leads your whirlwind tour at Dorothy's House and the Land of Oz in Liberal. Meet up with the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion on the magical yellow brick path to the Wizard, plus tour Dorothy's farmhouse and an Oz memorabilia display.

Experience the Wild West in Dodge City

Long before Gunsmoke fame, Dodge City defined the Old West, triggered by a stream of Santa Fe Trail voyagers. Proof remains in trail ruts carved across grasslands west of town. Follow a walkway and interpretive signs to view some of the most clearly defined wagon ruts along the trail. Relive Dodge City's notorious heyday at the saloon, jail and general store, as well as through gunfights on Front Street at Boot Hill Museum . At the interactive exhibit hall, feel the floor shake during a simulated buffalo stampede. Time your visit right, and you can enjoy rodeos, a longhorn cattle drive and a Western parade during Dodge City Days.

See Kansas Sunflowers

No place says "Sunflower State" like Grinter's Sunflower Farm near Lawrence. For more than 50 years, the Grinter family has grown 40 acres of sunflowers for the public to stroll (sunup to sundown). Social media and word of mouth have helped the farm's popularity go supernova. In late August, thousands come to enjoy the petals' two-week peak. Avoid crowds by visiting on a weekday or early weekend morning. Feel free to cut blooms, though a $1 donation is encouraged for each stem. The Sunflower General store offers souvenirs and homemade baked goods on weekends.

Blast Through Mines and Space in Hutchinson

A double dose of world-class attractions takes you above and below ground in Hutchinson. At Cosmosphere, the Space Race relaunches at the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts. Kansas' only Smithsonian-affiliated museum boasts a flown craft from the first three human-carrying space programs—Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It's not just another day in the salt mines at Strataca. A 6-ton hoist drops you 650 feet down through a frozen aquifer and layers of rock to a museum in a former section of a salt mine. Explore detailed underground exhibits and learn about the types of things stored underground, including movie memorabilia.

Ride Along the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway

Flat mesas, deep canyons and buttes complement green cedar trees and prairie grasses along this 42-mile route through the rusty Red Hills. Ride horses, assist with livestock chores, catch a fish, take a hike through hilly pastures, or just enjoy the view before turning in for the night at the Gyp Hills Guest Ranch. Four miles away in Medicine Lodge, learn about the hatchet-wielding temperance leader who smashed law-breaking saloons at the Carry Nation Home. Travel west to Lake Coldwater to cool off with swimming, boating and fishing. Keep an eye out for wintering bald eagles, migrating white pelicans and ospreys.

Celebrate Humboldt's Revival

A small but devoted team of entrepreneurs has launched an effort to update this small eastern Kansas town in big-thinking ways. Scandinavian-inspired rental cabins perch around a large fishing pond at Base Camp. Guests can rent bikes and hop on the adjacent Southwind Rail Trail, or extend their journey along the 51-mile Prairie Spirit Trail. Order a flat white or chai latte at Humboldt Mercantile and browse a selection of Kansas-made goods while the barista fixes your drink. And be sure to snap a selfie beside the mural of the town's notable water tower, with the motto "Life is fine in Humboldt."

Observe Wildlife Around Great Bend

Along North America's most important bird migration route, arrive at sunrise to watch a pod of pelicans take flight off the waters of Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. The massive marsh hosts hundreds of thousands of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds in spring and autumn. A stop at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center explains the international importance of this inland freshwater marsh (the largest in the country). Swoop through Great Bend Coffee for a latte before flying south toward Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, a rare-in-the-Midwest inland saltwater marsh where trails lead to closer views of ducks, geese and several endangered species.

Be Immersed in the Art of Salina

Even longtime locals are likely to find something new each time they visit Salina's booming downtown. A revitalized streetscape continues to bring fresh eats, attractions and murals to the city's core. The 100-foot-tall Mural at the Mill by Australian artist Guido van Helten wraps around three sides of a flour mill, and it's the first of many murals coordinated by the Salina Kanvas Project. Twenty sculptures dress up downtown sidewalks on the city's SculptureTour. Works change every spring and pedestrians vote for their favorite. A 1931 art deco showpiece, The Stiefel Theatre hosts live performances beneath a restored neon spire.

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Must-see attractions in Kansas

Cosmosphere

Possibly the most surprising sight in Kansas, this amazing museum captures the race to the moon better than any museum on the planet. Absorbing displays…

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

This 11,000-acre national preserve, 2 miles northwest of Strong City, is a perfect place to hike the prairie, with its 40 miles of scenic trails. Bison…

Brown v Board of Education National Historic Site

It took real guts to challenge the segregationist laws common in the US in the 1950s and the stories of these courageous men and women are here. This…

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

In 1907 Samuel Dinsmoor began filling his yard with enormous concrete sculptures reflecting his eccentric philosophies relating to contemporary life and…

Old Cowtown Museum

An open-air museum that re-creates the Wild West (as seen on TV…). Over 50 pioneer-era buildings, staged gunfights (April to October) and guides in cowboy…

Eisenhower Presidential Center

Fittingly set against a backdrop of grain elevators, the rather regal Eisenhower Presidential Center includes Ike's boyhood home, a recently redesigned…

Home on the Range Cabin

The iconic song of the American West, 'Home on the Range,' was written by Brewster M Higley in 1871 at a remote cabin in northern Kansas. Today you can…

Exploration Place

Right on the river confluence, this architecturally striking children's museum has no end of cool exhibits, including a tornado chamber where you can feel…

This restored fort near the Missouri border dates to 1842. While the parade grounds and buildings in the heart of its namesake city are interesting, the…

Nicodemus National Historic Site Visitor Center

Descendants of Nicodemus's early settlers are often at the national parks visitor center to recount local history and the experience of African Americans…

County Courthouse

Don't miss the showstopping County Courthouse in Cottonwood Falls. Completed in 1873, it is a fantasy of French Renaissance style.

Kansas Museum of History

From a Cheyenne war lance to temperance advocate Carrie Nation's hammer, this engaging center is packed with Kansas stories.

Grassroots Art Center

An intriguing collection of works made by amateur artists using recycled goods such as buttons, barbed wire and pull-tabs.

Mid-America All-Indian Center

Guarded by Wichita artist Blackbear Bosin's 44ft statue Keeper of the Plains, this museum has exhibits of Native American art and artifacts, as well as a…

Boot Hill Museum

This studio-backlot-like attraction includes a cemetery, jail and saloon, where gunslingers reenact (blood-free) shootouts while Miss Kitty and her…

Chase County Historical Society

In a historic corner brick commercial building, this small museum has engaging displays about the county's history including the nearby 1931 plane crash…

Santa Fe Trail Center Museum

Two miles west of town, this open-air museum details the vital route linking the US and Mexico for much of the 19th century. Other exhibits include…

Spencer Museum of Art

Encompassing works by American Old West artist Frederic Remington, Plains painter Thomas Hart Benton and others, this museum on the University of Kansas…

State Capitol

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10 Best Places to Visit in Kansas

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 4, 2024

From a geographic point of view, Kansas is in the center of the United States. That’s just one of the many reasons, however, that Kansas is known as the Heart of America. The state of Kansas is a slice of Americana, boasting the scenery of the Great Plains along with plenty of history.

Thanks to the Wizard of Oz, many people think of it as a place from which to escape, but in fact there are a lot of great places to visit in Kansas.

10. Fort Scott National Historic Site

In the middle of the 19th century, Kansas could be described as the frontierland. Settlement was ongoing, but a military presence was needed to secure the American borders. Fort Scott was constructed in 1842, and was a significant factor in both the U.S. Civil War and Bleeding Kansas, a dispute that brought up slavery even before it was a national battle.

Today, the Fort Scott National Historic Site can be best explored on a guided tour. You can tour 11 historically accurate buildings that house 30 furnished rooms, each letting you glimpse into life more than 150 years ago.

9. Oz Museum

On the banks of the Kansas River is the small city of Wamego. However, don’t let the size of Wamego fool you: It is home to one of the most fascinating attractions in the state! Wamego is where you will find the Oz Museum, a museum devoted to all things Wizard of Oz.

Within the collection, you can view the original books, modern collectibles and memorabilia from the iconic movie. Some of the more unusual and unexpected artifacts include the original silent films, which can be watched onsite, as well as ruby slippers covered in thousands of Swarovski crystals!

8. Monument Rocks

The Chalk Pyramids, also known as Monument Rocks, can be found in Gove County, in northwest Kansas. This geological landmark is one of the natural wonders of the state. Monuments Rocks is, by some estimates, more than 80 million years old.

Some of the rock formations are over 70 feet tall, and the ones you won’t want to miss are called Charlie the Dog and Eye of the Needle. Look closely, and you can also see shells and even whole fossils in the rock itself.

7. Cosmosphere

Located in the city of Hutchinson is the The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, better known as simply the Cosmosphere. This is the second largest space museum on the planet, and it is packed with fascinating attractions and exhibits. In the Carey Digital Dome Theater, you can watch movies about space exploration on a two-story, domed screen.

You can also watch a performance of Dr. Goddard’s Lab, which takes viewers back to the 1930s when rocketry was just developing as a field. The Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum is the largest collection of Russian and American space artifacts anywhere in the world, and you can even see and touch real spacecraft.

6. Lindsborg

One of the most fascinating destinations in Kansas is Lindsborg. This small city was settled by Swedish immigrants towards the end of the 19th century. Today, it is known as Little Sweden. There are a number of shops and historic attractions that embrace the local Swedish heritage.

At the Blacksmith Shop, stroll past anvils to grab a cup of locally roasted coffee. With a caffeine boost, you’ll be ready to explore the The Swedish Pavilion. This landmark was created more than 100 years ago for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, it was transported right to Little Sweden, where it now serves as a hub for the arts at Bethany College.

Lindsborg is home to several festivals and all of them draw huge crowds. Perhaps the best known is the Svensk Hyllmingsfest, featuring Swedish dancing, singing, parades and colorful Swedish costumes.

5. Dodge City

Western Kansas is home to Dodge City, a name synonymous with the Santa Fe Trail. Fort Dodge was built in the 19th century to safeguard settlers heading along the trail or settling in Kansas. It was the epitome of the Wild West, which is why we now have the expression, “Get the heck out of Dodge.”

Today, however, Dodge is a wonderful place to be, and it is loaded with history and things to explore. You can still tour Fort Dodge, and you can also check out the Boot Hill Museum. This museum has a full reconstruction of Dodge City as it looked in 1876, and things like gunfight reenactments and chuckwagon dinners are all a part of the charm.

4. Eisenhower Presidential Library

In central Kansas is a small city called Abilene that is home to an impressive and historically significant attraction. The Eisenhower Presidential Library is located in Abilene, and it is connected to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum as well as Eisenhower’s boyhood home.

The Eisenhower Presidential Library is a top-notch research facility that is packed with millions of books, photos and artifacts. Exhibits change frequently and revolve around Eisenhower’s life, his presidency and Kansas history.

3. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Only four percent of America’s original tallgrass prairies exist today, but the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve seeks to protect what remains. Located outside of Strong City, this preserve is home to several miles of hiking trails. There are also a handful of historic buildings on the preserve, including the 19th century Spring Hill Ranch House and the Limestone Barn.

Flora and fauna are a big draw, and in the spring the prairies bloom with colorful flowers. Since 2009, there has also been a herd of bison roaming the preserve, which is an attempt to reintroduce them to this natural landscape.

2. Lawrence

If you’re looking for nightlife, art and culture, then one of the top cities in Kansas to check out is Lawrence. This city is home to the University of Kansas, helping to create its youthful, progressive population and bohemian atmosphere.

Lawrence revolves around Massachusetts Street, the main drag lined with art galleries, independent eateries and an abundance of quirky or vintage boutiques. As a college town, the area is also home to plenty of great local breweries and nightlife spots.

Don’t leave without spending some time on the University of Kansas campus, which has a number of impressive buildings. The campus is often compared to the fictional school of Hogwarts, from the Harry Potter universe, and the aptly named Potter’s Lake only adds to that particular comparison.

Wichita may not be the state capital, but it is the largest city in Kansas. Nicknamed the Air Capital of the World, Wichita is home to several aerospace companies as well as the Kansas Aviation Museum. One of the city’s biggest family-friendly attractions is the Sedgwick County Zoo, an enormous collection of more than 2,500 animals.

While in Wichita, make time to stroll through Old Town on foot. Old Town has recently been revitalized, and it is now a fantastic collection of museums, shops and restaurants that is conveniently pedestrian friendly.

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The 25 Best Things to do in Kansas

An underrated state to visit, Kansas is oftentimes a state that many drive through on road trips to other destinations. But, instead of passing through, with this guide, you’ll want to make stops at the many unique attractions found scattered throughout Kansas. Known for its beautiful tallgrass prairies that seem to go on endlessly, Kansas is a state full of rich history and a great place to visit, thanks to its distinctive and eccentric sites! 

From the outdoor attractions in the Flint Hills to the Cosmosphere Space Center in Hutchinson, there’s enough to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Wild West town of Dodge City, the Strataca Kansas Underground Salt Museum, and the cities that are well-known for their art scene. From each corner of the state, you’ll find diverse attractions and destinations that play an important role in American history, like Topeka’s Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. 

With so many things to see and do in the Sunflower State, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Kansas for you. Stick to these fun and unique Kansas bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this one-of-a-kind Midwestern state!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to do in Kansas

1. pay a tribute to all things oz in wamego.

If you find yourself in Wamego, follow the real-life yellow brick road on Lincoln Avenue past the statue of Toto and all the colorful murals until you reach the emerald building adorned with the source of your childhood nightmares – flying monkeys. Here is where the adventure begins!

Feast your eyes on over 2,000 artifacts that span over 120 years of The Wizard of Oz ’s history at the Oz Museum . Embrace your childhood nostalgia while you watch the entire 1939 movie in the cozy back theater, or if that isn’t exhilarating enough for you, then you can test your bravery in the tornado simulator that blows winds of up to 78 miles an hour.

For the ultimate souvenir, you can purchase your very own pair of ruby red slippers at the gift shop to always be reminded that there’s no place like Wamego.

Wamego is a charming little rural town that is so quintessentially Kansas. Want to stick to the Oz theme? Toto’s TacOZ! is a great spot for lunch, or for a more sophisticated evening, you can opt out of being the designated driver and head on over to the Oz Winery to try their local specialties.

2. Take a Stroll Through the Stunning Gardens of Botanica in Wichita

Sitting in the heart of the Wichita museum district, this place has been adored by locals since it first opened its doors in 1987, and for a good reason. Botanica is a year-round destination that you are sure to fall in love with.

You can come here anytime to wander through the majestic gardens. Come here in the spring to see over 50,000 tulip bulbs and 120,000 daffodil bulbs flowering. From June to September, witness a kaleidoscope of colors as over 50 species of butterflies fly freely in the butterfly house. Approach the hatching house, and you can observe them emerging from their chrysalises and taking their first cautious flight.

For the ultimate autumn vibes, check out over 1,000 unique glow-in-the-dark pumpkins, cautiously make your way through the Haunted Woodland walk, then nestle in at the cozy fire pits that are perfect for toasting s’mores. Check out the largest light show in the Midwest as you walk through this Winter Wonderland to witness their famous illuminations!

Finish off your evening stroll with the perfect winter warmer, a delicious cup of hot chocolate, and pay a visit to Kris Kringle himself, who is delighted to greet the kids and young at heart, all while delightful live music plays to put you in the festive spirit.

3. Experience the Real Wild West at Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City

Whip out your rodeo attire and fasten your chaps because we’re heading back in time to the Old West and the American Frontier. Back in the 1870s and 1880s, Dodge City was known as the “Queen of the Cowtowns” and the “Wildest, Wickedest, and Woolliest.”

With its replica of Front Street, the Boot Hill Museum is a portal to the times when Dodge was full of whisky-scented saloons, rowdy cowboys, and shootouts at sundown. This museum tells the history of the infamous Dodge City. Outside of the museum is “Front Street,” a recreation of what Dodge City would have looked like in its heyday.

You can go inside all the replica buildings and look around at the artifacts and see how daily life was for all the crazy cowboys that called this place home. The term “Boot Hill” was pretty commonplace throughout the Wild West. 

The term comes from the fact that so many local cowboys died swiftly in gunfights, essentially “dying with their boots on.” Today, the Boot Hill Museum is located on the original site of the Boot Hill Cemetery. 

4. Unleash Your Inner Astronaut at the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center

See things you’ve never seen before – not even at NASA! Learn all about the history of the Space Race, from Nazi rockets to the moon landing. Skip Russia because they have the largest collection of Russian space artifacts outside of Moscow. You can even see the real Apollo 13!

This totally unique collection allows the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center to tell the story of the Space Race better than any museum in the world, making this one of the must-do things in Kansas for space geeks. 

Sure, it’s smaller than the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, but the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center is more intimate and does a much better job of putting everything into a historical context – which is especially useful for those of us who didn’t grow up during the Space Race!

Admire the twinkly night sky in the impressive planetarium, watch a movie in the huge dome theater, take your time in the museum, and be sure to check out a live science demonstration in Dr. Goddard’s Lab.

This place offers something for kids of all ages and is sure to delight anyone who used to look up at the stars and dream of being an astronaut. Don’t forget to finish your trip with a visit to the cafe because they have cookies that are out of this world! 

5. Learn All About Nature at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

This preserve is the largest protected tallgrass prairie left in the country and the only national park unit dedicated specifically to the tallgrass prairie. Home to over 150 species of birds like vultures, turkeys, and red-tailed hawks, this is one of the best things to do in Kansas for animal and nature lovers. The preserve also contains one of the largest remaining populations of the endangered greater prairie chicken.

When you are exploring the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve , you’ll find it has a wide range of exhibits from ecology and geology to history and culture. It covers just about everything that shaped the tallgrass prairie and made it the marvel that we see today. After stopping off at the Visitor Center, you’ll enjoy taking a self-guided tour of the ranch or trying catch-and-release fishing in Fox Creek or any of the three ponds.

Three glorious nature trails allow you to experience the beauty of the tallgrass prairie firsthand. You might even see a jumping jackrabbit or an elegant white-tailed deer.

Any nature lover will be ecstatic to hear that this place is home to a sizable population of over 2,000 wild bison. Did you know that in 2016 the American bison became the United States’ first national mammal? 

Much like the bald eagle, bison are a symbol of American identity. They are also one of the greatest conservation success stories of our time. All the more reason to see them at this preserve!

6. Immerse Yourself in Science at the Exploration Place

One of the best Kansas attractions for kids, dive into hundreds of amazing interactive exhibits that are sure to excite you at the Exploration Place . Immerse yourself in 360-degree views under the largest dome theater in Kansas, catch one of their live science shows in the theater (performed multiple times daily), or feel like a giant while exploring 1950s Kansas in miniature.

Kids will have a blast being kings and queens of the three-story medieval castle in a town “where kids rule.” In the Exploration Park, you can unleash your inner Indiana Jones by digging for archaeological treasures in the giant sandbox or just sit and relax and soak up the impressive panoramic views.

Explore the wacky and wonderful world of the human body inside and out with hilarious carnival games, show off your surgical skills in a life-sized game of Operation, experience a literal Emotional Roller Coaster simulator, or just be plain silly on the fart chair that spits out flatulence facts!

7. Admire the Artwork at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Located in Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art contains mind-blowing artwork from almost every corner of the globe, spanning a whopping 5,000 years.

Upon arriving, the building itself is simply stunning, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the top Kansas attractions. With its sheer scale and dramatic columns, you’ll instantly feel like you’re stepping back in time to Ancient Rome until you notice the world’s largest shuttlecocks scattered around the freshly manicured lawn. It’s hard to believe that admission here is free!

Why go all the way to the Louvre when Nelson Atkins has art by many of Europe’s most famous artists right here in Kansas City? Featuring works by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Albrecht Dürer, John Constable, Caravaggio, Titian, and Rembrandt, they even have a replica of Rodin’s The Thinker . Step inside, and you’ll immediately see why visiting this place is one of the coolest things to do in Kansas.

What about a glance at the Far East? Marvel at their world-renowned collection of Asian artwork spanning several dynasties. Some of their most priceless gems are undoubtedly by Katsushika Hokusai and Qiao Zhong Chang.

Get lost in the Glass Labyrinth, created by Kansas City native artist Robert Morris or take your sweet time walking through the stunning Sculpture Garden. Finish your evening off with a visit to The Rozzelle Court Restaurant. The restaurant is designed in the dramatic yet perfectly ambient style of a 15th-century Italian courtyard, making it the perfect place to sit with a cappuccino after a satisfying day of perusing global artwork.

8. Ride a Tram 650 Feet Below the Earth at the Strataca Kansas Underground Salt Museum

A must on any Kansas bucket list, this is the only underground salt mine and museum in the US that’s open to tourists. Located in Hutchinson, there are only two other museums of this type in the whole world, and they are in Poland and Austria. Despite all of this, the Strataca Kansas Underground Salt Museum remains a hidden gem that’s barely advertised, so check it out before the place is overrun with tourists!

You would never guess that beneath this small Kansas town lies a salt mine – 650 feet below the earth! It all begins on board a double-decker elevator in an exhilarating 90-second descent into the unknown. When you arrive at the underground salt deposits, you’ll board a tram and be given a fascinating tour of the mine.

Hitler stored treasure and stolen artwork in German-controlled salt mines during WW2. This idea then inspired locals to do the same thing here in Kansas. The mine is 70 degrees and has low humidity, so it was the obvious place to store precious documents, artifacts, and valuable records.

Be sure to give yourself enough time to experience the Salt Safari. It is a guided ride through the hidden parts of the mine where you will discover unique old salt formations that only a few have seen – until now.

9. Discover the Ancient Chalk Pyramids in Gove County

This is one of the most unique Kansas activities because it is almost impossible to pick up a rock there without seeing a fossil or ancient seashell. If you look closely at some of the formations, you can even see teeny-tiny sea creatures that once used to swim right where you are standing. It’s crazy to think that they have been here for 80 million years!

Standing in front of the chalk pyramids, you’ll find it difficult to believe that this whole place used to be underwater for millions of years. Do yourself a favor and visit the Fick Fossil and History Museum first. Most of their specimens come from the Monument rocks area. They have fascinating items like a mammoth tusk and a 15-foot fish skeleton.

You need to see this national landmark while you still can! Sadly the wind and the rain that hits these natural wonders are slowly eroding them over time. Currently, some of these formations are over 70 feet tall – can you imagine how enormous they were originally?

10. Stop at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and visit the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Great Bend

Located in Great Bend, the Kansas Wetland Education Center overlooks Cheyenne Bottoms – the largest inland marsh in the US. Here you can become an eco-warrior by learning about this globally important wetland through interactive exhibits. Test your woodshop skills by building a bird station and experience an augmented reality watershed simulator.

Stop by in October or November to see the mysterious and endangered whooping crane, which gets its name from the whooping sound it makes. They stand at an impressive 5 feet tall and can live for as long as 24 years in the wild. Want to get up close and personal with other prairie animals? They also have an education room with live animals.

Located about 50 minutes south of the Kansas Wetland Education Center is another one of the best Kansas attractions. Bring your binoculars because the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is a bird-watcher’s paradise – with over 300 bird species calling this place home, from colorful painted buntings to gaggles of geese, you are sure to love this place. 

The refuge provides food, water, and comfortable nesting areas for the migratory waterfowl that come to the area. Take a relaxing stroll through multiple habitats in Migrants Mile because this trail is the perfect place for connecting with nature.

11. Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Prairie at the Flint Hills Discovery Center

Located in Manhattan, Kansas, the Flint Hills Discovery Center is a phenomenal tribute to the last remaining area of unbroken tallgrass prairie. You could easily spend an entire day here looking at all of the fascinating exhibits that highlight the science, history, and culture of this eco-region, all the way from prehistoric times to the present day!

The perfect starting point for an exploration of the uniquely Kansas Flint Hills is the immersive theater that has panoramic photography and special effects presented on a 120-degree curved screen. Bring the kids because they’ve got an interactive playground that’s bound to be a hit with people of all ages!

This 35,000-square-foot must-see attraction has something for everyone. Plus, they have constantly got new temporary exhibits, so no two trips there will ever be the same. 

Only going once? Don’t worry – there are plenty of permanent exhibitions that you are sure to enjoy. The facility also promotes various educational outreach programs for kids, teens, and adults.

This museum is the perfect place to learn all about the history of the area, starting with the history of the Native tribes who lived here to the settlements of the 19th century. One of the highlights is the replica of the actual tallgrass – roots and all – that make up the grassland.

12. Uncover History at Topeka’s Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site

Monroe Elementary School is a National Historical Park commemorating the landmark ruling in the 1954 Brown v. Board case. This was a major victory of the civil rights movement and paved the way for integration. 

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is the original school building where public education was desegregated for the first time. Each exhibit demonstrates the before, during, and after periods of the Brown case.

Oliver Brown began the case in 1951. It all began when he attempted to enroll his daughter Linda Carol Brown in the local public school system in Topeka. They refused to enroll his daughter at Summer Elementary, the closest elementary school, a mere seven blocks from their house. She was instead redirected to Monroe Elementary, a segregated school that would require her to walk six blocks to get a bus to school.

The Browns and 12 other parents representing their 20 children in similar situations filed a class-action lawsuit in US federal court against the Topeka board of education – and they lost. They immediately appealed the ruling to the Supreme Court. 

On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous 9-0 decision in favor of the Browns, ruling that “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.” It was a monumental moment in American history, making this one of the must-see Kansas attractions. 

13.  Get Behind the Wheel at the Kansas Speedway

If you find yourself in Kansas City, visiting the Kansas Speedway is one of the most fun things to do in Kansas. It’s your turn to get behind the wheel of a supercar. You can choose from Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, and more! 

Push the pedal to the metal in a 1.5-mile tri-oval racetrack that is perfectly designed for high-speed runs. Feel the adrenaline pumping through your body as you cross that checkered finish line.

At the Kansas Speedway, you can finally cross off “Drive a Supercar” off your bucket list as you race around the same track used by NASCAR champions. Would you prefer to just sit back and enjoy all the action? 

Leave it to the pros and have a ride-along experience instead. Going with a group that is too scared to ride? Get them the Spectator Pit Pass so they can watch all the action up close.

Every year Kansas Speedway hosts the American Royal BBQ Weekend. Are you famous for your top-secret sauce or mouthwatering juicy hamburgers? Then you can battle it out with almost 500 contestants to prove that you are the best at BBQ! If you can time your visit right, this is a must on your Kansas bucket list.

14. Cruise Route 66 with a Stop at the Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center

Kansas has the shortest amount of the historic Route 66 running through it, with just 13 miles, but that short distance has some of the best stops on the entire route.

Baxter Springs Visitor Center is home to a local celebrity, “Crazy Legs” Dean Walker, who can turn his feet backward! He was one of the sources of inspiration for everyone’s favorite Disney Pixar Cars character Tow Mater and was the inspiration to make Tow Mater drive backward!

It started off as a gas station in 1930. Ownership of the place has passed hands several times, mostly remaining a gas station until 1970, when it was converted into an office building. In 2003, it was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and in 2007, the building was converted back to its 1940s appearance. 

These days it serves as a Heritage Center and Museum and is one of the most unique things to do in Kansas if you’re driving along Route 66.

15. Hike the Trails at the Konza Prairie Biological Station in Manhattan

Kansas isn’t all flat, you know! Konza Prairie contains a narrow chain of hills that are home to some of the densest remaining native tall grass prairies in North America. This place is so rare and diverse that it actually counts as its own eco-region! This site is named “Konza” in recognition of the Native American “Kaw” or “South Wind People,” a tribe that inhabited this region up until the mid-19th century.

Tallgrass prairies once covered more than 170 million acres. The rich and fertile soil was an obvious choice for settlers to use for agriculture. Thankfully, the Flint Hills were spared the plow because it was too rocky. Of the tiny amount of tallgrass prairies that remain today, almost all of it is in the Flint Hills.

Almost 9,000 acres of protected land sounds like a lot to cover, but don’t worry – you have three loop options to choose from that’ll allow you to see the best the park has to offer. 

You’ll love the nature trail. It’ll take you through the timber-lined banks along Kings Creek before arriving at the peacefully swaying long grass of the Flint Hills prairie. The best times to visit this trail are April to June. Maybe you’ll even be lucky enough to spot a great horned owl or even an elusive bobcat. If you’re a nature enthusiast, add the Konza Prairie Biological Station to your Kansas itinerary pronto!

16. Step into History at the Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott was named after General Winfield Scott, who was renowned during the Mexican-American War. The Fort Scott National Historic Site protects 20 important historic structures – 11 of which are original buildings, a military parade ground, and five acres of restored tallgrass prairie. Because of its strategic location close to the border of Kansas and Missouri, Fort Scott remained a combat zone throughout the Civil War.

What exactly happened at Fort Scott? During the Bleeding Kansas era in the 1850s, settlers occupied the abandoned fort, and Fort Scott became a brutal battleground between those who were anti-slavery and those who were pro-slavery. Throughout history, it has also been used as a supply base, hospital complex, recruitment center, and training ground.

These days it is a lot more peaceful, serving as a museum to educate people. This area was important throughout American history. It is one of only two National Park Service sites that share the history of the Mexican-American War. While it is furnished in the style of the 1840s era, Fort Scott tells the rich story of over three decades of American history.

17. Take a Walk through Time at Wichita’s Museum of World Treasures

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Kansas, this place is a must! This non-profit organization has some of the most amazing and unusual finds, from shrunken heads to dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies! 

At Wichita’s Museum of World Treasures , you can delve into history as you learn about American presidents and enter the battlefield as you learn about world wars. This place is sure to excite your inner history buff.

Did you know that Kansas’s Great Plains were once home to prehistoric creatures? See the terrifyingly large skeleton of Logan the Tylosaurus, which once hunted in the sea over Kansas. 

Then there’s the scary Xiphactinus, an almost 17-foot-long fish that still looks ready to devour unsuspecting prey! The Sea Creatures of the Plains exhibit is a fascinating place to see the unusual inhabitants that lived in Kansas when it was submerged in water!

With three floors of exhibits full to the brim with fascinating items, this place is easily one of the best things to do in Kansas. Walk through the Founding of America exhibit to read facsimiles of documents written by the Founding Fathers and find the answer to what kind of food colonial Americans ate. See artifacts from every great American war – from the Vietnam War to the Korean War. They even have a massive piece of the Berlin Wall!

18. Explore a Historic Farm at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

If you find yourself in Overland Park, this is where you’ll find one of the most adorable Kansas attractions. At the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead , you can bottle-feed a cute baby goat, then take a stroll through the main street to try your hand at fishing with an old-fashioned cane pole in the pond. 

After that, learn all about farming – from growing flowers and vegetables to milking cows with a live seminar – and visit the chicken coop and horses, and don’t forget to make a stop at the old-fashioned one-room schoolhouse.

Relive the days of westward expansion by taking a relaxing ride through the woods on a wagon pulled by a herd of beautiful Belgian horses. Want to know what life was really like for the Kaw Nation? Experience the historically accurate, culturally sensitive replica of a small Kanza village featuring real artifacts of the Kaw Nation.

You can also observe birds of prey at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, like the majestic bald eagle and red-tailed hawk that now call the farmstead home, or you can enjoy the rainbow plumage of the peacocks. Get up close and personal in the petting pen – the pygmy goats are super friendly. This farmstead is a really affordable day trip and one of the most fun things to do in Kansas for the whole family!

19. Visit the Eccentric Garden of Eden in Lucas

The Garden of Eden is easily the craziest sculpture garden in Kansas and possibly the world. The town of Lucas is known as the grassroots art capital of Kansas, and that is largely attributed to the Garden of Eden. The artwork is infused with humor and influenced by the Bible and politics.

Civil War veteran Samuel Perry Dinsmoor began construction on the garden in 1907 at the ripe age of 62. In his lifetime, he was viewed as being very eccentric, and with good reason. He built a structure of limestone logs for the family home. Using over 100 tons of cement, he built 40-foot-tall trees to hold the crazy sculpture figures that he envisioned as part of his sculpture garden. He eventually stopped working on his sculptures in 1929, but only because he went blind. 

Dinsmore enjoyed the fact that he was considered quite the jokester, and as his final prank, he built a concrete mausoleum, complete with a glass coffin which later became the final resting place of his mummified remains. That’s right – for his final exhibit, you can view his body as part of the tour. This is seriously one of the most unique things to do in Kansas! 

Need the restroom? Hold it – because a 30-second drive away, you can use the award-winning toilet in Bowl Plaza , otherwise known as the “most artsy public toilet in the US.”

20. See the Breathtaking Sunrise at Mushroom Rock State Park

At only five acres, Mushroom Rock is Kansas’s smallest state park, but we all know that good things come in small packages! Sadly, despite their appearance, these aren’t giant fossilized prehistoric mushrooms. 

Located in Ellsworth County, they were actually formed in a time when T-Rex and Velociraptors roamed the earth during the Cretaceous period. The mushroom rocks are the remains of beach sand and sediments that were bound by natural cement and were formed around 100 million years ago.

This is a super popular spot for people camping or RVing through Kansas. If you wake up early, you’ll see with your own eyes why this area is called the “Smoky Hills” as the fog gently envelops the landscape and rolling hills. When the light starts illuminating the giant mushroom structures, you might start questioning if you are on an alien planet!

When you look really closely at some of the rocks, you’ll find something really neat. Among the small fossils, people carved their names into the rockface well over a hundred years ago, proving that visiting this place has long been one of the coolest and most unique things to do in Kansas!

21. Dig into Kansas BBQ in Kansas City

With so many cities in the US claiming to be the top dog when it comes to BBQ, Kansas City obviously is in the running, and for good reason. So it’d be a shame to leave the state without trying some of the best BBQ joints in Kansas City. 

Here, the city is known for its pulled pork, slowly-smoked beef brisket, and burnt ends, topped with a heavy dose of tangy and sweet BBQ sauce. Basically, a visit to any random BBQ restaurant would most likely be worth a stop, but here are a few of our favorites! 

One of the local favorites is Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que . Despite its humble beginnings inside a gas station, now it’s one of the most-visited BBQ restaurants in town, with lines out of the door. But, it’s well worth the wait. Try the Z-Man Sandwich, a juicy slowly-smoked beef brisket sandwich garnished with smoked provolone cheese and onion rings. 

Leave room in your belly for Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbeque . What started as a modest BBQ food stand has now evolved into one of the best casual fine-dining restaurants serving up more than 10 styles of hickory-smoked meats. 

If you can’t decide, try the Kansas City Combo, where you’ll get a taste of the restaurant’s finest selections, including tender pulled pork, beef or pork burnt ends, beef brisket, smoked turkey, or sausages. 

22. Visit Lindsborg (aka Little Sweden)

Stepping into Lindsborg feels like you are visiting Sweden without even leaving the States, thanks to the town’s Swedish heritage, large Swedish population, and Scandinavian architecture.  

The town is home to many events throughout the year, including the bi-annual Svensk Hyllningsfest , which is a celebration of Swedish culture and traditions. The influence is everywhere, especially in the charming downtown area that features the brightly colored and intricate wooden Dala horses that Sweden is known for. 

For such a small town (with a population of under 5,000 people), it has an unexpectedly impressive art scene. Not only does the town have outdoor sculptures in public parks scattered around the city, but another highlight includes the Small World Gallery , which displays National Geographic photographs from a photographer that calls the town his home. 

Then, stop at the Hemslöjd to watch the woodworkers, painters, and glass etchers make their traditional handcrafted artwork. Watch the sunset from Coronado Heights, a castle-like structure that provides a great overlook to see the surrounding countryside. 

Before calling it a night, dine at one of the many Swedish restaurants in town, like Dröm Sött at the Sweet Dreams Inn , to chow down on all the Swedish grub that Lindsborg has to offer. 

23. Take a Photo with the Famous Kansas Sunflowers at Grinter’s Sunflower Farm

Just a bit outside of Lawrence, Kansas, a visit to Grinter’s Sunflower Farm should definitely be added to your Kansas bucket list. Usually in bloom from July to early September, the sunflower fields provide a stunning backdrop for photos. 

With over 40 acres, it’s a sight to see with a sea of thousands of the giant flowers that Kansas is most known for. The family-run farm also has a small general store with locally produced goods and homemade bakery items. 

During peak season, hordes of people visit the farm, so it’s recommended that you go on weekday mornings to avoid the crowds and to get the best lighting for your photos. The fields look their best and are in full bloom for about two weeks after Labor Day. Plus, there are no admission fees to enter, so it’s a great free attraction to visit while you are in town. 

24. Get Tipsy Wine Hopping in Lawrence

After your visit to the sunflower fields, it’s time to visit all the wineries and breweries that Lawrence has to offer. Underrated and a bit unknown in the wine circles, Kansas wines have a distinct flavor with plenty of different varietals to choose from. 

Surprisingly, Kansas has a rich history with wineries and breweries, even before Prohibition. Plus, most of the wineries surrounding Lawrence have tasting rooms where you can try locally-produced wine. Then, take a stroll through the vineyard, have a picnic outside, or join in on the events that wineries regularly hold. 

Some of the wineries have won national and international awards with locally-grown Kansas grapes. For starters, stop at the Crescent Moon Winery on the weekends, which is located just a few miles outside of Lawrence. They also have a tasting room within city limits for those that don’t want to make the trek out to the countryside. 

You can also head to Irvine’s Just Beyond Paradise , located north of Lawrence, to sample their wines at their tasting room, which is surrounded by a beautiful 40-acre vineyard and farm. If you prefer craft beer, a visit to Free State Brewing Company is a must since it was the first legal brewery in Kansas in over 100 years.

25. Discover the Art on the Outdoor Sculpture Tour in Salina

If you happen to find yourself passing near Salina, in the heart of Kansas, the Sculpture Art Walk is one of the most exciting Kansas activities. Each year in May, the town unveils new sculptures that are dotted across the historic downtown area. 

Judged from a competition, up to 35 outdoor works of art are carefully selected to be displayed for visitors to see on their own through a self-guided tour. Not only is it a great way to explore the city, but each sculpture is available to purchase if you happen to find yourself unable to part with one.

The tour features a variety of unique sculptures – from eccentric giant insects made from metal to intricate butterflies inspired by nature and the outdoors. Simply pick up a map and brochure of the Art Walk at many crosswalks downtown and also in many businesses to show you where each piece of art is located. 

You can also vote for the People’s Choice Award, and the one with the most votes will be bought by the city to become part of Salina’s permanent art collection. This permanent collection is always exhibited downtown and throughout the city. 

Plus, with more vibrant murals going up across the city and all the art festivals and artistic events that are held throughout the year, Salina is becoming one of the most-visited art destinations in the state!

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Kansas. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Sunflower State?

Planning a trip to Kansas? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Carrie Ann Back is part-time travel writer and full-time globetrotter based in Southeast Asia. Recent bylines include Travel + Leisure, Parents Magazine, Postcards Magazine, Culture Trip, Matador Network, & more! Leaving her home in 2015, she has embarked on an around-the-world journey and has been traveling continuously ever since. Her most recent adventures include working in the Bolivian Amazon jungle, surfing in Sri Lanka, and exploring Laos via a slow boat up the Mekong River. She’s a proud member of the Cherokee Nation and is passionate about sustainable travel. She now lives in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with her cat Lil’ Mama. Most nights, you can find her munching down at the street food vendors.

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Nelson Atkins Museum is not in Kansas…it is in Missouri…and you missed some great eateries that are actually in Kansas…you don’t have to go to KC for barbecue!

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• Destinations

25 Best Things to Do in Kansas

Last Updated By VI on April 16, 2024

Massachusetts Street

Kansas cosmosphere and space center, oz museum, wamego, kansas, museum of world treasures, kansas.

• Complete List & Map

833-½ Massachusetts Street, Lawrence, KS 66044, Phone: 785-842-3883

Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson, KS 67501,1100 N Plum St, Phone: 800-397-0330

511 Lincoln St, Wamego, KS 66547, Phone: 785-458-8686

835 E 1st St N, Wichita, KS 67202, Phone: 316-263-1311

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

2480B Kansas 177, Strong City, KS 66869, Phone: 620-273-8494

Kansas State Capitol Building

SW 8th & SW Van Buren, Topeka, KS 66612, 785-296-3966

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

13800 Switzer Road, Overland Park, KS 66221, Phone: 913-897-2360

Sedgwick County Zoo

5555 Zoo Boulevard, Wichita, KS 67212, Phone: 316-266-8211

Kansas Speedway

400 Speedway Blvd., Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 866-460-7223

Strataca, Kansas

3650 East Avenue G, Hutchinson, KS 67501, Phone: 620-662-1425

Flint Hills Discovery Center

315 South 3rd Street, Manhattan, KS 66502, Phone: 785-587-2726

Sea Life - Kansas City Aquarium

2475 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108, Phone: 816-471-4386

Safari Zoological Park

Route 1, Box 158D, Caney, KS 67333, Phone: 620-515-2885

Botanica Gardens, Wichita, Kansas

701 Amidon Street, Wichita, KS 67203, Phone: 316-264-0448

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Old Fort Blvd., Fort Scott, KS 66701, Phone: 620-223-0310

Kansas Museum of History

6425 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66615, Phone: 785-272-8681

Rolling Hills Zoo

625 N. Hedville Road, Salina, KS 67401, Phone: 785-827-9488

Kansas City Fun Trolley Tours

30 West Pershing, Kansas City, MO 64108, Phone: 816-500-5417

Kansas State Capitol

300 SW 10th St, Topeka, KS 66612,USA, Phone: 785-296-3966

Trails Day Cafe and Museum

803 W Main St, Council Grove, KS 66846, Phone: 620-767-7986

Old Cowtown Museum, Kansas

1865 Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, Phone: 316-350-3323

Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and Museum

200 S E 4th St, Abilene, KS 67410, Phone: 785-263-4751

Exploration Place, Kansas

300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, Phone: 316-660-0600

Fort Larned National Historic Site, Kansas

1767 Kansas 156, Larned, KS 67550, Phone: 620-285-6911

1 Sporting Way, Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 913-912-7600

• 1. Massachusetts Street
• 2. Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
• 3. Oz Museum, Wamego, Kansas
• 4. Museum of World Treasures, Kansas
• 5. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
• 6. Kansas State Capitol Building
• 7. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
• 8. Sedgwick County Zoo
• 9. Kansas Speedway
• 10. Strataca, Kansas
• 11. Flint Hills Discovery Center
• 12. Sea Life - Kansas City Aquarium
• 13. Safari Zoological Park
• 14. Botanica Gardens, Wichita, Kansas
• 15. Fort Scott National Historic Site
• 16. Kansas Museum of History
• 17. Rolling Hills Zoo
• 18. Kansas City Fun Trolley Tours
• 19. Kansas State Capitol
• 20. Trails Day Cafe and Museum
• 21. Old Cowtown Museum, Kansas
• 22. Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and Museum
• 23. Exploration Place, Kansas
• 24. Fort Larned National Historic Site, Kansas

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Resources: Kansas Tourism , State Parks , Tallgrass Prairie

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What travellers are saying.

• Roadside Attractions
• Small Towns
• Hall Of Fames
• National Parks
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• BILL’S BOOKS
• Meet Bill On The Road

There are some really unique things to do in Kansas, including a stop at the Moon Marble Company. Moon Marble offers live demonstrations during the week to show visitors how marbles are made. You can buy marbles in bulk and find custom marbles for collectors. Their store has lots of cool games, and toys for all ages! (Note: they are closed on weekends.)

600 E. Front Street, Bonner Springs, KS 66012

2. See “Mater” From The Movie Cars

In the town of Galena you’ll find the actual truck that inspired “Tow-Mater” in the popular Pixar film, Cars. Director John Lasseter and animator Joe Ranft of Pixar visited this Kan-O-Tex Service Station on old Route 66 in Galena and spotted the rusty tow truck that’s still there at the restored 1934 gas station. The movie actually gives a few nods to Galena and of course, the rest of historic Route 66.

119 N. Main Street, Galena, KS 66739

3. Count The Dala Horses in Lindsborg

Known as “America’s Little Sweden”, Lindsborg is an adorable small town in mid-Kansas with these decorated Dala horses scattered about town. All of them have been uniquely painted and some of them are hiding in plain sight! If you’re strolling through Lindsborg’s charming Main Street, take time to admire all of them. But you’ll also find them at various local attractions, parks, and businesses!

4. Tour The Original Pizza Hut

There’s not much to this tiny building – or “hut” – but it’s certainly historic! Now located on the campus of Wichita State University, the original Pizza Hut is now a tiny museum dedicated to a notable Kansas success story. The Carney brothers began their quest to build a national chain of pizza restaurants in Wichita. (The building has been moved to the campus from its original location in town.)

2090 Innovation Blvd, Wichita, KS 67208

5. Climb Inside Big Brutus!

The world’s largest surviving electric shovel is a sight to behold. Big Brutus, the machine’s nickname, is absolutely incredible to see in person. Once used for coal mining in southeast Kansas – this massive machine is so big that it literally has office space inside of it! This giant machine easily makes the list of quirky things to do in Kansas! It’s similar to being inside of a battleship, with massive gears and pulleys that make this thing function.

It weighs over 1 million pounds and is over 26 stories high. Visitors can still climb the steps and see what’s inside!

6509 NW 60th St, West Mineral, KS 66782

6. Have An ICEE Where It Was Invented!

The ICEE was invented in the town of Coffeyville, Kansas. A local Dairy Queen owner developed the idea after serving iced drinks in the 1950s and noticing how popular they were. Working with a manufacturer in Dallas, he created the machine that made the ICEE. (7-11 would purchase his machines to make their own frozen drinks – now known as Slurpees.)

While the original Dairy Queen is no longer standing, travelers can still stop into the Coffeyville Visitors Center and order up an ICEE! Enjoy the sweet treat while you check out the local museums, murals, and downtown shops.

807 S Walnut St, Coffeyville, KS 67337

7. Follow The Yellow Brick Road To Oz

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting much from this small museum in Wamego, Kansas. And while it doesn’t have any real artifacts that were featured in The Wizard of Oz – it’s still one of the cool things to do in Kansas! (Certainly worthy of the 10 mile detour from Interstate 70!) They have lots of of Oz collectibles, including the books that the movie was based off of. Best of all – the video documentaries dispelling myths and behind the scenes stories – are outstanding. (Don’t miss the “yellow brick road” across the street, and Toto statues around town.)

511 Road to Oz Highway, Wamego, KS 66547

8. Read The Original Rules of Basketball

This was pretty cool – especially if you’re a fan of basketball. Located on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence are James Naismith’s original rules of basketball. Obviously they’ve added quite a few since back then! The rules and a few exhibits are on display – for free at The DeBruce Center. (They’re on the second level of the building.) Parking is available in the garage around the corner.

1647 Naismith Dr, Lawrence, KS 66045

9. Eat A Meal Across From A Prison

I loved the slogan on this restaurant across the street from the historic Leavenworth prison so much – I had to visit! “The Little Steak House Across From The Big House” is on the sign of the Metropolitan Steak House in Leavenworth, Kansas. Even if you don’t grab a meal, be sure to catch a glimpse of the beautiful prison building across the street. Don’t linger too long though – there are plenty of signs warning you to stay off their property.

1501 Metropolitan Ave, Leavenworth, KS 66048

10. Get Up Close To Bison At Maxwell Wildlife Refuge

Just 30 minutes away from Lindsborg is the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge where 200 bison roam free. Visitors can get a unique, up close experience and see these animals like never before. It’s a beautiful, peaceful part of the region, and a guided tour will bring you right into the middle of the relaxed herd. (Which is likely to include some babies as well!) It’s an amazing experience and one of the top things to do in Kansas. Check out their website for tour information for individuals and groups!

 2565 Pueblo Rd, Canton, KS 67428

11. Ride A Super Fast Carousel in Leavenworth

The C.W. Parker Carousel Museum in Leavenworth was one of my favorite things to do in Kansas! There are some incredible artifacts related to the C.W. Parker Carousel company. But, the star of the museum is this wonderful, century old carousel that is lighting fast! (I swear, I’ve never seen or experienced a carousel zooming around as fast as this thing does!) Thrill seekers – give it a shot, but hold on!

320 S. Esplanade Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048

12. Climb Atop The World’s Biggest Belt Buckle

Can you see me up there? Abilene has the world’s largest belt buckle and a set of stairs to climb to the top of it. It’s located next to the local fairgrounds and a fun photo op if you’re passing through town. At 19 feet 10 ½ inches wide and 13 feet 11 ¼ inches tall – it officially earned the title in 2022.

400 N. Pine Street, Abilene, KS 67410

13. Track Down All The Kansas Murals

From Wichita to Junction City and towns all over the state of Kansas, you’ll find some incredible murals! It was one of my favorite parts of exploring the state on a recent road trip. Some of the best spots to find them include Salina, Clay Center, Fort Scott, and Abilene. I put together a guide to some of my favorites in the state which you can read here .

14. Spend The Morning At A Working Dairy Farm

While there are dairy farms throughout the state of Kansas, I was drawn to the popular Hildebrand Farms Dairy in Geary County. Visitors can arrange a tour which takes you through the entire process of milking cows, bottling, and taking care of dozens of cows along the way. It’s a small enough facility that you can get up-close to the action and really understand the entire process. Plus, the family that owns it is super nice. (FYI – there’s ice cream at the end of your tour!)

5210 Rucker Road, Junction City, KS

15. Bourbon Tasting & Motorcycles

Less than 30 minutes off of 135, the tiny town of Marquette is truly a step back in time to simpler days. You can enjoy a bourbon tasting at Smoky Valley Distillery where they make small batch bourbons in an historic old building on Main Street. (They are an incredibly nice family, too!)

Across the street, pop into the Kansas Motorcycle Museum which is loaded with antique motorcycles and collectibles related to racing. A local racer founded the museum which displays his hundreds of winning trophies on the wall as an impressive homage.

105 N Washington St, Marquette, KS 67464

16. Count The Gorillas In Pittsburg

Only one college in America has a gorillas as its mascot and that college is in the town of Pittsburg, Kansas. Pittsburg State College has “Gorilla Village” where a large gorilla sculpture sits next to the football stadium. But, all over town you’ll notice gorilla murals and gorilla statues – often painted in colors to match the business where they’re located.

1705 S Joplin St, Pittsburg, KS 66762

17. Meet Manhattan’s 24-Foot Tall Wheat Farmer

A 24-foot tall statue of Johnny Kaw , the Pioneer Kansas Wheat farmer, stands in the Manhattan City Park. The statue was constructed in 1966, eleven years after the Manhattan Centennial celebration that inspired George Filinger to write the story of Johnny Kaw. The statue is easy to spot from the street and located in the middle of a park with ball fields, a pavilion, and playground.

1101 Fremont St Manhattan, KS 66502

18. View A Stunning Stained Glass Window

One of the most beautiful stained glass windows I have ever seen is located at the Dole Center For Politics in Lawrence, Kansas. While the museum dedicated to Kansas Senator Bob Dole is actually really interesting, the American flag themed window really steals the show. It was built with materials all made in the USA and is the largest stained glass flag in the U.S.

2350 Petefish Dr, Lawrence, KS 66045

19. See The World’s Largest Easel

Another one of the giant things to do in Kansas! Just when you think there’s nothing to see along that boring stretch of Interstate 70 as you’re heading to Colorado, you pass the town of Goodland. Here you’ll find the world’s largest easel and a massive replica of a Van Gough painting — appropriately with sunflowers.  It’s 80 feet tall, and atop it rests a 32×24-foot representation of one of Van Gogh’s “Sunflower” paintings. It’s about a half-mile off of I-70, along Hwy 24 near the center of town.

20. Hop On A Trail of Tacos

The Taco Trail in Kansas City, Kansas is totally legit – with as many as 60 spots to choose from! You can download a free app , win free prizes, and try to sample as many places as you can during your visit. If you’re looking for things to do in Kansas that involve food – this would be a great one to add to your list!

21. Pose For A Photo With Mr. Spock

Located outside of a comic book shop in Leavenworth (how appropriate) you’ll find this giant Mr. Spock mural! Gator’s Games and Hobby is the name of the store. The artist is Jeremy M. Raymer of Pittsburgh, PA. Such a fun photo op!

720 Shawnee Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048

22. Visit The Ag Hall Of Fame & Museum

On your list of quirky things to do in Kansas, consider a stop at the Ag Hall of Fame & Museum. This museum is dedicated to the agriculture industry in both Kansas and the U.S. There’s a large museum with tractors, exhibits on farming, and an actually Hall of Fame for exceptional farmers and inventors who helped advance the industry. There’s also a replica of an “old farm town” and a train ride for kids.

630 N. 126th Street, Bonner Springs, KS 66012

23. Eat Famous Fried Chicken in Southeast Kansas

Apparently back in the day, fried chicken wars were legendary in southeast Kansas! When I heard that one of the favorite things to do in Kansas was eating fried chicken – I was all in! Some of those famous chicken restaurants still exist! Six of the oldest chicken restaurants in the state of Kansas are located near Pittsburg. The oldest, Chicken Annies, was opened way back in 1934. It’s located directly across the street from the Kansas Crossing Casino.

24. Watch The Sunset at Coronado Heights

Kansas is an under the radar destination for most travelers and many people would have no idea that sunsets in this state can be really spectacular. One of the top spots to catch the sunset is at Coronado Heights park, just a few miles outside of the town of Lindsborg. If you’re looking for memorable things to do in Kansas – add this spot to your list. It was beautiful! Be sure to check out the Coronado Castle while you’re up on top of the hill, too!

25. Stand Under A Giant Spur

At 28 feet high, the big spur stands on its ends to form an arch and weighs a ton. If you’re looking for things to do in Kansas that will make for fun Instagram photos – this is a great one! The spur was built by Larry Houston in 2002 and was certified as the World’s Largest Spur by Guinness World Records until 2017. It stands in front of Rittel’s Western Wear in Abilene.

1810 N Buckeye, Abilene, KS 67410

26. Tour Fred Harvey’s Kansas Mansion

Fred Harvey was the man that created the first chain of restaurants in the U.S. – mostly at train stations and hotels. They were known as “Harvey Houses”. He lived up in Leavenworth in this beautiful three story, twelve room mansion where he and his wife raised their five children.

 ​624 Olive Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048

27. Find All Of The Kansas Legends At A Shopping Mall

While you’re doing some shopping in Kansas City at the Legends outdoor mall, look for all of the sculptures, signs, and murals dedicated to the legendary figures that called Kansas home. From Amelia Earhart to Dwight Eisenhower – and even the Yellow Brick Road from OZ makes an appearance.

1843 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111

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THE 10 BEST Kansas Points of Interest & Landmarks

Points of interest & landmarks in kansas.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Sites
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Churches & Cathedrals
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Keeper of the Plains

2. Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park

3. Massachusetts Street

4. Garden of Eden

5. Giant Van Gogh Painting

6. Museum at Prairiefire

7. The World's Largest Ball of Sisal Twine

8. Buffalo Bill Cultural Center

9. Cattle Feedlot Overlook

11. Veterans' Memorial Park

12. The Long Branch Saloon

13. Old Riverton Store

14. Mount Sunflower

15. Overland Park 9/11 Memorial

16. Bowl Plaza

17. U.S. Center Chapel

18. Douglas Avenue

19. Historic Downtown Emporia

20. The Brown Mansion

21. Bartlett Arboretum

22. Lied Center Lobby

23. Truckhenge

24. Pawnee Rock

25. The Historic Wolf Hotel

26. USP Leavenworth

27. Point Of Rocks

28. Clay Center Murals

29. Thompson Barn

30. Chapel of the Veterans

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Our Department

Global Resources for Kansas’ International Business Ecosystem

Jun 06, 2024

Global Resources is an innovative, new sub-division within the International Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. Our mission is to advance the state’s economic development objectives by cultivating and maintaining resources that bolster Kansas’ participation in international commerce. Amongst state-level economic development organizations across the United States, Kansas is unique in the development of a Global Resources sub-division. This team works across strategic areas to enrich the state’s ecosystem of resources for global business engagement. Our vision is to make this ecosystem one of the most competitive in the country.

Top ecosystems for international business comprise the following strengths:

• efficient trade infrastructure
• resilient supply chains
• access to business talent and skilled workforce
• access to capital
• resources to support innovation development
• connectivity with institutions of higher education
• cross-cultural communication
• flourishing international arts and culture
• thriving hospitality and tourism industry
• domestic and international networks and partnerships
• internal and external recognition of the ecosystem as a dynamic environment for business

Through further strengthening our ecosystem for international commerce, Global Resources will create greater opportunities to grow the Kansas economy.

We invite you to explore our new webpages, sign up for our newsletter, and participate in surveys. Watch for webinars, trainings and new programs, and participate in any that match your needs.  If we can be of assistance, reach out to us. The Global Resources team is eager to work with businesses, organizations, communities, higher education and other partners to become an invaluable resource for Kansas.

Laurie Pieper, Ph. D., CGBP

Assistant Director, Global Resources

International Division, Kansas Department of Commerce

Related Posts

Significance of global commerce for kansas, june 6, 2024, trade infrastructure in kansas.

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Water main break disrupts businesses, tourist attractions in downtown Atlanta, other areas of city

Atlanta officials say a water main break interrupted water service and led to low water pressure in the area. It also caused some Atlanta and Fulton County offices to close and the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta to close early.

Workers arrive at a water main break at Joseph E. Boone Boulevard and James P. Brawley Drive in Atlanta, Friday, May 31, 2024. (Arvin Temkar/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)

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ATLANTA (AP) — A water main break has interrupted water service and led to low water pressure in the city’s downtown and other parts of Georgia’s capital.

Crews on Friday were “working aggressively” to make emergency repairs to the 32-inch water main, the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management said in a statement.

“Water service has been temporarily interrupted, affecting residents, businesses, and hydrants in the area,” the agency said.

The Department of Watershed Management issued a boil water advisory for a large swath of metro Atlanta and asked the public to restrict water usage to allow the pressure in the system to rebuild, WXIA-TV reported. During a boil water advisory, water should be boiled for one minute past a rolling boil. The advisory is in effect until the Georgia Environmental Protection Division clears the Department of Watershed Management to lift it following sampling and testing.

Some Atlanta and Fulton County offices closed because of the issue, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Tourist attractions were also affected, including the Georgia Aquarium, which ended operations early, the newspaper reported.

Zoo Atlanta closed early, at 1 p.m. Friday, because of the water pressure issues, the zoo announced. The zoo, southeast of the downtown area, “has contingency plans in place to ensure that the animals have access to water,” it said in a statement.

Plan to lure Chiefs across state lines forming support from Kansas lawmakers

TOPEKA, Kan. (KCTV) - The top two leaders in the Kansas Statehouse are making a play to get the Chiefs to move to Kansas.

Lawmakers are poised to consider a bill in an upcoming special session that would allow the state to issue STAR Bonds in the case of attracting a sports stadium to the state. Currently, STAR Bonds are issued by local governments for any significant development or attraction that would bring tourism from outside the area.

The bonds are issued to investors by a governmental body. Then, some of the revenue from sales taxes in a specified district is used to pay off those bonds with interest. The tax revenue set aside is what is generated in excess of the typical amount generated before the development occurred.

The first STAR Bond district was created in 1999 to pay for the Kansas Speedway. The taxing district was only at the Legends. There are currently 19 STAR Bond projects at various stages of completion and repayment, according to the Kansas Department of Commerce.

READ MORE: Kansas lawmakers to introduce bill during special session to finance Chiefs move across state line

Susan Keim, an associate professor of public administration at Park University, notes that the rules on Kansas have changed over the years and the success of the projects has varied.

“I think that The Legends and the Speedway, for example, have been very successful,” said Keim. “But then there was Prairiefire that was not successful.”

The state now requires that the project be a big one. It has to be for a statewide and regional attraction. The capital investment minimum is $75 million dollars. Department of Commerce rules specify that the tax revenue can only fund just less than half of the project.

The bill drafted at the request of KS Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stillwell, would change that when the STAR Bond is specific to attracting a professional sports team complex. Tarwater laid out some of the differences as follows.

• It can start with the state in the case solely of up to two stadiums. Local governments can opt in or out of their local sales tax revenue being used.
• The capital investment minimum would be raised to $1 billion and the funding maximum raised from 50% to 75%.
• It can include more than one taxing district for each team. For example, a team could have a stadium in one area and a training facility in another, with a separate taxing district for each.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and House Speaker Dan Hawkins issued a statement Tuesday saying they have been in touch with the Chiefs.

“We have reached out to the Chiefs organization and asked them to weigh in on the possibility of using Kansas’ unique STAR Bond funding tool and explore what collaboration could hold,” the joint statement said in part.

KCTV5 asked a Chiefs spokesperson about it. He said the organization does not have a statement or comment to share.

Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.

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Things to know as NCAA baseball tournament…

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Things to know as ncaa baseball tournament enters super regionals.

Texas A&M outfielder Hayden Schott (5) celebrates a solo home run against Louisiana during the fifth inning of the Bryan-College Station Regional NCAA baseball game, Sunday, June 2, 2024, in College Station, Texas. (Meredith Seaver/College Station Eagle via AP)

Florida State head coach Link Jarrett meets with officials before an NCAA college regional baseball game against Stetson on Friday, May 31, 2024 in Tallahassee, Fla. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)

FILE – Florida starting pitcher Jac Caglianone throws during the first inning of a baseball game against TCU at the NCAA College World Series in Omaha, Neb., Wednesday, June 21, 2023. Florida, the No. 3 seed in the Stillwater Regional, opens play against second-seeded Nebraska on Friday. Caglianone will start the regional in his usual spot at first base and will pitch Saturday against either host Oklahoma State or Niagara. (AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz, File)

FILE – Florida’s Jac Caglianone (14) hits a single in the first inning of an NCAA baseball game against Texas A&M, Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Gainesville, Fla. Florida, the No. 3 seed in the Stillwater Regional, opens play against second-seeded Nebraska on Friday. Caglianone will start the regional in his usual spot at first base and will pitch Saturday against either host Oklahoma State or Niagara. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough, File)

Georgia’s Charlie Condon speaks to the media before an NCAA college baseball practice, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Athens, Ala. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Four of the best-of-three series are Friday through Sunday: Evansville (38-24) at No. 1 national seed Tennessee (53-11); UConn (35-24) at No. 8 Florida State (45-15); Kansas State (35-24) at No. 12 Virginia (44-15); and West Virginia (36-22) at No. 4 North Carolina (45-14).

The four series Saturday through Monday: No. 15 Oregon State (45-14) at No. 2 Kentucky (43-14); No. 10 North Carolina State (36-20) at No. 7 Georgia (42-15); Florida (32-28) at No. 6 Clemson (44-14); and Oregon (40-18) at No. 3 Texas A&M (47-13).

The eight winners advance to the College World Series in Omaha, Neb., starting June 14.

FSU is back, and a lot better

Florida State is in supers for a record 18th time, and the first since NCAA coaching wins leader Mike Martin’s last team made it all the way to Omaha in 2019. Martin, who retired after that season, died in February.

The Seminoles’ 22-win improvement under second-year coach Link Jarrett is the biggest in the country. Last year they went 23-31 for the first losing season in the program’s 75-year history.

FSU, which has never won a national title in baseball, is trying to reach the CWS for a 24th time.

Pac-12’s last stand

Oregon and Oregon State represent the Pac-12’s last chance for glory. The soon-to-be defunct conference was the most dominant in baseball until the Southeastern Conference began its rise to power in the 1990s.

The Pac-12 has the most national titles in baseball with 29 and has had a team in all but seven CWS since 1947.

Oregon is playing for its first CWS appearance since 1954 before it heads to the Big Ten. Oregon State, which has won three titles, is going for its eighth CWS. The Beavers will play as an independent next season.

The Atlantic Coast Conference matched its record with five teams making it to super regionals, all among the top 16 national seeds.

The SEC also has five teams in supers, with four of them among the top seven national seeds.

ACC teams were 18-7 (.720) in regionals, best among conferences represented in at least 10 games.

For the first time, six Nos. 3 or 4 regional seeds made it to supers. Florida, Kansas State, Oregon, UConn and West Virginia are the No. 3s. Evansville is the No. 4.

About those homers

Home runs per game are on a record pace for the season, but long balls in the national tournament are down. There were 257 homers in 100 regional games this year; 299 were hit in 101 games in 2023.

Most of the remaining 16 teams pack a wallop, though. Nine have hit at least 100 homers, and only two have hit fewer than 85.

No. 1 national seed Tennessee has hit a school-record 159, the most since LSU had 188 in 1997. Charlie Condon of No. 7 Georgia leads the nation with 36, the most since Rice’s Lance Berkman had 41 in 1997, and five other players in the top 10 are in supers.

Home-field advantage

Since the tournament went to its current format in 1999, the team hosting a super regional on its home field has won 69.3%. That’s 131 of 189 and does not include three series that were played at neutral sites.

Welcome to the party

Evansville and West Virginia are making their first appearances in super regionals, and both present wonderful storylines.

The Purples Aces, in their own state, play in the shadows of Big Ten programs Indiana and Purdue and Missouri Valley Conference powerhouse Indiana State. Since their previous NCAA appearance in 2006, they’ve won one MVC regular-season title (2014) and finished fourth or lower 14 of the other 17 years. This year’s conference tournament championship, which earned them the automatic NCAA bid, was their first since ‘06.

West Virginia hopes to send coach Randy Mazey into retirement with a trip to the CWS. The Mountaineers went two and out in the Big 12 Tournament before sweeping through regionals.

Now the bad news

As excited as Evansville must be to make a super regional, history paints a bleak outlook for the Purple Aces. No. 4 regional seeds are 0-29 all-time against No. 1 national seeds in the tournament.

Evansville has lost seven straight to SEC opponents since knocking off a nationally ranked Georgia 3-2 in the 2021 opener.

It’s kind of drafty

Ten players projected by MLB.com to be taken in the first round of the amateur draft are playing in supers.

Among them are the projected top four picks — Condon, the Georgia 3B, Oregon State 2B Travis Bazzana, Florida 1B-P Jac Caglianone and Texas A&M RF Braden Montgomery.

The others are West Virginia SS JJ Wetherholt, North Carolina CF Vance Honeycutt, Florida State 3B Cam Smith, Tennessee 3B Billy Amick, Florida State RF James Tibbs and Kansas State SS Kaelen Culpepper.

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Explore kansas, by the regions.

Kansas is divided up into 6 travel regions: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, North Central, and South Central. Explore what each region of Kansas has to offer in the interactive map below.

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