bigtravelbuzzKansas is a state located in the Midwestern United States. Here are some things to know about Kansas:
Geography – Kansas is bordered by Nebraska to the north, Missouri to the east, Oklahoma to the south, and Colorado to the west. The state is mostly flat, with rolling hills in the east and the Flint Hills in the central part of the state. The Arkansas River runs through the state, and the Smoky Hill and Republican Rivers join to form the Kansas River in northeastern Kansas.
Climate – Kansas has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The state experiences thunderstorms, tornadoes, and occasional blizzards in the winter.
Capital City – Topeka is the capital city of Kansas. Other major cities in the state include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Olathe.
Economy – Kansas has a diversified economy, with agriculture, aviation, and manufacturing being major industries in the state. The state is also home to several major universities and research institutions.
Culture – Kansas has a rich cultural history, with several historic sites and museums throughout the state. The state is also known for its contributions to American music, including jazz, blues, and country.
Attractions – Some popular attractions in Kansas include the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, the Kansas State Capitol, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.
Sports – Kansas is home to several professional and college sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Kansas City Royals (MLB), and the University of Kansas and Kansas State University college basketball teams.
These are just a few things to know about Kansas. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Midwestern state.
Places to Visit in Kansas
Kansas is a state with a rich history and diverse landscape, offering visitors a range of attractions and experiences. Here are some places to visit in Kansas:
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve – This national preserve is home to one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in the world. Visitors can hike or drive through the preserve and see bison, prairie chickens, and other wildlife.
Kansas City – Located on the border between Kansas and Missouri, Kansas City is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, delicious barbecue, and several museums and attractions.
Wichita – The largest city in Kansas, Wichita is home to several museums, including the Wichita Art Museum and the Museum of World Treasures. The city also has a lively downtown area with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
Flint Hills – The Flint Hills is a region of Kansas known for its scenic beauty and historic ranches. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the area and see rolling hills, tallgrass prairies, and historic homesteads.
Dodge City – Located in southwestern Kansas, Dodge City is a historic town known for its association with the Wild West. Visitors can see historic sites like Boot Hill Museum and Front Street, a recreation of a Wild West town.
Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum – Located in Abilene, this museum honors the life and legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was born and raised in Kansas.
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site – This historic site in Topeka commemorates the landmark Supreme Court case that declared segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Kansas. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Midwestern state.
Best Time To Visit Kansas
The best time to visit Kansas depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Here’s an overview of the weather and events in Kansas throughout the year:
Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Kansas, as temperatures are mild and the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. It’s a good time to go hiking or exploring the state’s parks and natural areas. Spring also brings several festivals and events, including the Tulip Time Festival in Topeka and the Prairie Fire Spring Half Marathon in Wichita.
Summer (June to August): Summer in Kansas can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). It’s a popular time for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and camping. Summer also brings several festivals and events, including the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson and the Symphony in the Flint Hills concert series.
Fall (September to November): Fall is a popular time to visit Kansas, as temperatures are mild and the foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s a good time to go hiking or take scenic drives to see the fall colors. Fall also brings several festivals and events, including the Kansas City Renaissance Festival and the Maple Leaf Festival in Baldwin City.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Kansas can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It’s a good time to go skiing or snowshoeing in the state’s parks and natural areas. Winter also brings several festivals and events, including the Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff and the Kansas City Restaurant Week.
Overall, the best time to visit Kansas depends on what you want to do and see. If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, spring and fall are great times to visit. If you’re looking for festivals and events, summer and fall offer a range of options. If you don’t mind the cold, winter can be a good time to visit for winter sports and holiday events.
Things to Do in Kansas
Kansas offers a variety of things to do and see, from exploring its natural beauty to experiencing its cultural offerings. Here are some top things to do in Kansas:
Visit Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve – Explore one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in the world and see bison, prairie chickens, and other wildlife.
Go to the Kansas State Fair – Enjoy a range of activities, including livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and delicious food.
Visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum – Learn about the life and legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was born and raised in Kansas.
Explore Wichita’s museums – Wichita is home to several museums, including the Wichita Art Museum, the Museum of World Treasures, and the Exploration Place science museum.
See the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site – Visit the site of the landmark Supreme Court case that declared segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional.
Take a scenic drive through the Flint Hills – Enjoy stunning views of rolling hills, tallgrass prairies, and historic ranches.
Visit the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center – Explore one of the largest collections of space artifacts in the world and see exhibits on the history of space exploration.
Explore Kansas City’s attractions – Located on the border of Kansas and Missouri, Kansas City offers a range of attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the National World War I Museum, and the Kansas City Zoo.
Attend a Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals game – Catch a football or baseball game and experience the excitement of professional sports.
Visit Dodge City – Explore this historic town that was once a hub of the Wild West and see sites like Boot Hill Museum and Front Street, a recreation of a Wild West town.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Kansas. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, Kansas has something to offer.
How to get around in Kansas
Getting around in Kansas largely depends on your destination and mode of transportation. Here are some options for getting around in Kansas:
Car rental: Renting a car is a popular way to get around in Kansas, especially if you’re planning to explore multiple destinations. There are several car rental companies located throughout the state, including major national chains.
Public transportation: Some cities in Kansas offer public transportation, including buses and light rail systems. For example, Wichita has a bus system called Wichita Transit, while Kansas City has the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA).
Taxi and ride-sharing services: Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in many parts of Kansas, especially in urban areas like Wichita and Kansas City.
Cycling: Kansas has several bike-friendly cities and towns, and many areas offer bike trails and paths for recreational cycling.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore some of Kansas’s downtown areas, especially in cities like Lawrence and Manhattan, where many shops and attractions are located in a compact area.
Air travel: For longer distances, air travel may be the most convenient option. Kansas has several commercial airports, including Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport and Kansas City International Airport.
When planning your transportation in Kansas, consider the distance between destinations, the cost and availability of various transportation options, and your personal preferences for travel.
Where to eat in Kansas
Kansas has a wide range of dining options, from classic Midwestern comfort food to international cuisine. Here are some popular places to eat in Kansas:
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: This award-winning barbecue joint in Kansas City is a must-visit for meat lovers. Be sure to try the burnt ends and ribs.
The Cozy Inn: This iconic burger joint in Salina has been serving sliders since 1922. Don’t miss their famous onion chips.
The Anchor: This Wichita bar and grill serves up a range of classic American dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and mac and cheese.
Stroud’s: This Kansas City institution is known for its fried chicken and sides like cinnamon rolls and mashed potatoes.
Elderslie Farm: This farm-to-table restaurant in Wichita serves up fresh, seasonal dishes made from ingredients grown on the farm.
Yia Yia’s Euro Bistro: This Mediterranean-inspired bistro in Wichita offers a range of dishes, from pizza and pasta to seafood and steak.
WheatFields Bakery & Cafe: This Lawrence bakery and cafe serves up fresh-baked breads, pastries, and sandwiches.
Harry’s Uptown Downtown: This upscale restaurant in Manhattan offers a range of dishes, from steak and seafood to pasta and vegetarian options.
La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant in Kansas City serves up authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas.
The Farmhouse: This farm-to-table restaurant in Kansas City serves up comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Kansas. Be sure to explore local neighborhoods and ask locals for their recommendations to find hidden gems.
Famous street stalls in Kansas
Kansas is not particularly known for its street food scene, but there are still some great street stalls and food trucks serving up delicious food. Here are a few popular options:
El Tenedor: This food truck in Wichita serves up traditional Mexican street food, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
Brown’s Bakery: This family-owned bakery in Kansas City has been serving up fresh-baked goods since 1946, including their famous donuts.
Popcorner: This food truck in Lawrence serves up a variety of gourmet popcorn flavors, including cheddar, caramel, and spicy sriracha.
KC Pinoy: This food truck in Kansas City serves up Filipino-inspired dishes, including lumpia and chicken adobo.
The Flying Stove: This food truck in Wichita serves up a range of dishes, from Korean-style chicken wings to loaded tater tots.
Mr. Bacon BBQ: This food truck in Overland Park serves up barbecue dishes with a twist, including bacon-wrapped meatloaf and smoked bacon mac and cheese.
The Grilled Cheese Incident: This food truck in Lawrence specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, including a mac and cheese grilled cheese.
These are just a few of the many street stalls and food trucks serving up delicious food in Kansas. Be sure to check local events and farmers markets for additional options.
Where to stay in Kansas
Luxury accommodation
Kansas has several luxury accommodation options, ranging from historic hotels to modern resorts. Here are a few popular choices:
The Broadview Hotel: This historic hotel in Wichita has been a local landmark since 1922. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, and a full-service spa.
Ambassador Hotel Kansas City: This boutique hotel in Kansas City is located in the historic Power & Light Building and features luxurious rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Eldridge Hotel: This historic hotel in Lawrence dates back to 1855 and features stylish rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Raphael Hotel: This luxury boutique hotel in Kansas City features spacious rooms and suites with elegant decor, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Oread Hotel: This modern hotel in Lawrence features sleek rooms and suites with views of the city, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop bar.
The Ambassador Wichita, Autograph Collection: This luxury hotel in Wichita features stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Lodge at Ironwoods: This secluded lodge in Leawood is surrounded by trees and features elegant rooms and suites with fireplaces, a hot tub, and outdoor fire pits.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options available in Kansas. Be sure to research the amenities and location of each option to find the best fit for your travel needs.
Where to stay in Kansas
Budget accommodation
Kansas has several budget-friendly accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and hostels. Here are a few popular choices:
Super 8 by Wyndham: This chain of budget-friendly hotels has multiple locations throughout Kansas, including in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.
Motel 6: This chain of budget-friendly motels has multiple locations throughout Kansas, including in Wichita, Salina, and Topeka.
HI Kansas City – Hostel: This hostel in Kansas City offers dorm-style rooms and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel features a shared kitchen, common areas, and free breakfast.
Oak Tree Inn: This chain of budget-friendly hotels has multiple locations throughout Kansas, including in Lawrence, Marysville, and Wellington.
Quality Inn: This chain of budget-friendly hotels has multiple locations throughout Kansas, including in Wichita, Salina, and Emporia.
Red Roof Inn: This chain of budget-friendly hotels has multiple locations throughout Kansas, including in Kansas City, Emporia, and Lawrence.
Home2 Suites by Hilton: This hotel chain offers budget-friendly extended-stay options with kitchenettes and other amenities. They have locations in Wichita, Olathe, and Overland Park.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options available in Kansas. Be sure to research the amenities and location of each option to find the best fit for your travel needs.
Travel Tips Kansas
Here are some travel tips for visiting Kansas:
Weather: Kansas has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for extreme temperatures, especially in the summer and winter months. Tornadoes are also a possibility in the spring and summer.
Transportation: While driving is the most common mode of transportation in Kansas, there are also several airports throughout the state, including in Wichita, Kansas City, and Topeka. There are also several bus companies that operate throughout the state.
Attractions: Kansas has several notable attractions, including the Kansas State Capitol, the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Be sure to research and plan ahead to make the most of your visit.
Food: Kansas is known for its barbecue and steak, so be sure to try some local favorites while visiting. There are also several wineries and breweries throughout the state.
Outdoor activities: Kansas has several outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. The state has several state parks and wildlife areas where visitors can enjoy these activities.
Festivals and events: Kansas hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kansas State Fair, the Tallgrass Film Festival, and the Symphony in the Flint Hills. Check local event listings to see what’s happening during your visit.
Safety: Kansas is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Overall, Kansas offers a mix of urban and outdoor attractions, making it a great destination for a variety of travelers.