Overview

Kansas is a land of wide-open skies, golden wheat fields, and classic Americana. Known as the Sunflower State, it’s rich in pioneer history, aviation heritage, and small-town charm. From scenic prairies and frontier landmarks to vibrant college towns and quirky roadside attractions, Kansas offers a welcoming and underrated adventure in the heart of the Midwest.

  • Capital: Topeka
  • Largest Cities: Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Topeka, Olathe
  • Population: ~2.9 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving); parts of western Kansas observe Mountain Time
  • Climate: Continental — hot summers, cold winters, and dramatic spring storms

Top Destinations in Kansas

Wichita

The state’s largest city with museums, breweries, a revitalized riverfront, and strong aviation ties.

Lawrence

A lively college town home to the University of Kansas, known for its art scene, music, and progressive vibe.

Dodge City

A Wild West icon with preserved saloons, museums, and reenactments of cowboy history.

Kansas City (KS side)

Home to barbecue joints, racetracks, waterparks, and history, just across the river from Kansas City, Missouri.

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

A rare and beautiful stretch of untouched prairie filled with bison, wildflowers, and wide-open views.

Must-See Attractions

  • Boot Hill Museum (Dodge City) – Relive the Old West with shows and exhibits
  • Sedgwick County Zoo (Wichita) – One of the best zoos in the Midwest
  • Eisenhower Presidential Library (Abilene) – Birthplace and museum of President Dwight D. Eisenhower
  • Monument Rocks – Massive chalk formations rising from the plains
  • Flint Hills Scenic Byway – A drive through the heart of the Kansas prairie

Things to Do

  • Visit a working ranch or cattle town to experience Kansas heritage
  • Explore aviation history in Wichita at the Kansas Aviation Museum
  • Stroll college campuses in Lawrence or Manhattan and catch a game or concert
  • Drive scenic byways through the Flint Hills or Western Kansas
  • Check out quirky roadside attractions like the World’s Largest Ball of Twine

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National (ICT), Kansas City International (MCI – nearby in Missouri), Manhattan Regional (MHK)

Transport

  • Rental cars are essential for exploring the state’s rural areas and scenic routes
  • Amtrak runs through Topeka, Lawrence, and Hutchinson
  • Buses and regional flights connect major cities and towns

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–May): Green fields, wildflowers, and comfortable temps
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for festivals and outdoor activities, though hot
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Harvest time, cooler weather, and colorful prairie landscapes
  • Winter (Nov–Mar): Quiet season with occasional snow and holiday charm

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Classic Midwestern comfort food meets cowboy fare and ethnic surprises
  • Specialties: Kansas City-style barbecue, bierocks (meat-filled pastry), chicken-fried steak, cinnamon rolls with chili
  • Drinks: Local craft beer, sunflower wine, and sweet tea
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Kansas State Fair (Hutchinson)
  • Symphony in the Flint Hills
  • Dodge City Days (rodeo & Western festival)
  • Oktoberfest (Hays)
  • Lawrence Busker Festival

Souvenirs from Kansas

  • Sunflower-themed gifts or artwork
  • Locally made BBQ sauces and rubs
  • Western hats, boots, or ranch gear
  • Kansas-themed books or Eisenhower memorabilia
  • Handmade items from Flint Hills craft shops

Fun Facts

  • Kansas is geographically the center of the contiguous U.S., marked near Lebanon
  • The state was home to Wild West legends like Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson
  • Pizza Hut and White Castle were founded in Kansas
  • The Wizard of Oz is set in Kansas, and there’s a “Dorothy’s House” museum in Liberal
  • The Flint Hills contain the largest remaining tallgrass prairie in North America

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Classic Kansas Road Trip

  • Day 1: Wichita – museums, Old Town, and local food
  • Day 2: Abilene – Eisenhower Library and Seelye Mansion
  • Day 3: Dodge City – Boot Hill and Old West reenactments

5-Day Scenic & Cultural Tour

  • Day 1: Kansas City (KS) – barbecue and attractions
  • Day 2: Lawrence – downtown art and live music
  • Day 3: Flint Hills Scenic Byway – stops in Cottonwood Falls and Tallgrass Prairie
  • Day 4: Monument Rocks – photography and exploration
  • Day 5: Hays or Salina – local history and Kansas breweries

Cities

  • Wichita