[List] 25 Amazing Things to Do When You Visit Kansas That Will Surprise You

Key Takeaways:

• Kansas offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and unique attractions for every type of traveler.
• From scenic hiking trails to cultural museums, Kansas provides both outdoor adventure and fascinating historical sites.
• Whether exploring small towns, natural wonders, or enjoying local festivals, Kansas promises unforgettable experiences.

Kansas, the Sunflower State, is often overlooked, but it’s filled with hidden gems and unforgettable experiences for travelers. Known for its vast plains, iconic prairies, and rich history, Kansas offers a unique combination of outdoor beauty and cultural experiences. From its role in the American Old West to its historic landmarks, Kansas is a place where history comes alive. Visitors love the state for its open spaces, charming small towns, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

What makes Kansas especially appealing is its diversity of experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore the state’s parks, hiking trails, and natural reserves. History buffs will enjoy exploring Kansas’s role in the expansion of the United States, including its connection to the Civil War and the legendary Wild West. Whether you’re visiting Kansas City for its renowned BBQ and live music scene, or exploring the rural beauty of the Flint Hills, Kansas has something to offer everyone. Its laid-back charm and rich cultural heritage ensure a memorable visit for all types of travelers.

Here are 25 things to do in Kansas:

#1 Visit the Kansas State Capitol: Tour the beautiful building and its impressive dome in the state’s capital, Topeka.

#2 Explore Monument Rocks: See the unique natural formations of towering chalk pyramids, located in western Kansas.

#3 Take a Trip to the Kansas Cosmosphere: Learn about space exploration through interactive exhibits and artifacts in Hutchinson.

#4 Stroll Through the Botanica Wichita Gardens: Wander through this beautiful 17-acre garden featuring lush plants, fountains, and sculptures.

#5 Visit the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Experience the stunning beauty of the tallgrass prairie and enjoy scenic hiking trails.

#6 Tour the Old Cowtown Museum: Step back in time to experience Kansas’s frontier history in this open-air museum in Wichita.

#7 Attend the Kansas State Fair: Enjoy rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits at this fun annual event in Hutchinson.

#8 Explore the Flint Hills: Hike or drive through this unique prairie region known for its beauty and history.

#9 Take a Scenic Drive along the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway: Enjoy beautiful views of Kansas’s vast prairie landscape on this picturesque route.

#10 Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial: Explore the world’s most comprehensive collection of WWI artifacts in Kansas City.

#11 Go to the Kansas City Zoo: Spend a day exploring wildlife from around the world at one of the country’s top zoos.

#12 See the World’s Largest Ball of Twine: Visit Cawker City to see the famous twine ball, a quirky Kansas landmark.

#13 Explore the Eisenhower Presidential Library: Learn about the life and legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower in his hometown of Abilene.

#14 Hike in the Smoky Hill River: Discover scenic trails and enjoy a relaxing outdoor experience along this beautiful river.

#15 Discover the Kansas Underground Salt Museum: Explore an old salt mine and learn about Kansas’s unique underground history in Hutchinson.

#16 Go to the Kansas City Power and Light District: Experience the vibrant nightlife with great food, drinks, and live music in downtown Kansas City.

#17 Tour the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site: Learn about the landmark Supreme Court case that led to desegregation in public schools in Topeka.

#18 Take a Trip to the Sedgwick County Zoo: See over 3,000 animals from around the world at this highly-rated zoo in Wichita.

#19 Go Horseback Riding at the Cedar Bluff State Park: Explore the beauty of western Kansas on horseback at this picturesque park.

#20 Visit the Kansas Museum of History: Learn about the state’s history, from Native American tribes to modern times, in Topeka.

#21 Attend the Wichita River Festival: Enjoy a week of music, food, and outdoor activities during this popular festival in Wichita.

#22 See the Little House on the Prairie Museum: Visit the historic site that inspired the famous book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder in Independence.

#23 Relax at Clinton Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking at this beautiful lake located near Lawrence.

#24 Explore the Kansas Aviation Museum: Discover the history of flight and aviation in Kansas at this fascinating museum in Wichita.

#25 Tour the Flint Hills Discovery Center: Learn about the culture, history, and natural beauty of the Flint Hills region in Manhattan.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in Kansas?

If you’re looking for both free and paid events in Kansas, PlanMyWeekend.ai is a fantastic resource. The platform makes it easy to find local events, from free outdoor festivals and concerts to paid attractions like museum exhibits and theater performances. With its user-friendly interface, PlanMyWeekend.ai allows you to customize your search by location, event type, and budget, ensuring that you can plan a fun and affordable weekend in Kansas.

Final Thoughts

Kansas is a state that offers a wealth of experiences for everyone, from scenic hikes and outdoor adventures to rich cultural history and quirky landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for the world-famous Kansas State Fair, exploring its vast prairies, or immersing yourself in its history, Kansas will leave you with unforgettable memories. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to help you find the best events, plan your trip, and make the most of your time in this charming and diverse state.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai