When I first planned my trip to Kansas, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I had heard it was mostly flat farmland and wide open spaces, but I quickly discovered there’s so much more to this state than I imagined.
Kansas surprised me with its beautiful natural landscapes, friendly small towns, and lively cities full of culture and history. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone looking for a quiet, welcoming place to explore, Kansas has something to offer.
During my visit, I found plenty of outdoor adventures, from walking through the tallgrass prairies to exploring scenic state parks. I also enjoyed wandering through small towns like Lindsborg, where the Swedish heritage really shines, and bigger cities like Wichita, where museums, restaurants, and music bring the streets to life. The food scene was another highlight—Kansas BBQ and local diners gave me a true taste of Midwestern hospitality.
This travel guide is based on my own experiences and is meant to help you discover the best things to do in Kansas. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a solo getaway, or a weekend escape, I’ll share tips and spots that made my time here memorable. So, if you’re ready to see what Kansas has in store, let’s get started!
Explore Kansas Outdoors
One of the first things I noticed about Kansas was how beautiful and peaceful the outdoors can be. The state is home to wide-open spaces that make you feel like you can breathe deeply and really relax. I spent a lot of time exploring the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, which was a highlight of my trip.
Walking through the tall grasses and spotting bison roaming freely made me appreciate the natural beauty and history of this area. If you love hiking or just want to get away from the busy city life, this is a perfect place to visit.
Besides the Tallgrass Prairie, I also checked out some of Kansas’s state parks, like Clinton State Park and Kanopolis State Park. Both offer great spots for hiking, fishing, and even camping if you want to spend the night under the stars
I enjoyed taking easy trails that showed off the rolling hills and quiet lakes. The fresh air and quiet surroundings made me feel refreshed and connected to nature.
What surprised me most was how many outdoor activities you can find all over Kansas. From bird watching in the wetlands to kayaking on the Kansas River, there’s something for everyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an active adventure, exploring nature in Kansas is a great way to see a different side of the state and enjoy some time outside.
Discover Charming Small Towns
One of my favorite parts of visiting Kansas was exploring its small towns. Each town has its own unique charm and story to tell, and I loved how friendly and welcoming the people were. For example, I spent a day in Lindsborg, also known as “Little Sweden.”
The town felt like stepping into a European village, with colorful shops, Swedish bakeries, and even people dressed in traditional clothes during festivals. Walking around, I felt like I was discovering a hidden gem full of culture and history.
Another small town that stood out to me was Abilene, the childhood home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The town has a peaceful, historic feel with museums and landmarks that tell stories about Kansas’s past.
I enjoyed visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum—it gave me a new appreciation for the state’s role in American history. Small towns like Abilene showed me how much pride Kansans take in their heritage.
Lawrence was another town I visited that combines small-town friendliness with a lively atmosphere. It’s a college town, so there’s always something happening—from art galleries to live music and cozy cafes.
I enjoyed walking down Massachusetts Street, exploring local shops, and chatting with locals. These small towns made me feel connected to the heart of Kansas, and I think they’re a must-see if you want to experience the state beyond the big cities.
Visit Kansas Cities
While Kansas is known for its quiet countryside and small towns, its cities also offer a lot to see and do. I started my city adventures in Wichita, the largest city in the state. It’s a great mix of culture, history, and modern attractions.
I visited the Exploration Place, which is a fun science museum with hands-on exhibits—great for both kids and adults. Then I took a walk through the Keeper of the Plains at sunset, and the views were absolutely stunning. Wichita surprised me with its lively downtown, full of great restaurants, coffee shops, and art.
Next, I spent some time in Kansas City, Kansas (not to be confused with Kansas City, Missouri). This part of the metro area has its own charm and some cool places to explore. I visited Strawberry Hill, a historic neighborhood with beautiful views and great food.
There’s also Legends Outlets Kansas City, where I spent a fun afternoon shopping and grabbing a bite to eat. If you’re into sports, Children’s Mercy Park is where you can catch a soccer game and feel the energy of the crowd.
Lastly, I stopped in Topeka, the capital of Kansas. It’s a smaller city, but full of interesting spots. I toured the Kansas State Capitol, which has a beautiful dome you can climb for amazing views.
There’s also the Kansas Museum of History, where I learned a lot about the state’s past. Topeka gave me a more laid-back city experience, and I appreciated how easy it was to get around and explore at my own pace.
Enjoy Kansas Food and Drinks
One thing I quickly learned during my trip is that Kansas knows how to serve good food. I couldn’t visit without trying some authentic Kansas BBQ, and it did not disappoint. I stopped at a local BBQ joint in Wichita, and the slow-cooked brisket was so tender it melted in my mouth.
The smoky flavor, homemade sauces, and warm hospitality made it one of the best meals I had on the road. If you’re a fan of barbecue, Kansas should be on your food map.
But there’s more to Kansas food than just BBQ. In the small towns, I found cozy diners and bakeries serving homemade pies, fried chicken, and comfort food that reminded me of a home-cooked meal.
In Lindsborg, I tried Swedish pastries at a local bakery, and in Abilene, I had the best chicken-fried steak at a family-owned café. It was fun trying different foods that are a part of Kansas’s culture and small-town life.
When it came to drinks, I explored a few local breweries and wineries scattered across the state. Kansas has a growing craft beer scene, especially in places like Lawrence and Wichita.
I enjoyed relaxing with a cold drink after a day of exploring, often in outdoor spaces with live music and friendly locals. Whether you’re craving smoky meats, sweet treats, or a refreshing drink, Kansas has something tasty waiting around every corner.
Attend Local Events and Festivals
One of the best ways to experience the heart of Kansas is by joining in on its local events and festivals. I was lucky enough to visit during the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson, and it was one of the highlights of my trip.
From carnival rides and live music to livestock shows and deep-fried everything, the fair was full of fun and energy. It gave me a chance to see how proud people are of their communities—and the food was a big bonus too!
I also got to attend a smaller sunflower festival outside of Lawrence. The fields were glowing with bright yellow flowers, and people came from all over to walk through them, take photos, and enjoy local vendors.
It felt peaceful and joyful at the same time, and it was the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of Kansas. Events like these showed me a softer, more colorful side of the state.
Kansas also has a rich mix of cultural events throughout the year, like Oktoberfest in Hays, the Dodge City Days rodeo, and Swedish festivals in Lindsborg. No matter the season, there’s always something happening somewhere. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend checking the local calendars so you don’t miss a unique event that could make your trip even more special.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids or just looking for fun things to do that everyone can enjoy, Kansas has plenty of family-friendly attractions. One of the top places I visited was the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita.
It’s one of the best zoos I’ve ever been to, with animals from all over the world and well-designed exhibits. I especially loved the giraffe feeding experience—it was fun and exciting for all ages. It’s a great way to spend a whole day with the family.
Another fun spot I visited was the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. This space museum totally surprised me with how interactive and educational it was. It has real space capsules, flight simulators, and a planetarium that makes you feel like you’re floating in space.
Even as an adult, I was amazed, and I noticed how much the kids around me were enjoying it too. It’s a perfect mix of learning and fun.
For a more relaxing experience, I spent some time at Exploration Place in Wichita, which has hands-on science exhibits that kept everyone entertained. Parks, splash pads, and drive-through safari parks are also easy to find across the state.
Whether you have young children, teenagers, or just want to feel like a kid again, Kansas offers a lot of great places where families can learn, laugh, and make memories together.
Wrap-Up: Why I’d Visit Kansas Again
Before my trip, I didn’t know much about Kansas—but after spending time here, I can honestly say it’s a place I’d love to visit again. The calm pace, friendly people, and wide variety of things to do really won me over.
Whether I was hiking through tallgrass prairies, exploring small towns, or enjoying local food, I felt relaxed and welcomed everywhere I went.
What makes Kansas special is how real and down-to-earth it feels. There’s no need to rush, and you can take your time enjoying each stop along the way. From exciting festivals and outdoor adventures to museums, cities, and quiet country roads, every part of Kansas has its own story. I found beauty in the simple moments—like watching the sunset over an open field or chatting with a shop owner in a small town.
If you’re thinking about traveling to Kansas, I’d definitely say go for it. You don’t need a huge budget or a strict plan—just a curious heart and a love for exploring new places. Kansas may not always be in the spotlight, but it has a quiet charm that stays with you long after you leave. I know I’ll be back someday to discover even more.
Conclusion
Kansas truly surprised me in the best way. I came here without many expectations, but I left with great memories, new experiences, and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful state.
From the wide-open prairies and peaceful small towns to fun cities, great food, and family-friendly spots—there’s something for everyone.
If you’re planning your next road trip or looking for a new place to explore, I highly recommend giving Kansas a chance.
It’s not just a place you drive through—it’s a place worth stopping for. I know I’ll be back to see even more, and I hope this guide helps you enjoy your own Kansas adventure.
