Kansas is located in the geographic middle of the United States. Still, there are a lot of reasons Kansas is referred to be the Heart of America. With its rich history and Great Plains landscape, the state of Kansas is a true slice of America.
Many people associate Kansas with places to flee because of The Wizard of Oz, but in reality, there are many wonderful spots to explore in the state.
1. Lawrence
One of the best Kansas cities to visit if you’re seeking for nightlife, art, and culture is Lawrence. The University of Kansas is located in this city, which contributes to its youthful, progressive populace and bohemian vibe.
The major thoroughfare in Lawrence is Massachusetts Street, which is dotted with independent restaurants, art galleries, and a plethora of eccentric or vintage shops. Being a college town, the region has a tonne of fantastic local breweries and places to go out at night.
Don’t leave without taking some time to explore the University of Kansas campus, which is home to several striking structures. The appropriately named Potter’s Lake only strengthens the similarity between the campus and the magical institution Hogwarts from the Harry Potter universe.
2. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve aims to preserve the four percent of America’s original tallgrass plains that still exist. This area, which is outside of Strong City, has miles of hiking paths. A few historic structures can also be seen on the preserve, such as the Limestone Barn and the 19th-century Spring Hill Ranch House.
A major attraction are the flora and wildlife, and the plains are covered in vibrant blooms in the spring. As part of an effort to return bison to this natural setting, a herd has been grazing the park since 2009.
3. Eisenhower Presidential Library
A remarkable and historically noteworthy attraction can be found in the small city of Abilene in central Kansas. The Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum and Eisenhower’s childhood house are attached to the Eisenhower Presidential Library, which is situated in Abilene.
Packed with millions of volumes, images, and artefacts, the Eisenhower Presidential Library is an excellent study resource. The subject matter of the constantly changing exhibits is Eisenhower’s life, presidency, and Kansas history.
4. Dodge City
The town of Dodge City, which is closely associated with the Santa Fe Trail, is located in Western Kansas. In order to protect settlers travelling the road or establishing in Kansas, Fort Dodge was constructed in the 19th century. That was the pinnacle of the Wild West, which is how the phrase “Get the heck out of Dodge” came to be.
But now, Dodge is a great location to be, with a rich history and lots of interesting things to discover. Fort Dodge tours and the Boot Hill Museum are still available. The attraction of this museum is its meticulous reconstruction of Dodge City as it was in 1876, complete with chuckwagon dinners and gunfight reenactments.
5. Lindsborg
Lindsborg, Kansas, is one of the most intriguing travel locations. Swedish settlers arrived in this little city around the close of the 1800s. Little Sweden is the name given to it today. Many stores and historic sites honour the Swedish heritage of the area.
Have a cup of locally roasted coffee at the Blacksmith Shop, which is located near anvils. You’ll feel more alert and prepared to visit The Swedish Pavilion after a coffee fix. Designed for the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, this landmark was moved directly to Little Sweden, where it currently houses Bethany College’s arts centre, more than a century ago.
Numerous festivals are held in Lindsborg, and they’re all very popular. With its Swedish singing, dancing, parades, and vibrant costumes, the Svensk Hyllmingsfest is arguably the most well-known.
6. Cosmosphere
The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Centre, also referred to as just the Cosmosphere, is situated in Hutchinson. This space museum, which is the second biggest on Earth, is jam-packed with amazing displays and activities. Two stories of domed screens in the Carey Digital Dome Theatre show films on space travel.
A performance of Dr Goddard’s Lab is also available to see, transporting audiences to the 1930s, when the field of rocketry was just being started. You may see and touch actual spacecraft in the Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Russian and American space artefacts.
7. Monument Rocks
The Chalk Pyramids, sometimes referred to as Monument Rocks, are located in northwest Kansas’s Gove County. This geological feature is among the state’s natural treasures. Some estimations place the age of Monuments Rocks at over 80 million years old.
Charlie the Dog and Eye of the Needle are two of the most impressive rock formations, standing over 70 feet tall. If you look closely, you can even see entire fossils and shells in the actual rock.
FAQ’s
Q1. What makes Wichita a must-visit destination in Kansas?
Kansas's largest city, Wichita, has a wide variety of attractions. There is something for everyone, including the engaging science centre Exploration Place, the lovely Wichita Gardens, and the Old Cowtown Museum. In addition, the city offers a wide range of culinary alternatives and a vibrant arts scene.
Q2. What can I expect to find in Kansas City?
Kansas City is known for its rich jazz legacy, mouthwatering barbecue, and an abundance of cultural attractions. It is located on the border of Kansas and Missouri. Savour the well-known Kansas City BBQ, tour the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District, and pay a visit to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Q3. Why should I consider Lawrence as a destination in Kansas?
Lawrence is a busy college town with a pleasant vibe. Take a tour of the University of Kansas campus, stop by the Massachusetts Street art galleries, and engage in outdoor activities at Clinton State Park. A combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences may be found in Lawrence.
