Kansas is known as the Sunflower State. It offers a rich history and diverse attractions. It played a significant role in the westward expansion. Kansas became a state in 1861 and was central to many historical events, including the famous Bleeding Kansas conflict.
Kansas has vast prairies and the world’s largest hand-dug well. It is also the birthplace of Amelia Earhart and home to the iconic Wizard of Oz Museum. Each year, Kansas attracts around 35 million visitors who come to explore its natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene.
Kansas is a popular tourist destination due to its blend of historical attractions, natural wonders, and family-friendly activities. The state boasts numerous museums, wildlife parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The weather in Kansas varies, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, offering mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and festivals in comfortable weather.
Kansas promises a memorable experience with its unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Here are the 22 most fun things to do in Kansa, United States.
1. Explore the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center is located in Hutchinson, Kansas. It was established in 1962. It started as a small planetarium founded by Patty Carey, using a used star projector and rented folding chairs.
Over the years, it grew into a major space museum and STEM education center. The Cosmosphere holds over 13,000 spaceflight artifacts which makes it the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts worldwide.
Notable exhibits in the museum include the Apollo 13 command module and the Liberty Bell 7. The museum also features the Carey Digital Dome Theater and the Justice Planetarium, both of which have undergone significant technological upgrades.
The Cosmosphere is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution and serves as an educational hub with programs and camps designed to inspire future generations in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Address:
1100 N Plum St, Hutchinson, KS 67501, United States
2. Visit the Sedgwick County Zoo
Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas was opened in 1971. It is one of the largest zoos in the United States that houses around 3,000 animals from nearly 400 species.
The zoo’s exhibits recreate natural habitats that provide visitors with immersive experiences. Popular exhibits include the Downing Gorilla Forest, Pride of the Plains, and the Reed Family Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley.
Renowned for its conservation efforts, the zoo actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species. These efforts have earned national and international recognition.
Sedgwick County Zoo also offers a range of educational programs and interactive exhibits. These activities make it a favorite destination for families and animal enthusiasts which provides both fun and learning opportunities.
After experiencing some excitement in Wichita, you can explore some fun and unique things to do in Fort Scott as well.
Address:
5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212, United States
3. Discover Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve was established on November 12, 1996. It protects a significant remnant of the once vast tallgrass prairie ecosystem.
The preserve is located in the Kansas Flint Hills and spans nearly 11,000 acres. The prairie once covered 170 million acres of North America, but less than 4% remains today.
The preserve showcases the rich natural and cultural history of the tallgrass prairie. Visitors can explore historic buildings, hike on various trails, and enjoy guided tours.
The preserve is home to over 500 plant species, nearly 150 bird species, and several types of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The partnership between the National Park Service and The Nature Conservancy ensures the preservation and education of this unique ecosystem. The area also plays a crucial role in studying and monitoring the health of the prairie and its diverse flora and fauna.
Visitors can experience the tallgrass prairie, especially in the fall when the grasses reach their tallest and turn golden brown.
Address:
2480B KS-177, Strong City, KS 66869, United States
4. Tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library
The Eisenhower Presidential Library was established in 1962. It honors Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States.
The library showcases his life and achievements through exhibits and archives. Visitors can explore Eisenhower’s military career, including his leadership during World War II as a five-star general.
The museum highlights his presidency from 1953 to 1961 that focuses on Cold War policies and domestic initiatives like the Interstate Highway System.
One of the library’s notable features is the final resting place of Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower that attract visitors from around the world. The complex also includes Eisenhower’s childhood home, offering insights into his early life and influences.
The library continues to preserve and educate about Eisenhower’s legacy through its extensive collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts. It remains a significant historical destination in Kansas, welcoming researchers, students, and history enthusiasts alike.
Address:
200 S E 4th St, Abilene, KS 67410, United States
5. Enjoy the Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens was established in 1987. It is a botanical garden located in Wichita, Kansas. It features diverse gardens spread across 17.6 acres of land.
The gardens aim to educate visitors about plants and horticulture through various themed displays and exhibits. One of its main attractions is the Downing Children’s Garden, designed to engage children with interactive activities and learning opportunities about nature.
Botanica also includes the Shakespeare Garden, showcasing plants mentioned in Shakespearean works, and the Butterfly Garden, attracting numerous species of butterflies.
The gardens host events throughout the year, such as the Illuminations festival during the holiday season, which decorates the gardens with thousands of lights.
Botanica serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature’s beauty and offers a serene environment for relaxation and learning. It remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists interested in horticulture and outdoor recreation.
While Wichita is a popular destination among tourists, if you are visiting with your family, you can find exciting things to do in Wichita with kids.
Address:
701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203, United States
6. Experience Old Cowtown Museum
The Old Cowtown Museum was established in 1952. It is a living history museum located in Wichita, Kansas. It recreates life in the 19th century American West. The museum features over 50 historic buildings, including homes, shops, and barns, portraying the pioneer and cattle-drive era.
Visitors can experience daily life through interactive demonstrations by costumed interpreters which showcases activities like blacksmithing, woodworking, and cooking. One of the highlights is the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, offering a fun challenge for families.
Throughout the year, the museum hosts events such as gunfight reenactments, festivals, and educational programs about frontier history.
It serves as both a tourist attraction and an educational resource for schools, providing insights into the hardships and triumphs of early settlers in Kansas. The Old Cowtown Museum continues to preserve and share the rich heritage of the Old West with visitors of all ages.
Address:
1865 Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, United States
7. Walk Through Monument Rocks
Monument Rocks are also known as the Chalk Pyramids. These geological formations are located in western Kansas and were established as a National Natural Landmark in 1968.
These impressive limestone formations date back to the Cretaceous Period, over 80 million years ago, when this area was covered by a vast inland sea.
These chalk formations stand up to 70 feet tall and are composed of sedimentary layers containing fossils of ancient marine life, offering valuable insights into Kansas’ geological history.
Monument Rocks are a popular destination for geology enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers due to their unique and picturesque appearance against the Kansas prairie landscape.
Visitors can explore the area and observe the natural erosion processes that have shaped these formations over millions of years. The site is also important for its ecological value, supporting various wildlife species adapted to the arid conditions of western Kansas.
Monument Rocks continue to awe and inspire visitors with their natural beauty and geological significance.
Address:
Oakley, KS 67748, United States
8. Visit the Kansas State Capitol
The Kansas State Capitol was established in 1903 and is located in Topeka, Kansas. It serves as the seat of the state government and houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and other state officials.
The capitol building is designed in the classical Renaissance Revival style and features a distinctive copper dome that rises 304 feet above ground level.
Inside, visitors can explore murals, statues, and historical exhibits that highlight Kansas’ rich heritage and political history. The building’s architecture includes intricate stonework and grand staircases, reflecting the prosperity of early 20th-century Kansas.
One of the capitol’s notable features is the Statehouse Museum, which offers guided tours and displays artifacts related to Kansas’ legislative history.
The capitol grounds also feature memorials and monuments dedicated to veterans and historical figures important to the state’s development. The Kansas State Capitol continues to be a significant landmark and a symbol of the state’s governance and history.
Address:
SW 8th &, SW Van Buren St, Topeka, KS 66612, United States
9. Explore the Flint Hills Discovery Center
The Flint Hills Discovery Center was established in 2012. It is a museum located in Manhattan, Kansas. It focuses on the natural and cultural history of the Flint Hills region, known for its tallgrass prairie ecosystem.
The center features interactive exhibits that educate visitors about the geology, wildlife, and Native American heritage of the area.
Visitors can explore hands-on displays, multimedia presentations, and outdoor interpretive areas that showcase the beauty and importance of the Flint Hills.
One of the main attractions of the discovery center is the Prairie Garden Terrace, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a place to observe native plant species.
Throughout the year, the center hosts educational programs, workshops, and events that highlight conservation efforts and the ecological significance of the Flint Hills.
It serves as a hub for both residents and tourists interested in learning about the unique natural environment and cultural history of Kansas’ Flint Hills region.
Address:
315 S 3rd St, Manhattan, KS 66502, United States
10. Attend the Kansas State Fairgrounds
The Kansas State Fairgrounds was established in 1913. It is located in Hutchinson, Kansas. It hosts the annual Kansas State Fair, a tradition that began in 1863. The fairgrounds cover over 280 acres and feature various exhibition halls, livestock barns, and entertainment venues.
During the Kansas State Fair, visitors can enjoy carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, concerts, and food vendors showcasing local cuisine.
The fair highlights Kansas’ agricultural heritage with competitions for livestock, crops, and arts and crafts. It also includes educational exhibits on farming, technology, and sustainability.
Throughout the year, the fairgrounds host other events such as trade shows, concerts, and community gatherings. It serves as a hub for cultural and recreational activities in central Kansas which attracts thousands of visitors annually.
The Kansas State Fairgrounds continue to preserve and celebrate the state’s agricultural roots while providing entertainment and education for all ages.
Address:
Meadowlark Building, 2000 N Poplar St, Hutchinson, KS 67502, United States
11. Check Out the Boot Hill Museum
Boot Hill Museum was established in 1947. It is a historical museum located in Dodge City, Kansas. It preserves the history of the American Old West and the frontier town of Dodge City during the late 19th century.
The museum’s name refers to the historic Boot Hill Cemetery, where many early residents were buried with their boots on due to violent deaths.
Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from the Wild West era. One of the museum’s highlights is a recreated frontier town with period-authentic buildings like a saloon, general store, and jail.
Throughout the year, Boot Hill Museum hosts gunfight reenactments, stagecoach rides, and other interactive events that bring the Old West to life.
It remains a popular tourist attraction and educational resource that offers insights into the rugged and colorful history of Dodge City and the American frontier.
Address:
500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801, United States
12. Wander Through the Kansas Aviation Museum
The Kansas Aviation Museum was established in 1991. It is located in Wichita, Kansas. It celebrates the city’s rich aviation history, known as the “Air Capital of the World.” The museum is housed in the historic Wichita Municipal Airport terminal, an Art Deco building constructed in 1935.
Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing vintage aircraft, aviation artifacts, and memorabilia from Wichita’s aviation industry. The museum features iconic planes like the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress and the Beechcraft Staggerwing.
Interactive displays and educational programs highlight the contributions of local aviation pioneers and companies.
One of the main attractions is the control tower, offering panoramic views of McConnell Air Force Base and the surrounding area. The museum hosts events and educational programs, inspiring future generations of aviation enthusiasts.
The Kansas Aviation Museum remains a vital cultural and educational resource which preserves and celebrates the legacy of aviation in Kansas.
Address:
3350 George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS 67210, United States
13. Visit the Oz Museum
The Oz Museum was established in 2003 and is located in Wamego, Kansas. It celebrates the world of L. Frank Baum’s famous novel, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” and its adaptations.
The museum features over 2,000 artifacts related to the Oz books, the 1939 MGM film, and other Oz-related media.
Visitors can see original movie props, costumes, and memorabilia which includes a replica of Dorothy’s famous ruby slippers. The museum also displays rare Oz books and collectibles, offering a comprehensive look at the impact of this beloved story.
Interactive exhibits and video presentations enhance the experience, providing insights into the creation and legacy of the Oz series. The museum hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, attracting fans of all ages.
The Oz Museum remains a popular destination for those interested in exploring the magical world of Oz and its enduring cultural significance.
Address:
511 Road to Oz Highway, Wamego, KS 66547, United States
14. Tour the Big Well Museum
The Big Well Museum was established in 1937. It is located in Greensburg, Kansas. It is home to the world’s largest hand-dug well, a marvel of engineering completed in 1888.
The well is 109 feet deep and 32 feet in diameter, originally built to supply water for the steam engines of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway.
Visitors can explore the well and learn about its construction through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also features information about the 2007 EF5 tornado that devastated Greensburg and the town’s subsequent rebuilding efforts.
One of the highlights is a piece of the Brenham meteorite, one of the largest pallasite meteorites ever discovered. The museum offers a unique look at local history, engineering, and resilience.
The Big Well Museum remains a fascinating destination that showcases the ingenuity and determination of the people of Greensburg.
Address:
315 S Sycamore St, Greensburg, KS 67054, United States
15. Discover the Garden of Eden
The Garden of Eden was established in 1907. It is an outdoor sculpture garden in Lucas, Kansas. The site was created by Samuel Perry Dinsmoor, a Civil War veteran and retired schoolteacher.
The site features over 200 concrete sculptures depicting biblical scenes, political statements, and personal beliefs. Dinsmoor began constructing the garden at age 64 and worked on it for over 20 years.
The sculptures include figures like Adam and Eve, angels, and various animals, as well as scenes illustrating Dinsmoor’s views on capitalism and populism. He used a mix of local limestone and concrete to create these intricate and imaginative works.
Visitors can tour Dinsmoor’s cabin, known as the “Cabin Home,” which he built from limestone logs. The garden also includes Dinsmoor’s mausoleum, where he is entombed in a glass-topped concrete coffin.
The Garden of Eden remains a unique and thought-provoking destination which showcases Dinsmoor’s creativity and eccentric vision.
Address:
305 E 2nd St, Lucas, KS 67648, United States
16. Explore the Kansas Speedway
Kansas Speedway was established in 2001. It is a major motorsport facility located in Kansas City, Kansas. The speedway hosts NASCAR races, including the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series, attracting motorsport fans from across the country.
The track is a 1.5-mile tri-oval with 17 to 20 degrees of banking in the turns, designed to enhance high-speed racing and provide exciting spectator views. It features a seating capacity of approximately 48,000, offering fans an immersive race experience.
In addition to NASCAR events, Kansas Speedway has hosted various other motorsport competitions and events. The facility includes the Hollywood Casino, which overlooks the track, adding to the entertainment options for visitors.
Kansas Speedway has become a key venue in the NASCAR circuit, known for its fast-paced races and vibrant atmosphere. It continues to contribute to the local economy and community, offering thrilling events and experiences for racing enthusiasts.
Address:
400 Speedway Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111, United States
17. Enjoy Milford State Park
Milford State Park was established in 1967. It is located near Junction City, Kansas. It encompasses Milford Lake, the largest man-made lake in Kansas that offers recreational activities like boating, fishing, and camping.
The park covers over 19,000 acres of land and water, providing ample space for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature. Visitors can hike on scenic trails, swim in designated areas, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species like crappie, walleye, and catfish abundant in its waters. Picnic areas and playgrounds are available for families and groups to gather and relax.
Milford State Park also features amenities such as cabins, RV sites, and equestrian trails, catering to a variety of outdoor interests. It remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking recreational activities and natural beauty in the heart of Kansas.
While you are in Milford, make a detour and explore unique things to do in Junction City, Kansas. Although small, the city is filled with fun places and worth-visiting attractions.
Address:
3612 State Park Rd, Milford, KS 66514, United States
18. Tour the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum
The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum was established in 1961 and is located in Atchison, Kansas. It is the childhood home of Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator and first female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits about Earhart’s life and achievements. Visitors can explore rooms restored to reflect the early 20th-century period when Earhart lived there with her family.
The museum also features memorabilia related to Earhart’s aviation career, including replicas of her plane and flight gear. Interactive displays provide insights into her groundbreaking flights and contributions to aviation history.
One of the highlights is the garden outside the museum, where a replica of Earhart’s Lockheed Vega 5B plane is displayed. The museum hosts educational programs and events, inspiring visitors with Earhart’s spirit of adventure and determination.
It remains a significant cultural and historical attraction in Atchison that celebrates Earhart’s legacy and inspiring future generations.
Address:
223 N Terrace St, Atchison, KS 66002, United States
19. Walk Through Fort Larned National Historic Site
Fort Larned National Historic Site was established in 1964. It is located near Larned, Kansas. It was originally founded in 1859 as a frontier military post to protect travelers along the Santa Fe Trail.
The fort played a crucial role in facilitating trade and communication between the United States and Mexico. Visitors can explore well-preserved buildings such as barracks, officers’ quarters, and a hospital, which offer insights into daily life at a 19th-century military outpost.
The site features exhibits and artifacts related to the Indian Wars era, highlighting the interactions between soldiers, Plains Indians, and settlers.
One of the main attractions is the living history demonstrations, where reenactors portray soldiers and civilians, showcasing activities like blacksmithing and military drills.
The fort’s strategic location and historical significance make it a valuable educational resource, preserving the history of the American West and military operations on the frontier.
Address:
1767 KS-156, Larned, KS 67550, United States
20. Visit the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead was established in 1978 and is located in Overland Park, Kansas. It is a family-friendly educational farmstead named in honor of Deanna Rose, a local child who loved animals.
The farmstead offers interactive experiences for children to learn about farm life and nature. Visitors can explore farm animals such as goats, chickens, and cows in a petting zoo setting.
There are also gardens, playgrounds, and fishing ponds where families can spend time together outdoors. The farmstead features historic buildings like a one-room schoolhouse and a turn-of-the-century farmhouse, giving children a glimpse into rural Kansas life in the early 1900s.
One of the highlights is the Dairy Barn, where visitors can learn about milking cows and dairy farming. The farmstead hosts seasonal events and educational programs throughout the year,
Address:
13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221, United States
21. Experience the Great Plains Nature Center
The Great Plains Nature Center was established in 1993. It is located in Wichita, Kansas. It serves as an educational facility focused on the natural ecosystems of the Great Plains region. The center features interactive exhibits, trails, and outdoor learning areas.
Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the flora, fauna, and geology of the Great Plains which include displays on native plants and animals. The center also offers educational programs and workshops for all ages, promoting conservation and environmental awareness.
One of the main attractions is the Chisholm Creek Park, adjacent to the center that provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. The center’s mission includes habitat restoration and preservation efforts, supporting biodiversity in the region.
Throughout the year, the Great Plains Nature Center hosts events such as nature walks and educational presentations, making it a valuable resource for exploring and understanding the natural beauty and diversity of the Great Plains.
Address:
6232 East 29th St N #2200, Wichita, KS 67220, United States
22. Wander Through the Strataca
Strataca was established in 2007. It is an underground salt museum and mining facility located in Hutchinson, Kansas. It was created to preserve the history of salt mining in the region and educate visitors about its significance.
Visitors can take a tour 650 feet underground to explore the former salt mine, which operated from the 1920s to the 1960s. The mine features exhibits on geology, mining techniques, and the uses of salt in various industries.
One of the main attractions is the Dark Ride, a tram that takes visitors on a guided tour through the underground tunnels and chambers of the mine. The museum also includes interactive displays and artifacts related to mining equipment and the daily lives of miners.
Strataca offers a unique underground experience, highlighting the importance of salt mining to Kansas’ economy and history. It remains a popular tourist destination that provides insights into the underground world of salt mining.
Address:
3650 E Ave G, Hutchinson, KS 67501, United States
Conclusion
Kansas offers a mix of history, nature, and fun activities, making it an exciting destination for all. Whether you’re exploring space artifacts, hiking through prairies, or stepping back into the Wild West, Kansas has something for everyone.
Its diverse attractions and welcoming spirit ensure a memorable visit. Plan your trip to the Sunflower State and discover why so many visitors return year after year. Kansas awaits with adventure and charm around every corner.
But before you plan your journey, it is always better to learn about the weather and climate of Kansas.
