Top 10 Vacation Spots in Kansas: Explore the Heartland
Think Kansas is just flat plains and farmland? Think again. From bustling college towns to historic cowboy trails, this underrated state is filled with unforgettable destinations. If you're planning a Kansas vacation, these 10 spots offer the perfect mix of nature, history, culture, and charm.
1. Kansas City (Kansas Side)
Often overshadowed by its Missouri neighbor, Kansas City, KS holds its own with family attractions and entertainment:
- Kansas Speedway for high-octane racing fans
- Great Wolf Lodge and Schlitterbahn for waterpark fun
- Legends Outlets and sports venues for big-day adventures
2. Topeka
As the state capital, Topeka blends civic history with family-friendly fun:
- Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
- Kansas State Capitol with its towering dome and murals
- Evel Knievel Museum and the Topeka Zoo
3. Wichita
The largest city in Kansas, Wichita surprises visitors with:
- Botanica Gardens and Sedgwick County Zoo
- Exploration Place science museum
- The historic Old Cowtown Museum and food scene downtown
4. Lawrence
Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence is hip, historic, and happening:
- Stroll Mass Street for shops, music, and nightlife
- Tour the Spencer Museum of Art or KU’s Natural History Museum
- Nearby outdoor fun at Clinton Lake
5. Dodge City
Get your Wild West fix in Dodge City, where cowboy culture lives on:
- Boot Hill Museum with gunfight reenactments
- Historic Trolley Tours through dusty trails of history
- Rodeos and Western heritage year-round
6. Hutchinson
This small city has big attractions:
- The world-famous Cosmosphere Space Museum
- Strataca Salt Mine Adventure 650 feet below the surface
- Outdoor fun at Sand Hills State Park
7. Manhattan
The “Little Apple” and home of K-State University, Manhattan offers:
- Konza Prairie for hiking and wildflower views
- Flint Hills Discovery Center
- Local breweries, cafes, and college-town energy
8. Lindsborg
Step into Little Sweden in this artsy small town:
- Explore Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery
- Climb up to Coronado Heights for panoramic views
- Enjoy festivals like Midsummer’s or Svensk Hyllningsfest
9. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
One of the last remnants of tallgrass prairie in the U.S., this preserve near Strong City is a nature-lover’s dream:
- Scenic hiking trails through wide open landscapes
- Bison spotting and native wildlife
- Historic ranch tours and wildflower photo ops
10. Abilene
Birthplace of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and a railroading hub:
- Tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum
- Ride the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
- Visit the Greyhound Hall of Fame
Plan Your Kansas Vacation
Whether you're looking for music, museums, prairie hikes, or BBQ, Kansas has a travel destination for everyone. It's time to explore beyond the interstate and discover the best places to visit in Kansas.
For more travel tips and trip planning tools, visit the Travel Kansas Official Site.
Start planning your trip with these top Kansas vacation spots and discover the Sunflower State’s best-kept secrets.
