I hadn’t planned to fall in love with Kansas. It started as a stopover; one of those middle-of-the-map detours you would pencil into a road trip itinerary because someone once said, “You’ve got to see the Tallgrass Prairie.”
That someone was a traveler I met in Montana, and how she described the breeze weaving through the grasslands, like nature’s slow dance, stuck with me.
Add a few more recommendations scribbled into the margins of my notebook: a vineyard in Manhattan, a historic Black settlement out west, a farmer’s market slinging the juiciest tomatoes I’ve ever had, and suddenly, this became a destination all its own.
My time here unfolded into a soulful, sensory journey through some of the most overlooked tourism attractions in the country.
I booked a regional flight into Wichita Mid-Continent Airport and picked up a rental car from Alamo. That was key, as Kansas is wide and open, stitched together with highways and winding rural roads that pass through big skies and little towns.
I chose a few days in Wichita as a home base, staying at the charming Hotel at Old Town. Then, I zigzagged across the state, loosely guided by word-of-mouth tips, a few well-placed pins on Google Maps, and an appetite for discovery.
If you’re wondering what to see in Kansas, here’s what I found.
What to See in Kansas as a Nature Lover
Kansas may not have the grandeur of the Rockies or the coastline’s allure, but it makes its own quiet case.
This is where nature breathes slow and wide, offering places to visit in Kansas that feel like personal discoveries rather than crowded Instagram backdrops.
Whether you’re seeking animal encounters or wide-open spaces, the natural attractions in Kansas are beautiful, and the state has a wilderness worth wandering.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park: Interactive and Intimate
Located in Goddard, just outside Wichita, this privately owned wildlife park surprised me in the best way. Unlike larger zoos, Tanganyika focuses on up-close interactions. I fed lemurs by hand, stood mere feet from a lounging sloth, and learned about conservation efforts from a volunteer who clearly adored her job.
In addition to the cost of admission, optional animal encounters are available for an additional (but affordable) fee. This was definitely worthwhile for the giraffe feeding alone!
Elk City State Park: A Quiet Lakeside Escape
A couple of hours southeast of Wichita, Elk City State Park became one of my favorite Kansas things to do. I arrived just before dusk and watched the sun fall behind limestone bluffs while herons skimmed the water.
This is an excellent spot for camping or simply stretching your legs on the scenic trails. I packed a picnic and didn’t see another soul for miles; solitude in other states is hard to come by.
Sedgwick County Zoo: A Local Classic with Global Appeal
Back in Wichita, I carved out a morning to explore the Sedgwick County Zoo. It’s not your average collection of exhibits. From the immersive African savanna to the snows of Asia, the environments are remarkably authentic.
It’s also stroller-friendly and ideal for visitors traveling with children; it might just be one of the best things to do in Kansas with kids! Admission didn’t break the bank, and parking was free (a rare perk these days).
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: A Sea of Grass and Sky
If you find yourself asking, “What is the number 1 attraction in Kansas?” this might be it.
Nestled in the Flint Hills near Strong City, the preserve was my most memorable stop. Walking through head-high grass fields, I felt entirely swallowed by the landscape.
Rangers offer guided hikes, but I chose a self-guided trail to soak up the solitude. The visitor center is free, and the land’s serenity? Absolutely priceless.
Cedar Bluff State Park: Rugged Kansas Beauty
Western Kansas surprised me with Cedar Bluff. The rocky cliffs and views over the reservoir were something out of a movie.
I visited in the morning when the light lit up the bluff faces like bronze. There’s primitive camping here and plenty of birdwatching. Add this to your list of Kansas attractions if you like nature a little wild.
Things to See in Kansas for History Buffs
Kansas wears its history with pride. From pioneering spirits to aviation legends and abolitionist roots, the state offers various educational and emotionally resonant experiences.
These aren’t just dusty old buildings; they’re places in Kansas where history comes alive.
Nicodemus National Historic Site: A Story of Black Resilience
Tucked in the northwest corner of the state, Nicodemus is a small town with a giant legacy. Founded by formerly enslaved African Americans after the Civil War, it’s the only remaining western town established by Black settlers.
The park ranger led a profoundly moving tour that still has me thinking about it to this day. Admission is free, but the perspective gained here is invaluable.
Carry A. Nation Home and Museum: Temperance with a Hatchet
This museum is located in Medicine Lodge and celebrates one of Kansas’s most infamous residents.
Carry A. Nation led the charge against alcohol with a literal hatchet in her hand. Her home offers an engaging dive into early women’s activism.
I toured rooms filled with period artifacts and even held a replica of her weapon of choice.
Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum: Where Aviation Took Flight
Atchison feels like a town plucked from a Hallmark film, and Amelia’s family home sits proudly above the Missouri River.
The rooms are filled with personal items, flight memorabilia, and stories of a fearless Kansas native. Tickets were relatively cheap and worth every penny. It made me think differently about what courage looks like.
Kansas Museum of History: A Solid Overview for First-Time Visitors
Topeka’s state museum gave me the big picture. From covered wagons and Native history to railroad expansion and civil rights, this museum is a must for those who want a narrative arc of the state. Parking is free, and admission is modest.
Pro tip: plan for a couple of hours, as there’s a lot to see here!
Old Cowtown Museum: Stepping Into the Old West
This living history museum in Wichita was unexpectedly delightful. Costumed interpreters, blacksmith demos, and saloon performances all made for a fun, family-friendly afternoon. Admission was quite low, and it felt like stepping straight into the 1870s. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Kansas that are immersive and educational, this is it.
Top Things to Do in Kansas for Foodies
Kansas cuisine surprised me. Beyond barbecue (though, yes, you’ll find great barbecue), the state is home to many wineries, microbreweries, orchards, and farmers’ markets that offer unforgettable flavor.
If you’re wondering what’s in Kansas for your taste buds, prepare to be impressed.
Liquid Art Winery and Estate: A Hilltop Oasis
In Manhattan (Kansas, not New York), I sipped chilled rosé while overlooking rolling vineyards.
The tasting room was bright and welcoming, and the staff were happy to share pairing tips. I opted for a flight of wines and a charcuterie board. Between the view and the flavor, I could’ve stayed all afternoon.
This is one of those Kansas tourist attractions that proves the state has serious sipping credentials.
Tallgrass Taphouse: Elevated Pub Fare with Personality
Also in Manhattan, I hit up Tallgrass Taphouse based on a local’s recommendation.
The jalapeño popper crab rangoons were as delicious as they were unexpected, and the bartender’s custom beer pick was spot on.
It’s a microbrewery with a big heart: laid-back, but with enough flair to make every plate feel like a celebration.
Cider Hill Family Orchard: Fall Fun for All Ages
Just outside Kansas City, Cider Hill was like walking into autumn nostalgia. Apple picking, hayrides, and slushies made from pressed fruit, I felt like a kid again.
Entry was free, but I walked out with a bag of apples, a jar of honey, and a smile on my face. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kansas for families, but adults will enjoy the simplicity, too.
Kansas Grown! Derby Market: A Saturday Morning Favorite
I wandered this farmer's market south of Wichita early on a Saturday and left with the ripest tomatoes, softest cookies, and friendliest conversation I’d had all week. This is where the locals shop, and it shows.
Bring cash and your tote bag, and prepare to snack on your journey through the booths.
Flavors of Kansas City Food Tour: A Culinary Adventure
I wrapped up my trip with a private food tour in Kansas City, which I booked through Opa Trip. Every stop felt carefully curated and deeply rooted in the city’s culture, from the River Market to the Crossroads.
Three hours flew by. Tasting everything from Vietnamese pho to upscale BBQ sliders, I left full and culturally enriched.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Kansas
Traveling to Kansas is straightforward, but knowing a few things ahead of time can help make your trip smoother.
Is Kansas easy to navigate for road trips?
Yes, Kansas is ideal for road tripping, thanks to its well-maintained highways and scenic byways. A car rental is essential unless you stay strictly in a city, like Wichita or Kansas City.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for outdoor exploring. Summers can be hot, especially in the western parts of the state, while winters may bring snow in the northeast.
How long should I plan for a Kansas trip?
I spent five days exploring and could’ve easily stayed longer. If you want to see both nature and culture across the state, a week would give you a more relaxed pace.
Do I need to book attractions in advance?
Most Kansas attractions don’t require reservations, but food tours and animal encounters often do. Booking ahead helps you avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons.
What should I pack for a Kansas trip?
Layers are key, as mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer. Good walking shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle are essential for exploring outdoor sites.
Final Thoughts: Why I’d Do It All Again
Kansas charmed me, plain and simple.
From its quiet prairies to its robust local flavors and heartfelt historical sites, it was a trip that invited curiosity and rewarded presence. I’d return in a heartbeat, maybe even make it seasonal.
There’s something about how Kansas unfolds that sticks with you long after the dust settles on your hiking boots.
So, if you’ve ever found yourself asking what to see in Kansas, or wondering what’s in Kansas beyond flat landscapes and flyover towns, let this be your sign to go. Kansas tourism attractions offer variety, authenticity, and a pace that lets you actually breathe.
Pack the car, grab your appetite, and get ready to discover some truly unforgettable Kansas things to do.
