Kansas, USA, is one of the largest states in the country. For thousands of years, this state was called home by Native Americans. The name Kansas is derived from the Kansas River, which was so named because of the Kansa tribe of Native Americans who made their home by its banks. This state is home to many tourist attractions. It balances the wildness of nature with the order of cities. In Kansas, you will find open prairies, private zoos, aquariums, museums, gardens, wildlife parks, and so on. There are a number of monuments and historic sites as well, that offer visitors and tourists the opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of this state. Make your vacation more adventurous with these top things to do in Kansas, USA.
1. Experience indoor sky-diving at iFly Kansas (from USD 98.0)
iFLY Kansas is an indoor skydiving facility in Kansas. A vertical wind tunnel powers this one-of-a-kind facility. Come and enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with jumping from an airplane (without the plane obviously). You do not require any prior experience before enjoying this fun activity. After receiving practical instructions from an instructor, you are given all the gear you need to enjoy seconds of “free-fall” inside the wide tunnel. After your flight, you will be issued a flight certificate as a souvenir.
Kansas City Indoor Skydiving Admission with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
2. Admire the historical buildings on Massachusetts Street
A walk with Sugar.
Posted by John Hoopes on Monday, 3 June 2019
Massachusetts Street, or as it is referred to by the locals, Mass Street, is a street that runs through the busiest district of Lawrence, Kansas. This area is home to numerous businesses and historical buildings. It is a perfect blend of historic Kansas and the modern, progressive Kansas. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Although there are many modern businesses here, most of the structures were constructed in the 1800s through to the mid-1900s. It is home to restaurants and bars that offer excellent food and drinks. When in Kansas, this is one of the best places to visit.
Massachusetts Street
Address: Lawrence, Kansas 66044
Website: Massachusetts Street
3. Hike along the trails at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is one of the most popular preserves in Kansas. Once upon a time, tallgrass prairie covered millions of acres (hectares) in North America. However, over time, less than 4% of that original mass still has these tallgrass prairies. To protect it, the surrounding area was converted into a Preserve. Today, you can come and have a view of this still magnificent area. The vista is beautiful and helps you to connect to the prairie and the folks that once dwelled here. The Preserve is open all-year-round. Come and hike along the several hiking trails. You will have plenty of fun and make beautiful memories.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Address: 2480B Kansas 177, Strong City, KS 66869, USA
Website: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
4. Learn about local history at Watkins Museum of History
Great news: Watkins extended hours begin this week. From May through October, we'll open on Thursdays from 10 AM-8 PM and Sundays from 1-4 PM. Stop by and discover the real story of Douglas County!
Posted by Watkins Museum of History on Tuesday, 30 April 2019
Located in Lawrence, Kansas, Watkins Museum of History is a rich source of information about the diverse people and the rich culture of this region. This museum tells various stories of the past through numerous exhibitions and programs. Come and discover the real story behind some of the most famous events in American history. There is a lot to look at and learn about. The staff is ready to help you answer any questions you might have. The building itself is quite a sight to behold. It is open to everyone, although donations are encouraged.
Watkins Museum of History
Address: 1047 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044, USA
Website: Watkins Museum of History
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
5. Visit the Kansas State Capitol Building
Located in Topeka, Kansas, the Kansas State Capitol Building is the seat of the executive and legislative power in the whole of Kansas. The building recently underwent a complete facelift. The resulting structure is a beauty to behold. It features breathtaking murals, and the iconic copper dome of the Kansas State Capitol Building is a noticeable feature in the skyline. It has unique features and a rich history that draws tourists and visitors from all places around the country. There are free tours of this magnificent building, that guide you through the murals, structure and history of the building.
Kansas State Capitol Building
Address: SW 8th & SW Van Buren, Topeka, KS 66612, United States
Website: Kansas State Capitol Building
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 4pm; Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
6. Browse through space artifacts at Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Now referred to as the Cosmosphere, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center is a museum and educational center in Kansas. It is located in Hutchinson, Kansas, and is one of the main attractions of the city. Inside the museum, you will find more than 13,000 space artifacts from the United States and Russia. It houses the largest number of Russian spacecraft artifacts outside of Russia. Some of the spacecraft on display include the Apollo 13, a Sputnik, the infamous Mercury 7 capsule, and so much more. Come here and browse through this large and diverse collection.
Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Address: 1100 N Plum St, Hutchinson, KS 67501, USA
Website: Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 5pm; Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 7pm
Price: 9 - 9.50 USD
7. Interact with farm animals at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Located in Overland, Kansas, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is a farmstead established in 1978. It is home to more than 200 animals and birds. It houses several vegetable gardens, a schoolhouse, and a fishing pond and so on. Come here to experience a day on a farm. It is a great place to spend some time with the kids. It will help the family develop an appreciation for wildlife, farming, and Good Ol’ Kansas heritage. The farmstead offers a pony ride and allows guests to interact with the animals and birds on the farm safely.
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Address: 13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221, USA
Website: Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Opening hours: Fri - Mon: 9am - 5pm; Tue: 9am - 8pm; Wed: 9am - 5pm; Thu: 9am - 8pm
Price: 3 USD
8. Take part in a costume contest at Oz Museum
The Oz Museum is a product of the dream of the host community of Wamego. Located in Wamego, Oz Museum is dedicated to the immensely popular book by L. Frank Baum. You do not need a tornado to whisk you away to the magical Land of Oz. The museum offers all you need to feel a magical experience. It is home to over 2000 artifacts celebrating Oz: from board games to first-edition books, and costumes. The museum hosts a costume contest that allows visitors to participate. Your kids will have immense fun taking part in this contest. All the exhibits are great, and if you enjoyed the Wizard of Oz, you will love this place.
Oz Museum
Address: 511 Lincoln Ave, Wamego, KS 66547, USA
Website: Oz Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 6pm; Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm
Price: 9 USD
9. Watch car racing at Kansas Speedway
Posted by Kansas Speedway on Monday, 5 August 2019
Located in Kansas City, Kansas, this speedway is a significant tourist attraction. It is a tri-oval race track. It plays host to Nascar races, IndyCar Series races and other racing events. This 1.5-mile (2.4 km) race track is one of the most exciting places in Kansas City. If you are a car racing enthusiast, then this is the best place to be. There are a variety of things to do for all ages, thus, the entire family will have a great time.
Kansas Speedway
Address: 400 Speedway Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111, USA
Website: Kansas Speedway
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 29 - 64 USD
10. Ride the water slides and coasters at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City
Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City is a water park located in Kansas City. The park opened to much fanfare in 2009 and it has been a magnet for tourists and people desiring fun. It is a 40-acre (16.19-hectare) water park, and it is the fourth water park in the city. It is an exciting water park that boasts several slides. It is a nice place to visit with your family, and there are rides for everyone. Take a break from the hot summer weather at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City
Address: 9400 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66112, USA
Website: Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City
Opening hours: Sat: 11am - 7pm; Sun - Fri: 11am - 6pm
Price: 0.99 USD
11. View the artworks at Spencer Museum of Art
Spend your weekend at the Spencer! ? On Saturday from 1-3:30PM stop by the Art Cart to create art from an accident. ?️...
Posted by Spencer Museum of Art on Friday, 7 June 2019
Spencer Museum of Art is a small but stocked museum located in the University of Kansas, Lawrence. This museum might appear small, but it houses a relatively large collection of exquisite art. It is home to over 30,000 artworks from across different places in Europe and America. Come and spend hours moving from exhibition to exhibition. It includes a collection of medieval art, including art from Asia, America, Russia and other parts of Europe. Spend an afternoon immersed in the beautiful art on display.
Spencer Museum of Art
Address: 1301 Mississippi St, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
Website: Spencer Museum of Art
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 4pm; Tue: 10am - 4pm; Wed - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 4pm
Price: Free
12. Check out the marine creatures of SEA LIFE Kansas City
SEA LIFE is an interactive aquarium located in Kansas City. This large aquarium offers you a lot of underwater adventures. Come here and enjoy the amazing underwater kingdom in the aquarium. Go nose to nose with different animals like sharks, seashores, and so on. It provides a fun and safe experience for visitors of all ages. Kids will have a great time at the Doodle Reef where they can create their very own virtual sea animal. A visit to this aquarium is sure to leave you in awe and with pleasant memories.
SEA LIFE Kansas City
Address: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
Website: SEA LIFE Kansas City
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun - Thu: 10am - 5pm
Price: 12.95 - 16.95 USD
13. Visit Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark
Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark is a US natural landmark located in Gove County, Kansas. Here, you will find natural chalk formations that reach astonishing heights, and that will leave you in awe. You will find arches and buttes made, not by human hands, but by nature itself. It is a great spot to visit with friends and family, and you can take memorable pictures at this site. When in Kansas, this natural landmark is a must-see.
Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark
Address: Gove 16, Oakley, KS 67748, USA
Website: Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark
Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)
14. Wander around Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Posted by Botanica on Friday, 8 February 2019
Opened in 1987, Botanica, the Wichita Gardens is a collection of gardens that boast a wide variety of flowers and even wildlife. The gardens house a butterfly garden and house, an aquatic collection, and different styles of gardens. It is a great spot for a romantic time with a loved one. If you are going with your family, the kids won’t be bored as the gardens have a special location for children to have fun. Come and search for the different species of butterflies at the butterfly garden and have a splendid time.
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203, USA
Website: Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm
Price: 8 - 9 USD
15. Take photos of The Keeper of the Plains
The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot (13.4-meter) structure in Wichita, Kansas. This structure was completed in 1974 and designed by a Native American Sculptor - Blackbear Bosin. It is one of the most recognized structures across the country and was commissioned to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States Independence. The location of the Keeper of the Plains is considered a sacred site by Native Americans. Come here and take lovely pictures and appreciate the beauty of this structure.
The Keeper of the Plains
Address: 650 N Seneca St, Wichita, KS 67203, USA
Website: The Keeper of the Plains
16. Tour the grounds and buildings at Fort Scott National Historic Site
Kansas is home to many historic locations, and Fort Scott National Historic Site is one of the most famous landmark locations in the state. This site is home to many important and historic structures as well as restored tallgrass prairie. It features different exhibits that enlighten visitors about the lives and times of those who live in different periods in America’s history. It is a beautiful site that provides an excellent time for the entire family. You can engage in self-guided tours of the site, or choose to engage the services of a tour guide. It is one of the best historic locations in the United States and a must-visit!
Fort Scott National Historic Site
Address: Market, Fort Scott, KS 66701, USA
Website: Fort Scott National Historic Site
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
17. Enjoy boating at Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee Mission Park is located in Kansas and it offers visitors loads of excitement and fun. There are so many things to do in this park. Shawnee features a 120-acre (48.56-hectare) lake, several picnic locations, an archery range, a golf course, and so much more. When you come here, you can be sure you will leave feeling refreshed and happy from all the fun. You can even watch a play in the park as it is home to your favorite Theatre. Enjoy boating with friends and family in the large lake. Discover why Shawnee Mission Park is the most visited in the entire state.
Shawnee Mission Park
Address: 7900 Renner Rd, Lenexa, KS 66219, USA
Website: Shawnee Mission Park
Opening hours: 5am - 11pm (daily)
Price: 4.5 - 7.5 USD
18. Spot different species of birds at Fort Larned National Historic Site
Posted by Fort Larned National Historic Site on Tuesday, 24 June 2014
Fort Larned National Historic Site is some miles away from Larned, Kansas. This Historic Site is one of the wonders of Kansas. It features the best maintained original frontier post in the American West. Established in 1859, the post was built to maintain peace between the natives. Come and listen to stories about how the Plain Indians protected their hunting grounds, the retaliation by the military, and the rich and tragic history of Sante Fe Trail. It is also home to different species of birds, thus a great spot for bird-watching.
Fort Larned National Historic Site
Address: 1767 KS-156, Larned, KS, USA
Website: Fort Larned National Historic Site
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
19. Have a close encounter with animals at Tanganyika Wildlife Park
If you are looking for an interactive experience with several species of animals, then Tanganyika Wildlife Park is the place to be. The wildlife park is home to different species of animals and it offers visitors tours that are safe and interactive. It is home to giraffes, rhino, hippos, goats, and many more animals. You can even feed these animals! The park provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. It is one of the coolest places to visit when you are in Kansas.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park
Address: 1000 S Hawkins Ln, Goddard, KS 67052, USA
Website: Tanganyika Wildlife Park
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 14.99 - 19.99 USD
20. Try your luck at Boot Hill Casino & Resort
The finished product! New at Boot Hill Casino in Dodge City, Kansas...
Posted by C & C Signs, LLC on Wednesday, 13 July 2016
If you ever find yourself in Dodge City, Kansas, then you have to come to Boot Hill Casino and Resort. This casino welcomes all with open arms and treats you like a long-lost friend. The casino features a beautiful design that evokes memories of good-old Western Kansas. Come and try your luck here and try hitting it big on some of the best tables on the floor. The casino also offers a restaurant and bar where you can eat like a king while winning money.
Boot Hill Casino & Resort
Address: 4000 W Comanche St, Dodge City, KS 67801, USA
Website: Boot Hill Casino & Resort
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
21. Visit The Geographic Center of the 48 States
The geographic center of the 48 contiguous States.
Posted by Greg Ellis on Saturday, 27 August 2016
You might be from New York or Los Angeles and feel like the United States revolves around your city, but if you are looking for the actual Geographic Center of the 48 states of the United States, you will need to take a trip to Kansas. Located about 2.6 miles(4.2 kilometers) from the middle of Lebanon, Kansas, this location has a marker erected to make it clear to all who visit. There are picnic tables around so you and your family can have a picnic right in the center of the United States!
The Geographic Center of the 48 States
Address: Lebanon, KS 66952, USA
Website: The Geographic Center of the 48 States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
22. Try the delectable dishes at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
This award-winning restaurant is located in Kansas and it welcomes all to come and have a bite of the best barbecue in Kansas. The fare here is simply incredible. You need to visit and you’ll understand why there are always queues. The food is seasoned to inch-perfect greatness. Come and enjoy a great meal with your family or with your friends. You will leave satisfied.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Address: 3002 W 47th St, Kansas City, KS 66103, USA
Website: Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm; Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm
23. Put on your dance shoes at Club Rodeo
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by ClubRodeo Wichita on Tuesday, December 4, 2018
Club Rodeo is located in Houston, Kansas, and it is a great spot to let loose and have some fun. The atmosphere is great and welcoming. The drinks are very affordable, and the music is sure to get you on your feet and dancing the night away. Enjoy the excitement of partying and have a time you will never forget. Bring your friends along, and ensure nobody forgets their dancing shoes at home because Club Rodeo will make you move.
Club Rodeo
Address: 10001 E Kellogg Dr, Wichita, KS 67207, USA
Website: Club Rodeo
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 7pm - 2am; Wed: 7pm - 2am (closed from Sun - Tue & Thu)
24. Enjoy martinis at Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar
Posted by Mini Art Face Painting on Tuesday, 1 April 2014
If you want to have a great time in Wichita, Kansas, there is no better place than at Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar. If you do not smoke, do not be put off by the “Cigar Bar.” It is a great place to come and have a great evening with friends. The martini is excellent, and the music is even better. There is an outdoor patio that has a fire pit. You can chill here with your friends over martinis and enjoy beautiful music.
Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar
Address: 923 E 1st St N, Wichita, KS 67202, USA
Website: Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2am; Sun: 12pm - 10pm; Mon - Thu: 3pm - 2am
25. Sign up for a relaxing session at Soft Breeze SPA
After the hustle and bustle of it all, Soft Breeze Spa in Lawrence, Kansas, might be the tonic you need to relieve yourself of stress. It is a beautiful place to pamper yourself. Come here and enjoy a day of world-class spa services. There are many services offered here. Enjoy a custom facial, a deep tissue massage, and much more at this spa. You might come in stressed, but you are guaranteed to leave feeling younger and refreshed.
Soft Breeze SPA
Address: 2331 Alabama St, Lawrence, KS 66046, USA
Website: Soft Breeze SPA
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
26. Play golf at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course
Posted by Buffalo Dunes Golf Course on Tuesday, 13 May 2014
Buffalo Dunes Golf Course is located in the Garden City of Kansas. Self-acclaimed as a “Mecca for public golf,” this golf course is the best in this side of Kansas. It is ranked as the top golf course in the whole of Kansas by the Golf Digest magazine and it is one of the best places to hang out and play a relaxing game of golf. The grass is well maintained and it accommodates players of different skill levels. Come and relax here!
Buffalo Dunes Golf Course
Address: 5685 US-83, Garden City, KS 67846, USA
Website: Buffalo Dunes Golf Course
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
27. Conquer the lanes at KC Bowl
KC Bowl is located in Kansas City, and it is a place to have loads of fun without stretching your budget. It provides immense pleasure for all members of the family. There are different facilities here to ensure that everyone has fun. KC Bowl comes with bowling lanes just for kids, an arcade, a snack bar, and much more. The atmosphere here is excellent, and the staff is amiable and ready to help. The entire family will enjoy this place.
KC Bowl
Address: 8201 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66112, USA
Website: KC Bowl
Opening hours: Sat: 3pm - 12pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm; Mon - Tue: 11am - 9pm; Wed: 12pm - 11pm; Thu: 9am - 12am; Fri: 10am - 12am
28. Enjoy a movie and a meal at AMC DINE-IN Studio 28
Is there a better combination than film and food? At AMC Dine-in Studio 28, you can enjoy both. You do not go to the cinema for the food, but AMC Dine-In challenges the norm. This cinema elevates your movie experience by providing you with both hit movies and impressive fare. As a cinema and restaurant rolled into one, AMC DINE-IN Studio 28 offers the ultimate movie experience. Come with your family or friends and enjoy an incredible viewing experience that you will remember for ages.
AMC DINE-IN Studio 28
Address: 12075 S Strang Line Rd, Olathe, KS 66062, USA
Website: AMC DINE-IN Studio 28
Opening hours: 24 hours(daily)
29. Laugh your heart out at Loony Bin Comedy Club
Cliff Cash kicking things off with a little prayer. #amen @cliffcashcomedy
Posted by The Loony Bin Comedy Club, Wichita on Wednesday, 17 July 2019
Located in Wichita, Kansas, Loony Bin Comedy Club is a place to come and laugh your worries away. The club is an excellent place for a night out with friends or a special someone. There are different comedians on stage who deliver wisecracks to get you rolling. You can order some food and drinks from the bar while the show is on. It is an excellent place to go for the night. After the stress of the day, come here to laugh your heart out.
Loony Bin Comedy Club
Address: 215 St Francis, Wichita, KS 67202, USA
Website: Loony Bin Comedy Club
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 6pm - 1am; Wed - Thu: 6pm - 11pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
30. Have a close encounter with wildlife at Safari Zoological Park (from USD 16.0)
Safari Zoological Park is a private zoo and an animal rescue facility located in Kansas. Licensed with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, this park welcomes tourists and visitors all year-round. Come and enjoy the company of magnificent creatures found in the park. There are several animals in the zoo. You will find primates, different species of cats, bears, foxes, and tropical bears. It provides a great experience for the entire family. The park offers a two-hour tour that gives you information about the park, the animals, and much more.
General Admission to Safari Zoological Park
Duration: 1 hour
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kansas, USA
Kansas is a large state that offers enormous fun. Everywhere you go, there are exciting events, structures, monuments, and activities to enjoy. The rich history and immense pleasure is a major attraction. Enjoy the many exciting things to do in Kansas, USA.
History
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