Welcome to Kansas, the land of…well, a lot of things actually! Despite its reputation for being flat and boring, there’s actually a ton of interesting stuff to do and things to see in this Midwestern state. From quirky roadside attractions to delicious BBQ, Kansas has something for everyone.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Why on earth would I want to visit Kansas?” But hear me out. Sure, it might not have the glamour and glitz of New York City or the beaches of California, but there’s something special about the Sunflower State. Maybe it’s the friendly people, the stunning sunsets, or the fact that you can see for miles on end. Whatever it is, you’re bound to fall in love with Kansas.
Lots of great stuff in Kansas
Let’s start with the obvious: Kansas is home to the world-famous Wizard of Oz. That’s right, the beloved children’s book and movie takes place in none other than Kansas. In fact, you can even visit the Oz Museum in Wamego, which has over 2,000 pieces of Oz memorabilia. There’s also a Yellow Brick Road that leads to the museum, so you can channel your inner Dorothy and skip down the path.
But that’s not all! Kansas is also home to the World’s Largest Ball of Twine. Yes, you read that correctly. In Cawker City, there’s a ball of twine that weighs over 19,000 pounds. It’s so big that it has its own building and annual festival, where people come from all over the world to add to the ball. Talk about a unique attraction!
If you’re a fan of BBQ (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), then Kansas is the place to be. Kansas City-style BBQ is famous for its sweet and tangy sauce, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Arthur Bryant’s is a local favorite, and has been around since 1930. They’re so popular that even presidents have stopped by to grab a bite.
But what about the nightlife, you ask? Well, Kansas might not have the clubs and bars of Las Vegas, but there’s still plenty to do. The Power and Light District in Kansas City has a variety of restaurants, bars, and live music venues. And if you’re feeling lucky, you can always head to one of the state’s casinos.
Kansas art scene?
One thing you might not know about Kansas is that it’s actually home to a thriving arts scene. The city of Wichita has several museums and galleries, including the Wichita Art Museum and the Ulrich Museum of Art. And if you’re a fan of live theater, the Kansas City Repertory Theatre is one of the best in the country.
But let’s get back to the real reason people visit Kansas: the stunning scenery. Contrary to popular belief, Kansas isn’t all flat farmland. In fact, there are several state parks that offer breathtaking views. Kanopolis State Park has stunning rock formations and hiking trails, while Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve has a sea of grass that stretches for miles.
And if you’re a fan of sports, Kansas has plenty to offer. The state is home to several professional and college teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs and the University of Kansas Jayhawks. And if you’re a fan of basketball, you won’t want to miss the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, was actually born in Almonte, Ontario, Canada, but he spent most of his life in Lawrence, Kansas, where he coached the University of Kansas men’s basketball team.
So there you have it, folks. Kansas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re planning a vacation, but it’s definitely worth the visit!
