When looking for places to visit in KS, sometimes we’re lucky enough to pick a scenic drive when we’re headed across the state, but other times we have to search for it ourselves. There’s a wonderful list of beautiful places in KS to go if you are looking to immerse yourself in our state’s beauty, and you’re looking at it! Of course, these places to go in KS are only the start of many beautiful locations all over our state. Have you been to all of these yet?

1. Wilson Lake
Wilson Lake, Kansas, USA
Wilson Lake, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Facebook
This beautiful lake and state park is a great spot for outdoor things to do in KS, but adventuring over the curiously shaped rock formations is by far our favorite. Read more about Wilson Lake.
2. Elk Falls
Elk Falls, KS 67345, USA
Melissa McGlothlin/Google
One beautiful fall near an old bridge and an even older town makes Elk Falls a quiet place to go in KS, but we love it, nonetheless. Learn more about what Elk Falls has to offer visitors.
3. Flint Hills
Flinthills Unified School District 492, KS, USA
Patrick Emerson/Flickr
One of the most beautiful places in KS, Flint Hills spans plenty of area in eastern and central Kansas, and we recommend exploring as much of it as you can. Just pick a road and go! Discover the scenic byway of Flint Hills.
4. Arikaree Breaks
Saint Francis, St Francis, KS 67756, USA
Doug E/TripAdvisor
Arikaree Breaks lies just north of St. Francis, and there are even little markers to help you find your way to the best parts. This is a lovely place to visit in KS. Just look at that landscape! Get more details on seeing Arikaree Breaks for yourself.
5. Cimarron National Grassland
Cimarron National Grassland, Westola, KS 67953, USA
Dennis Siepiersky/Google
At this beautiful place in KS, you'll find a gorgeous grassland filled with wildflowers and the free breeze of Kansas that you'll fall in love with. Read more about Cimarron National Grassland.
6. Pillsbury Crossing
Pillsbury Crossing, KS 66502, USA
Vincent Parsons/Flickr
If you love to dip your feet and shins into the water, this crossing is the perfect spot to do so. As long as you're careful where you step, it's a great place to go in KS to feel the water between your toes. Get the details on hiking out to Pillsbury Crossing.

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7. Coronado Heights
Coronado Heights Castle, Walking Trail, Falun, KS 67442, USA
Louis F/TripAdvisor
This miniature castle makes the younger ones feel like queens and kings, but those of us who know the story of the journey that marked this location will feel more like explorers. We'd like to imagine Francisco Vasquez de Coronado would appreciate what we've done with the place. A visit here is one of the most unique things to do in KS. Check out this more detailed write up on Coronado Heights.
8. Monument Rocks
Gove 16, Grinnell, KS 67748, USA
AshBernadette88/TripAdvisor
Our beautiful Monument Rocks will always be one of our favorite wonders, and we can't recommend it enough. It's a breathtakingly beautiful place in KS. Get details on turning this visit to Monument Rocks into a day trip.
9. Baker Wetlands
Baker Wetlands, Wakarusa, KS 66046, USA
Baker Wetlands Facebook
Kansas has a handful of recognized wetlands areas, and this one is no less beautiful than the rest. Just remember to keep to the trail or risk sinking in the ground! Learn more about Baker Wetlands and why it is such a great place to visit in KS.
10. Santa Fe Lake
Santa Fe Lake, Kansas, USA
Kevin McArthur/AllTrails
We all love a good waterfall, and Santa Fe Lake is the perfect place to see one! The rushing water and cascades make this a wonderfully relaxing place to go in KS. Check out the hiking opportunities available at Santa Fe Lake.
11. Kanopolis State Park
Kanopolis Lake State Park, 200 Horsethief Rd, Marquette, KS 67464, USA
Solo_Wanderer_KS/TripAdvisor
Kanopolis State Park is as gorgeous as the first state park should be, but the Horsethief Trail is really the best part. There are caves and plenty of smooth rock to run your hands over during the hike. It's great for any age, as long as you keep an eye on your footing. Get all the details on visiting Kanopolis State Park.
12. Sand Hills State Park
Sand Hills State Park, 4207 E 56th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502, USA
Sand Hills State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook
This gorgeous state park isn't one of the most popular places to go in KS, but the beauty of its scenery and wildflowers can't be beat, especially if you're on horseback. Find out what you can do at Sand Hills State Park.
13. Bartlett Arboretum
Bartlett Arboretum, 301 N Line St, Belle Plaine, KS 67013, USA
Bartlett Arboretum Facebook
If sometimes you'd rather have paved places to walk instead of those natural trails we love so much, this arboretum is a great place to visit in KS. You'll get to see all sorts of trees and flowers without worrying about twisting your ankle during the process. Read more about Bartlett Arboretum.

Are there any other beautiful places in KS that we haven’t included here? Tell us in the comments!

Looking for things in do in KS on a larger scale? Try this 77-mile scenic drive in KS.

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places to visit in KS

Rachel Raimondi | June 29, 2022

What are the best waterparks in Kansas?

There are 12 waterparks in Kansas. In Kansas City, you’ll find Great Wolf Lodge and its indoor waterpark. Among the attractions include the Howling Wolf and Triple Twist, two high-level thrill slides. There’s also tube rides, pools, and even hot springs. And for those who would rather stay dry, there’s also an arcade and mini-golf. Parrot Cove Water Park is located in Garden City. It’s both indoors and outdoors, so perfect for any day of the year during any weather. This 23,000-square-foot park has water slides, a lazy river, and waterfalls to dip into. You can also rock climb or head to the arcade. Either one of these or any of the other waterparks are perfect places to go in KS if you are looking for water and amusement.

How many state parks are in Kansas?

Looking for outdoor things to do in KS? There is a total of 28 state parks in Kansas. In El Dorado, you’ll find El Dorado State Park. Here, you have seven different hiking trails to explore among the beauty of the Flint Hills. There are also opportunities for biking, horseback riding, camping, and even swimming at two beaches.

What are the best waterfalls in Kansas?

While not really known at all for their waterfalls, you can find a few scattered throughout Kansas. Located in Chautauqua County, there’s the 14-foot Butcher Falls located on Pool Creek. It’s a short hike to get here, and while it is located on private property, you are able to access it. For a bigger waterfall, head to Geary Lake Falls near Junction City. The hike out to the 35-foot waterfall (the tallest in the state!) is less than a mile roundtrip. Looking to really cool off? Check out this Kansas swimming holes.

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