When it comes to great Kansas attractions, there might not be many that come to mind. However, these 11 places will leave you waiting for your next vacation! Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Good news, it’s all of the above! Here in Kansas, we dream to explore everything around us. Let’s take a look.
1. The California-Oregon Trail
If you find yourself in the northeast, you might want to stop by Westmoreland, Kansas to see this important place of United States history. Hundreds of thousands of people used this trail to travel west in search of new land and new homes. If you're curious, there are also other markers as well as small grave markers in the area as well. To think we used to walk from one side of the continent to the other!
2. The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum
In a 140-year-old house standing in Atchinson, Kansas, one of history's greats was born. Amelia Earhart, America's first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, was born and raised in this very home. The museum makes you go back in time as they walk through the life of our beloved pilot.
3. Rolling Hills Wildlife Adventure
In Salina, Kansas, the Rolling Hills Wilkdlife Center is a fantastic addition to any nature lover's bucket list. It features both live animals and stuffed displays that show the diversity and relationships between the world's fauna. Plus, zoos will always be one of the kids' favorite places!
4. The Exploration Place
Who doesn't love both learning and fun? The Exploration Place in Wichita, Kansas leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to educational playtime. The waterfront center houses both static and traveling exhibits, including dinosaurs! You and your kids are sure to have a great time getting hands-on at this fun-filled facility!
5. The Cosmosphere and Space Center
You may have thought about flying like a bird, but have you considered flying like a rocket? The Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas takes flight and science to the next level in this space-themed museum. Just take a look at what's hanging from the ceiling!
6. The Wizard of Oz Museum
Maybe you’re tired of hearing the same old lines repeated from your out-of-state friends, but this museum is sure to renew your delight with the magical world of Oz! Pulling stories from the original written novel, the 1939 film we all know so well, and even Wicked, there's plenty for every age to enjoy.
7. The Keeper of the Plains
If you follow the path outside the Exploration Place, down the river is the ever powerful figure called the Keeper of the Plains. Fire drums are lit nightly, to the excitement of those who have gathered here, where they can also learn about the Native way of life.
8. The Big Well
At 109 feet deep and 32 feet wide, this hand-dug well certainly is very large. Before the devastating tornado in 2007, the well was one of the only things the little town of Greensburg, Kansas had to offer, but now the rebuilt town has vowed to be as green as possible. It is Greensburg, after all!
9. Monument Rocks
In Gove county, Kansas, there is a breathtaking chalk structure standing alone in the middle of nowhere. Rich in fossils (and photo opportunities), this series of natural stone structures is only a stone’s throw away compared to the Grand Canyon. Gorgeous scenery right here at home, sounds good to me!
10. World's Largest Ball of Twine
If you're into classic American attractions, there's definitely a big one here in Cawker City, Kansas. Sitting at over 20 thousand pounds, and over 8 million feet of sisal twine was used to create this gentle giant. No cats allowed!
11. Truckhenge
When the county asked Ron Lessman to "pick up" his trucks off his lawn, he decided to take them literally! With pieces made from old trucks, boats, and even a bus, this man has made his yard a political statement. He also uses the space to display other large sculptures he's created. Make sure to give him a call before visiting though. You want to make sure he's home first!
If you still think Kansas has little to offer, look no further! These 11 attractions are some of the best things to do in the state. Did your favorite make the list? To find more great places to visit, check out 11 of the most bizarre roadside attractions in Kansas.
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