We admit it – even though we love Kansas, it’s not exactly the world’s most popular vacation destination. We’re pretty unappreciated by most of the rest of the country, often considered a flyover state with miles of flat plains, farmland, and not much else. Of course, anyone who’s actually been here knows that nothing could be further from the truth. There are plenty of great ideas for a weekend trip in the Sunflower State, whether you’re looking to visit some of the best small towns in Kansas or explore our state parks. One surprising place that we think is one of the best towns in Kansas is the city of Hays. It’s one of the largest cities in the quiet western portion of the state, which tends to have a little less going on than the bustling cities like Overland Park and Wichita towards our east.

Even though Hays has a population of around 20,000 people, it has a great small-town charm to it that makes it feel so much smaller.
Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau/Facebook
This is a college town, as it's home to Fort Hays State University. That means there's a vast cultural scene and always something going on here, like a fun festival or celebratory event.
There are so many things to do in Kansas, and you'll find plenty of great attractions in Hays. One charming little park here is the Veterans Memorial Park, where you'll find both a miniature version of the Washington Monument, plus a Merci Boxcar.
Kansas Merci Boxcar & Veterans Memorial Park, 15th &, Haney Dr, Hays, KS 67601, USA
kristen S google/Google Reviews
These small train cars were sent to the United States from France after World War II. They were filled with gifts as thanks to America for supporting France with post-war recovery efforts.
Another spot you won't want to miss is the Antique Mall of Hays, especially if you're a fan of hunting for treasures.
Antique Mall of Hays, 201 W 41st St, Hays, KS 67601, USA
J M/Google Reviews
The Antique Mall of Hays is one of the best antique shops in Kansas and a perfect place to look for bargains. At over 8,000 square feet of space, there's a lot to explore here!

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The craft beer industry in Kansas has been growing slowly but surely over the last few years.
Defiance Brewing Co. Downtown, 111 W 7th St, Hays, KS 67601, USA
Defiance Brewing Company, 2050 Old Hwy 40, Hays, KS 67601, USA
Justin Newell/Google Reviews
Hays is home to a great brewery in Defiance Brewing Co., which has two Hays locations. Enjoy great beer, tasty food, and a beautiful outdoor space!
I love learning when exploring a new area, and there are some wonderful educational attractions in Hays, KS. Don't miss a visit to the Historic Fort Hays Site.
Fort Hays State Historic Site, 1472 US Highway 183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601, USA
ronnie sanders/Google Reviews
The Historic Fort Hays Site has so much information about this city's rich history.
Another great attraction for those looking to learn is the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.
Sternberg Museum-Natural History, 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601, USA
Sternberg Museum of Natural History/Facebook
The Sternberg Museum of Natural History focuses on natural history, in particular, the natural history of Kansas and the Midwest states.
If the weather's cooperative and you'd like to enjoy a bit of time outside, the Frontier Historical Park is a wonderful place for it. This 89-acre park has several preserved buildings, including an old military fort, and also miles of trails.
Frontier Historical Park, Old Hwy 40, Hays, KS 67601, USA
Charles Soell/Google Local

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Hays, KS, we love this historic limestone apartment. It’s adorable and so close to all the area’s attractions!

There are so many amazing things to do in Hays that make it one of the best towns in Kansas. What are some of your favorite things to do in Kansas? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Hays, KS 67601, USA