10 Best Things To Do In Kansas For The Perfect Holiday

By Dhruvalakshmi Paithankar on Mar 09, 2020
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Kansas is easily one of the most underrated tourist destinations in the USA. The state that has so much to offer, and is home to a variety of points of interest, has somehow stayed under the tourist radar. But we have come up with the list of some of the best things to do in Kansas so that you will know how truly beautiful this state is! This list will tell you all about several casinos for entertainment, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve for nature lovers, and different museums and historic sites that are a must-visit when in Kansas.

1. Go underground at Strataca

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Strataca is a unique salt mine museum located in the Hutchinson Salt Company mine. As you go 650 feet underground, you will find yourself within one of the world's largest deposits of rock salt. Taking a tram tour here is one of the top things to do in Kansas as it takes you through different chambers and introduces to different features of the mine environment. 

2. Witness beautiful Botanica: Wichita Gardens

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Botanica, the Wichita Gardens, has become one of the top tourist attractions in Kansas. When you explore this 17-acre site, you will find a butterfly house, greenhouse, juniper collection, peony collection, rose garden, rock garden, and an aquatic collection on the premises. With all these and many more things to offer, it is a great place to explore for nature lovers.

3. Understand the history at Boot Hill Museum

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Boot Hill Museum is an interesting place that will take you back in time as you explore the exhibits here. It is located on the site of Boot Hill Cemetery and aims to preserve the history of the Old West as well as Dodge City. If you want to visit old and interesting places in Kansas, this museum, with 20,000 artifacts including 200+ original historical guns, is the place to be! 

4. Take your kids to Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead

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One of the top family-friendly tourist attractions in Kansas, Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead is loved by locals and travelers alike. A place that started as a simple petting zoo has today become home to butterfly gardens, show gardens, different birds of prey, farm animals, playgrounds, along with a nature trail and a fishing pond. You can also enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides and pony rides here.

5. Step back in time at Fort Scott National Historic Site

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Fort Scott National Historic Site is known for serving as a US Army military base during the 1850s. It has also played an important role as a supply base during the Bleeding Kansas Border War and the American Civil War. Today, for those interested in different things to do in Kansas, this site offers tours of officers' barracks along with other preserved structures. 

6. Spin the wheel at different casinos in Kansas

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Kansas has a combination of more than 10 casinos that provide around 11,400 slots along with 160+ table games and gaming machines. Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway, Kansas Star Casino, Golden Eagle Casino, Sac And Fox Casino, and 7th Street Casino are some of the best casinos in Kansas. So, when it comes to fun things to do in Kansas City for adults, you know where to head off next. 

7. Explore the exhibits of Spencer Museum of Art

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The only comprehensive art museum in the state, Spencer Museum of Art is a treat for art enthusiasts. With an extensive collection of more than 45,000 artworks, it will give you a chance to see different European and American paintings along with 20th-century Chinese paintings, sculptures, and medieval artworks. Explore one of the best points of interest in Kansas and you will also learn about different types of African, Australian, Native American, and Latin American works.

8. Hike the trails at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

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Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is a one-of-its-kind nature reserve in the USA. It has more than 40 miles of hiking trails allowing you to explore the beauty of tallgrass prairie to the fullest. If you decide to come here during summers, you will also get to ride narrated bus tours. As there is no charge to visit Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, it has become one of the top free things to do in Kansas. 

9. Learn about natural history at Museum at Prairiefire

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Known for its quirky architecture and interesting exhibits, Museum at Prairiefire is a must during your Kansas vacation. The exhibits here are proud to introduce you to natural history along with science, culture, and art. They have also collaborated with the American Museum of Natural History in New York City to offer better informative displays. 

10. Go to the top of Kansas State Capitol

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And last on this list, but not the least, Kansas State Capitol is the place that is on every visitor’s bucket list. This beautiful structure can be toured, but keep in mind that you will have to climb 296 steps to reach the top of the capitol. Get a glimpse of history, admire different frescos and murals that adorn the walls, and make the most of your trip to Kansas.

If you are interested in more things to do in Kansas, then you can also add places like Overland Park Arboretum, Sedgwick County Zoo, Monument Rocks, and Exploration Place.

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