Kansas Countryside

East to West, Kansas City to Wakeeney, or South to North, from Wichita to Salina Kansas has a lot in store for visitors and travelers to the state. Travelers may spot an American Bison near a stand of tall grass, or pass through a town with a history of the legendary old west – History comes alive in Kansas. The state is known as the Sunflower State, the original home of the Free State, and it was also home to Amelia Erhart and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Kansas City, located in Wyandotte County known locally as 'the Dot', is the states hub for travel and entertainment. The Kansas Speedway (easy to get to at the intersection of Interstate 70 and 435), has exciting spring races on tap. The 2010 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and an IZOD IndyCar series races are scheduled for early May and tickets are available now. At the speedway, NASCAR Fans can actually experience the thrill of a race by riding along as a passenger - Look for a chance in July to experience this ultimate trill.

Olathe, minutes from Kansas City has been ranked one of the 100 best places to live in the US. With all the benefits of the city, it is also offers interesting attractions of its own. Olathe was the first stop in Kansas along The Santa Fe Trail. Today the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Historic Farm is the only remaining stagecoach stop open to the public along the old Santa Fe Trail. It opens for the season in April and features original 19th century buildings along with several reconstructed sites. Bring the kids for the day and don't let them miss animal feeding time in the afternoons.

Tourist Tip: Kansas' reputation being flat as a pancake has one advantage – it's an easy place to bike. The Indian Creek Hike and Bike Trail is over 15 miles long and close by, the Mill Creek Streamway Park has even more trails, extending as far as the Kansas River. A terrific place to bike, walk, or enjoy an afternoon stroll.

Topeka the Capital City of Kansas is loaded with history. The Old Prairie Town, at the Ward-Meade Historic Site, is home to the Prairie Mansion. The Mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is part of a charming historical area. The site is a 6 acre complex including a turn of the century town with volunteers dressed in period costumes. This time of year, make sure to plan for the special meal in the log cabin which is offered only during winter and spring. Kids will also love the soda fountain at the Drugstore, stop in for a float or handmade milk shake.

The Monroe School in Topeka is now a National Historic site with a Museum honoring the Brown vs Board of Education decision. Learn about the U.S. Supreme Court decision that banned segregation in public schools and was pivotal in the modern history of the Civil Rights Movement. Exhibits are interactive with audio visual media. This is an opportunity to learn about Brown vs Board of Education at the site of the incident that initiated this important historical decision.

Wichita is the largest City in Kansas and does not disappoint in its options for visitors and travelers. All things Wichita is celebrated at the Riverfest, the 2010 event is scheduled for early May. Look for the theme and along with collectible artwork and buttons mid February.

If the old west isn't old enough for your liking, join in the Spring Great Plains Renaissance Festival at Wichita's Sedgwick County Park in April. Enjoy some jousting and revelry among the fun activities and events. While you are there, don't miss the Sedgwick County Zoo, it is open 364 days a year. Winter Wednesdays are held through February with entrance fees reduced. The Easter Extravaganza is on tap for April with goodies throughout the zoo for kids. Earth Day will also be celebrated at the zoo later in April. In May, spend Mother's Day at the zoo , take Mom to view the newest baby animal arrivals. Mom's admission is free too!

Best Western Hotels are located throughout the state and are as convenient for travelers as were the historic stagecoach stops. Situated in the major cities and along modern day travel routes enjoy affordable hospitality and quality lodging with Best Western Hotels.