Kansas Countryside

Head out and explore Kansas, the Sunflower State. From the quaint and cozy Wakeeney in the west, to central Kansas’ McPherson, and Topeka in the east, this mid-west state is a premier destination. Check out the Kansas State Capitol building in Topeka, or the Kansas African American Museum in Wichita. Baseball fans can take in the action at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, home to the Wichita Wingnuts, a member of the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. The third weekend in June, be sure to experience the Lenora Jubilee – set in Lenora, just an hour north of Wakeeney.

The Kansas state capital, Topeka, is set in eastern Kansas and is a focal point of activity and industry. Summer visitors can check out the Topeka Zoo and gaze at the new Penguin Plunge exhibit, or check out the 26th Annual Sunflower Music Festival on the campus of Washburn University. In May, be on the lookout for the Topeka Spring Festival – rides and attractions fit for any member of the family. Before you leave Topeka, don’t miss a chance to catch up the area’s history while exploring the Kansas Museum of History. Race fans can get a taste of local racing with a trip to Thunder Hill Speedway.

Less than two hours west of Topeka is Salina, a charming and quaint city accessed easily from I-70. For a touch of local flavor, be sure to explore the 47th Annual Mid-America Farm Expo in March at the Saline Country Livestock and Expo Center. Summer travelers won’t want to miss the 35th Annual Smoky Hill River Festival, at Oakdale Park – just minutes from downtown Salina. In May, don’t miss Ira Glass live on stage at the Stiefel Theatre – set in the heart of downtown Salina, it was built in 1931 and seats nearly 1,300 guests.

To the east, Kansas travelers find Junction City. A fine little place, Junction City is home to Fort Riley and is set just minutes from Milford Lake, and Manhattan – home to the Kansas State University Wildcats. Visiting in July? Don’t miss out on some music and food at the Bluegrass and Old Tyme Music Festival at Milford Lake. In early April, anglers and lovers of the outdoors can check out the ESPN Bassmasters Series Tournament, also on Milford Lake. Revel in the fine spring weather while playing 18 holes at Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

In western Kansas, Wakeeney is set conveniently along I-70. Don’t miss out on a picnic at Eisenhower Park, or a chance to explore the always interesting Trego County Historical Museum.