Eastern Kansas Travel Guide

Explore the best of Eastern Kansas with this comprehensive tour guide featuring places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, food and drink scenes, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Eastern Kansas

Eastern Kansas lies in the Great Plains region of the United States. Although it is relatively small, it is a great place to visit for anyone looking for outdoor activities and historical sites. This comprehensive tour guide provides a list of all the places you must see, the best hiking/biking routes, things to do, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Kansas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site: This is the site of the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision that ended segregation in public schools. Here, you will find exhibits that tell stories of the struggle for civil rights.
  • Kansas State Capitol Building: Located in Topeka, the state capital, it is the most iconic landmark in Eastern Kansas. A guided tour takes you through the legislative chambers, governor’s office, and historical exhibits.
  • Museum of World Treasures: This small museum in Wichita brings together an eclectic collection of artifacts, from ancient Egypt and Greece to modern pop culture.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Kansas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: You will find this preserve in the Flint Hills region of Eastern Kansas. It is one of the last remaining tracts of tallgrass prairie in the world. Visitors can hike or bike on trails and see bison roaming the area.
  • Clinton Lake: This beautiful lake in Lawrence is a great place to go fishing, boating, swimming, or just relax on the beach. There are also trails for hiking and biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Kansas

  • Prairie Spirit Trail: This 51-mile rail-trail runs from Ottawa to Iola, and is a popular place for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding.
  • Flint Hills Nature Trail: This 117-mile trail is the longest trail in Kansas and stretches from Osawatomie to Herington. It winds through some of the most scenic areas of the Flint Hills.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Kansas: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Wichita Art Museum: This museum features a permanent collection of American art, including works by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, and Edward Weston.
  • Take a Tour of the Great Overland Station: Located in Topeka, this railroad station serves as a museum that documents the history of the Union Pacific Railroad.
  • Visit the Kansas Speedway: Located in Kansas City, this is the place to go if you are a fan of NASCAR. You can take a tour of the track and see the garages where the drivers work on their cars.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Kansas

Day Activity
1 Visit the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site and the Kansas State Capitol Building in Topeka
2 Spend the day hiking or biking on the Flint Hills Nature Trail
3 Visit the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and observe the bison and the beautiful flora and fauna
4 Have a relaxing day on the beach at Clinton Lake in Lawrence
5 Visit the Museum of World Treasures in Wichita
6 Take a tour of the Great Overland Station in Topeka
7 Spend the day at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Kansas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kansas City-style barbecue: Kansas City is known for its mouth-watering barbecue. Be sure to try Burnt Ends, a much-loved local specialty.
  • Bierocks: This Eastern European meat-filled pastry is a common food item in Kansas.
  • Chili soup: This warming soup features beef, beans, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Boulevard Brewing Company: A famous local brewery in Kansas City offering regular tours.
  • Wheat State Winery: Located in Winfield, this is a great place to try Kansas-grown wine varieties.

Where to Stay in Eastern Kansas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Oread Hotel: This upscale hotel in Lawrence features a rooftop terrace with stunning views, spa services, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
  • The Woodward Inn: This beautifully restored mansion in Russell is a popular bed and breakfast and features antique decorated rooms.
  • Farmstead Inn: In Wellsville, this unique bed and breakfast offers a fun farm stay, featuring a petting zoo.

What to Buy in Eastern Kansas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kansas Sunflower Seeds: Sunflowers are the state flower of Kansas and sunflower seed packs are a popular souvenir item.
  • Local Arts and Crafts: Kansas has a rich arts and crafts tradition, and you will find items ranging from pottery to paintings to woodworking.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Kansas

Eastern Kansas has a rich history and culture, much of which is celebrated in the state’s festivals and traditions. During the Kansas State Fair, you can enjoy the famous butter sculpture competition, country music concerts, and thrilling rides. Another popular festival is the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, where you can experience a medieval fair complete with jousting competitions, live performances, and delicious food.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Kansas

The best time to visit Eastern Kansas is from March to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the foliage and landscapes are beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Kansas

Do:

  • Do visit the major historical sites and museums.
  • Do try the local food and drinks.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind while visiting natural attractions.
  • Don’t underestimate the weather and dress appropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Kansas

Eastern Kansas is generally a very safe place. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings and to avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Eastern Kansas

Eastern Kansas has good medical facilities, but it is always important to have travel insurance in case of an emergency.

Getting to Eastern Kansas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Kansas

  • Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
  • Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)

Bus Stations Near Eastern Kansas

  • Greyhound Topeka Bus Station
  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station, Wichita

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service is available with multiple stops throughout Eastern Kansas.

How to Get Around in Eastern Kansas

The best way to get around Eastern Kansas is by car. There are several car rental companies available at major airports and cities, and the road network is excellent and easy to navigate.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Kansas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Oz Museum: Located in Wamego, this museum is dedicated to all things Oz, and is a must-visit for fans of The Wizard of Oz.
  • Lake of the Ozarks: Just a short drive from Eastern Kansas, this beautiful lake is a popular vacation spot, with boating, swimming, and hiking opportunities.

Conclusion

Eastern Kansas is an underrated gem, with its mix of history, outdoor activities, and unique culture. This comprehensive tour guide will help you fully explore and enjoy this beautiful region of the United States.



    Lawrence
    Olathe
    Overland Park
    Topeka