Discover Kansas Turnpike: A Travel Guide To Hidden Gems And Top Attractions

Introduction

If you are planning a trip to the state of Kansas, there is one destination that should be on top of your list: Kansas Turnpike. This 236-mile stretch of highway runs through the heart of the state and connects major cities such as Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City. Along the way, there are plenty of attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures to explore.

Top Attractions

Kansas Turnpike is home to some of the most popular attractions in the state. If you are a history buff, make sure to stop by the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene. For a family-friendly outing, visit the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, which is one of the largest zoos in the country. And if you are a sports fan, head to the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City for NASCAR races and other events.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are definitely worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover along Kansas Turnpike. For example, the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Strong City offers stunning views of the prairie landscape and a chance to see bison up close. The Cosmosphere in Hutchinson is a must-see for space enthusiasts, with exhibits on space exploration and a collection of artifacts from the Apollo missions.

Food Scene

Kansas is known for its barbecue, and you can find some of the best BBQ joints along Kansas Turnpike. Try Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City for award-winning brisket, ribs, and burnt ends. For something a little different, head to Wichita for Hopping Gnome Brewing Company, which pairs craft beer with creative dishes such as pork belly tacos and Korean BBQ wings.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money along Kansas Turnpike. Many of the state parks and historical sites offer free admission or have low entrance fees. You can also find affordable dining options at local diners and cafes, or pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a scenic spot along the highway.

Outdoor Adventures

Kansas Turnpike is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Visit Milford Lake near Junction City for fishing, boating, and hiking. The Flint Hills National Scenic Byway offers some of the best views in the state, with rolling hills and prairie grasses stretching as far as the eye can see.

Historical Landmarks

As you travel along Kansas Turnpike, you will come across many historical landmarks that tell the story of the state’s past. Some must-see sites include the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, which commemorates the landmark Supreme Court case that ended segregation in schools, and the Fort Scott National Historic Site, which was a key military outpost during the Civil War.

Family-Friendly Activities

Kansas Turnpike is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Visit the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in Topeka for hands-on exhibits and a nature playground. The Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City is a favorite among kids and adults alike, with water slides, lazy rivers, and other attractions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you are looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover along Kansas Turnpike. Check out the Oz Museum in Wamego, which celebrates the classic movie The Wizard of Oz with memorabilia and exhibits. The Mushroom Rock State Park near Marquette is a unique geological formation that features mushroom-shaped rocks.

Natural Wonders

Kansas may not be known for its natural wonders, but there are still plenty of beautiful landscapes to explore along Kansas Turnpike. Visit the Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark near Oakley for stunning rock formations that date back millions of years. The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area near Great Bend is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 320 species of birds to spot.

Vibrant Nightlife

If you are looking for a night out, there are plenty of options along Kansas Turnpike. Wichita is home to a thriving nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and music venues to suit every taste. The Granada Theater in Lawrence is a historic venue that hosts concerts and other events. And in Kansas City, you can find everything from jazz clubs to craft breweries.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting a farmers’ market or artisan market. Along Kansas Turnpike, you can find markets such as the Lawrence Farmers’ Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. The Old Town Farmers’ Market in Wichita is another great option, with live music and food trucks.

Beaches and Mountains

While Kansas may not have any beaches or mountains of its own, there are still nearby destinations that offer these experiences. Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is a popular vacation spot with sandy beaches and water sports. The Ozark Mountains in Arkansas offer hiking, fishing, and other outdoor adventures.

Cultural Immersion

Kansas Turnpike is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence to learn about Native American history and culture. The Wichita Art Museum showcases local and national artists and offers classes and workshops. And in Topeka, you can visit the Combat Air Museum to learn about military aviation history.

Art and Music Scene

Kansas Turnpike has a thriving art and music scene, with galleries, museums, and performance venues to explore. The Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence has a collection of over 45,000 works of art from around the world. The Orpheum Theatre in Wichita hosts concerts, plays, and other events throughout the year. And the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City is a stunning venue that hosts everything from ballet to Broadway shows.

Walking Tours

If you want to explore the cities along Kansas Turnpike on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available. The Wichita Historic Tour takes you through the city’s most iconic buildings and landmarks, such as the Keeper of the Plains statue and the Old Town district. The Topeka Walking Tour explores the city’s history and architecture, including the Kansas State Capitol and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.

Architectural Marvels

Kansas Turnpike is home to some impressive architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern structures. The Brinton Museum in Big Horn is a stunning example of contemporary architecture, with a design that blends in with the surrounding landscape. The Kansas State Capitol in Topeka is a beautiful building that features murals, sculptures, and a dome that offers panoramic views of the city.

Historical Sites

For history buffs, there are plenty of historical sites to visit along Kansas Turnpike. The Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City offers a glimpse into the Wild West era, with exhibits on cowboys, gunfighters, and saloon girls. The John Brown Museum in Osawatomie tells the story of the abolitionist who fought against slavery in Kansas and beyond.

Biking Routes

Kansas Turnpike offers some great biking routes for cyclists of all levels. The Prairie Spirit Trail near Garnett is a 51-mile trail that winds through the countryside and small towns. The Flint Hills Nature Trail is a 117-mile trail that takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the state, including the Flint Hills and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

Wellness Retreats

If you are looking for a wellness retreat, there are plenty of options along Kansas Turnpike. The Prairie Wind Yoga & Wellness studio in Topeka offers yoga classes, massage therapy, and other wellness services. The Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton is a bed and breakfast that offers spa treatments, yoga, and other wellness activities.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of adventure sports to try along Kansas Turnpike. The Kansas River is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, with plenty of outfitters and rental options available. The Tuttle Creek State Park near Manhattan offers hiking, biking, and rock climbing. And the Kansas City Skydiving Center in Gardner offers tandem skydiving for beginners.

Conclusion

Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or culture vulture, there is something for everyone along Kansas Turnpike. Take your time to explore the hidden gems, top attractions, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make this stretch of highway a truly unique destination.