Spring is a wonderful time to explore the great state of Kansas with young people. From its rustic rural landscapes to its hardworking, humble communities, this Midwestern gem offers a plethora of destinations that are both educational and captivating. Whether you're seeking outrageous adventures, silly escapades, luxurious experiences, or simply fun-filled outings, Kansas has something for everyone.
1. Oz Museum (511 Lincoln St., Wamego) - Embark on a whimsical journey down the yellow brick road at the Oz Museum in Wamego. This enchanting museum pays homage to L. Frank Baum's beloved tale "The Wizard of Oz" with an impressive collection of memorabilia and artifacts from the iconic movie.
2. Evel Knievel Museum (2047 SW Topeka Blvd., Topeka) - Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping excitement at the Evel Knievel Museum in Topeka. Learn about the life and daredevil stunts of America's most famous motorcycle jumper through interactive exhibits that will leave you awe-inspired.
3. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (2480 KS-177 Scenic Byway, Strong City) - Immerse yourself in nature's beauty at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City. This serene landscape showcases one of North America's last remaining tallgrass prairies and provides endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
4. Cosmosphere International Space Museum (1100 N Plum St., Hutchinson) - Ignite your imagination with a visit to Cosmosphere International Space Museum in Hutchinson. Discover fascinating space artifacts and engage in hands-on activities that bring outer space closer than ever before.
5 . Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum (223 N Terrace St., Atchison) - Pay tribute to one of history's most inspiring aviators at Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum in Atchison. Explore the childhood home of Amelia Earhart and learn about her extraordinary life through exhibits that celebrate her pioneering spirit.
6. Kansas State Capitol (300 SW 10th Ave., Topeka) - Delve into Kansas' rich history and government at the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka. Take a guided tour of this architectural masterpiece, featuring breathtaking murals and stunning architecture.
7. Boot Hill Museum (500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd., Dodge City) - Step back in time to the wild west era at Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City. Experience life as an outlaw or lawman through interactive exhibits, gunfight reenactments, and historic artifacts.
8 . Strataca Underground Salt Museum (3650 E Avenue G, Hutchinson) - Descend into the depths of an underground salt mine at Strataca Underground Salt Museum in Hutchinson. Learn about the fascinating geology behind salt mining while exploring massive chambers filled with captivating displays.
9 . Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead (13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park) - Create joyful memories at Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead in Overland Park. This delightful farm offers hands-on experiences with animals, pony rides, fishing ponds, and even a one-room schoolhouse for young minds to explore.
10 . Flint Hills Discovery Center (315 S 3rd St., Manhattan) - Dive into the unique ecosystem of the Flint Hills region at Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, discover why this area is known as "America's Last Great Places."
These destinations not only showcase Kansas' natural beauty but also honor its traditions and historical context. So pack your bags, gather your young adventurers, and embark on a journey through rustic rural landscapes where hardworking communities embrace their humble roots while striving for progressiveness.
For more information on these destinations:
- Oz Museum: www.OzKansas.com
- Evel Knievel Museum: @EvelKnievelMuseum
- Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: www.nps.gov/tapr
- Cosmosphere International Space Museum: @KansasCosmosphere
- Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum: www.ameliaearhartmuseum.org
- Kansas State Capitol: www.kshs.org/capitol/
- Boot Hill Museum: @BootHillMuseumDC
- Strataca Underground Salt Museum: www.underkansas.org
- Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead: @OPFarmstead
- Flint Hills Discovery Center: www.flinthillsdiscovery.org
511 Lincoln St.
Wamego, KS
United States
2047 Sw Topeka Blvd.
Topeka, KS
United States
2480 Ks-177 Scenic Byway
Strong City, KS
United States
1100 N Plum St.
Hutchinson, KS
United States
223 N Terrace St.
Atchison, KS
United States
300 Sw 10Th Ave.
Topeka, KS
United States
500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd.
Dodge City, KS
United States
3650 E Avenue G
Hutchinson, KS
United States
13800 Switzer Rd.
Overland Park, KS
United States
315 S 3Rd St.
Manhattan, KS
United States