Discover Kansas: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road

Kansas, known for its iconic role in The Wizard of Oz, offers a rich tapestry of experiences beyond the silver screen. This agricultural heartland is dotted with wheat and corn fields, and the tallgrass prairies stand as a testament to the state's natural beauty.

The state's Native American heritage is celebrated at Wichita's Keeper of the Plains and the Mid-America All-Indian Center. History buffs can step back into the Wild West at Boot Hill and Fort Larned, while thrill-seekers might find their adrenaline fix at the Kansas Speedway or the Evel Knievel Museum.

For more on Kansas' top attractions, visit here.

1. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens

Botanica in Wichita is a horticultural haven with nearly 30 themed gardens, including the Downing Children's Garden and the Shakespeare Garden. The 17-acre site is a floral feast with over 4,000 plant species.

Official site: http://www.botanica.org/

2. Kansas State Capitol, Topeka

The Kansas State Capitol in Topeka is an architectural gem with a free Dome Tour offering panoramic city views.

Official site: http://www.kshs.org/capitol

3. Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita

Wichita's Sedgwick County Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals. Visitors can enjoy tram tours, boat tours, and interactive experiences like giraffe feeding.

Official site: https://scz.org/

4. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home, Abilene

Abilene's Eisenhower complex offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, with interactive exhibits and a gift shop.

Official site: http://www.eisenhower.archives.gov/

5. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in the Kansas Flint Hills is a rare ecosystem where visitors can explore the vast prairies.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/tapr/index.htm

6. Cosmosphere

Hutchinson's Cosmosphere offers space education with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a theater showcasing 4K documentaries.

Official site: https://cosmo.org

7. Boot Hill, Dodge City

Boot Hill in Dodge City preserves the essence of the 1800s Wild West with historical buildings and re-enactments.

Official site: http://www.boothill.org

8. Evel Knievel Museum, Topeka

The Evel Knievel Museum in Topeka celebrates the legendary stuntman with memorabilia and interactive experiences.

Official site: http://evelknievelmuseum.com

9. Spencer Museum of Art, Lawrence

The Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence features a diverse collection of over 45,000 artworks and hosts regular exhibitions.

Official site: http://www.spencerart.ku.edu/

10. Flint Hills Discovery Center, Manhattan

The Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan offers interactive exhibits on the region's nature, wildlife, and culture.

Official site: https://www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/

11. Monument Rocks

Monument Rocks, also known as the Chalk Pyramids, are massive natural formations near Oakley, offering a glimpse into Kansas' prehistoric past.

12. Fort Larned National Historic Site

Fort Larned National Historic Site in Larned educates visitors on the Indian Wars and the Santa Fe Trail.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/fols/index.htm

13. Keeper of the Plains and Mid-America All-Indian Center, Wichita

The Keeper of the Plains statue and Mid-America All-Indian Center in Wichita honor the region's Native American history.

14. Kansas Speedway

The Kansas Speedway in Kansas City is a hub for motorsports events and offers immersive fan experiences.

Official site:http://www.kansasspeedway.com

15. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens showcase diverse plant species and scenic trails.

Official site: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/arboretum-botanical-gardens/

16. OZ Museum

The OZ Museum in Wamego is a treasure trove of The Wizard of Oz memorabilia and history.

Official site: https://ozmuseum.com