One of the most popular destinations in the United States, Kansas is ideal for those who want to soak up the world-class scenery and leave the stresses and strains of everyday life behind them. Expansive prairies bristle with Tallgrass, overlooked by green, fertile hills and threaded with open roads that just beg to be explored on your very own Kansas road trip. Follow the Santa Fe trail or explore towns and villages that look like sets from old westerns. City slickers will enjoy the hustle and bustle of Dodge City, while the romantically-minded might prefer the old-school charms of Cedar Point.
Vacations in Kansas just aren’t complete without a visit to Kansas City. Set right in the heart of America, this historic city is ideal for couples looking to enjoy some low-tempo city life together. Frothing fountains give the city a permanent, carnival atmosphere, which is added to by the strains of jazz coming from live music venues and sidewalk saxophonists. The smell of low-and-slow barbeque gets stronger towards the evening, but you can always find somewhere to enjoy pulled pork or a hot dog, no matter what time it is.
The city of Overland Park has some superb attractions for both families and doe-eyed couples. It’s the second-largest city in the state and offers sweethearts the chance to explore the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, or hunt out some of the city’s legendary steaks in a local restaurant (just follow the delicious smells!). For families, the jewel in the crown must be the Cinetopia Overland Park. A multi-screen cinema complex, it’s the perfect place to catch the latest blockbuster. The Museum at Prairiefire is another firm favorite will families.
You’ll find entertainment on tap in Topeka, Kansas’ capital city. Set on the banks of the Kansas River, it’s ideal for Kansas package vacations. Families will find a superb array of attractions to explore together, such as Topeka Zoo, Gage Park and Lake Shawnee. Those looking for some quiet time together can check out landmarks such as the domed Kansas State Capitol building, and the ghosts of the Wild West at the Ward-Meade Historic Site.
Once known as the Blue Stem Hills, the Flint Hills offer outstanding family getaways in the Great Outdoors. If you’re looking for a family vacation against a backdrop of wildflowers and rolling emerald hills, this is the place to go. It acts as home to the largest area of Tallgrass on the planet, and an extensive variety of wildlife. Visit the Maxwell Refuge to see the Bison that once wandered freely across the prairie lands.
All the travel guides seem to agree that the best time for Kansas vacations is during the fall. The fall months offer cooler temperatures and you’ll also avoid the summer thunderstorms that can roll in during July and August. Look for vacation deals between September and November and avoid the crowds while saving some money.
Most vacation packages will include direct flights and a shuttle to your hotel. However, if you want the freedom of being able to make your way around Kansas at your own pace, a rental car is the best way to go. Most car rental outlets accept credit cards and you can soon be on your way, whether you’re travelling 5 miles to a nearby attraction, or 1500 miles to a different city or state. If you have any queries about how to get where you want to, the customer service department of your chosen car-hire company should be able to point you in the right direction. For a small service fee, hire cars can include onboard navigation systems, which make getting around much easier.
Most cities operate their own rail and bus systems and taxis are plentiful. Because much of the state is flat, bicycles are a popular way of seeing the scenery at your own pace.
