Kansas, known as the Sunflower State, is filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions. With its rolling hills, expansive prairies, and charming small towns, Kansas offers an array of hidden gems waiting to be explored. The Kansas Sampler Foundation, dedicated to preserving and promoting the state’s rural culture, has compiled a list of 8 Wonders of Kansas to showcase the best of what this incredible state has to offer. Pack your bags and let’s set out to explore these awe-inspiring wonders!
Monument Rocks
Situated in Gove County, Monument Rocks, also known as the Chalk Pyramids, are a series of large chalk formations standing up to 70 feet tall. These geological wonders date back approximately 80 million years and offer a glimpse into Kansas’s prehistoric past. Designated as the first National Natural Landmark in Kansas, Monument Rocks are a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Covering over 10,000 acres, the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the last remaining expanse of tallgrass prairie in North America. This extraordinary ecosystem once covered 170 million acres across the continent. Home to diverse flora and fauna, the preserve provides a serene setting for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Don’t miss the chance to witness the spectacular sight of wildflowers and tall grasses swaying in the Kansas breeze.
Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Located in Hutchinson, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center is an internationally acclaimed space museum and educational center. Housing the largest collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts outside of the Smithsonian, the Cosmosphere offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of space exploration. Highlights include an Apollo 13 command module, a moon rock, and a variety of spacecraft from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo missions.
Strataca Salt Museum
Delve 650 feet below the Earth’s surface at the Strataca Salt Museum in Hutchinson. This one-of-a-kind museum offers guided tours through the active salt mine, where you’ll learn about the geological history and the mining process. The museum also features exhibits on the history of salt mining, a salt-themed gift shop, and the opportunity to participate in a mining-themed escape room.
Big Brutus
Standing tall in West Mineral, Big Brutus is the world’s largest electric coal shovel. Now a museum, this massive machine is a testament to the ingenuity of American engineering and the importance of coal mining in Kansas’s history. Visitors can climb aboard and explore the inner workings of Big Brutus, while learning about the coal mining industry and its impact on the region.
The Keeper of the Plains
The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot-tall steel sculpture located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers in Wichita. Created by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin, this iconic statue represents the spiritual connection between the land and its people. The surrounding plaza features exhibits on the area’s indigenous history, and every evening, a captivating “Ring of Fire” ceremony illuminates the statue.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine
In the small town of Cawker City lies one of Kansas’s most unusual attractions: the World’s Largest Ball of Sisal Twine. Started by local resident Frank Stoeber in 1953, the ball now measures over 40 feet in circumference and weighs more than 20,000 pounds. Visitors are not only welcome to marvel at this quirky creation but are also encouraged to contribute their own twine to the ever-growing ball.
Dodge City’s Boot Hill Museum
Step back in time at the Boot Hill Museum, located in the historic town of Dodge City. Named after the cemetery where many gunfighters and outlaws were laid to rest, the museum is a tribute to the Old West. The complex includes over 20,000 artifacts, a re-creation of historic Front Street, a saloon, a variety of shops, and live entertainment. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Wild West era through interactive exhibits and live reenactments.
Discover Kansas’s Rich Cultural Heritage
Kansas boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and historic sites that celebrate the state’s artistic and historical contributions. Visit the Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence to admire a vast collection of global art, or explore the Kansas Museum of History in Topeka, which showcases the state’s past from prehistoric times to the modern era. In Abilene, you can tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the 34th U.S. President, Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Kansas
The Sunflower State offers a wealth of outdoor recreational activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With 28 state parks scattered across the state, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching. Explore the Flint Hills, one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie regions in the world, or kayak along the Kansas River National Water Trail, which stretches for 173 miles. Kansas’s diverse landscapes provide a scenic backdrop for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Savor Kansas’s Culinary Delights
Kansas is home to a thriving culinary scene, with farm-to-table eateries, local breweries, and traditional Kansas-style barbecue joints. Sample regional dishes such as bierocks, fried chicken, and chicken-fried steak, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of homemade pie from one of the state’s many charming bakeries. Don’t forget to try Kansas’s famous craft beers at one of the local microbreweries, and experience the state’s agricultural heritage through its delicious wines, produced from locally grown grapes.
Conclusion
The 8 Wonders of Kansas offer a diverse and captivating glimpse into the state’s natural beauty, history, and unique attractions. From the breathtaking Monument Rocks to the fascinating Strataca Salt Museum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embark on a journey to explore these wonders and create unforgettable memories in the beautiful Sunflower State.