Landscapes and lifestyles that hold true to their cowboy and pioneer heritage, big cities and small towns where you’ll find rich local flavors and genuine welcomes. Authentic experiences and chances for discovery await in Kansas.

 

2011 brings a commemoration of 150 years of statehood for Kansas with many events marking the path. Take the Trails to Adventure and discover the leading places that helped shape the state and the nation. Salute the Sunflower State’s history, and embrace the future by joining in sesquicentennial celebrations and special events throughout the year.

 

Along with the commemoration festivities you can learn the Cowboy Way at the various and time honored events around the state such as the Flint Hills Rodeo in Strong City, Beef Empire Days in Garden City, and Dodge City Days.

 

Ten byways traverse 680 miles through welcoming communities and memorable scenery, from some of the world’s most ecologically important wetlands to red-rock buttes that would make the perfect backdrop for an old Western movie. Detour to lively downtowns like Hays’ Historic Chestnut Street District, where you’ll want to stop for  from-scratch meals, and explore unique shops. For mega shopping, there’s Legends at Village West in Kansas City.

 

Four distinct seasons transform Kansas’ landscape, and opportunities come with each one. Camp, fish, boat, hunt, hike, bike, ride horseback in 24 state parks, many with big water and dramatic landscape. And you’ll find all sorts of comfortable lodgings and campgrounds along the way.

 

Tour through this site to find your best Kansas experience and order your 2011-12 Kansas Visitors Guide today.