Discovering the Best Kansas Road Trips: Themes, Routes, and Hidden Gems
Kansas may be known as the “Sunflower State” and the geographic center of the United States, but it has much more to offer than just its location and flora. Kansas has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes that make it an ideal destination for a road trip. With so many options to choose from, planning the perfect road trip can seem overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the themes, routes, and hidden gems that will help you discover the best Kansas road trips.
Themes
Before you start planning your road trip, it’s important to determine the theme that you want to follow. Do you want to focus on the history of Kansas, its natural beauty, or its unique culture? Here are some themes to consider:
1. History: Kansas has a rich history, from its Native American heritage to the American Civil War. Follow the trail of famous figures like Amelia Earhart or learn about the Underground Railroad.
2. Nature: Kansas is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a scenic drive through the Flint Hills or explore the wetlands of Cheyenne Bottoms.
3. Arts and Culture: Kansas is known for its unique arts and culture scene. Visit museums or take in a local festival to experience the lively atmosphere.
Routes
Once you’ve decided on a theme, it’s time to plan the route. Here are some of the best routes for a Kansas road trip:
1. Route 66: This historic highway runs through the southeast corner of Kansas and is a popular route for road trippers. Visit quirky roadside attractions like the Big Brutus and the Rainbow Bridge.
2. Flint Hills Scenic Byway: This byway runs through the beautiful Flint Hills and offers incredible views of the prairie. Stop at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve or hike one of the many trails in the area.
3. Western Vistas Historic Byway: This route takes you through the Wild West. Visit historic landmarks like Fort Larned or the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City.
Hidden Gems
No Kansas road trip is complete without discovering some hidden gems along the way. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:
1. Monument Rocks: These stunning rock formations in western Kansas are a must-see. They’re also known as the Chalk Pyramids and date back to the age of the dinosaurs.
2. Mushroom Rock State Park: This unique park in central Kansas is home to mushroom-shaped rocks that are millions of years old.
3. Lucas, Kansas: This quirky town is known as the “Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas” and is home to a variety of outsider art installations.
Conclusion
Kansas has much to offer for a road trip, from its rich history to its natural beauty and unique culture. By following one of these themes and routes and adding some hidden gems to your itinerary, you’ll experience the best of what Kansas has to offer. Don’t forget to take in the views and enjoy the drive. Happy road tripping!
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