Is Kansas Boring?

If we had a dollar for every time we heard that one! Some folks are just under the impression that Kansas is flat and boring. Nothing to do. Nothing to see.

The truth? Western Kansas is loaded with charming, small towns where you’ll find agri-tourism, breweries, boutiques, coffee roasters, country ranches, local eateries, lavender farms, museums, outdoor adventures, pumpkin patches, sunflower fields, wineries, and vibrant creative arts scenes.

Not enough to do? More like, not enough lifetimes to do it all!

Still don’t believe us? No worries. This is part one of a two-part blog series that’s completely dedicated to debunking the myth that Kansas is boring.

Because it’s a beautiful place filled with wide open spaces, family-friendly communities, a loyal workforce, growing industries, good paying jobs, affordable properties, and a slower pace of life that makes more room for what really matters.

What are some fun things to do outside in Kansas?

Imagine yourself standing in the real wild west, where a glossy sun ignites beautiful rock outcroppings and chunky, towering pillars soaring above the abundant grasses of the Kansas prairie. Monument Rocks National Landmark in Gove County is part of the Niobrara chalk formation, an area that’s become known for some of the best fossil hunting in the world and endless, stunning views.

Western Kansas is also home to an abundance of other green spaces like the 1,150 acre Prairie Dog State Park in Norton which includes the Keith Sebelius Reservoir / Norton Wildlife Area and its abundance of bass, walleye, wiper, catfish, and crappie.

And if you’re in the mood for some spectacular canyon country, check out the Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park between Scott City and Oakley, with its 100-foot tall rock faces that stretch for over a mile. Rimrock trails get you up close and personal with the towering pillars and impressive cliffs that form the largest Niobrara chalk formations in the state.

Into sandy shorelines? Hit the waters of Cedar Bluff State Park.

Ready for some rolling prairie? You’ll love the picturesque Chalk Hills teeming with wildlife in Webster State Park.

Even better? No insane congestion, massive crowds, time stamp permits, or endless rows of parked cars that stretch for miles beyond the trailheads. The beautiful parks in Western Kansas are wide open, peaceful, and pristine.

What are the best places to eat in Kansas?

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite in the great outdoors, how about a culinary adventure? 

Western Kansas can feel like a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re in the mood for some down-home cookin’, a six course meal, or a craft beer, the toughest decision you’ll make is when to stop eating. 

Check out Northwest Kansas Travel’s Tasty Destinations list for everything from a savory breakfast to an evening brew.

Stay tuned for Part Two…

Ok, friends, that’s it for now. We hope we’ve piqued your curiosity about everything that Kansas has to offer. Stay tuned for Part Two: Is There Anything Fun to do in Kansas? (Hint: Yes!)

In the meantime, you can also check out the Kansas Guidebooks, your ultimate intro to all things there are to see and do in Kansas (like 4,500 attractions, 843 eateries, and 515 cities).

Ready to Make Your Move?

If you’re tired of high crime rates, exorbitant housing costs, endless traffic jams, and never being able to see the stars at night, Western Kansas might be exactly what you’re looking for.

We offer something that is, well, hard to find these days. Our communities and neighborhoods are a reminder of what life is supposed to be like, a reminder that the best things in life are meant to be savored slowly.

Check out our job postings or get in touch with the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance today to learn more.