Overview

Well-known to the world as the "Heart of America," Kansas is the land of Great Plains. This name is derived from its geographical location, with the state situated right at the center of the America. Even the smallest town in Kansas is likely to lure its traveler with its historic significance and landscape. Similar to most western states, the native Indians claim their importance in the heritage of Kansas. Even the name of the state is drawn from the Kansas River, which in turn stems from the Kansa tribe of Native American Indians, who were the earliest inhabitants of this state.

Activities & Attractions

The landscape of Kansas has been clearly split up into distinctive regions, which eases the travel in this state. Eastern Kansas is home to larger cities and western Kansas is full of rural splendor; this part of the state has scores of open land, where farming is the rule. Central Kansas is truly a transitional province, with farmland as well as rolling hills and man-made lakes. It houses one of the largest cities in the state, Wichita. If you wish to see the last remaining grasslands of the state, visit the Flint Hills. This range of hills runs through the heart of Eastern Kansa. Lastly, Southeastern Kansas is embedded in the Ozarks with its hills and coal mining beckoning the travelers to explore it.

Foodies would be on cloud nine when they visit Kansas. This state is best known for its BBQ, a regional specialty food in the Kansas City. The highlight of this delicacy is its "pit" style of BBQ, with its own distinctive sauce. KC Masterpiece is a nationally recognized brand of sauce that is widely used in the country, although there are other famous brands that you'll be able to experience if you visit and take on the BBQ challenge.

There are many art walks and galleries that you can visit in Kansas. Some of them are the Shafer Memorial Art Gallery, the Contemporary art and Marianna Kistler Beach Museum.

Lodging

Kansas has its fair share of unique lodging options. Renting cabins out in the heartland to get closer to the natural Great Plains is the best way to feel like a true westerner, when you visit Kansas. Resorts and bed & breakfasts are also available for conventional accommodations. The Ramada Inn Downtown, Hyatt Place, Courtyard by Marriott, and Capitol Plaza are some of the well-known hotels in Topeka.

Transportation

You'll most likely want to drive around the state to seek out the unique areas that await you. Local transport is with Metro buses. You can also hire taxis or rent cars to go around the state.