14 Of The Greatest Destinations Most Kansans Overlook

When it comes to Kansas attractions, you never know when you'll be pleasantly surprised.

There's nothing like discovering a new Kansas attraction, whether it's a fantastic museum or a natural wonder hiding in plain sight. Some of these have been sitting in your bucket list for a while, while the rest might be missing altogether. No matter the circumstance, we think these places are 14 of the greatest destinations in Kansas, and worth every visitor's love. Come check out these additions to our ever-growing bucket lists!

1. C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

This museum in Leavenworth is home to one of the oldest still-moving carousels in the world, as well as plenty other pieces of various carousels in their museum. They also have a large carousel that still operates for visitors, so don't be a stranger!

2. Johnny Kaw

Johnny Kaw stands tall in Manhattan, a man meant to rival Paul Bunyan and bring some lore to local history.

3. Comanche - The horse that survived Little Bighorn

This is the stuffed and preserved horse that survived a battle at Little Bighorn. He (and many other things) are stored at The Dyche Natural History Museum in Lawrence.

4. Famous Gunfighters Wax Museum

These odd-looking figures are all housed in Dodge City, in a building shared with another museum. Their stories are grim, but for some reason, their faces are a little creepier in wax form.

5. Kansas Motorcycle Museum

Over 100 vintage and rare motorcycles are kept at this museum in Marquette, so if you're a lover of anything two-wheeled, check out this small museum.

6. The Insect Zoo

If you're not afraid of insects or arachnids while they're in cages, you should definitely visit this unique zoo in Manhattan. It's a great example of Kansas' dedication to nature education.

7. Little House on the Prairie

This legendary home between Independence and Caney isn't the original house, but a well done replica. However, seeing inside this piece of history is something any Kansan shouldn't miss.

8. Elk Falls bridge and waterfall

Elk Falls is an odd town, but the iron bridge and waterfall nearby are my favorite reasons for vising. Don't feel weird if you see a few outhouses, either.

9. Faris Caves

These man=made caves were carved from this stone in Ellsworth, and continue to be a great little hike throughout the year. Each cave is about 12x12x10 feet, and often cool during the summer, and sheltering during the winter.

10. Santa Fe Trail ruts

Thousands of wagons ran this trail, and there's a place just west of Dodge City that'll let you see the marks they left behind. It's a great place to fly a drone and see it from above, as long as you've got permission.

11. Sandsage Bison Range

This bison range is a wonderful place to get up close to creatures we usually only see in zoos or photographs. During any of the warmer months, take a tour of this facility and see these majestic creatures like never before.

12. Great Plains Nature Center

This nature center in Wichita is a great for a day's walk through the trees, or even just time spend gazing over the pond at the wildlife. It's an oasis in Wichita, that's for sure.

13. Dornwood Park

This park in Topeka isn't your average location for a hike, it's actually full of adventure. There's a crumbling ruin of a dairy farm, where walls stand for now, but may eventually topple over.

14. Mission Creek/Echo Cliff

Southwest of Dover, near Shawnee Kansas (Wabaunsee county) a cliff side rises above the waters of the creek, and presents the perfect climbing opportunity. Just be careful!

We think there's nothing better to pair with this list than a list of restaurants to try out as you travel. Happy trails!