26 Exciting Things to Do in Kansas in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

If you live in Kansas, you know there's no shortage of amazing things to do—despite what people from other states might think. The Sunflower State is chock-full of plenty of natural wonders, good eats, and sightseeing opportunities that locals and visitors alike can enjoy.

Whether a hidden gem or popular tourist stop is your vibe, our beloved state offers something for everyone. So, if you're looking for some amazing things to do, see, and experience, here's a list of 26 things to do in Kansas in 2026. Get ready to check some serious stuff off that travel bucket list.

1. Hike the Konza Prairie Nature Trail - Manhattan  

Konza Prairie in Manhattan, Kansas, perfectly portrays our state's beauty. Hike the Konza Prairie Nature Trail, just under three miles long, and you'll see why. This trail is moderately difficult, but the effort is worth it for the views at the top. You'll pass Kings Creek and then frolic through the rolling prairie hills. Just FYI: No dogs or bikes are allowed on this nature trail.

2. Eat at the Grand Central Hotel - Cottonwood Falls

If there’s anything all of us love, it’s food—and the food you’ll find at Grand Central Hotel and Grill is to die for. Located in Cottonwood Falls, this restaurant and hotel has been around since the 1880s, offering delicious, juicy steaks, chops, comfort food, and more. There’s something for everyone, so bring your appetite. For the most up-to-date hours and menus, visit Grand Central Hotel's website.  

3. Stay at This Charming Cabin - Blakely Township 

Hidden away in Blakely Township, Kansas, is this charming cabin Airbnb. This rustic home sleeps up to five guests—perfect for couples, families, or friend groups—and is nestled on a private, four-acre pond. You can also enjoy swimming, kayaking, and stargazing out front. It's a truly astonishing atmosphere that will make you feel like you've escaped from it all.

4. Celebrate Winter - Kansas 

Winter is the first (and last) season of the year, but don’t let the cold make you think you can’t enjoy it. Several small towns in Kansas go all-out for the holidays (like Garden City), state parks get covered in a layer of snow, and various holiday light displays fill the streets. Visit a reindeer farm, pick your own holiday tree, or sit back and soak it all in—wintertime in Kansas is magical.  

5. Explore Overland Park - Johnson County

Overland Park is a small city in Johnson County with a population of a little more than 200,000 people. It’s a beautiful town with lots of unique restaurants and eateries, one-of-a-kind Airbnb options, bed and breakfasts, and more. You’ll never run out of things to do, from the botanical gardens to the live music, festivals, and other events. You’ll never want to leave.  

6. Stay at the Bluemont Hotel - Manhattan 

Located right near Aggieville Historic District and Kansas State University is The Bluemount, a boutique hotel in Manhattan, Kansas. It's one of my favorite places to stay in the entire state—I always try to book a room when I'm in town. You can't go wrong with an indoor heated pool for swimming year-round and live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the rooftop restaurant.  

7. Take a Day Trip - Kansas 

The Sunflower State is the perfect place for travelers seeking peace and quiet. There are hundreds of relaxing day trips in Kansas, whether it’s cruising Route 66, going on a scenic drive, or swinging by quaint restaurants and shops. You'll fall in love with your state all over again after spending a day exploring.

8. Explore State Parks - Kansas 

Kansas is one of the few states without a single national park. But that doesn't mean we don't have a plethora of state parks to enjoy. From the unique Mushroom Rock State Park in Brookesville to the canyons and cliffs at Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, you'll won't be bored visiting these natural wonders. Make 2026 the year you experience Kansas’s most amazing state parks for yourself.

9. Join an Oktoberfest Festival - Junction City

If you're looking for a more community-oriented experience, there's nothing better than the Junction City Oktoberfest. Taking place Oct. 2 and 3, 2026, this lively festival features all the things you'd expect from the German tradition. Enjoy pints of beer, pretzels, and schnitzel while watching traditional dancers, a parade, and live music. There's even a pop-up mini golf course! Bring the whole family and ring in the fall.

10. Watch a Tango Performance - Wichita

You wouldn't necessarily associate tango dancing with Kansas, but thanks to the Wichita Symphony Orchestra, it's a one-night reality you just can't miss. On Valentine's Day, the orchestra is partnering with professional Latin dancers and singers to bring you Tango Caliente at the Century II Concert Hall. It's a fiery date night you won't soon forget. Purchase tickets here.

11. Conquer the Elk River Hiking Trail - Elk City

If you’re looking for the perfect springtime hike to try in 2026, you’re in luck. Out of all my favorite Kansas hikes, this trail won out. The Elk River Hiking Trail is 14.5 miles long and is rated as a moderately difficult trail. With gorgeous lake views and plentiful wildflowers in the spring, this is one hiking trail in the Sunflower State you have to try out for yourself.

12. Take a Road Trip - Kansas 

Anyone who enjoys cruising down an open road will love road tripping in Kansas. There are so many types of trips you can take, too: a drive to the wildflower blooms, a visit to the state's major ghost towns, and much more. You can drive to the most haunted places in Kansas... if you dare. So, buckle up and get driving!

13. Stay at Radisson Hotel - Lenexa 

Located in Overland Park, the Radisson Hotel Lenexa is a stunningly modern feat of architectural wonder that's equal parts cozy and elegant. The vibe is modern with large, luxurious rooms and plenty of amenities to make your stay the best. When you stay, head to nearby Kansas City to hit up some barbecue spots, too.

14. Attend a Sunflower Festival -  Buhler

You can't create a 2026 Kansas travel list without mentioning sunflowers—the state is nicknamed after them, after all. The best way to see them? Attend the Kansas Maze Sunflower Festival at Gaeddert Farms in Buhler. From mid-August to mid-September, the farm's 16 acres turn into a sea of bright yellow. Buy crafts, get a sunflower bouquet, pose for a photo-op, or attempt the massive maze.

15. Swim at Eisenhower State Park - Osage County

Summer in Kansas is beautiful, but sometimes it gets downright hot out here. Sure, the thermometer might say it’s “only” 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but when those 85 degrees come with humidity, it’s a special kind of absurd. The best respite from this is swimming; luckily, there are numerous notable swimming holes in Kansas, like the one at Eisenhower State Park. Who says you can’t have a beach day in Kansas?

16. Dine at Prairie Nut Hut - Altoona 

The old Prairie Nut Hut was opened in the 1940s, and since day one, it’s offered some truly delectable comfort food. It’s actually famous for its mountain oysters, though that’s far from the only item on the menu. I personally love getting breakfast here, though having a big, juicy burger for lunch isn’t out of the question either. Come discover why the Prairie Nut Hut’s been around for 80-something years.

17. Visit "Little Sweden" - Lindsborg 

To say that the town of Lindsborg is “cute” is a bit of an understatement. Lindsborg is quite adorable and not terribly enormous, with a population of just under 4,000 and plenty of delightful things to do and see. Known as “Little Sweden,” the town celebrates its European roots with traditional architecture, randomly placed Dala horses, unique shops, galleries, and more. It's another magical place to add to your 2026 travel list.

18. The Best City to Visit in Kansas in 2026 - Topeka

People often assume Kansas City or Wichita is the capital of the great state of Kansas, but that’s not true—our capital city is Topeka. This town is full of delightful things to do and plenty of restaurants, shops, galleries, and more. Tour the State Capitol Dome and learn more about our state's history.

19. Stay in This Loft Apartment - Leavenworth 

The town of Leavenworth is just a short drive away from Kansas City, and you know what that means: never-ending fun and some of the best restaurants in the U.S. This gorgeous loft apartment is nothing short of luxurious and elegant, offering views of the city and plenty of rest and relaxation with style. The town of Weston is also quite close, and there, you’ll find wineries, galleries, and more. This home is 170 years old, but don’t let that fool you—it's the very epitome of rustic splendor.

20. Visit the Chalk Pyramids - Lewis Township

People who have never been to Kansas often describe it as flat or boring, but this is further from the truth. We're home to so many natural wonders sure to leave you in awe. The Monument Rocks, also known as Chalk Pyramids, in Lewis Township, for example, will do just that. These 70-foot-tall sedimentary rock formations were formed millions of years ago, and are a must-see in 2026.

21. Explore the Most Haunted Town - Atchison

Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, you have to admit that Atchison, Kansas, feels creepy. As fall arrives, ghost hunters across the Sunflower State come to this small town in search of proof of the paranormal. A few notable haunted places in Atchison, Kansas, include the Riverview Drive Home, Atchison Street itself, Benedictine College, and so much more. Are you brave enough to spend the night?  

22. Visit a Pumpkin Patch - Bonner Springs 

Autumn is an amazing time of year, and it’s especially so in Kansas. If you're looking to get into the fall spirit, our state is home to some of the greatest family farms, offering hayrides, pumpkin picking, delicious desserts, craft vendors, and much more. After grabbing your gourds at places like Kerby Pumpkin Patch in Bonner Springs, witness the autumn colors on a drive through the nearby foliage.  

23. Enjoy the Flint Hills - Eastern Kansas

The Flint Hills is an iconic region of Kansas located in the easternmost part of the state. It’s a unique prairie ecosystem (one of the only remaining of its type in the state) and is known for hiking, camping, and other recreational activities. They're open year-round, so whether you visit in the winter or summer, you're sure to see beautiful views.

24. See Geary Lake Falls - Junction City 

Kansas is home to a few notable waterfalls—Geary Lake Falls is easily one of the most beloved. Standing at 35 feet, it's the tallest waterfall in the state and is home to all sorts of wildlife. The best time of year to visit is spring, when the snow has melted, and the falls are roaring. Or, you could go in winter to see the frozen falls.

25. Conquer Lehigh Portland State Park - Iola 

Looking for more outdoor adventure in 2026? The Backbone and South Loop Trail at Lehigh Portland State Park is a wonderful way to do so. The moderately difficult trail is exactly two miles long, and will likely require waterproof gear as there are river and creek crossings throughout the trail. The views are unbelievable, and the water is crystal-clear, making for the perfect outdoor delight.

26. Join Old Shawnee Days Festival - Shawnee

This festival has been the unofficial kickoff to summer in Shawnee, Kansas, since 1968. The Old Shawnee Days festival is free to the public and will take place from June 4-10, 2026. Get ready to enjoy some good old-fashioned fun: live music, entertainment, carnival rides, vendors, kids' activities, and more. It's one of the best summer festivals in Kansas, and definitely worth adding to your bucket list.

There you have it: 26 excellent ideas to add to your 2026 Kansas bucket list. Which Sunflower State attractions are you hoping to experience this coming year? If you've already started planning, try using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to get dining, lodging, and sightseeing recommendations.