There are a lot of things local to the U.S., or just to the Midwest, but there's not much we have that's just for Kansans. We do have some pretty cool things here, though, that other states haven't even thought of. If you've ever wondered what is life in Kansas known for, the list of nine things below is a great place to start. Each of these things highlights what's unique about living in Kansas and why the Sunflower State is definitely worthy of a visit.
1. World's Largest Easel
In Goodland, Kansas, this piece of art stands at 80 feet tall and weighs around 45,000 pounds.
2. World's Largest Group of Round Sandstone Concretions
You might have noticed I'm a bit obsessed with rocks, but these things are really cool to see in person. They're made by sandstone that was washed away, revealing these rounded boulders hiding inside. There's around 200 of these, which is the largest group in the world. They're in Minneapolis, Kansas, so consider making a visit.
3. World's Largest Hand-Dug Well
In Greensburg, the largest hand-dug well in the world is 32 feet in diameter and 109 feet deep. Can you even imagine the time that took without all the heavy machinery of today?
4. World's Largest Ball of Twine
In Cawker City, Kansas, this big cat toy is famous for its size. It was started in 1953, and every August, twine is added to its circumference during a Twine-A-Thon. It currently weighs around 20,000 pounds.
5. World's Longest Grain Elevator
Though some people believe the longest grain elevator is in Hutchinson, Kansas, the actual longest one is Wichita's DeBruce Grain elevator. It's 2,657 feet long and holds in excess of 22.4 million bushels. That's a whole lot of bread!
6. The Original Pizza Hut
In 1958, two Wichita State University students opened this little hut for business, and it was later moved to the University's campus in 1984. That's a long time to serve slices!
7. The Geographical Center of the Contiguous United States
Not counting Hawaii and Alaska, all 48 of our touching states have a center right by Lebanon, Kansas. It's a great place to stop by if you're ever in the area, and it'll leave you feeling, well, in the middle of everything.
8. Windiest City in America
The windiest city in America, Dodge City, sits right here in Kansas. With an average wind speed of 14mph, at least they've got good conditions for kites.
9. The Keeper of the Plains
Standing tall in Wichita, the Keeper of the Plains is our shining glory. Though it's not the "largest" anything, it's definitely a fantastic piece of art that both enchants and educates those who tour its grounds. In addition to Riverside Park, the Keeper of the Plains has giant bonfires lit nightly, as well as history of local Native Americans who settled this land long before Europeans showed up.
Have you ever visited any of these unique Kansas attractions? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Also, share with us any anything else about living in Kansas that makes you proud of your Kansan roots!
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