Can you believe that 2016 is coming to an end and that the kids will be on Thanksgiving and winter vacations before you know it? Does the thought of being cooped up with the energetic kiddos make you want to pull your hair out? Don't stress; just take them to one of these legitimately fun places that you can visit without spending a dime.
Francisco Vásquez de Coronado may not have been able to conquer the seven cities of gold, but that doesn't mean that you can't conquer the historic Coronado Heights (and its surrounding hike).
Did you know that several Kansas communities host monthly, quarterly, and annual art walks? Admire local talent, enjoy free hors d'oeuvres, and sip wine at one of these FREE local events.
Take a first hand look at how state government works and learn about the history of the Sunflower State by taking a guided tour of the beautiful Capitol building.
"Love is a burning thing and it makes a fiery ring" at the Keeper of the Plains. See the magnificent Ring of Fire light up the night sky every evening at 7 p.m.
Here is something the kids are sure to love: a large and impressive zoo complete with various birds, reptiles, lions, leopards, kangaroos, and more! (Did we mention admission is FREE to pedestrians?)
6. M.T. Liggett's Political Sculptures (Mullinville)
Located just west of Mullinville along Highway 400 is that of M.T. Liggett's Political Sculptures; the always entertaining, never politically correct colorful works of art by American folk sculptor M.T. Liggett. (Warning: Some of the signs may not be appropriate for children, so use caution when visiting.)
7. Brown vs Board of Education Historic Site (Topeka)
Located in Goodland, the High Plains Museum features a variety of artifacts from the past, as well as permanent and special exhibits depicting the history of the Plains.
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9. The Geographic Center of the Contiguous United States (Lebanon)
There isn't a whole lot to this national landmark (basically just this limestone marker), but it is something that everyone should visit just for the heck of it! (P.S. The area is extremely peaceful and quiet, which is a big plus in our book.)
10. Fort Scott National Historic Site (Fort Scott)
This one is for all you history buffs out there: the Fort Scott National Historic Site features 20 structures and 5 acres of restored tallgrass prairie that at one time served as a military base during the Civil War.
Contrary to popular belief, Kansas is home to several stellar places to hike, including the Konza Prairie, Wilson Lake, and Kanopolis State Park (pictured).
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
It's so hard to believe it, but fall in Kansas is here once again. There's nothing quite like autumn in the Sunflower State, and those on the hunt for fun Kansas fall activities won't have any trouble finding a multitude of adventures. There's so much to do here that the entire family can enjoy, whether you love leaf-peeping road trips or checking out the best pumpkin patches in Kansas. If you're the type to start Googling "fall activities near me" the second we start getting those first few crisp mornings, you're certainly in luck here in Kansas. We've gathered up some of our favorite things to do in Kansas in the fall, and if you're ready to discover some fun autumn activities, scroll on down!
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Kansas Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Kansas For Fall Foliage
For many, checking out Kansas fall foliage is one of the best things to do in the fall in Kansas. The yellows, oranges, and reds that dot the landscape are such a beautiful hue and make the season incredibly magical. When do leaves change color in Kansas? The weather here can be unpredictable at times, but in general, you can expect to see Kansas at peak color from mid-October through early November. Keep in mind that the northern portions of the state tend to see their brightest colors a week or two before the southern climes.
Wow Factor: This state park has over 400 acres of woodland, so there's plenty of trees to admire.
Need to Know: You'll need to purchase a $5 vehicle permit for a daily visit.
Eisenhower State Park near Topeka is a beautiful place with tons of family-friendly activities, and it's even more stunning in the fall. There's quite a lot of forested areas here, which, of course, means lots of changing leaves in the autumn. This park is also home to numerous wildlife species, and the crisp fall days are a perfect time to see critters like deer and birds out and about.
Wow Factor: This historic botanical garden is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Kansas. It's perfect for sitting and reflecting, or taking a stroll through nature.
Need to Know: Note that the park closes for the season on November 10, 2024. Admission is $10 per person and the park is open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Bartlett Arboretum might seem like an odd choice for a fall activity in Kansas. Many of us only think to head out to botanical gardens during the warm months, when the flowers are in bloom and there's color everywhere. However, Bartlett Arboretum has all kinds of gems, no matter the season, and many of the trees here transform in the fall, showing off jeweled hues that are just as gorgeous as spring's blossoms.
Wow Factor: There's so much to see in this area, and plenty of spots to stop in for a meal or a bit of entertainment.
Need to Know: Keep an eye out for the Riverwalk Troll during your stroll!
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The Wichita Riverwalk is one of the most beautiful areas in the city, and clear proof that you don't have to head way out into the boonies to see great fall foliage in Kansas. There's so much to enjoy here, from the magnificent Keeper of the Plains statue to the Exploration Place science museum, and kids and adults alike will enjoy all the sights here. The paved surface is perfect for strollers and wheelchairs, and you'll find plenty of benches for resting the little ones' legs.
Best Pumpkin Patches In Kansas
Many families love the annual tradition of exploring a pumpkin patch in Kansas. These charming little farms offer up a peek into just how vital agriculture is here in the Sunflower State. There are often tons of other fun activities going on at Kansas pumpkin farms, giving you added bonuses like corn mazes and seasonal food. If you're looking for the best pumpkin patches in Kansas, check out a few of our favorites:
Wow Factor: This great farm offers up year-round fun, and fall is one of the best seasons to visit.
Need to Know: The farm's fall festivities start on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
This is one of the best pumpkin patches near Kansas City, and there's plenty for every member of the family to enjoy. With 40 acres set up and more than 60 attractions, there's a ton to see! A paid admission ticket is required for entry, but kids under two years are free. Adults can enjoy delicious food and wine slushies, and the little ones will love the fun games and fair rides.
Wow Factor: New activities pop up each year, and this year features additional carnival games and a singing tractor.
Need to Know: This year's season runs from September 21-November 1, 2024.
The Walters Farm offers up some of the best fall activities near Wichita, chief of which is the 30-acre u-pick pumpkin patch. There are tons of games for kids here, and the whole family will love riding the haywagon out to the pumpkin patch. General admission tickets include access to dozens of fun attractions, and tokens are available for purchase if you'd like to enjoy additional activities like gem mining or animal feed for the petting zoo.
Wow Factor: This family-owned farm offers up a variety of unique-looking pumpkins that you won’t find elsewhere.
Need to Know: This year’s dates are September 30-October 30, 2024.
You don’t have to head to our rural areas for fall fun in the Sunflower State. You’ll find Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch right in Lawrence, KS. This 28-acre patch has free admission and offers u-pick pumpkins, with many sizes and varieties available.
Wow Factor: In addition to the u-pick pumpkins, there’s also a corn maze here, too.
Need to Know: The season may vary some based on weather, but typically, you can pick pumpkins here from early September through the end of October.
Cottage Lane Pumpkin Patch offers up plenty of fall fun in a rural setting near Hays, KS. Activities may vary depending on the day, but you can often find a hayride, farm animals, and more. The farm store has homemade candles and other goods for sale, so don’t miss out.
Best Fall Festivals In Kansas
Festivals can be enjoyed at any time of year in the Sunflower State, but fall is peak time for many cities to host fun events. These fall festivals in Kansas definitely belong on your to-do list:
Wow Factor: This is one of the biggest annual events in Overland Park, and it’s great fun for the whole family.
Need to Know: This year’s festival runs from September 27-28, 2024.
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The Overland Park Fall Festival is a wonderful way to welcome in the season. This event takes place in downtown Overland Park and features over 75 craft vendors, live entertainment, music, great food, and plenty of activities for the kids. This may be one of the state’s largest cities, but it’s festivals like this that make the area feel like a tightly-knit small community.
Wow Factor: The event that would eventually become the Kansas State Fair was first held in 1873!
Need to Know: This year’s state fair runs from September 6-15, 2024.
I just love a good fair - there’s nothing like it to usher out summer and welcome in the fall. When it comes to fairs in Kansas, it doesn’t get any bigger or better than the magical Kansas State Fair. This massive event features livestock shows, carnival rides, fair food, contests, live entertainment, and so much more. There's something for the entire family to enjoy here, and it's a wonderful outing.
Wow Factor: The festival takes place during homecoming weekend at Fort Hays State University, meaning that this is quite the fun party atmosphere. It’s one of the largest Oktoberfests in Kansas.
Need to Know: This year’s Oktoberfest in Hays, KS runs from October 4-5, 2024.
The annual Hays Oktoberfest takes place in Municipal Park, in the south end of downtown. With live music, eating contests, plenty of beer, and, of course, lots of tasty German eats, there’s something for everyone at this fun event.
Wow Factor: This is one of our favorite small-town festivals in Kansas.
Need to Know: This year’s event will be held October 26, 2024.
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Looking for a fall activity that’s full of that charming sense of community that's tough to find outside of a small town? Check out the little city of Fall River, population 500. The Little River Fall Festival is held each year on the last Saturday in October. The entire city gets together for family-friendly fun, with a car show, craft fair, beer garden, kids’ games, live music, and so much more. It may lack the size of some of the state’s more metropolitan affairs, but it’s so much fun and a great way to experience small-town Kansas.
Wow Factor: This is one of the best renaissance fairs in America, and there’s something for everyone here.
Need to Know: This year’s event is scheduled weekends from August 31-October 14, 2024.
If you want to take a trip back in time to medieval Europe (but without the plague and lack of indoor plumbing), a visit to the Kansas City Renaissance Festival might be right up your alley. This event’s been going strong for almost 50 years and attracts nearly 200,000 guests each year. Performers, food, and artisans selling their wares are all on hand to make this one of the most special events of late summer and fall in the Sunflower State.
Free & Cheap Kansas Fall Activities
Times are tough right now, but it's important to remember that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to make family memories. There are plenty of fun things to do in Kansas in the fall that won't cost a fortune. If you're looking for affordable Kansas fall activities that won't break the bank, here are a few ideas to get you started:
Wow Factor: This is a stunning state and there are great trails no matter where you’re located. You’ll find everything from long hikes that take all day to quick afternoon jaunts that are perfect for heading out with the kids.
Need to Know: AllTrails is a wonderful resource for those looking to explore the state on foot. You can even sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+, which will give you downloadable trail maps and turn-by-turn directions.
Whether you’re visiting our sprawling state parks or going for a stroll at a city green space, there’s no shortage of places to explore here. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise while admiring the natural beauty that surrounds us here in Kansas.
Wow Factor: Many only think to spend time on or by the water in the summertime, so the crowds are much lighter during the off months. It makes for such a pleasant experience if you're interested in getting in touch with nature.
Need to Know: Note that lifeguards typically aren't on duty after Labor Day, so if you decide to take a cold-weather dip, be careful!
We may not be by the ocean's coast, but there are so many great lakes in Kansas to enjoy. Whether you love to simply stroll along the shoreline or want to be out in a boat, there's no reason to not put on a sweater and head out to the water this fall. If anything, the lakes here are even more beautiful when surrounded by foliage.
Wow Factor: Did you know Kansas annually harvests around 35,000 acres of sunflowers each year?
Need to Know: Not all sunflower fields are open to the public, so make sure to verify before heading out to take photos at a farm.
Sunflowers typically start blooming in August and some varieties hit their peak closer to October. That makes them the perfect early fall activity in Kansas. Our Sunflower State nickname is quite apt, as we are the sixth-largest sunflower producer in the nation. There are plenty of great sunflower fields all over Kansas, with many offering up fun activities like u-pick flowers or even mini fall festivals.
Have you gotten started on your Kansas fall bucket list? Share your family traditions in the comments!
