In Kansas, winter is often filled with snow in the west, and slush in the east. Occasionally, however, we have nice days with white fluff covering the ground and making everything picture-perfect. Though many love the cold, we don't have forever to enjoy winter to its fullest. With that in mind, here's a few things you should do this winter! These winter attractions in Kansas will make the chilly season much more magical.

1. Take a walk through the magic of Botanica.

One of Wichita's most beautiful winter attractions, the lights at the Botanica Gardens are among the best in the area. Walking through different themed areas covered with lights of all kinds is something you just can't miss. These community gardens have been bringing joy and produce to the area for decades and they're at their most special during the "Illuminations" light show every winter season.

Here's a link to the full article about Botanica.

2. Visit the free-roaming horses of Kansas.

Sometimes if you visit near a ranch in the Flint Hills, you'll come across a group of horses just hanging out. They're mostly wild, only fed supplements in the winter months when food is less easily found. This is one of the real natural wonders that makes Kansas special. Unlike denser states, Kansas has the space and resources for animals to flourish in their natural habitats and ways.

Here's a link to the full article about these free-roaming horses in Kansas.

3. Explore the Isle of Lights at Winfield.

Winfield has a park that serves as an "island" of green within the city. Every year, the "island" becomes an Isle of Lights that's almost two miles around. At least you can stay in your car with your cocoa! New displays are added every year so there's always something exciting and original to experience while you're driving through this winter wonderland.

Here's a link to the full article about the Isle of Lights at Winfield.

4. Visit or rent the reindeer at Fulton Valley Farms.

Rent them at any time of year for a special addition to an event, or visit them while Santa's at their farm for a great Christmas memory. The reindeer are present at a host of holiday events during the Christmas season, including supper with Santa, Ugly Sweater Night, Christmas Dinner, Pancakes with Santa, and much more.

Read more about the reindeer at Fulton Valley Farms.

5. Pick out and take home your Christmas tree.

If you have a plastic Christmas tree already up, maybe you should get a small live tree to make your home smell just perfect? Alternately, if you love live trees, then here's some of the best farms to find one. Nothing quite matches the experience of finding the perfect tree out in nature, cutting it down, and bringing that authentic Christmas cheer into your home.

Read more about the best Kansas Christmas tree farms in this article.

6. Shop at Christmas Wonderland for all the best decorations.

This Christmas store in Russell is a great place to find unique decorations while supporting small businesses. It's a place for decoration, inspiration, and antiques to complete your holiday decor. You'll find everything from ornaments and tree trimming to lawn sculptures and outdoor lights at this epic Christmas store in Kansas.

7. Enjoy the music at Victorian Christmas in Wichita's Cowtown, or carol through your own neighborhood.

Annually, Wichita's Cowtown Museum hosts a Victorian Christmas that's far from the ones you'll see at home. They have carriage rides, caroling, and authentic Victorian decor. You'll feel like you're traveling back in time to enjoy the holidays. Alternatively, spread some joy in the present day by caroling your favorite holiday songs around the neighborhood.

Read all about this Victorian Christmas in Kansas in this article.

8. Drive through the Arc's Lights.

These drive-through lights are just another one of Kansas's amazing light shows, this time with almost 2 million lights to see. Some of the crowd favorite installations come back every year but you'll also spot new additions to keep things fresh. You may even want to visit this light installation several times during the season.

Here's more on why you should check out this drive-thru light display in Kansas.

9. Visit Wakeeney, our very own Christmas Town.

Wakeeney is our most famous (and one of our best) Christmas towns. It's a Kansas tradition to go to every tree lighting, but the town is just as magical even if you can't make it that first night. The Christmas display is considered one of the largest between Denver and Kansas City. The town itself is just as charming, featuring a vintage soda shop and other small town delights.

Here's more about this amazing Kansas Christmas town!

10. Or choose any of these towns that celebrate with lights too!

There's far more to do than just Wakeeney, so here's a list of 12 more that'll add to your winter bucket list for sure. When it comes to winter in Kansas, these towns can't be beat.

11. Go on a snowy adventure through many of our most scenic areas.

Many a spot in Kansas turns into a breathtaking scene as soon as snow arrives. If you're the outdoorsy type you know that winter hikes in Kansas can also be breathtaking. A special quiet descends on the land after a snowfall and you can find peace from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Where are you waiting for snow to hit?

While you're running around this winter, maybe you'll want to stop and grab a bite at one of these amazing restaurants you'll never need a reservation at.