Kansas is more than just the home of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. The state has an extensive history that includes being a home to prehistoric beasts, a pivotal player in the Civil War, and a place for pioneers heading west to rest, restock, and recuperate. There’s a lot of interesting things to do across the state; here’s a closer look.

6. Guy and Mae’s Tavern (Williamsburg)

The original owners opened this family business in 1973. Guy perfected a technique for barbecuing ribs and Mae came up with the sauce. Truckers would stop in for a bite to eat and word spread over CB radios about how delicious the ribs were. The rest was history. The tavern is now run by their children and grandchild and the ribs are as good as ever. Stop by for dinner and they’ll bring your ribs to your table wrapped in foil and newspaper.

7. Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway (Medicine Lodge)

Right in the middle of the Great Plains lies Gypsum Hills – rolling vistas and hills with two scenic overlooks to stop and take it all in. There’s a rich history of cattle ranching, Native American heroism, and pioneers moving west here. It’s a great place to explore. Along the scenic byway from Medicine Lodge to Coldwater, you’ll find galleries, museums, and a drive in theater plus fishing, hiking, camping, and swimming at the park. Spend the day exploring the Byway.

8. Bartlett Arboretum (Belle Plaine)

This historic, non-profit arboretum is privately owned but opens to the public for special concerts and events. Established in 1910, it’s now used for formal gardens and has even been used by the US Department of Agriculture as a hardiness test site. Today, there’s massive cypress, oak, and Japanese maple trees. It’s truly a sight to see. Check out their events schedule and plan to take in a show.

9. Monument Rocks Natural Area (Oakley)

These 70 foot tall natural Niobrara Chalk formations are some of the most interesting formations you’ve ever seen. They were created roughly 80 million years ago when Kansas was covered in ocean. They’re free and open to the public. Keep your eyes peels for fossils in the formations as you spend a morning exploring here.

10. The Keeper of the Plains (Wichita)

Where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers meet stands the Keeper of the Plains. Erected in 1977 to commemorate the country’s bicentennial and a tribute to the local Native American tribes. The statue is 44 feet tall and sits upon a 30 foot rock base. Stop here for about a half hour. For the best experience, go after dark when the Ring of Fire around the base is lit for 15 minutes.

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