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.

11. Gage Park (Topeka)

Gage Park is a great place to spend the day with the family. There’s so much to do here – ride the mini-train and carousel, visit the Rose Garden, swim at the aquatic center, play in the Children’s Discovery Center, or get a volleyball, tennis, or horseshoe game together.

12. Lee Richardson Zoo (Garden City)

With over 300 animals of 100 different species, the Lee Richardson Zoo is a great way to spend the afternoon. You’ll see various birds, giraffes, elephants, kangaroos, rhinoceri, and more. They also offer a lot of special events, concerts, and even animal encounters.

13. ARTSConnect (Topeka)

In an effort to keep Topeka connected to the arts, ARTConnect makes great efforts to engage and reach out to the community. One of the coolest events is First Friday Art Walks. Local artists and businesses come out and show their creations while everyone is invited to walk around downtown to learn a little more about art in their community. Spend a First Friday getting to know downtown Topeka and all the beauty it has to offer.

14. Old Abilene Town (Abilene)

Old Abilene Town celebrates the time of the Chisholm Trail, in the 1860s after the Civil War. Walk up and down Main Street, stop by the Alamo Saloon and the Merchant’s Hotel. On weekends in the warmer months, you can see the Wild Bill Gunfighters, Can Can dancers, and enjoy kettlecorn, sarsaparillas, and adult beverages. Stop by on a weekend for the most fun and hang around for an hour or so.

15. Downtown Lawrence (Lawrence)

The buildings are from the 1800s, but downtown Lawrence is a cool place to spend an evening. With regular events like Dinner & a Movie, the Busker Festival, Art Tougeau, Final Fridays, and the annual Sidewalk Sale that’s been going on for more than fifty years, there’s always something going on in downtown Lawrence. Spend an evening here and see all the cool things this old town has to offer.

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