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.

16. Hi Hat Coffee (Westwood Hills)

This tiny little coffee shop is a great place to nestle in and have a great cup of coffee. Sit on the patio and hang out for a bit. They have a lot on the menu and are known for their wonderful customer service.

17. Mushroom Rock State Park (Brookville)

This is a small but very interesting park. On it’s five acres, you’ll see some of the most unusual rock formations in the state of Kansas if not the country. These rock formations are formed by sediment and sand that was in the area during the Cretaceous Period, from 144 to 66 million years ago. They’re held together by natural cement and were used as meeting places of Native Americans and settler moving out West. Stop and spend an hour or so here soaking up the history.

18. Kansas State Fair (Hutchinson)

What began in 1873 as a small fair in the town of Hutchinson? It’s happened nearly every year since, beginning the Friday after Labor Day and continuing for ten days. It attracts about 330,000 people annually from all across the state and country. With over seventy buildings of food and exhibits plus concerts from well-known musical acts and performers, if you’re close to Hutchinson after Labor Day, you should definitely spend an afternoon at the fair.

19. Nicodemus National Historic Site (Bogue)

Nicodemus is the first and only remaining black settlement in the west. It began in the years following the Civil War when black people were free but not integrated during Reconstruction in the South. Kansas had fought against slavery in the Civil War and the rich farmland and idea of freedom was attractive to those free black people looking to start a home. Nicodemus was born and started to thrive. Visit here and you’ll see a church, government buildings, a school, a home, and some of the businesses. Spend an hour or two here and get to know this remarkable place.

20. Haskell Indian Art Market (Lawrence)

Held every year during the second weekend of September since 1988, the Haskell Indian Art Market attracts hundreds of visitors. This two day festival invites Native American artists from all over the country to display and sell their work. You’ll also get to see live performances and demonstrations and get a bite to eat. Spend a few hours looking at all there is to offer here if you happen to be there at the right time.

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