Scenic Byways In Kansas

a scenic road in the state of kansas

The Sunflower State

Known as “The Sunflower State,” Kansas is located in the central United States, and is one of the more well-known states thanks to its central role in “The Wizard of Oz.”

Of course, there’s more to this state than its fictional, black and white representation in the iconic film, and after one visit you’ll find yourself agreeing with Dorothy that there’s no place like Kansas.

Kansas is known for rolling fields of wheat and corn, as well as soybeans. While Kansas is known for its flat topography, it is home to the Great Plains, it is also home to Mount Sunflower, which is 4,039 ft (1,231 m) tall.

Kansas is home to several scenic byways that can help you take in everything this incredible state has to offer, from the sheer beauty of the rolling plains to the agricultural beauty of wheat farms.

Exploring Kansas By Road

However, don’t be fooled, there’s more to Kansas than just agriculture and wide-open spaces. Both Topeka and Wichita offer a taste of the metropolitan and offer museums and historical sites to help you gain an appreciation for this incredible state. All are worth hopping in the car for a road trip.

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Kansas was home to a diverse range of Native American tribes before Americans began to colonize the area. The influx of settlers sped up in 1850, with the political debate over if Kansas would enter the Union as a free or slave state. After several violent conflicts and an overall atmosphere of chaos, Kansas entered the Union as a free state, though not without earning the nickname “Bleeding Kansas” in memory of the debate.

Thankfully, Kansas has outgrown this tumultuous history, but there are plenty of historic and cultural locations that you can visit to help gain a better appreciation of this state’s past. There are several walking trails and national parks that pay homage to this state, as well as several areas of natural interest for those looking to learn more about the ancient history of this area, and the development of the Great Plains.

No matter your interests, there are plenty of scenic byways to help you explore the heart of The Sunflower State. So strap on your ruby slippers and take a look at some of the scenic routes that will have you feeling right at home in this incredible state.