If Kansas, or what is known as the Sunflower State is on the must-visit list, it’s always good to know where to go to have the best experiences. Fall is one of the best times to visit the state because the foliage and backdrops are stunning for selfies, group shots, and more. While this picturesque state is often overlooked, it doesn’t have to be any longer.
The fall in Kansas is an exciting time, with temperatures in the 70s and 60s during September and October. Clear skies and plenty of sunshine are some of the reasons why fall is the best time to visit. With over 28 official state parks, there is plenty to see and do.
There are 8 of the best places to visit that are memorable enough to last a lifetime.
Overland Park Arboretum
With so many trees and foliage in Kansas, it’s no surprise that there is an additional arboretum to visit. A beautiful area full of trees that turn all the different fall colors, this is a paradise that can’t be missed.
Central Riverside Park
Downtown Wichita is a beautiful place to hang out or take a stroll. This park doesn’t disappoint, with lots of foliage and picture-taking moments that may include a duck or two. The park is over 50 acres, large enough to accommodate a miniature zoo, splash pad, picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths.
Eisenhower State Park
This hidden gem is in Osage City, offering plenty of opportunities to bond with nature. It is easy to become immersed in the trees, water, and other sights throughout the park during the fall as the leaves change colors. The park was originally known as Melvern State Park but was renamed in 1990. With over 1,000 acres of prairie and 400 acres of woodland, there is plenty to do and see.
Garnett
An often-overlooked small Amish town in Kansas, Garnett offers way more than meets the eye. If learning about Amish life is on the bucket list, this is a great place to get started. The small-town charm adds to the intrigue as the fall brings in beauty from the surrounding trees and foliage. While in town, take some time and eat at the Dutch Country Café for some authentic, made-from-scratch delights.
Gypsum Hills – Medicine Lodge
Also known as Medicine Hills, the Gyp Hills, or Red Hills, there are tons of canyons, red rock formations, rolling hills, and more to explore. Located near Medicine Lodge in Barber County, it was nicknamed Medicine Hills by the Native Americans that used to inhabit the land. Beautiful to look at, this area has a stream that runs through it. Hiking is very popular, with over 100 caves to tour. An open range, it’s common to see deer, and other animals all native to Kansas.
Glick Mansion
Kansas has more than parks to stay entertained. The Glick-Orr Mansion in Atchison is part of a historical area surrounded by beauty. Eclectic architectural design, this mansion was built in 1913, designed by Louis Curtiss, a well-known architect. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic home of Governor Glick, it was a B & B for over 22 years. Now, it is rented out to college students but will always carry the name Glick Mansion.
Bartlett Arboretum
The Bartlett Arboretum has plenty of fall events to make sure visitors and residents can see all the beautiful trees onsite. Located in Belle Plaine, there are 20 acres to explore the trees and flowers on one of the many walking paths designed to allow everyone to take full advantage of the beauty. There are many picture-taking opportunities, especially on the bridge overlooking the lake.
Cross Timbers State Park
This park is in Toronto and gives true meaning to yelling “Timber” in the middle of the woods. An expansive area full of trees, the fall invites bursts of color in hues of red, orange, and yellow. The park also has campsites down by the lake, park trails for hiking and mountain bikes, and camping in certain areas by special permit. Fish are plentiful in the lake, perfect for fishing and boating. The Toronto Wildlife Area is right next to it, where songbirds can be spotted, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, raccoons, doves, squirrels, quails, and rabbits.