A Kansas Road Trip Through the Scenic Flint Hills

Ready for a road trip that combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure? The Flint Hills of Kansas offers a unique and picturesque escape perfect for travel enthusiasts and road trippers. Buckle up as we take you through rolling hills, quaint towns, and historical landmarks that make this region a must-visit.

Why Choose a Flint Hills Road Trip?

Exploring the Flint Hills is like stepping back in time while enjoying the present. With its vast expanses of tallgrass prairie, this region has remained essentially unchanged for thousands of years. It’s a rare ecosystem that offers both serenity and a rich historical backdrop.

I started my road trip in Wichita, a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene and plenty of museums. Leaving Wichita, I headed towards Kansas City via K-177, the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. This route is filled with mesmerizing landscapes, including amber waves of grain, charming barns, and the occasional limestone bluff, perfect for cattle grazing.

The Magic of the Flint Hills

The Flint Hills aren’t just about scenic drives; they’re a living testament to Kansas’s natural beauty and history. This area features tall grasses that can reach up to 6 feet in some places and is home to various wildlife, including bison, coyotes, and foxes.

Herbs grow sporadically throughout the prairie, creating a unique olfactory experience. Be prepared to be intoxicated by the sweet and sensual scents of Blue Sage and Fetid Marigold. For the best hiking spot, go to the Scenic Overlook Trail, home to the bison herd.

Big Blue Stem, the high grass that grows here, can withstand Kansas’s demanding climate and winds. It is hard to imagine that only 4% of the country’s tallgrass still exists, half of which is in Kansas. 

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve at Strong City

Strong City is home to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, a crown jewel of the Flint Hills. This 11,000-acre preserve offers self-guided tours and hiking trails among 40 species of grasses. It is a peaceful retreat that rivals the tranquility found in mountains or along coastlines.

The Historical Significance of Council Grove

Council Grove is another highlight of the Flint Hills. It was a highly traveled wagon trail and train stop for wagons that carried pioneers heading westward. Today, it retains much of its historical charm with attractions like the Madonna of the Trail statue and the Neosho Riverwalk, an ADA-accessible waterfront spot where travelers once crossed the river on their journey between towns.

Have a meal at Hays House 1857 Restaurant & Tavern (previously owned by Daniel Boone’s great-grandson) and a craft brew from Riverbank Brewing, a lovely spot to enjoy the moment. 

Junction City – A Patriotic Stop

Junction City is one of the most patriotic towns in Kansas. It’s worth the detour off I-70 to visit the Veteran’s Memorials and the C.L. Hoover Opera House. Don’t miss the Milford Nature Center, a lovely facility with a butterfly garden, raptors, animals, and nature exhibits. 

Abilene – The Heart of Kansas History

Abilene is famous for being the hometown of Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home are must-visit attractions. Step back in time at Old Abilene Town, where you can experience historical reenactments and even ride the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, a ten-mile journey through gorgeous farmland.

Two other Abilene attractions you won’t want to miss claim the World’s Largest titles: The Belt Buckle and I Like Ike button.

Emporia – A Blend of History and Modernity

Emporia is a charming town with local boutiques, eateries, and the historic Emporia Granada Theatre, circa 1929 and Kansas’s oldest. Pop into The Sweet Granada for some delicious treats (fudge, clusters, truffles, oh my!), or enjoy a meal at Casa Ramos.

Exploring Manhattan – The Little Apple

Manhattan, also known as the Little Apple, is a sophisticated city with attractions like the Flint Hills Discovery Center (educational offering with hands-on exhibits) and the Midwest Dream Car Collection. Head to Bourbon & Baker for dinner or The Chef for breakfast for a great meal. Grab awesome donuts to go from Varsity Donuts. 

Don’t miss a hike at the Konza Prairie Biological Station for an up-close experience with the Flint Hills. Wear bug spray.

The Unique Charm of Wamego

Wamego is home to the Oz Museum, a Wizard of Oz memorabilia treasure trove. Other attractions include the Oz Winery and the Yellow Brick Road art walk. To complete your visit, grab a meal at the Friendship House Bakery.

Wichita – The Heartbeat of Kansas

Wichita is a city that has my heart. It offers a mix of world-class museums, hipster clubs, and family-friendly attractions. Don’t miss the Old Cowtown Museum, chock full of historical buildings and living history interpreters, and the Wichita Art Museum, housing one of the most unique Chihuly displays I’ve seen.

A do-not-miss Wichita attraction is the Mid-American All-Indian Center and Museum, where you might get lucky to catch a Pow-Wow. Conclude your Wichita visit by seeing the stunning 44-foot Keep of the Plains statue lit each night on a dramatic pedestal.

Conclusion

The Flint Hills of Kansas offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, wrapped in a cozy small-town charm. Whether you’re a history buff, an eco-tourist, or just looking for a scenic drive, this region has something for everyone. 

Discovering the gems of Kansas’s Flint Hills is one of the many reasons I fell in love with this Midwestern state years ago.

To enhance your road trip experience even further, refer to this Travel Kansas link for Flint Hills communities and things to do.

Check out more Midwest travel destinations: 

• 7 Things I Loved About Indianapolis, IN
• 33 Awesome Things to Do in Kansas
• Best Things to Do on Kansas I-70