Understand

The plains of Kansas were once inhabited by Native American tribes for centuries. In the 1600s, the first Europeans arrived in this territory. However, it wasn't until the early 1850s that settlers from New England, with diverse backgrounds of German, Swedish, English, and Italian descent, began to establish communities here. These New Englanders were Unionists who opposed slavery and aimed to establish a free state west of Missouri. Seeking to influence territorial politics, pro-slavery plantation owners supported settlers from Missouri and other southern states to immigrate to Kansas in the late 1850s. This led to conflicts and battles throughout the state, with the Sacking of Lawrence, the Lawrence Massacre, the Wakarusa Massacre, and the Trading Post Massacre resulting in the loss of many lives. Some consider this period of violence, known as "Bleeding Kansas," to be the birthplace of the Civil War. Even today, communities like Lawrence, Kansas proudly display their history as a "free state" and "Jayhawker" territory, reflecting their anti-slavery stance and the resilience of their residents.

Get in

Embarking on a road trip to Kansas? Whether you're coming from the east or west, the best route to take is Interstate 70. This highway will guide you through the heart of the state, showcasing its diverse landscapes and hidden treasures. If you're driving from the south, I-35 will lead you to Kansas City, where you can merge onto I-70. To explore other parts of the state, consider taking I-135, which connects Wichita and Salina, opening up opportunities to discover even more of Kansas's natural beauty. If you prefer flying, Wichita is the gateway to the state with its major airport offering flights to various cities. If you're arriving from afar, Kansas City, Missouri, is a common entry point to the eastern part of the state. For those seeking a unique travel experience, hop aboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief train, which traverses Kansas, giving you a chance to take in the picturesque towns of Lawrence, Topeka, Newton, Hutchinson, Dodge City, and Garden City. With daily connections to Chicago and Los Angeles, you can embark on a memorable cross-country journey. Greyhound Lines and Jefferson Lines also offer regular bus services to and from many destinations within Kansas, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing