Surrounding Region

Regional treasures border Manhattan

Explore the surrounding communities to uncover the region’s rich history. Whether you’re strolling along historic trails, discovering military heritage past and present, or embracing the charm of OZ, you’ll find countless stories shaped by unique perspectives. Add in panoramic vistas and the sweeping beauty of the Flint Hills, and you’ve got the perfect day-trip destination. Manhattan’s neighbors are full of discoveries—so get going!

Madonna of the Trail statue

National Flint Hills Scenic Drive

Travel Kansas Tallgrass stretches as far as you can see in the Flint Hills of north-central Kansas. Explore with Travel Kansas or Midwest Living.

Native Stone Scenic Byway

Majestic stretch of road recently updated to include Manhattan and regional landmarks such as Konza Prairie, Pillsbury Crossing/Deep Creek and K-177 scenic vista. The byway was established in 2005 and features abundant natural limestone formations and historic stone fences, barns, buildings and bridges. Native Stone Scenic Byway

Explore the Lewis & Clark trail

The Corps of Discovery expedition struck out on the Missouri River in 1804 and shaped a crude route to the Pacific Ocean. Perfect for a weekend or week-long getaway; explore America the beautiful along the Kansas River, and follow Lewis' & Clark's trail north and then westward across 11 states.

Santa Fe Trail tracks sign

Freedoms Frontier

Stories of Kansans' struggle for freedom along the Kansas-Missouri border. The Freedom's Frontier National Heritage Area are sites located throughout the eastern portion of Kansas and western part of Missouri. The sites focus on three main themes; Shaping the Frontier, Missouri/Kansas Border War and Enduring Struggles for Freedom. Freedoms Frontier

Kansas Bucket List

Find a number of Manhattan-area sites as you endeavor upon this bucket list: Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Flint Hills Discovery Center (Flint Hills), Fort Riley and Konza Prairie. Plus you can find the Eisenhower Presidential Library/Museum, Oz Museum and Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, all within 50-mile radius. Travel Kansas' Bucket List