City Escape: Topeka, Kansas

For folks who have the misimpression that Kansas is just one huge flat wheat field, the Flint Hills region is in fact a landscape of subtle beauty and fascinating history. If you’re not from these parts, and even if you are, prepare to be surprised.

Length

Approximately 220 miles

Meet-up Spot

EagleRider, 2047 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS

Lunch Stop

Grand Central Hotel & Grill serves American fare, including both steaks and healthier options, in a historic building dating from 1884. Find it at 215 Broadway St, Cottonwood Falls, KS (620) 273-6763.

Scenery 3 out of 5

An ethereal landscape: the rolling tall grasslands that make up the prairie mimic a progression of ocean swells stretching as far as the eye can see.

Difficulty 1 out of 5

Mostly straight with moderate elevation changes, the roads in this region aren’t technically challenging, but keep an eye out for changing weather conditions here in Tornado Alley.

Road conditions 3 out of 5

The roads on the route are all paved and generally in good shape.

Points of Interest

Flint Hills Discovery Center
With its various exhibits and programs, this science and culture museum teaches about the history, flora, fauna, and Native Peoples of the Flint Hills.

Chase County Courthouse
Take a self-guided tour of this Second Empire-style courthouse (circa 1873), which is reportedly the oldest one in the Midwest still in use.

Red Rocks State Historic Site
Tour the historic home of famed newspaper publisher of The Emporia Gazette, William Allen White.