Kansas is one of the best-kept secrets in America. A great sports atmosphere, savour barbecue and rich and diverse history, Kansas has plenty to offer curious travellers.
But Kansas is a large state and not all of its cities and towns will be of interest to travellers.
Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Kansas.
Written by our expert travel guides, this article breaks down the five best neighborhoods in Kansas by interest and budget. Our aim is to help YOU find the perfect place to stay for YOUR time in the Midwest.
So whether you’re travelling as a family, on a budget, or are looking to party, we’ve got a neighborhood that’s perfect for you!
So, let’s jump right to it. Here is our guide for where to stay in Kansa, USA.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Kansas.
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Comfort Suites Manhattan | Best Budget Hotel in Kansas
Located outside the Manhattan city centre, this hotel provides easy access to KSU and for exploring the region. It has an indoor pool, wonderful staff and an airport shuttle for guests. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Enjoy a great selection of restaurants and cafes nearby.
Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview – Wichita | Best Hotel in Kansas
This hotel is centrally located in Wichita. It is ideally placed for sightseeing and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. This three-star hotel has an indoor pool, a day spa, and free wifi throughout. All of this combined makes it our pick for the best hotel in Kansas.
Topeka’s Chic Home in Art District | Best Airbnb in Kansas
In the quiet town of Topeka, is this artsy Bungalow just minutes from the best donut shop in the city and the happening art district of Downtown! You will have the whole place to yourself, which is ideal when you are traveling with friends or your partner. After a long day of sight-seeing, be sure to grab a local craft brew and take a seat on the front porch, it’s one of the most relaxing things to do this in this quiet neighborhood.
Topeka
Topeka is the capital and third largest city in Kansas. Located in the northeastern corner of the state, Topeka is a metropolitan city that boasts a rich history and lush and luxurious nature.
Wichita
Set at the centre of the state is the city of Wichita. The largest city in Kansas, Wichita is also famously known as “The Air Capital of the World” as its a hub for aeronautical, engineering and industrial firms.
Lawrence
Located between Topeka and Kansas City is the charming and quirky city of Lawrence. The sixth largest city in the state of Kansas, Lawrence is bursting with history and brimming with culture, arts, sports and music.
Manhattan
A small city located in the northeastern part of Kansas, Manhattan is far and away the coolest city in the state. Home to Kansas State University, Manhattan is a bustling and electric city packed with bars, clubs, galleries and museums.
Hutchinson
It is home to one of the largest space museums in the world as well as a great selection of all-ages activities and attractions, which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Kansas for families.
Kansas is a large state located at the centre of the United States. Surrounded by Nebraska, Colorado, Oklahoma and Missouri, Kansas is affectionately known as the heart of America.
Although Kansas is probably most synonymous with the “Wizard of Oz,” there’s much more to the Sunflower State than tornados, farmlands and little dogs. In fact, Kansas is a hotbed for technology, creativity, sports, academia and fun.
The state of Kansas covers an area of 213 square kilometres. It is home to roughly three million people divided across 105 counties and 628 cities. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the five best towns and neighborhoods to visit in Kansas.
Starting with Wichita. The largest city in Kansas, Wichita is home to a good selection of aeronautical, technological and scientific attractions. It’s also where you’ll find a huge student population, lively bars and vibrant restaurants.
Head northwest from here and you’ll pass through Hutchinson. This charming city is where you’ll find interesting attractions, like the Underground Salt Museum, as well as the Cosmosphere, the second largest space museum in the world.
Travel northeast to Manhattan. One of the coolest towns in the state, Manhattan is packed with museums, art galleries, bistros, boutiques and bars.
Continue travelling east and you’ll arrive in Topeka. The capital and third largest city in Kansas, Topeka is a city bursting with history and culture, as well as food and fun.
And finally, east of Topeka is Lawrence. A lively and vibrant city, Lawrence is where you’ll find some of the best nightlife in not just Kansas, but all of the Midwest.
Still not sure where to stay in Kansas? Well, keep reading, because we’ve got you covered!
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Kansas’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Kansas. Each offers something different to travellers so be sure to pick the one that’s the best fit for you!
1. Topeka – Where to Stay in Kansas First Time
Topeka is the capital and third largest city in Kansas. Located in the northeastern corner of the state, Topeka is a metropolitan city that boasts a rich history and lush and luxurious nature. It’s where you’ll find a great selection of tourist attractions and landmarks, and it is our recommendation for where to stay in Kansas if you’re visiting for the first time.
This city is home to a number of highly acclaimed cultural institutions, including the Kansas Museum of History, Ward Meade Park, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic site. At each of these fantastic sites, you’ll be able to dive deep into the history of Topeka as well as the state of Kansas.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Topeka | Best Hotel in Topeka
With its great location, fantastic on-site amenities and spacious rooms, the Homewood Suites is our pick for where to stay in Topeka. This three-star hotel boasts 87 spotless room, a gym, an indoor pool, and a luggage storage service. It is conveniently located for discovering the best of Topeka.
Hyatt Place Topeka | Best Hotel in Topeka
Hyatt Place Topeka is a charming and comfortable hotel. It is located in Topeka and has a good selection of restaurants nearby. This hotel comes complete with an outdoor pool, a 24-hour business centre and an on-site café. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature refrigerators and wireless internet access.
Topeka’s Chic Home in Art District | Best Airbnb in Topeka
In the quiet town of Topeka, is this artsy Bungalow just minutes from the best donut shop in the city and the happening art district of Downtown! You will have the whole place to yourself, which is ideal when you are traveling with friends or your partner. After a long day of sight-seeing, be sure to grab a local craft brew and take a seat on the front porch, it’s one of the most relaxing things to do this in this quiet neighborhood.
Comfort Suite Topeka | Best Inexpensive Hotel in Topeka
Located in Topeka, this 2.5-star hotel is ideally situated for exploring the capital. It is within walking distance of a large selection of eateries as well as the State Capitol buildings. This hotel boasts 64 comfortable rooms with kitchenettes and private baths. There are also laundry facilities on-site.
Things to See and Do in Topeka
- Visit the Kansas State Capitol Building.
- Explore historic Ward Meade Park.
- Pay homage to a legend at the Evel Knievel Museum.
- Step back in time at the Kansas Museum of History.
- Be amazed as at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center.
- See more than 40 aircraft from throughout history at the Combat Air Museum.
- Get up close with more than 250 creatures at Topeka Zoological Park.
- Grab a pint at the Norsemen Brewing Company.
- Stop and smell the roses at Reinisch Rose Garden.
- Excite your senses at Rowhouse Restaurant.
- Dig into incredible American fare at the Blue Moose Topeka.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Wichita – Where to Stay in Kansas on a Budget
Set at the centre of the state is the city of Wichita. The largest city in Kansas, Wichita is also famously known as “The Air Capital of the World” as its a hub for aeronautical, engineering and industrial firms. It’s a great destination for anyone interested in science, technology, history and more.
Wichita is also home to Wichita State University. Its lively and vibrant student population add a great deal of fun to the city in the form of bars, restaurants, shops and activities. There are also a good selection of cost-conscious accommodations catering to the university crowds, which is why Wichita is our recommendation for where to stay in Kansas if you’re on a budget.
Comfort Inn East Wichita | Best Inexpensive Hotel in Wichita
The Comfort Inn East Wichita is conveniently located for exploring the city. It has clean rooms, wonderful staff, and a stunning pool on-site. Guests of this hotel will also have access to a laundry service and a gym throughout their stay. Each room comes with cable/satellite channels and free wifi.
Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview – Wichita | Best Hotel in Wichita
This hotel is centrally located in Wichita. It is ideally placed for sightseeing and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. This three-star hotel has an indoor pool, a day spa, and free wifi throughout. All of this combined makes it our pick for where to stay in Wichita.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Wichita Northeast | Best Hotel in Wichita
A great location in Wichita makes this one of our favourite hotels in the city. It has 111 well-appointed rooms each equipped with modern amenities. You’ll enjoy a myriad of features on-site, including a swimming pool, free wifi and very helpful and welcoming staff.
Charming Home for a Fair Price | Best Airbnb in Wichita
About 3 miles from this house you’ll reach the heart of downtown and the art district of Wichita. With all the stuff going on you won’t need much staying here and lucky for you even some good restaurants are walking distance from the home. It’s quiet even with the cute lab the owner has out back that you are welcome to pet and love on if you feel called to do so.
Things to See and Do in Wichita
- See incredible themed gardens at Botanica.
- Visit the Old Cowtown Museum, the oldest open-air history museum in the Central US.
- View ancient artefacts at the Museum of World Treasures.
- Get close to elephants, lions, giraffes and more at the Sedgwick County Zoo.
- Experience incredible works of art at the Wichita Art Museum.
- Explore vibrant Old Town.
- Step back in time at Wichita Sedgewick County Historical Museum.
- Enjoy a night of drinks and music at Mort’s Cigar Bar.
- Grab a pint at Aero Plains Brewing, a charming microbrewery.
- Enjoy traditional American dishes at Old Mill Tasty Shop.
- Indulge in flavourful Vietnamese food at My Tho.
3. Lawrence – Best Area to Stay in Kansas for Nightlife
Located between Topeka and Kansas City is the charming and quirky city of Lawrence. The sixth largest city in the state of Kansas, Lawrence is bursting with history and brimming with culture, arts, sports and music.
Lawrence is known as the home to the University of Kansas and its exciting and lively student population. The city also has one of the largest art, music and nightlife scenes not only in the state but in the entire Midwest. From pubs and bars to nightclubs and beyond, this Kansas city is where to stay if you’re looking to enjoy a night on the town.
Room in the Local Area | Best Airbnb in Lawrence
In the heart of Lawrence is this apartment that’s in the West neighborhood – i.e., the SPOT for community and nightlife fun! With a cute co-op down the road and local bars, you have everything you need staying here. You are guaranteed to get the ultimate experience staying in this home; the owners have thought of everything!
Virginia Inn | Best Motel in Lawrence
This is a charming three-star motel. It is ideally located for exploring the city and enjoying its many restaurants and cafes. This motel has modern rooms complete with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. There’s also a spa, a wellness centre, restaurants and a laundry service on-site.
Hampton Inn Lawrence | Best Hotel in Lawrence
This traditional-style hotel is located in central Lawrence. It is close to a variety of dining, shopping and sightseeing options. This hotel offers a good selection of wellness features, including a Jacuzzi, a pool, and a golf course. With comfortable rooms and attentive staff, this is our pick for where to stay in Lawrence.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Lawrence Downtown | Best Hotel in Lawrence
TownePlace Suites is in a fantastic place for walking to the best eateries, bars and clubs in Lawrence. Rooms are cosy and modern, and each offers a variety of essential amenities. This three-star hotel also has an outdoor pool and BBQ-area for guests.
Things to See and Do in Lawrence
- Sip signature cocktails at John Brown Underground.
- Enjoy a night of rock’n’roll and pinball at Replay Lounge.
- Browse the exhibits and displays at the Museum of Natural History.
- View an incredible and diverse collection of art at the Spencer Art Museum.
- Catch the Kansas Jayhawks in action at Allen Fieldhouse.
- Explore the rich history of Lawrence at Watkins Museum of History.
- See a show or a film at the historic Granada theatre.
- Sample awesome beers at Free State Brewery.
- Sip great beer and enjoy a delicious menu at 23rd Street Brewery.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Wheatfields Bakery.
- Dine on a savoury slice of pizza at Limestone.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Manhattan – Coolest Place to Stay in Kansas
A small city located in the northeastern part of Kansas, Manhattan is far and away the coolest city in the state. Home to Kansas State University, Manhattan is a bustling and electric city packed with bars, clubs, galleries and museums. So, whether you’re a culture vulture or a party animal, you’ll love exploring Manhattan.
Want to be at the centre of the action? Head to Aggieville. This small neighborhood consists of six square blocks in downtown Manhattan. It boasts a great selection of bars and restaurants that cater to travellers and locals of all ages. From sports bars to swanky cocktail lounges, Aggieville is a neighborhood for anyone and everyone looking for a good time.
Charismatic Home that has Everything! | Best Airbnb in Manhattan
If your looking to be within a few footsteps from the zoo and memorial park than this is the room for you. It’s made for couples and even a third party with the fold-out bed. Take advantage of the washer and dryer while you are staying here, as we all know how it is to make time while traveling. Bring your walking shoes; this place is near everything you want to see in the city of Manhattan.
Comfort Suites Manhattan | Best Inexpensive Hotel in Manhattan
Located outside the city centre, this hotel provides easy access to KSU and for exploring the region. It has an indoor pool, wonderful staff and an airport shuttle for guests. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Enjoy a great selection of restaurants and cafes nearby.
The Bluemont Hotel | Best Hotel in Manhattan
The Bluemont Hotel is located in central Manhattan. It is a short walk from cafes, restaurants and great nightlife options. This hotel provides comfortable and spacious rooms. Enjoy a myriad of amenities like laundry service, luggage storage, a rooftop terrace and an indoor pool.
Anderson Bed & Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in Manhattan
This stunning bed and breakfast is our pick for where to stay in Manhattan thanks to its great location and comfortable rooms. Set on the west side of the city, this B&B is close to parks, shops, restaurants and bars. It has modern rooms, an airport shuttle and free wifi.
Things to See and Do in Manhattan
- Explore Aggieville, the oldest shopping district in Kansas.
- Enjoy the view from the Bluemont Hill Scenic Overlook,
- See more than 300 animals from 100 species at Sunset Zoo.
- Learn about your favourite bugs at KSU Insect Zoo.
- Browse the interactive exhibits at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.
- Go for a stroll along the Manhattan River Trail.
- Eat filling and delicious dishes at The Goose Aggieville.
- Indulge in a variety of tequila, margaritas and more at The Salty Rim Aggieville.
- Dine on upscale American fare at Harry’s Restaurant.
- Kickstart your day with delicious PB&J pancakes at The Chef Café.
- Savour an incredible Mexican meal at Taco Lucha.
5. Hutchinson – Best Neighborhood in Kansas for Families
Hutchinson is one of the best-kept secrets in Kansas. Located in Reno Country, Hutchinson sits at the centre of the state just north of Wichita. It is home to one of the largest space museums in the world as well as a great selection of all-ages activities and attractions, which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Kansas for families.
One of the coolest attractions in Hutchinson is Strataca. This salt mine and museum is located almost 200 meters underground and has palatial rooms and chambers just waiting to be explored. Take a 30-minute tour on the Dark Ride tram and learn all about this subterranean world of wonders.
Mellow Cottage in the Heart of Hutchinson | Best Airbnb in Hutchinson
In less than 2 miles from the Kansas State Fair is this charming Kansas cabin-style home. Are you looking to have a BBQ? Enjoy the backyard garden and the open space for a gathering when your not visiting the Underground Salt mine. And the family provides breakfast for your convience.-HUGE perk! The environment of the neighborhood will take you back in time, the fun Smith market selling handmade jewels you can’t find anywhere else.
Comfort Inn & Suites Hutchinson | Best Inexpensive Hotel in Hutchinson
This Comfort Inn & Suites is located in the northeast corner of Hutchinson. It has a good selection of restaurants and shops right on its doorstep. This two-star hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms. There’s also an indoor pool and laundry facilities on-site.
Holiday Inn Express Hutchinson – Porter St. | Best Hotel in Hutchinson
This three-star hotel is located east of the city centre. Its location offers easy access to the airport and the Underground Salt Museum. Rooms are large and modern, and this hotel boasts a myriad of features including a swimming pool, free wifi, a gym and laundry services.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Hutchinson | Best Hotel in Hutchinson
This four-star hotel is our recommendation for where to stay in Hutchinson. It is located near the city centre and is close to restaurants, bars, attractions and more. Rooms come complete with microwaves and private bathrooms. This hotel has babysitting services, a golf course, and luggage storage.
Things to See and Do in Hutchinson
- Explore the worlds of science, technology, engineering and math at Cosmosphere.
- Head deep underground to Strataca, one of the world’s largest deposits of rock salt.
- See more than 300 species of plants in the expansive Dillon Nature Center.
- Learn about your favourite animals and sea creatures at Hutchinson Zoo.
- Enjoy a day of bowling, food and fun at The Alley of Hutchinson.
- Run, jump, splash and play at Salt City Splash.
- Dig into savoury dishes at Roy’s BBQ.
- Eat great American fare at Skaets Steak Shop.
- Dine on ribs, brisket, pulled pork and more at Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Kansas
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kansas and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kansas
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!ips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kansas
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kansas
Kansas is a state brimming with history and culture, food and fun. It’s famous for its great landscapes and charming cities, its lively sports atmosphere and its savoury barbecue.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best towns and neighborhoods in Kansas. Although there aren’t many hostels in the state, we’ve tried to include a selection of B&Bs, apartments and motels to make it accessible for budget travellers.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Kansas, here’s a quick recap of our favourites.
Comfort Suites Manhattan is our pick for the best budget option in Kansas. Located in the town of Manhattan, this hotel is close to great restaurants, lively bars, and interesting attractions.
Another good option is the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview – Wichita. Ideally situated for sightseeing, this hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the state’s largest city and “The Air Capital of the World.”
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Kansas instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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