Characterised by vast waves of wheat swaying in the breeze, the Great Plains state of Kansas is famously flat — and looms large in the popular imagination as a land of yellow brick roads and tornados. This striking Midwestern destination is, in fact, home to artsy cities, beautiful landscapes and a rich — if turbulent — history. Great for guests of all ages, the state boasts an array of accommodation options, including everything from simple cattle ranch cabins to swish city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Kansas sit within the lively cities of Topeka and Wichita, some of our favourite hideaways are tucked away in altogether more rural locations.

If you’re in Kansas on business or looking for a cultural city break, consider the state capital of Topeka. Highlights include the neoclassical Kansas State Capitol Building, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site and Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site. The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Centre makes for a fun family day out.

Wichita, on the Arkansas River to the south-west, is known as the Aircraft Capital of the World. See the Kansas Aviation Museum, Exploration Place, the Wichita Art Museum and the Old Cowtown Museum, for art, science and history. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House is also very special. Cosmosphere, an amazing museum detailing the race to the moon, is an easy day trip away from the city. Fort Larned National Historic Site, on the other hand, is two hours’ drive to the west.

Venture to the Home on the Range Cabin, in northern Kansas, for a glimpse of the magic which inspired Brewster M Higley to pen the iconic song of the American West. Hikers and wildlife enthusiasts will adore the 11,000-acre Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, whilst keen mountain bikers, horse riders, anglers and kayakers will find ample opportunity to discover Kansas’ trails, lakes and rivers over the course of their holidays. Some of the best places to stay in Kansas are remote lodges surrounded by hundreds of acres of wilderness — perfect for nature lovers.

The Best Places to Stay in Kansas

FOR Historic CHARM

• Hotel at Old Town is a classic city hotel set within a red-brick Victorian building in Wichita. An all-suite property, the hotel features spacious rooms with kitchenettes, an onsite gym, piano bar and fireside lounge. The central courtyard is a lovely place to relax. For couples, families or business travellers.
• The Eldridge Hotel in Lawrence was built in 1925, and remains a city landmark. Generously proportioned suites offer contemporary creature comforts and smart marble bathrooms, whilst communal spaces retain their traditional charm. The restaurant and bar are excellent. For business or leisure.

For a Rural Escape

• Cedar Crest Lodge is an intimate rural escape, with 100 acres of grounds about 75 miles due south of Kansas City. Relaxed and romantic, the lodge boasts a swimming pool and hot tub, delectable farm-to-table dining, and expansive countryside views from private terraces and cosy firepit spots. A delightful couples' hideaway on the Kansas/Missouri border.
• Clover Cliff Ranch is an owner-run period home with stand-alone cabins on a 4000-acres working cattle ranch about an hour north east of Wichita. Pick this place for an authentic taste of the remote Midwest, complete with indulgent antique furnishings and panoramic rural vistas. Great for groups or families, and for nature lovers looking to unwind.

For Contemporary Luxury

• Cyrus Hotel promises trendy rooms with sleek interiors and expansive city views from its position in downtown Topeka. The industrial-chic restaurant and swish bar are both popular with the city's hip crowd, too. Two ballrooms, a board room and private events terrace make this a terrific conference or wedding venue. Contemporary cool for design-minded business or leisure travellers.
• Ambassador Hotel Wichita offers a chic, modern stay in the heart of historic Wichita. Slick rooms have big windows, Art Deco design touches and spa baths. There's a hip underground speakeasy and an excellent Italian restaurant. For romance or swish business trips. Very indulgent.

FOR A HOLIDAY HOME OR APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Wichita Dwight D Eisenhower Airport, the largest in Kansas, or to Topeka Regional Airport. Kansas City International Airport in neighbouring Missouri, is well-placed for eastern Kansas destinations. Travel to your hotel by car or bus.
• Kansas is ideal for a road trip! Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between June and September for the warmest weather. You can expect a mild climate for much of the year, although winters tend to be very cold.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Topeka.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Missouri.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.