The Best Staycation in Every State

Manhattan (and Wamego), Kansas

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Manhattan, KS, USA

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An hour west of Topeka and two hours north of Wichita nestled in the Flint Hills region and tallgrass prairie landscape, there’s no place like Manhattan (aka Kansas’ “Little Apple”). With charming boutiques, an eclectic collection of restaurants to discover, and a popular Saturday morning farmers market, the historic downtown area is a one-stop destination for drinking, dining, and shopping.

 

If timing cooperates, buy a ticket to cheer on the hometown Kansas State University Wildcats sports teams; the campus-adjacent Aggieville District is a great spot to grab a casual meal or take in some nightlife and entertainment.

 

And speaking of entertainment, cruise the quick 13 miles east to see the Wizard at the Oz Museum in Wamego, a vast private collection of props and artifacts from the legendary movie and the “Wicked” Broadway musical. While you’re there, snap a selfie in front of the 100-year-old Schonhoff Dutch Mill that anchors the Wamego City Park. —Amy Lynch

Lexington, Kentucky

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ADDRESS
Lexington, KY, USA

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A staycation in Lexington, Kentucky, is more exciting than the uninitiated would assume. An overnight stay at the “Queen’s Gambit”-inspired suite at the 21c Museum Hotel might be just what the vacation doctor ordered. Take a socially-distant guided tour with Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail or visit one of Lexington’s hundreds of working horse farms.

 

Family-friendly options include connecting with nature on the Legacy Trail or exploring the gardens at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, home to the outdoor Ginkgo Tree Cafe. You can even download free, printable Kentucky-themed coloring pages for the entire family to keep young ones entertained on the trip. Don’t forget to cozy up with some reading of local Kentucky authors like Gwenda Bond or Crystal Wilkinson in your downtime! —Tonya Abari