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How to Get to Kansas

How to Get to Kansas

Kansas USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Kansas is served by several airports, with Kansas City International (MCI) and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National (ICT) as main gateways.

Air Hubs

  • Kansas City International Airport (MCI): Main gateway for eastern Kansas (Kansas City, MO).
  • Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT): Largest airport within Kansas, serves south-central region.
  • Local Airports: Manhattan Regional (MHK), Salina Regional (SLN), Topeka Regional (FOE) for regional connections.

Flights & Connections

MCI offers flights to many major U.S. Hubs and some overseas locations. ICT connects to key AMERICAN.S. Hubs. Regional airports generally connect to larger hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth or Chicago.

Booking & Savings

  • Limited Direct International Flights: Most international travelers connect through major U.S. hubs like ORD, DFW, DEN, ATL (Skyscanner).
  • Seasonal Prices: Higher prices during holidays, summer, and major events.
  • Best Rates: Book flights 2-3 months in advance (Dollar Flight Club).

Taxi & Ride-Share

Uber and Lyft available at MCI, ICT, and major city airports. Check app for designated pickup zones. Taxis available at airport stands.

Shuttle Services

Various private shuttle transport connect air terminals to hotels plus detailed areas. Book these in advance for convenience.

Rental Cars

Widely available at MCI and ICT. Often the most recommended option for Kansas travel due to limited public transport.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing

  • No Specific Departure Taxes: Kansas does not levy specific exit fees. Standard U.S. Federal taxes apply.
  • Airport Arrival: ARRIVE 2 hours prior to domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights.
  • Train/Bus Stations: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Expedited Security: Consider TSA PreCheck or Clear for domestic travel.

Airport & Station Facilities

  • Restrooms and dining options.
  • Shops for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Charging stations for electronic devices.
  • MCI's new terminal provides a modern and comfortable experience.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Amtrak serves Kansas via the Southwest Chief and Missouri River Runner routes, with stops in major cities like Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita. Service frequency is limited.

Bus Options

Greyhound operates routes joining main Kansas cities (Kansas City, Topeka, Wichita). FlixBus also offers some intercity routes. Buses are an economical travel method between larger cities.

Self-Driving

Driving is the most practical way to explore Kansas, especially rural areas and state parks. A valid driver's license (U.S. Or international with an IDP) is necessary. Road conditions are generally good.

Driving Kansas

Road Conditions & Preparation

Kansas has a well-maintained network of interstates and state highways. Roads outside of town can be two-lane, and some unpaved roads exist off main routes.

Vehicle Ready

  • Interstates (I-70, I-35) and state highways are in good condition.
  • Vehicle Preparation: Check tires, fluid levels, lights before long drives.
  • Fuel: Ensure adequate fuel for long stretches between towns, especially in western Kansas.

Driving Laws & Safety

Observe posted speed limits (75-80 mph on interstates). Seat belts are required for all occupants.

Safety on the Road

  • Speed Limits: Observe posted limits, generally 75-80 mph on interstates.
  • Wildlife: Deer are common hazards, notably at dawn and dusk. Drive carefully.
  • Weather: Stay informed about rapidly changing conditions; adjust driving as needed.

Rental Car Considerations

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, with additional fees for those under 25. A valid driver's license and a major credit card are necessary.

Requirements & Companies

  • License: Valid U.S. Or international driver's license.
  • Payment: Major credit card for rental and security deposit.
  • Companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo (DiscoverCars.com).

Border Crossing & Parking

Kansas borders Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado, and Oklahoma. All crossings are open and unrestricted for domestic travel. International visitors arriving by land need a a passport that is not expired and visa/ESTA.

Access & Parking

  • Land Borders: Accessible and unrestricted for domestic travel.
  • Parking: Ample parking across most of Kansas. Metered street car parking and garages in major city downtowns. Free parking at hotels and attractions.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable for entry. Recreational boating exists.

Driving Hazards & Precautions

  • Long Distances: Be prepared for stretches between towns, especially in western Kansas.
  • Unpaved Roads: Some areas in the country roads are unpaved.
  • Emergency Kit: Carry an Emergency kit with tools, first-aid, water, and snacks.
  • Cell Phone Use: Handheld cell phone use is illegal for novice drivers and in school zones.
  • DUI: Strict penalties for driving under the influence.
  • Flooded Roads: Never drive through flooded roads.

Other Transportation Modes

Public Transit in Cities

Public transit systems offer options within Kansas's larger cities. Most smaller towns and non-urban areas have limited or no mass transit options.

City-Specific Services

  • Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA): Serves Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) with bus services.
  • Wichita Transit: Operates city bus routes throughout Wichita.
  • Topeka Metro and Lawrence Transit: Provide bus service within their respective cities.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer enjoyable ways to see parts of Kansas, especially in urban centers and green spaces. Bicycle infrastructure is becoming more common.

Pedestrian & Bike Friendly Areas

  • Urban Areas: Downtowns of Lawrence, Manhattan, Topeka, and KCMO districts (Westport/Crossroads/Plaza).
  • Bike Trails: Extensive network of paved and unpaved trails, including rail-trails like the Flint Hills Nature Trail.
  • Safety: Helmets are recommended for all cyclists, required for under 18 in some areas.

Pedestrian Zones

Downtown areas of major cities offer pedestrian-friendly zones with shops and restaurants. Many state and local parks also have designated walking trails.

Cycling Infrastructure

Bike lanes are growing more common in cities like Lawrence and Manhattan, making urban cycling safer. Rail-trails offer flat, scenic routes suitable for various cycling levels.

No-Go Areas

Interstates are generally off-limits to pedestrians and cyclists. Rural highways pose risks due to high vehicle speeds and lack of shoulders. Avoid remote areas after dark due to low the ability to see and wildlife.

Accessibility Information

ADA Compliance

U.S. Federal laws, specifically the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mandate accessibility for public spaces.

General Accessibility

  • Public buildings, major attractions, and modern transportation are designed for accessibility.
  • Call beforehand for certain venues or smaller establishments to confirm their accessibility features.
  • Most public buses adhere to ADA, featuring ramps or lifts and priority seating.

Specialized Transport

Specialized transport options are limited in Kansas for general tourism purposes.

Noteworthy Services

  • Tour Buses & Hop-on-Hop-off: Not common for general city sightseeing.
  • Boat Taxis & Water Transport: Not applicable for main transportation.
  • Unique Local Transport: No unique local systems like cable cars or funiculars exist.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Major companies like Enterprise and Hertz are at airports and cities. Booking in advance is a good idea. Consider DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Limited availability, mainly in larger metropolitan areas. Rentals are often seasonal.

Bicycle Rentals

Some parts of Kc offer bike-sharing. Bicycle shops in cities like Lawrence and Wichita provide rentals. Some state parks also have limited bike rentals.

Transportation Insight

While urban public transit offers some options, a rental car has the most comprehensive way to explore the diverse regions of Kansas, in particular its natural parks and historical sites.

How to Get to Kansas. Flights, Transportation, Airlines