Named for its geographical location at the confluence of the Republican and Smoky Hill rivers, Junction City, KS is the seat of Geary County in the northeastern part of the state. While there are not many tourist attractions in the area, Junction City is not far from several destinations that can be visited during day trips or weekend escapes. Pack your things and hit the road early to enjoy these great spots.
1. Kansas City
Straddling the border between the states of Kansas and Missouri, Kansas City is a popular destination for visitors from all over the country. Its metropolitan area is home to more than two million people, as well as some of the country’s most important firms and companies. Most of the tourist spots in Kansas City are located on the Missouri side, which can be reached in a little under an hour by car from downtown Junction City.
Although there are several spots in the city for which you will need a car to get to, an excellent place to start exploring the area is the Downtown Kansas City area. Find a parking spot and go for a walk along the Southwest Boulevard, passing by many of the city’s best cafés and restaurants before heading south towards Union Station, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Legoland, and the Crown Center Square.
2. Wichita
With a population of more than 600,000, Wichita is the largest city located entirely in the state of Kansas. The seat of Sedgwick County, it was first established as a trading post in the 1860s and became known as “Cowtown” thanks to its history as a pitstop for cattle drives traveling from the southern United States to the railroads in central and northern Kansas. Nowadays, the city is a bustling urban area with a vibrant cultural and gastronomical scene.
Getting to downtown Wichita from Junction City takes a little under two hours by car, driving south along route US-77. Once in the city, the best place to start exploring is the Old Town, where you can check out the Museum of World Treasures, the Great Planes Transportation Museum, and the beautiful pedestrian promenade along the banks of the Arkansas River. Other places you should not miss include the Old Cowtown Museum, the Central Riverside Park, and the Exploration Place Museum.
3. Milford State Park
Located less than 10 miles northwest of downtown Junction City, Milford State Park is the closest and most popular day trip destination you can visit. This green area was established along the southeastern shore of Milford Lake, considered the largest artificial reservoir in the state of Kansas. Milford State Park is a popular place for activities such as fishing, kayaking, boating, and picnicking.
Are you ready for your next day trip to one of these great urban and natural destinations? Before you hit the road make sure to visit us at Valor Ford and check out the new and pre-owned vehicles we have available for you and your family to go on the most memorable road trips around the country.
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