Topeka
Located along the Kansas River and known for its cheerful tulips, Topeka is a Midwestern gem that combines a busy, bustling downtown -- this is the capital city of Kansas and the seat of Shawnee County, after all -- with the natural beauty of the prairie. Topeka is also a college town, home to Washburn University -- a public university established in 1865. Founded in 1854, Topeka has long played an important role in US history. It was an important part of the Oregon Trail, with a ferry located in Topeka that helped the travelers cross the river. The Brown v. Board of Education, a court ruling that ended public school segregation in 1954, involved a school in Topeka, and today the Brown v. Board of Education Historic Site features galleries, special exhibits, and tours. Choosing to rent a Topeka apartment means you'll be able to enjoy the city's fantastic festivals, including the Tulip Time Festival, as well as its many destinations and attractions, including the Topeka Zoo, the Kansas Museum of History, and the historic Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site.
Wichita
Although fairly isolated on the prairies of Kansas, Wichita is a thriving cultural and economic hub for the region, with all the energy and excitement you’d expect from a city of its size. Much of the artistic and cultural action can be found in Old Town, the former warehouse district whose refurbished historic buildings now house a collective of hip and trendy shops, galleries, performance venues, cafes, and bars. The calendar is packed with special events in Wichita, from regular happenings like the popular farmers’ market, to massive community celebrations like the Wichita River Festival, to more niche events like the Tallgrass Film Festival in the fall. Aviation events are especially popular, with exhibitions like the Wichita Flight Festival and the McConnell Air Force Base Open House an Airshow earning the city its nickname: the Air Capital of the World.
Emporia
Situated in eastern central Kansas, Emporia is the county seat of Lyon County and home to Emporia State University. A wealth of parks and recreation centers offer plenty to do in Emporia in addition to the surrounding Flint Hills, which offer some of the best road cycling opportunities in the United States. A close-knit cycling community coupled with the terrain of the Flint Hills earns Emporia the nickname of the Gravel Grinding Capital of the World, hosting the annual Dirty Kanza 200 every year. Touting a distinct small-town vibe, Emporia displays a proud history at the William Allen White House, Red Rocks State Historic Site, and the streets and shops of Historic Downtown Emporia. Residents bond at numerous annual events in Emporia, including the Glass Blown Open Disc Golf Tournament, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Flatland Cruisers Car Show, All Veterans Tribute, Lyon County Free Fair, and the Christmas Parade as well as various events at Emporia State University. Getting around from Emporia is simple with access to U.S. 50 and Interstates 35 and 335. Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka are all within a two-hour drive from Emporia as well.
