Things To Do
in Great Bend
Great Bend is a city located in the state of Kansas, United States. It is known for its beautiful location along the Arkansas River and its rich history as a pioneer town. The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and camping.
Great Bend also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and community events showcasing local talent.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a bike ride along the Arkansas River pathway, enjoying the scenic views. Stop by the Great Bend Batty to witness the local wildlife.
Visit the Great Bend Zoo to see a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts. Grab lunch at a nearby café to refuel for the rest of the day.
Relax at the Great Bend Sports Complex where you can watch a local game or enjoy a peaceful picnic. Dine at a local restaurant and savor regional cuisine.
Head to the Cheyenne Bottoms, one of the largest wetlands in the U.S., for a birdwatching adventure. Bring your binoculars and capture moments as you explore.
Continue your nature exploration with a hike in the nearby state park. Enjoy a packed lunch while listening to the sounds of nature.
Return to Great Bend and visit the local farmers' market if it's open. Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant for the freshest ingredients.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents
- Access to outdoor recreation opportunities, including parks and rivers
- Good schools and educational facilities
- Rich historical background and local culture
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth
- Fewer entertainment and dining options than urban areas
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters
- Limited access to healthcare facilities
- Public transportation options may be limited
Best Activities in Great Bend
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful day on the Arkansas River with kayaking or paddleboarding. Rental facilities are available, and you can explore the scenic views and wildlife.
Visit the local zoo to see a variety of animals and enjoy family-friendly activities. The zoo features educational programs and is a great way to spend a day outdoors.
Bring your bike and ride along the Great Bend Bike Path which offers beautiful views of the landscape. It’s a perfect route for all skill levels.
Head to Cheyenne Bottoms, one of the largest wetland areas in the United States, for fishing or bird watching. The area is home to diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
Explore local parks that provide hiking trails and picnic areas. This is perfect for families or anyone wanting to connect with nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Great Bend with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Great Bend
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of colorful water attractions, perfect for capturing vibrant photos.
A beautiful zoo set in a natural environment, providing unique photo opportunities with wildlife and picturesque park scenery.
Catch a game at the local baseball field and photograph the vibrant atmosphere of local sports and community.
A stunning natural area that is home to a wide variety of migratory birds, offering breathtaking views and perfect golden hour photography.
Features walking paths with picturesque views of the river, ideal for peaceful nature shots and family photos.
Food in Great Bend
Great Bend Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in succulent, slow-smoked meats slathered in rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Look for local BBQ joints like The Rack Shack or the Hickory Hut to experience this quintessential Kansas City dish.
Must-Try!
Savor the crispy, golden perfection of fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles, drizzled with sweet maple syrup. Check out Keaton's Chicken for a delightful rendition of this Southern classic.
Delight in the creamy and comforting flavors of cheese enchiladas, a Tex-Mex specialty. Head to Rosewood Wine Cellar or Casa Ramos for a mouthwatering taste of this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Great Bend better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant mix of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and locally made treats at the Great Bend Farmer's Market, a hub of farm-fresh delights and homemade specialties.
Indulge in a dynamic array of street food delights at Food Truck Fridays, where an eclectic lineup of mobile eateries serves up everything from gourmet tacos to gourmet burgers and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Great Bend, as in many parts of the United States, maintaining a comfortable personal space is important. When conversing, it's best to stand at least an arm's length apart unless you know the person well.
When meeting someone, a firm handshake and eye contact are often considered polite. It's also common to greet people with 'Hello' or 'Hi,' and asking about their well-being or day is appreciated.
Participating in local events and traditions, such as festivals or community gatherings, can show respect and interest in the culture. Being open to learning about and engaging with local customs fosters positive relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Great Bend with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Great Bend
Ensure a smooth experience
In Great Bend, Kansas, tipping practices generally reflect those found in many parts of the United States. It is customary to tip service workers, particularly in the hospitality industry. For example, tipping restaurant servers typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff is also common, with similar rates being acceptable. Tipping is considered a way to acknowledge good service and support workers who often rely on tips as a significant part of their income.
Payment practices in Great Bend are similar to those in other towns in the U.S. Cash is accepted at most places, but credit and debit cards are more commonly used due to their convenience. Many establishments also offer mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. In retail and dining establishments, electronic payment systems are prevalent, and customers are encouraged to tip using the same methods. Some businesses may also incorporate digital payment systems to streamline the checkout process, reflecting broader trends in payment practices across the country.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Great Bend.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Great Bend, with mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. Visitors can enjoy blooming flowers and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. Events like the Great Bend Farm and Ranch Expo occur, making it a vibrant time to experience local culture.
Summer (June to August) brings hotter temperatures, often exceeding 90°F. This season is great for enjoying water activities at local lakes and community events, including fairs and festivals. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for outdoor activities, while the midday heat can be intense.
Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F, making it a comfortable time for visiting. The fall foliage creates beautiful scenery, especially in late October. Harvest festivals and local events celebrate the season, providing a unique cultural experience.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow is possible, creating a picturesque winter landscape. Visitors can enjoy indoor activities, such as visiting museums, as well as winter festivals. It's a quieter season, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Great Bend at Night
Hiking in Great Bend
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large wetland area offering trails and opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, particularly birds.
Features walking trails through beautiful prairies and offers scenic views and picnic areas.
Located a short drive from Great Bend, this park has sandy hills and designated hiking areas, perfect for outdoor activities.
A natural area that provides hiking trails along the Arkansas River, known for its scenic views and wildlife.
Offers a combination of hiking trails and water activities, great for a day out in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Great Bend through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Great Bend by plane.
Located approximately 210 miles northeast of Great Bend, Kansas City International Airport is a major airport serving the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Situated about 130 miles southeast of Great Bend, this is the primary airport serving Wichita, Kansas, and the surrounding region.
Located approximately 440 miles west of Great Bend, Denver International Airport is one of the largest airports in the United States serving the Denver area.
About 260 miles south of Great Bend, this airport serves the Oklahoma City metropolitan area and offers various domestic and international flights.
This airport is located roughly 300 miles southwest of Great Bend and serves the Amarillo area in Texas, providing both passenger and cargo services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Great Bend, primarily consisting of non-Hispanic individuals.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
This demographic group represents a smaller percentage of the population compared to White and Hispanic individuals.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, making up a small but important segment of the community.
Individuals identifying as belonging to two or more racial groups, reflecting a growing trend in multi-racial identities.
A small percentage of the population includes individuals from various other racial backgrounds.
The Soul of Great Bend
Discover the essence of Great Bend through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Great Bend, known for its strong community involvement and local leagues.
High school football games are major events during the fall season, drawing large crowds.
Both men's and women's basketball are widely played at schools and in local leagues.
High school athletes participate in various track and field events, competing at regional and state levels.
An emerging sport in Great Bend, with growing youth leagues and community interest.
A popular sport at the high school level, with a strong tradition and competitive teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Great Bend.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Great Bend, including The Page Cafe and Perks Coffee Shop & Cafe, offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that non-meat eaters have plenty of flavorful choices.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at establishments like The Page Cafe and Perks Coffee Shop & Cafe, which provide a range of gluten-free selections to cater to diverse dietary needs.