Things To Do
in Hays
Hays is a city located in the state of Kansas, United States. It is known for being the home of Fort Hays State University, which contributes to a vibrant and energetic atmosphere in the city. Hays features a mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The city has a strong sense of community and a welcoming small-town charm.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. After that, visit the Fort Hays State Historic Site to learn about the area's rich history.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant. Spend the afternoon wandering through the Ellis County Historical Society Museum to delve deeper into local heritage.
Wrap up the day with a casual dinner at a family-friendly eatery. If time allows, take a stroll through downtown Hays to enjoy the evening ambiance.
Begin your morning with a visit to the picturesque Hays Parks. A peaceful walk or a morning jog is perfect to energize you.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or grab a bite at a nearby deli. Afterward, explore the trails and native landscapes at the nearby state parks.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring local cuisine. Wind down by watching the sunset at a scenic viewpoint.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly community atmosphere
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Access to outdoor activities and scenic landscapes
- Good local schools and educational opportunities
- Cultural events and local festivals
- Limited job market and economic opportunities
- Fewer entertainment and dining options than larger urban areas
- Harsh winter weather conditions
- Limited public transportation options
- Potential for isolation due to rural setting
Best Activities in Hays
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore natural history exhibits and outdoor walking trails.
Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Have fun at the water park and leisure pool.
Go fishing and enjoy the scenic views of the lake.
Take a bike ride on the city's designated biking trails.
Play a round of golf in a beautiful setting.
Explore hiking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hays with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hays
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a rooftop garden with panoramic views of Hays and a great spot for photos.
Large shopping center with a scenic overlook that provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
The campus features beautiful landscapes and architecture, providing various picturesque photo opportunities.
Food in Hays
Hays Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Texan dish, featuring a tenderized beef steak coated in seasoned flour and fried to golden perfection. It is often served with creamy gravy and a side of mashed potatoes or cornbread.
Must-Try!
These savory pastries are a nod to the area's German heritage. Bierocks consist of a flavorful filling of ground beef, onions, and cabbage encased in a soft, pillowy dough, and then baked until golden brown.
Hays is known for its finger-licking good barbecue ribs. Slow-cooked to perfection and generously slathered in smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, these ribs are a must-try for meat lovers.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hays better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in downtown Hays, the farmers market offers a vibrant showcase of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local culinary delights. Visitors can sample various homemade treats and engage with the friendly vendors to get a taste of authentic Hays flavors.
Keep an eye out for the regular food truck roundup events in Hays, where a diverse array of mobile eateries gather to offer an eclectic mix of street food offerings. From gourmet tacos to inventive fusion cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hays, it's important to respect people's personal space and not intrude on their physical boundaries.
Being on time is valued in Hays, so it's important to be punctual for meetings and events.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Hays, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hays with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hays
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Hays, United States. It is customary to leave a gratuity of around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
In Hays, United States, payment for goods and services is commonly made using credit or debit cards, cash, or mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hays.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Hays, United States, as the temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The landscape is also vibrant with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Fall is another great time to visit Hays, with pleasant weather and beautiful autumn foliage. The city hosts various fall festivals and events during this season.
Summer in Hays is characterized by hot temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and water sports. It's also a great time to enjoy local fairs and events.
Winter in Hays can be cold, but it offers unique activities such as ice skating, skiing, and snowshoeing. The city also hosts winter events and holiday celebrations.
Hays at Night
Hiking in Hays
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area featuring unique rock formations and beautiful views. The trail is relatively easy and great for all skill levels.
A park with multiple trails winding through scenic landscapes. Ideal for a family outing or a leisurely hike.
Offers trails that allow users to explore the rugged beauty of the prairie and observe local wildlife. It's a great spot for more experienced hikers.
While primarily a wildlife area, there are walking trails available for those interested in hiking and bird watching.
A local trail perfect for hiking and biking, featuring a mix of natural scenery and wildlife opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hays through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hays by plane.
Located approximately 300 miles northeast of Hays, this major airport serves a variety of domestic and international flights.
Situated around 400 miles west of Hays, this is one of the largest airports in the United States and offers extensive flight options.
Located roughly 600 miles southeast of Hays, DFW is a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Approximately 500 miles northeast of Hays, it serves as a regional hub with various domestic flights.
Located about 600 miles east of Hays, STL offers numerous international and domestic travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant demographic group in Hays, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Hays.
A smaller demographic group that adds to the multicultural fabric of the community.
Includes various Asian ethnic groups, contributing to the diversity of the area.
Individuals identifying with two or more races, reflecting increasing diversity.
A small yet important demographic group, representing the indigenous populations.
Includes individuals identifying with races not specifically categorized.
The Soul of Hays
Discover the essence of Hays through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Hays, often played at the high school and college levels, emphasizing teamwork and strategy.
Widely played in schools and local leagues, basketball is a thrilling indoor sport featuring fast-paced action.
A traditional American pastime that enjoys popularity in Hays, with many youth and adult leagues.
Growing in popularity, soccer is played by various age groups and emphasizes skill and teamwork.
This sport includes various events and is popular in local schools, focusing on athleticism and personal bests.
A competitive sport often part of high school athletics, showcasing strength, technique, and discipline.
Played both indoors and on the beach, volleyball is popular among high school and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hays.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Hays cater to vegetarian and vegan diners, offering creative plant-based dishes that showcase the region's fresh produce and culinary innovation. Look out for diverse menus featuring flavorful salads, veggie burgers, and dairy-free delights.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore a range of gluten-free options at various restaurants and cafes in Hays. From gluten-free pizzas and sandwiches to wholesome grain bowls, there are ample choices to accommodate gluten-free diets.