Things To Do
in Topeka
Topeka is the capital city of the state of Kansas in the United States. With a population of over 125,000 residents, Topeka offers a mix of urban amenities and a laid-back Midwestern lifestyle. The city is known for its historic sites, such as the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, which played a significant role in the civil rights movement.
Topeka also boasts a variety of parks, museums, and cultural attractions for visitors and residents to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Kansas State Capitol, touring the impressive building and taking in the stunning views from the dome. Enjoy a breakfast at a local café nearby to fuel your adventures.
Visit the Topeka Zoo, a beautiful space to see a variety of animals and even interact with some. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local dishes.
Wind down at Lake Shawnee, where you can stroll along the water and enjoy the sunset. Consider a casual dinner at a lakeside restaurant for a relaxing end to your day.
Begin with a walk or bike ride in the scenic Topeka Parks system, enjoying the fresh air and flora. After your workout, have a hearty breakfast at a popular diner.
Head to the Kansas Museum of History to learn about the state's historical context and see fascinating exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a café inside the museum or nearby.
Explore the vibrant arts district for galleries showcasing local artists. Finish your day with dinner at a trendy bistro.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to many larger cities
- Access to good educational institutions, including Washburn University
- Rich history and cultural attractions, including museums and historical sites
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents
- Close proximity to nature and outdoor recreation areas
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Public transportation options may be lacking
- The climate can be hot and humid in the summer
- Potential for higher crime rates in certain neighborhoods
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas
Best Activities in Topeka
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history and culture of Kansas through interactive exhibits and outdoor installations.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, walking trails, and the beautiful rose garden.
Engage in fishing, boating, or have a leisurely walk around the lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Topeka with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Topeka
Visit one of these nice places.
The top of the capitol building offers stunning panoramic views of the city of Topeka.
This scenic lake offers beautiful views and opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Gage Park features several picturesque spots including a rose garden, train garden, and beautiful landscapes.
Food in Topeka
Topeka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender and succulent ribs, slow-cooked to perfection with a signature blend of spices and homemade BBQ sauce. A must-try local favorite.
Must-Try!
A classic comfort food dish featuring a tenderized beef steak coated in seasoned flour and fried to a crisp golden brown, typically served with creamy gravy.
This hearty, savory pastry filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and cabbage reflects Topeka's immigrant heritage and is a beloved local treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub of local produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food. Visitors can savor a variety of dishes, from gourmet tacos to fresh smoothies, offered by different vendors.
An excellent spot to experience Topeka's street food culture, offering an array of enticing options, including corn dogs, funnel cakes, and kettle corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Tipping is customary in Topeka, United States. It is expected to leave a gratuity of 15-20% in restaurants and for services such as haircuts, taxis, and hotel maids.
Politeness is highly valued in Topeka. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and to show respect towards others, especially elders.
Respecting personal space is important in Topeka. It is customary to maintain a reasonable distance from others in public settings and to ask for permission before entering someone's personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Topeka
Ensure a smooth experience
In Topeka, tipping is customary in the service industry, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxis. It is expected to leave a gratuity of 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Topeka is typically done using cash, credit/debit cards, or digital payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and cash is also widely used for transactions. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Topeka is during spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Expect pleasant temperatures and various outdoor events and activities.
Summer, from June to August, brings warmer temperatures and longer days, making it a great time for outdoor recreation and festivals. Expect hot and humid weather, so be prepared for the heat.
Fall, from September to November, offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions. Expect colorful landscapes and seasonal events.
Winter, from December to February, can be cold and snowy in Topeka. However, it's a great time to experience holiday festivities and indoor cultural activities. Expect chilly weather and potential snowfall.
Topeka at Night
Hiking in Topeka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with multiple trails around the lake, offering both short and long hiking options along beautiful water views.
A trail that winds through wooded areas, providing a peaceful hiking experience while being close to the city.
This trail features a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, perfect for a family hike or a leisurely walk.
Although primarily a mountain biking area, there are hiking trails that offer a different perspective of the park.
A trail that runs along the Kansas River, providing a scenic route for hikers with views of the river and wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Topeka by plane.
Located approximately 60 miles northeast of Topeka, MCI is the largest airport in the region serving numerous international and domestic flights.
About 140 miles southwest of Topeka, ICT is the primary airport serving the Wichita metropolitan area and offers a variety of domestic flights.
Approximately 230 miles east of Topeka, STL is one of the major airports in the Midwest, providing extensive domestic and international services.
Located about 190 miles northeast of Topeka, OMA serves the Omaha metropolitan area and offers various international and domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents the largest demographic segment, encompassing individuals of European descent.
This demographic includes individuals of African descent, contributing significantly to the cultural fabric of Topeka.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, representing a growing population in the area.
This demographic includes individuals of Asian descent, encompassing various nationalities and ethnicities.
This group includes individuals of indigenous origin from the Americas, representing the original inhabitants of the region.
This category represents individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds.
This includes individuals who do not fit into the other specified racial categories, often representing unique ethnicities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among high school and college students, with the Topeka High School football team being one of the notable teams in the area.
Widely played in schools and recreational leagues, attracting significant community support during games.
Enjoyed at both the youth and adult levels, with local teams participating in various leagues throughout the summer.
Growing in popularity among youth, with various clubs and leagues for children and adults.
Commonly played in schools and community centers, with many girls' teams competing at the high school level.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Topeka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Topeka's culinary scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants offer plant-based alternatives and creative meatless dishes to cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find specialized menus and gluten-free options at various dining establishments across Topeka, ensuring they can enjoy the local cuisine without any concerns.