The city of Manhattan was originally founded by settlers from the New England Emigrant Aid Company in the 1850s. This was during the time period known as the "Bleeding Kansas" era when many violent confrontations were happening within Kansas Territory, and Manhattan was founded as a Free-State town. The settlement was first called New Boston, but it was renamed Manhattan on June 29th, 1855. The city was officially incorporated on May 30th, 1857. On February 16th, 1863, the Kansas legislature established Kansas State Agricultural College — which is now Kansas State University — in Manhattan. Present-day Manhattan has a population of around 55,000 and features a distinct college town atmosphere.
Manhattan is home to a charming historic downtown district, many family-friendly attractions, and several beautiful parks. While you're browsing all of the restored 19th-century houses downtown, consider taking some time to explore the Downtown Farmers Market of Manhattan, where you can pick up some wonderful fresh produce. There are a number of unique museums found around the city as well. If you're interested in learning new things and checking out cool exhibits, you'll want to stop by places like the Flint Hills Discovery Center, the Kansas State Insect Zoo, the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, and the Wolf House Museum.
Another spot worth a visit in Manhattan is Sunset Zoo, which is considered one of the best small zoos in the country. If you're looking for an outdoor activity that's a bit more active, you could hike through the picturesque Konza Prairie, enjoy a bike ride on the Linear Park Trail, or spend the day boating and fishing at Tuttle Creek State Park.
If you find yourself in the mood for a drink during your time in the city, you'll have some excellent breweries and wineries to choose from. The Liquid Art Winery and Estate, Little Apple Brewing Company, and the Tallgrass Tap House are all wonderful options worth trying out.
Trunk or Treat - The annual Trunk or Treat event is happening in Manhattan at the end of October. The lively family-friendly festival features lots of candy, food, and games!
Land of Oz Rally - If you're a Wizard of Oz fan, you won't want to miss the annual Land of Oz Rally at the Oz Museum in Wamego. The event takes place at the end of September and will feature lots of memorabilia, music, contests, a beer & wine garden, and much more.
Anime Contest in MHK - Taking place in Manhattan at B&C Dance Co. LLC, the annual Anime Contest in MHK is an awesome event for anyone who enjoys cosplay and anime. The event is happening in mid-July, and admission is $5 for the Dance Party and $10 for the Dance Party and Costume Contest.
Tuttle Creek Lake is a 10,900-acre reservoir located within Tuttle Creek Lake State Park. The placid body of water is an excellent place to spend a day boating or fishing for catfish and flathead fish. If you'd prefer to stay on land, you can check out the archery and gun range, relax on the beach, or make use of the 18-hole disc golf course.
Located near Lawrence, Kansas, Clinton State Park comprises 1,500 acres of crystal-clear water and scenic trails. The scenic park offers great opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking.
Kanopolis State Park is found along the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway and has the honor of being Kansas' first state park. The serene natural area contains rolling hills, bluffs, and woodlands, and visitors can enjoy a variety of fun activities. There are over 30 miles of trails ripe for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and the nearby 3,500-acre lake is perfect for boating and fishing for crappie, catfish, wiper, and walleye.
During your Kansas travels, think about taking some time to check out a few of the state's coolest monuments and landmarks. Just outside of Hanover, Kansas, you can stop by the Hollenberg Pony Express Station, which was a prominent spot for pioneers and mail delivery riders during the 1800s. Today, the historic site features a museum, a visitor center, and a short hiking trail.
If you're in the Kansas City area, you can check out Fort Leavenworth. Fort Leavenworth is the oldest permanent settlement in Kansas, originally opened back in 1827. The site remains an active U.S. Army garrison, but visitors are still welcome to embark on self-guided tours around the premises.
Another landmark you won't want to miss is the Keeper of the Plains, which is located in Wichita. The 44-foot steel structure looks over the area where the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers meet and provides wonderful photo opportunities. The site is also considered to be sacred land by Native Americans.
The greater Manhattan area boasts quite a few quality campgrounds, and one example is West Rolling Hills COE. The scenic campground offers 56 RV campsites available for only $14 per night or $98 per week. There are lots of nearby opportunities for outdoor recreation around the park, such as hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, fishing, boating, and watersports.
You could also camp at the Acorns Resort Cabins and RV Park, where you can rent one of the 61 full-hookup RV campsites for $20 to $35 per night. The campground comes complete with a bar and grill and is located within a short distance of several scenic hiking trails.
Another peaceful campground in the area is Farnum Creek COE, which features 59 RV campsites available for $20 per night. There aren't any RV hookups available, but the campground is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby attractions include a golf course, a fish hatchery, the Milford Nature Center, and Milford Lake.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Manhattan, KS, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Manhattan?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Manhattan from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Manhattan?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.