Travel Log: Kansas

Perhaps there's no better place to go right now than Kansas, with the weather cooling off (at least in some places) and the summer turning into autumn. And in Kansas, there's plenty to do for the family.

Sure, Kansas City is loaded with culture. There's shopping and arts of different disciplines. There's Jazz music. And yes, there's barbecue.

But the city and the surrounding areas shine when that first layer of entertainment is rolled back, revealing days from the 17th century, remembering the first World War and honoring the work done in the Negro Leagues.

The local culture is also revealed by standing in an open field of flatlands.

Pumpkin Patch -- It's officially autumn now, so a trip to America's heartland wouldn't be complete without jumping in a pumpkin patch. Kansas City boasts two of the best. And while visitors may not be interested in walking away with a homegrown pumpkin, there's more to these patches than harvesting: Go for a hay ride, get lost in a maze or simply enjoy the scenery. Who says it's for the kids?
• Carolyn's Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch
• KC Pumpkin Patch

fanoftheman8 -- I'm not sure what his schedule is that weekend, but if anyone has a chance to see "Fast Johnny Ricker" perform, I guarantee you will NOT be disappointed! That man can absolutely shred a guitar.

MrCrtny07 -- Kansas barbecue is a must. If you're going to have great barbecue then eat at the most famous place in town (not the one by the speedway), go to the legendary Arthur Bryant's on 18th and Brooklyn downtown. It will take about 15 to 20 minutes from the track off I-70 and 18th Street exit. I can promise you the experience is worth it, and the food -- well, bring an empty stomach.

bigjr88fan -- Well, if one wants to take a three-hour drive west, the Russell Stover Candies factory outlet store in Abilene has many great deals on candy, and a demonstration kitchen that shows how candy is made.

Loyalsince03 -- If you really want to eat some good K.C. barbecue, then you need to try Oklahoma Joe's BBQ at 3002 W. 47th Ave., Kansas City, KS 66103. These guys do barbecue like you've never had before!

GreggMinnis -- There are many great things to see in K.C. You have the Legends right across from the speedway. In downtown K.C., the new Sprint Center is now open, where they have the College Basketball Experience. Right across from the Sprint Center is the new Power & Light District.

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Thursday: Mostly sunny with a high of 85 degrees, low of 60
Friday: Sunny with a high of 84 degrees, low of 63
Saturday: Mostly sunny with a high of 85 degrees, low of 61
Sunday: Partly sunny with a high of 77 degrees, low of 58
Complete Forecast

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• Let NASCAR.COM help book your last-minute travel
• Directions and aerial map of Kansas City, Kan.

NASCAR gets back to the South next week with a return trip to Talladega. But what is there to do in Alabama? Share your personal favorites here.