Tucked Between Wichita And Topeka Is Kansas' Charming 'Prairie Chicken Capital Of The World'

At a time when everyone is rushing to some of the world's most sought-after destinations (and overcrowding them in the process), it might be worth taking a step back and adding some of those tiny, unknown gems to your bucket list. The perfect place to start your off-the-beaten-path adventures? Kansas' charming "Prairie Chicken Capital of the World," Cassoday.

The city might be tiny, with a population of just over 100, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to interest and allure, especially for nature-loving travelers. Furthermore, it's not difficult to find. Bigger hubs like Wichita (a place whose largest suburb is its own growing community with a free splash pad and green parks) are just a 50-minute drive away. This means that Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, the nearest major entryway for out-of-staters, is a little over 56 miles away, making transfers a breeze. Sure, there might not be any viable public transportation options, but rentals at the airport start at less than $30 a day.

Generally speaking, most people come to Cassoday by car, by far the most convenient way to explore the city's rustic charms. It might be a small place, but make sure you leave enough time to take in Cassoday's wild charm, complete with the prairie chickens that inspire its moniker and the gorgeous tallgrass prairie preserves of Flint Hills. And while the Kansas gem is a great year-round destination, mid-March through mid-May might be the best time for a trip here, as that's when the birds' mating displays reach their annual peak.

Cassoday gets its one-of-a-kind nickname from being a prime habitat for prairie chickens. Every spring, these birds perform what's called a "booming" ritual, a mating dance that usually takes place at dusk or dawn, where males inflate their orange air sacs and stomp on the ground rhythmically in an effort to attract a mate. And while, unfortunately, the city itself doesn't host viewing festivals, you'll still be able to go on a birdwatching tour yourself if you get the timing right. All the research will be well worth it, though, considering travelers on Reddit have described it as an "incredible breathtaking experience." Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge (55 minutes away from Cassoday) also hosts tours from time to time that include birdwatching opportunities in the area, so don't hesitate to reach out to them for a more organized adventure or if you have any questions about the experience. Just keep in mind that space is limited and reservations have to be made in advance.

A great event that the city does organize (that still allows you to explore the local outdoors) is the Cassoday Bike Run. It's traditionally held on the first Sunday of every month from March through October (peak time for visiting Cassoday), but make sure to check their Facebook page regularly for the latest information. The Bike Run is an all-day event, complete with vendors and fun activities, and you don't have to pay a fee to enter; you just buy what you eat and drink. It's the perfect way to get in touch with your wilder side and connect with the local community, so keep an eye out for updates.

Your experience with the great Cassoday outdoors doesn't end with the bike run. The city is the perfect gateway to the Flint Hills, one of the world's last remaining tallgrass prairies and a rare, breathtaking hilly region in Kansas. If you want to take in as much of the jaw-dropping scenery as possible, we recommend you go on a sunrise or sunset drive through the 47-mile-long Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. You can even stop at the Cottonwood River Bridge and go for a refreshing walk as you take in the picturesque surroundings. There's even a pretty waterfall that adds a layer of wonder to the already-dreamy ambiance.

Another unmissable stop? The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. This 11,000-acre wonder promises everything from historic buildings and a visitor center to some fantastic hiking trails. You'll want to stay vigilant during your visit here, though, since this is a prime bison-watching spot (and here's what to do if you encounter a bison in the wild). The visitor center itself is the perfect place to start your adventure, since the friendly, knowledgeable staff can give you pointers for the day ahead.

Make some time to visit the 1880s Spring Hill Ranch House and barn, too. It makes the experience that much more educational. And while many choose to hike around the preserve at their own pace, be warned that there are many elevation changes, so walking can get tiring. The good news is you can take a tour bus that helps you get to all of the unmissable spots with ease. But while these tours need to be booked in advance and only operate on specific hours, the grounds themselves are open 24/7. And for one last piece of good news: Entrance is free.