12 Pros and Cons of Living in Kansas

[@johnbersuch1767]

A pro that I would like to add is the clean air! Could be related to the wind but for the most part Kansas has the cleanest air in the country. Thanks

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Good point except when they do some burning (which I know is necessary)

[@Pickle_Zero]

After 3 decades in Denver I just cannot get enough of that fresh air and blue sky since I moved here!

[@johnbersuch1767]

@@TravelwithaWiseguy Thank You

[@larryprobus3263]

Western Kansas air full of cow n bull sheet aroma ..

[@johnbersuch1767]

@@larryprobus3263 😂

[@jeffsmith846]

New to Kansas four years ago to be near grandkids. Overland Park has miles of walking trails and lots of other amenities due to the tax base. There is always something to do. The smaller towns in Kansas are usually clean and tidy with little crime.

[@RickPatton-rz1pq]

Kansas has the best sunrises and sunsets! The people are generally very friendly, and they will show up with open arms to help in any crisis.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

For sure! Good to hear from you Rick!

[@KS5040]

The people are mostly unfriendly in Kansas, cliquish and despising of doing anything differently.

[@colingeorgeh]

I’ve lived in three countries and three states and I settled in Kansas due to it being so laid back. The people are real. Great people live here. I always love your Kansas videos and I love this channel. Thanks.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Well said! Thanks!

[@spooney64]

I have been following you for quite a while. Really like your content. Please carry on.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks for the continued support!

[@martin1b]

Thanks for pronouncing the river name correctly.. agreed, we get all seasons. Great place to raise a family.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

You bet!

[@Eric_Schon]

I laughed when i heard him pronounce it that way. Him not being native and all. He definitely knew we would razz him for that. The state is the only thing i pronounce Arkansaw. Heck even people from there call themselves Ar Kansans.

[@MEANLILSHT]

But the problem is, you can get all the seasons in the same week.

[@DerekWitt]

@@Eric_Schon I went to Hot Springs last year. When at a gas station in Fort Smith, I had to stop and think of how to refer to the river bridge (which was a hot mess at the time). LOL

[@DerekWitt]

@@MEANLILSHT Or on the same day!

[@SusanHL]

Congratulations on #300!! I agree with your list, especially the part about the landscape / terrain. As a proud Kansas native, I can tell you that towatd the end of my ten years in Louisiana, where everything is so lush and overgrown (and beautiful in its own way), my eyes were hungry for the wide- open spaces Kansas offers in abundance. Excellent point about healthcare access. Great video as always, and will be exciting to see what the future brings for your channel - may your views and subs fly even higher than your drone!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks so much Susan! I always appreciate your support 😊

[@johnbatliner827]

We think it is awesome that you are showing us parts of Kansas we never knew existed And now when we go to Manhattan, Wichita and any other destination in Kansas we take back roads and side highways to travel back home to explore and gain knowledge of the beauty of rural Kansas Thank you What you do is so inspiring to those who watch to get out of their comfort zone and see our small part of the USA

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Wow that’s such a nice comment! Glad you are able to get some of the same enjoyment I do! Awesome 😊

[@troyjenkins2332]

I always hated the wind when growing up there many years ago. I also hated all the small towns as it seemed boring. And the terrain was so flat. Now that I live in the Dallas area and am nearing retirement I really long for that small town life again.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks Troy 😊

[@deborahross9974]

Come on back. The more the merrier. Been in Kansas all my life and wouldn't move to anywhere else. God bless.

[@rebeccafreeman6302]

But the wind is still blowing. 😂

[@michaelgraves5188]

Congrats on 300 videos! I’m a transplant myself, from Columbus Ohio. I came to Overland Park after the flood of ‘92. We love it! I appreciate your hard work and “Love”for our great state.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

That is awesome! Thanks!

[@annettemixon1264]

Being from Denmark and have found Ks has a lot in common with Denmark. The slower pace of life, flat land same winter but a lot warmer in the summer, just to name a few.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Interesting 🤔

[@odiebryer2144]

This Wichitan saw the word "Kansas" in the title and knew I needed to check it out! The Keeper ofI 12:09 the Plains is one of my favorite places on earth. I actually knew Blackbear Bosin a bit! It was before the statue was erected, Blackbear was a customer at the place I worked. It was out at the airport, Blackbear was taking flying ✈️ lessons and I was the person who kept the records for the FAA. ❤ I actually met several famous people out there . . . the Governor of Kansas, Wayne Newton, Blackbear Bosin, among others. Fun times! ❤😂

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Awesome story!

[@aliceevans3357]

We live in Northeast Oklahoma but we enjoy taking jaunts to Kansas. Nice open spaces where you can enjoy the journey and the views. There are a couple of great restaurants we drive all the way to every so often. Yes the people in Kansas are nice, we enjoy chatting with folks during our visit. I really enjoy your jaunts and discoveries as well. Congratulations on 300 videos 🎉 As I've stated before you really should have 5X the subscribers! I'm believing you will in the near future. Thank you for working so hard to bring us these fun videos, I look forward to them. May GOD richly bless you and keep you safe

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Much too kind 😊 thank you and same to you!

[@roberteshaw9520]

Hey Coach. Congrats on 300.Good list.Pros and cons is objective . I still have some of my track stuff from school and now that I'm old , it means even more, although the 9.9s don't fit anymore,they are hanging on my living room wall with some other important stuff. Your videos are not overly long and fairly content rich. It's good for me to see places I probably won't get to. Thanks.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you! I appreciate the support and comments!!

[@rosiemcnaughton9933]

This is a beautiful place that you are showing. Looks like a lot of people enjoy it. The Keeper of the Plains display is awesome. Looks like a great city. Congrats on your 300th episode. Carry on....😊

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks for watching!

[@kgsherwood7950]

Congratulations on 300! Your list is spot on. We enjoy your videos very much and as fellow KS ghost town explorers have gotten great ideas for our excursions from your travels. Cowley County is rich with them and history. Have a great summer! #onceaShocker…

[@five3red]

Born & raised in Kansas, spent 3 1/2 years in Arizona. Winters are my struggle with Kansas weather. The people here are truly a pro and we don't have air pollution alerts in Kansas. So happy to be home!

[@0dea663]

It feels super weird to get recommended this video I actually walk in a loop in this exact area everyday. I work at one of the buildings along the river. Great filming!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

KZbin knows 👀

[@juanitagarcia958]

Congrats on #300! I hope you have many, many more. This is a beautiful location for the video 😍 And the drone shots are top-notch as usual. I'm a Texas girl, so I can't comment much on your list except to say that's a lot of Pros in my opinion 😊

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks so much! 😊 it’s been a fun journey. Here’s to 300 more 😬

[@rickfowler273]

I’ve lived in Abilene and Salina for all my life. I’m 31 now and I just work and ride my motorcycles and sleep. It’s probly nice being in a different landscape but nothing compares to regular Kansas life.

[@philwhite5815]

Proud native kansan here. 49 years and counting

[@yuzuruotonashi659]

So weird to be proud of something you didn't accomplish, just a fact of your birth

[@glenchapman3899]

I immigrated to Kansas 15 years ago from Australia. I have never regretted that decision for a second over that 15 years. There is this odd sense of common sense I see in Kansans everyday. I dont know why, but it does help the state avoid a lot of the conflicts and crisis that seems to envelop other parts of the country.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

😊♥️🌾

[@louispaparella5766]

Lived in Wichita from 64-79. The Public TV Station used to have a yearly auction of donated items as a fund raiser. I scored a beautiful painting by Blackbear Bosin. My son now enjoys it at his home in Ft. Smith. We enjoyed our life in the Air Capital!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Nice!

[@bertholini2810]

Well said. And yes, you do a very good job. Thank you for posting, be good, be safe !! I will say it again.... 85 percent of the grass in my yard is not grass..... it's weeds.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you 😊

[@johnkessler9878]

I grew up in a military family and lived all over the world. Moved to Kansas as a young adult and have been pretty satisfied. Some of the things you didn’t mention is Kansas is a hub for small aircraft, owning horses is fairly cheap, and there are softball teams everywhere. The fishing is good and so is hunting. Lots to do here and not that expensive.

[@vickigraves8597]

The big sky is, in my opinion, the best feature. I also think the central location makes it a good place to be based if you like to travel. I lived there for the first 36 years of my life and I do miss the friendliness. As for the winds....y'all got nothing on Christmas Valley Oregon! Lol.

[@TheRogerhill1234]

Kansas is SO long, the environment and weather patterns are notably varied across the state.

[@deborahross9974]

I've lived in Kansas my whole life (74 yrs young). Lived in Johnson County till 1990 then moved to Linn County been here a long time (34 yrs last mon). Thankfully I'm very healthy and don't need medical care as some do. I loved your walk around the park. The Keeper of the flames was great art work. The Canada geese with young at the end was cool as I like them. You sure have a great park in Wichita. Only twice have I ever been in Wichita was to visit relatives. The other time was with a friend and we stayed with some of her relatives. Boy howdy those times were so long ago I barely remember them. I love it when you show an area with your drone as the landscapes are great, makes me want to travel again which I get to do watching your videos. Gosh has it been 300 already? Well here's to another 300 and I'd like to see more of Wichita since this time of year is so busy for you. The one with the ghost shopping mall was pretty good. This is getting kinda long so I will stop for now. Happy trails to you and God bless.

[@toddcunningham3213]

Not trying to sound condescending, but how is it even possible that you are a 74 year old, lifetime resident of Kansas...and have only been to Wichita twice? I grew up in South Central Kansas, my ex-wife is from Linn County, and I have relatives all over the state, but have lived in the Johnson/Miami County area for 30 years now. I know that there is this "the world ends once you pass Lawrence" attitude up here, but twice?? I have been there 3 times in the past 2 weeks, just going to music and athletic events for my kids. And, they all go, or went to school in Louisburg. Again, not trying to sound rude. I have just always found it fascinating how little people in Northeast Kansas know about their own state.

[@deborahross9974]

@@toddcunningham3213 It's called not be able to afford to travel everywhere I would like to go. I have traveled to several other states but that was many years ago. My family and I used to vacation in Roaring River State Park Mo during the summer. I was a child then and one year we also went to Yellowstone one summer, I was still a child. Then in March of 1979 my Mother and I went to California. In the fall of that year we went to Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Next year my Mother and Father and I went to Southern Texas near Corpus Christi and camped in North Padre Island which at that time was undeveloped. Since then about the only place I've visited was Branson Mo to visit my brother and niece and her family on and off for about three years. Finally they all moved back to Paola Ks and my brother and I live together in LaCygne. I lost my Mother, Father and younger sister. The reason I visited Wichita a couple of times was that my aunt and uncle moved to Beloit KS. My friend had gone to find a job in Wichita but didn't. And now you know why. God bless.

[@jamespatrick8551]

Good morning John! We still watch your videos on Sunday mornings while having breakfast. We really enjoy your videos as you take us to places we haven't been to. The county videos have been great! Keep up the wonderful work you do and be safe on your travels.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Awesome! Thank you! I really appreciate it 😊

[@valhightower7618]

Congratulations on episode 300! I really enjoy your channel.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Awesome! Thank you! 😊

[@chrisnasser4533]

Wise Guy, I would like to thank you as well for making this channel! All of your videos are terrific! I am excited to see how the channel changes over time as you get to 400 videos, 500 videos and beyond! Here's the best tip of the day: Travel With A Wise Guy!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Much appreciated!!

[@jerryhorton5708]

Proud Kansan - born, raised, and lived nearly all my life here. Much to recommend living and raising families here.

[@fnd111]

Are we living in the same place? The people here are nasty, indifferent, and are very inconsiderate of their neighbors. I had two barking dogs next to me. One went on for 23 months, the other for 7 months. The WPD and animal control did nothing! Their attitude was ''how dare you complain about my barking dog!'' Let me tell you I grew up in New Jersey, and the people here are worse. Much worse. That is saying something! And before you start typing ''why don't you go back where you came from,'' I can tell you that is the reply I get from EVERONE here when I try to ask for civility or improvement. Awful place.

[@jerryhorton5708]

@@fnd111 Well, first let me say that I am sorry that you seem to have had bad experiences. Myself, I've not spent time in New Jersey, so I have no basis for comparison there but I have spent a great deal of time in various states and regions across the country and what I've found is this - most people in most places are decent, hard working folks who are polite and friendly. The only places I've been where a fair amount of people who aren't enjoyable to be around are cities which are seats of government - too many folks with too much self-importance. I've lived the bulk of my life in Kansas. Have I found some despicable people? Sure. Bad people with bad attitudes are everywhere, but they are the rare exception, not the rule. What I will tell you is this - perhaps you might want to look at your own part in these unpleasant interactions. I'm not at all saying you are a bad person; merely, that if you are consistently experiencing interactions that aren't to your liking, the only common factor to them is yourself. Hey, I've been that guy before myself, so I get it. God bless and hope you have a better week!

[@gretai7535]

I live in Humboldt and I love this small town. If you haven't visited it yet you should.

[@robertbenson9797]

Great points, both ways. As a Nebraskan, I would say all of your points about Kansas are also true for Nebraska. The wind takes some getting used to. Being a transplanted Missourian, I couldn’t believe how windy it is. Someone told me, “ The wind stopped blowing once and everyone fell down!” I am looking forward to your new videos.

[@grumpycyclist3319]

Im a Kansas native who lives in NE. The taxes here are obscene. And when you cross the state line into Kansas the roads are instantly perfect.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Hahaha!

[@DerekWitt]

@@grumpycyclist3319 same with the roads in Missouri vs Kansas.

[@Pickle_Zero]

Obviously I didn’t move here from Colorado for the view… but the cost of living made retirement possible. I Love Lenexa ❤

[@KS5040]

Lenexa is not cheap at all, and it is very overcrowded there with bad traffic on the interstates.

[@TG-fq6vy]

I could never leave Colorado for Kansas

[@Pickle_Zero]

@ it’s okay…. People are nice, I feel safe, and really I’m too damn old to be on the slopes snowboarding anymore. I’d break a hip 🤷🏻‍♀️For my own safety Kansas is probably best 😆

[@Pickle_Zero]

@@KS5040 after the suffocating cost of living in Denver, Lenexa is much more affordable! I’m sure it’s not the cheapest around but as a retiree I really like it here.

[@justnerdystuff]

For me, this is a beautiful/sad video. My heart is still heavy for a friend's son who I watched grow up, who lived in Wichita but was recently killed in an accident - he was that young man who was a construction worker on that Hwy in Oklahoma just outside of Witchita KS, Jacob Matuszczak. But it is beautiful to see where he had just moved to start his own adult life. Thank you for showing the beauty of Wichita.

[@hikergirly]

So sorry for your loss…

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Sorry to hear about that 😔

[@bobbydale1957]

Your channel is one of my favorite travel channels. Never been to Kansas but I will get there one day!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Please do! It’s a great state!

[@randyhoneycutt8153]

I’ve been to Wichita and a lot of other places in Kansas many, many times, and you are so right about the people and the golf courses. Most everyone is friendly and accommodating. I have several lifelong friends from Kansas and cherish their friendship. I look forward to your videos, keep them coming.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you Randy! Much appreciated!

[@DerekWitt]

@@randyhoneycutt8153 wish we could say the same thing about Stoneridge in Great Bend. That old course is in a sad state of affairs. :(

[@thoward4051]

The one thing that milder climates can’t replace is the pride that is so visible in small midwestern states like Kansas. It’s noticeable the moment you cross the state line, and it speaks volumes for not only their current residents, but their ancestors/predecessors as well. The people of Kansas have tremendous character, whether they’re aware of it or not, and they’re the envy of many Americans.

[@fnd111]

When I cross the state line from Colorado to Kansas, I do notice something. The people in Colorado are friendly, polite, helpful, and very open-minded. The people in Kansas are nasty, indifferent, rude, and very inconsiderate. The envy of many Americans? Really? Kansas has been losing people since 1948. It had 10 electoral votes in 1948, now it has 6. In 1948 Colorado had 6 electoral votes - now it has 10. What does that tell you? People do not leave a place that is envied - they go to it. I am from New Jersey and let me tell you the people in Kansas are worse - MUCH WORSE. That is really saying something! Before you tell me to ''go back to where you came from" I just saved you the trouble. I have heard this many times. I'm stuck here, for now.

[@pavlos413]

I moved here from NYC with my wife 7 years ago. I love that my little child gets to grow up in her own home and we're not stuck in an apartment our whole life. It's safe, affordable, quiet and peaceful here in the western side. Colorado is nearby for adventures, Texas and Oklahoma too. I also don't mind driving here because there's almost no traffic. The only hassle is waiting for shipping when I order online and i guess cities not being nearby. But most of my neighbors are very nice.

[@edstipp9687]

Illo9

[@805paulwatson]

Congrats on 300.. thank you for all your hard work.. we enjoy your videos very much

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you so much!

[@andrewwebb17]

Well congratulations on the 300th episode John. I started watching back on the route 66 series and have watched ever since. Job well done

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you for the support from all the way back til now!

[@ArmyVetTrumpGrl]

New sub here born in KY, raised in TN, Central Florida and back again. After joining the Army and seeing a bit of the world and living in Germany, came back home to KY. 27 years ago, my pops and I moved out here to be closer to my baby brother, who was stationed at Ft Riley. Years later, I moved to Washington State and absolutely HATED it! After a month, came back to KS. Met my hubby and moved to Italy for about 4 years as he is Italian. in 2017, we came back to KS. Had an op to buy a house bk home in KY close to where I grew up in Owensboro. It was NOTHING like I remembered,,,,full of desolation, meth and dead prospects. We sold our house after 2 years and bought our home here in beautiful Clay Center. We could not be happier! This little town is gorgeous, full of prospects for the kids, plenty to do, amazing townsfolk and so SAFE! Kids still ride bikes here til streetlights come on and no one bothers them! Once you experience a bit of the world, you find true gems still exist like Kansas.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@chriscosby2459]

Congratulations on the 300th video. I have enjoyed your videos very much. I found it interesting that you are going explore new areas in the future. I am eagerly awaiting ghost towns of Paraguay. LOL

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Oh my I’d love to go there for sure 😊

[@edinop4205]

Congratulations on number 300! I came across your videos here, during the "pandemic" in '21. You gave a tour of Madison and I was hooked. Made some great points on Kansas, maybe you decided to skip the Kansas saying "If you don't like the weather here, wait. It'll change". Lived in Kansas my whole life, grew up on a farm, had the great experience of going to school in two small towns, knowing the kids you were growing up with from gradeshool to graduation, and just living in a place where everyone knew what happened to you, before you were told. Keep'em coming Wiseguy. It's a good thing your doing!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you!! 😊

[@Kilonovae]

A con for me - Doctors. If you have a condition that requires a specialist, youre probably going to end up driving to KC/Overland Park area if you dont already live there.

[@purplesprigs]

Never been to Wichita? You could not name a specialty that is not well covered in Wichita. Crazy comment.

[@Mikell-h2c]

I live in Upstate New York and a friend goes to Kanas for deer hunting he loves it

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Definitely a good place for that!

[@DerekWitt]

@@Mikell-h2c hopefully he gets a chance to go to Cheyenne Bottoms to hunt. :)

[@undergod1987]

Grew up here in the center fo Kansas. Loved I KC for 3 years.. Came back... Won't leave. Grew up. On the farm can't think of Living anywhere els.

[@fusionsigh]

I always love seeing my fellow Kansans on here

[@DerekWitt]

I lived in Kansas my whole life. I grew up mostly in Great Bend. The weather is definitely interesting. I remember the 1981 flood in GB. My grandparents were quite lucky. We only had about a foot of water in our basement. I have seen photos of people in boats and fish just swimming in the streets. Lots of historical sites to visit. Fort Larned is quite the sight for those interested in Civil War-era forts. It's about 6 miles west of Larned (in central Kansas) on K-156. Ellinwood (8 miles east of Great Bend) has a tunnel with a restored barber shop and a general store underneath the white building on the NW corner of Santa Fe (US 56/K-96)and Main Streets. The Wolf Hotel is another well known one across the street. Great Bend has a few places too. Jack Kilby Square (at the Barton County Courthouse) honors Dr. Kilby. He was one of the co-inventers of the integrated circuit. The Square has a statue of him. The commons area of Great Bend High School is also named in his honor. The Crest Theater (just south of the Courthouse near Lakin and Kansas) is an Art Deco theater that used to be a movie theater until the early '90s. I remember going to see Rocky IV and Gremlins at the Crest as a kid. It now has plays and musicals. The neon marquee is a sight to behold when lit up at night. There are several bronze statues scatttered through downtown GB, including one of an elderly couple seated on a park bench. For years, the National Hot Rod Association had races at the drag strip near the Great Bend Airport west of town. I wish the drag strip would reopen. Great Bend was also the boyhood home of the first successful black film director/producer, Oscar Micheaux. Micheaux is buried at Great Bend Cemetery. The History museum is just south of the Arkansas River on US 281. It has several preserved buildings and exhibits. And of course, there's the Great Bend Zoo. I still call it Brit Spaugh Zoo though. Has quite a few exhibits, like large animals, repitles, birds, etc. That's just a small sample of Kansas places. :)

[@jillv4006]

I’ve lived in Kansas all my life and no, we never get used to the wind. But one nice thing about Kansas is we’re definitely not overcrowded. We are proud of our state but in a more humble way about it. And we have the best sunsets! (BTW, you may have lots of places to eat but out here in Western Kansas we definitely live in a food desert. For instance, want a coconut?….we have to drive 60 miles for one.)

[@DerekWitt]

@@jillv4006 a running gag in Great Bend: with the right wind, you can smell all 5 feedlots! lol! The smell of money as my grandfather would say. :)

[@jillv4006]

@@DerekWitt lol my dad always said that, too.

[@KS5040]

Johnson County is ridiculously overcrowded with very high cost of houses and taxes.

[@jillv4006]

@ yes I live in a western Kansas county and we have what I think is the highest property tax rate in the state. But at least we’re not overcrowded out here. lol

[@jillv4006]

@ so sorry. Shame you can’t move to a less populated county

[@lingerlonger]

Nice park. Thanks. I enjoy reading your newsletter.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Glad you enjoy it! Thanks!

[@dochubbell]

Good points made and accurate too. Lved in Kansas since 1968. You did not mention that Kansas is part of tornado ally. The closest I have been to a tornado is about two miles, and it became an F5, doing lots of damage in the surrounding area. Lots of wind yes, but I think Nebraska is windier over all in my opnion. There are the fields of sunflowers to be seen in the fall. I did not know that the snflowers themselves turn with the sun and follow it throughout the day.

[@pamelacrowe4971]

I have never been to Kansas. I live right here in Missouri. I should go sometime to visit. Thanks for all your videos. I watch them all. Be safe out there.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

It’s a nice place to visit - thank you! 😊

[@sandywetzel3383]

Another pro for me is the wide open spaces, especially in western Kansas and the fact there are fewer people. Being from north central Ohio every summer we are dealing with all the Cedar Point traffic.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Agreed 👍🏼

[@olarichardson1385]

I grew up in Clearwater. After my husband I were married he joined the military. He is in his last two years of service till he retires. The thing I love the most about Kansas is the people and the summer storms that move through. My family has lived in Kansas from before statehood. I am a glad to say I grew up there and cannot wait for our return!! I

[@oni5230]

Good list and quite accurate. Unless you're in the very northeast corner of the state, you'll be in for a rural experience.

[@dolfinwriter5389]

No place like home! Born and raised in a small town. Joined the Navy after HS, and then moved back 41 yrs later to be closer to my elderly dad. We don't get the heavy snows that we did when I was a kid. But still a lot of snow and bitterly cold. Summers can be brutally hot. I think I had forgotten how windy it is! After 27 years in the San Diego area, I am so glad to be away from freeways and the idiotic drivers doing stupid sh-t because they're in such a hurry. We're in our 60s now and really sick of the big city rat race, and enjoying the slower pace of life here. Cost of living--sold our 3 bdrm house in SoCal in 2021 and bought a 4 bdrm house here on 1/2 acre lot, and we could have bought THREE of them with what our SoCal house sold for. Property Tax and insurance are 1/2 as much here. Costs hell as much to heart as and cool larger house. Just filled up my truck today at $2.54 a gallon. We buy a whole hog and a side of beef every year butchered from local farmers and have two freezers in the garage. Cheaper than store bought, and we know it didn't come from Mexico or China. Doing a lot of renovations on the house and sometimes have to drive 10 miles and sometimes 25 miles to get materials not available in this town. But we have just about everything else within a couple blocks---dentist, doctors and hospital right down the street, Walmart, Dillon's grocery store, credit Union... And we're right off of the interstate. Lots of places to go fishing or swimming and boating. I still need to look more into places to go hunting. Wife was born and raised in California-- city girl but loves outdoors and the beach. But she really likes it here. We're here at least while my dad is still with us, and we haven't talked much about moving elsewhere any time soon. I have aunt's, uncles and cousins here, and my mom lives a few hours away. With all the political strife going on right now in states like California and in large cities all over, I'd rather be here right now.

[@Partzman23]

Congratulations on your 300 th episode. 👍 Have enjoyed your videos for awhile now and you never let me down. Your video is always entertaining and informative at the same time. 😀 Keep up the good videos Drive safe and God Bless

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you very much!

[@sueelliott3206]

Wow! Such a neat video. The walking/bike path is so pretty and peaceful. The river is beautiful. I would drive down there just to walk that path! Congratulations on 300 awesome videos!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you! It’s definitely a busy place for doing exactly that!

[@cowboydiecastracing]

Great video as always brother! Congrats on 300 videos! I have lived in Kansas all my life! Live in a small town and love it! Not a big city person at all! My wife, my son and I love going on lil day trips to other small towns in Kansas and checking out history and and finding Ghost towns! Have a blessed day!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you so much! Awesome that you enjoy some of those trips too!

[@Mr62biscayne]

Cost of living was a major factor in deciding to retire here. After living in Los Angeles and Dallas I like the slow pace and the weather is a decent compromise between the heat of Texas and the cold of Canada where I grew up.

[@cliffo7702]

Friendly people, small towns, golf, and wind. That's Kansas.😂

[@GGBPH]

That’s is awesome of you. Thank you for showing the other parts of Kansas. I believe I have seen you where I was working.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Next time say hey 👋🏼 😊

[@josephhoener5764]

I knew right away you know your stuff when you called it the ArKANSAS River!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

😂😂

[@lynnbehnke6910]

As a native Wichitan, I enjoyed the walk. I would mention the fact that we are the air capital of the world, and that our Zoo always ranks within the top 12 in the nation. It would be nice if closed captioning spelled Wichita correctly. There's no place like home.

[@PeteDriver530]

Great video! born and raised in Wichita, still live in the same neighborhood I grew up in. spent 12 years driving trucks all over the country, been a lot of places I liked visiting but this is home. all your points were pretty much spot on. we lack a few things but have some unique qualities as well, Kansas is a good place to be.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Very cool! Thank you!!

[@JimHamilton-q1s]

Great thoughts here John. I moved to Wichita in the early 1980s when I got my first job with Boeing after graduating from college in Indiana. If you grew up in the Indiana-Ohio area when you felt the wind blowing it meant a storm was coming. I later realized in Kansas the wind would blow day or night and it was not necessarily related to an oncoming storm. When I moved there, I met many great people who became lifelong friends. The women I met were beautiful including my wife of now 34 years her family is all from the Russell area. Wilson lake is really a gorgeous place.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Great comment! Thanks!

[@aliceevans3357]

It's Wise to hit that LIKE button!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Yes! 😂😂

[@eddie8279]

I had the privledge to visit kansas oct of 23 and was pleasntly suprised. we passed up thru the middle eastern part then over to Topeka,all on roads like you travel. Very enjoyable trip and met many friendly people.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Very cool! 😎

[@DavidsExecutiveTouch17]

Excellent video as always John. We spent 11 years there from 96-07 & then moved back home to our current area to enjoy a markedly lower cost of living. Glad to see you post this, we need to drive up and walk the area around Keeper of The Plains & Old Cowtown to see the latest improvements. It's crazy, because my first, real "long term" (1.5 years) job in that city was about 5 blocks from there at Joe's Car Wash..... Fast paced, fun times, but reality showed that living there could become expensive quickly if 1 didn't pay attention. Until the next time my Friend, stay safe and Be Blessed & keep up the good work!!👍

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks! It’s a nice place to visit. Joe’s was a good place to go!

[@mmess8585]

Very nicely done! I have a nephew who's in track at WSU!! He has loved being there!!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Very cool!😎

[@whatsmyname3237]

Very nice point-of-view walkaround. Thanks, Wiseguy.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you! Beautiful little area to take a walk!

[@J8hwk-R8dr]

Wichita. I Will be back home to visit someday...

[@kd5inm]

Good video there Mr Wise!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you kindly!

[@kensterling8628]

Another Great Show. I'd love to move there(from Dayton, Oh). Big Cities, Nightlife...Big Problems! Great to see middle of America highlighted, I see lots of potential in small towns, ghost town, and great scenery. I've enjoyed yt "Grand Adventures" for his wandering around middle America. "Through My Lens" seems to be about schtick with Pops. He worked for California to do promotional stuff for the state. Since you work for Kansas, maybe put something together for their CVB, Witchita? WSU? I was working with an owner of a mid size company from Central Mexico, where we bought their equipment. He was staying in a small town in western Ohio. He watching a group of 6 boys horsing around (about 10 yrs old) in the middle of the small town, one early evening. They worked their way to the local ice cream stand. All having a good time. Well behaved. He remembered his youth when he was like that. Not now, he would not let his Grandchildren go out, walk around, meet up with their buddies. Central Mexico, all of Mexico, we can't do that. He was jealous of what we have. The unrealized feature of being safe. He was saddened to see what has been lost to this generation. Keep showing us how things were. It's quietly impressive. Anything coming up on history of Bleeding Kansas? Just some more thoughts.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks so much for the message! I did a few things on Bleeding KS last year in Linn County. No plans for more yet but I’d like to! Haven’t thought about doing any promotions.

[@purpleku7768]

Lifelong Wichitan, in high school when The Keeper was made.

[@louiscurtis9700]

John I really enjoy your content, congratulations on #300! Just joined your newsletter, I've been watching you since 2021. I was born & raised in Wichita, have been living in Lenexa since 1995 - but still get back to Wichita once a month to see grandkids etc. GO SHOCKERS! It's nice to see a transplant from Ohio enjoying Kansas (Ohio is a very nice state, 10 million people in 46,000 square miles - Kansas has 3 million in 82,000 square miles) I used to travel all over Ohio (and many other states) for business. Yes Kansas people are very affable and we enjoy showing off our state, the sunrises & sunsets are the best! Thank you for the job you are doing, very rich & concise content, the videos are worth watching, I shared your Woodson County video with a family that grew up in Piqua. The gentlemens name is Fred Kipp - look him up, it's a great baseball story (he is one of only a few players who played for the Brooklyn & LA Dodgers back in the 50's). God Bless your efforts, stay safe John!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you very much! I enjoyed living in both Kansas and Ohio - I feel part of both states at this point. I appreciate the support and kind message!

[@free29045]

I saw your tour of Lincoln Kansas while scrolling through Google! Enjoyed watching!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you 😊

[@almostcrushed7642]

I love ❤️ Kansas!! Ive lived here all of my life. #KeeperofthePlains ❤️ #AhhhKansas!! ♥️

[@simonagree4070]

Good to know. I was born in Wichita, and I'm thinking about moving back to Kansas (Lawrence). Retirement isn't for the timid. I can attest to the excellent golfing -- half my grandparents were lifelong golfers (Salina).

[@a075923]

Congratulations on the milestone!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you so much!

[@SamanthaTull]

My favorite pro…the sunrises and sunsets.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Absolutely 😍

[@briebel2684]

As you were saying, the weather can get pretty wild in April-June and then again in August-September. Woke up late / super early to check the forecast, like it's going to be a wild weather Monday. Stay safe, everyone.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

For sure! I’ve gotten used to it but it can be tough for some people!

[@lifewithjosef]

My brother observed that he could ride in any direction for a couple of days and not be riding on the same roads. We grew up in the Oakland CA area, and the Pacific kind of ends when one heads west. My first time in Kansas, I got the one finger (no, not THAT finger) wave from the steering wheel as soon as I got off the Interstate. I felt welcomed all over the state. My SIL grew up in rural Kansas, and her biggest negative was that everyone in town knew your business. And, the weather. As a California raised guy, it's an interesting experience knowing where the tornado shelter is, and the sirens. As always...

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Haha yes the “finger” - still happens to me all the time out in the rural parts 😊

[@DerekWitt]

@@lifewithjosef I was in line for a ride at Paramount America in 94. The people in front of me were afraid of tornadoes and I of earthquakes. Was a funny sight to watch as we talked. :)

[@Jak1481]

I’ve been going to Kansas deer hunting, not too far from where you’re at, but I absolutely love ANZUS start talking some local farmers. Want the local farmers let us hunt his ground for a small fee very nice people out there and him and his wife they cook his dinner and invite us and do their house. We have a good Sunday gathering with them all around very nice out there and I’m from Michigan and if I knew I could buy a place out there and survive I’d move out there in a heartbeat

[@deborahross9974]

Come on down. The more the merrier. Been in Kansas my whole life and I wouldn't move to anywhere else. God bless.

[@lindafreeman1687]

Great video. Congratulations on #300 videos. The pros are the reasons I love Kansas and live here. Some of the cons you mentioned are also why I love Kansas because I consider several of them at pros. Healthcare is definitely the one pro that hurts Kansas. We are a little windy but I think most states have windy seasons. Another pro that I find in Kansas is I love having four distinct seasons. I lived in Texas for ten years and was extremely happy to move back home to Kansas.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you and I definitely understand how some of the cons and pros for people!

[@jmurry6695]

This man is the best. Small towns are my favorite.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

😊☺️

[@brucesmith9144]

Wow, 300th video. That is quite an accomplishment. I know you put considerable effort into them and I always learn something new. That’s a good thing. One thing I am curious about are Kansas tornadoes 🌪️ I guess since first seeing the Wizard of Oz, that left an impression upon me. Not sure if you’ve done any videos about that subject and how communities affected have rebuilt.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thank you! Tornadoes are definitely a thing in Kansas. Although I’ve never seen one in 18 years. Definitely more of an issues in small rural communities all around the Midwest.

[@ronfullerton3162]

They are a crazy storm! They can be terrible, and are yet mystifying at the same time. Here in Nebraska we have them also. There are many stories of how crazy these storms are a. With all that and the danger these storms represent, you will see many Kansas or Nebraska people standing outside watching and filming them as they pass just yards away from themselves. Tornadoes are just a part of our lives we live. And when they hit, friends and relatives unite to help the victims clean up and rebuild, and life goes on. I was an Iowa farm boy, and came to Nebraska on a mission to support a wife, who turned out didn't care to support me. She left, but I stayed. My father started life in Kansas, and the family moved onto Iowa, so I had a Kansas connection. And I love to motorcycle and explore. And Kansas has been a wonderful place to travel and explore. I could easily live in Kansas, just as I can continue to live here, or could even go back to Iowa. The Wiseguy 's explanation of life in Kansas would fit many of our Midwest states. Good land and good people living the good life is my outlook. The governor of Nebraska upon the terrible flooding after a bomb cyclone several springs back, said we could and would rebuild on our own because of our people, and the fact that we are a "fly over state" and would not be having outside help. I have seen it in the three states I have listed, and have heard of it in other Midwest states. Our people, our passion, and our communities are our greatest resource and power. And I will stay here because all these great things make it my home.

[@sarahmoller9716]

Thank you for the information about Kansas. Very interesting.

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

You bet!

[@rossbryan6102]

A NICE LOOK AT THE WATER PARK WITH THE DIVISION OF THE MAIN PART OF THE ARKANSAS RIVER AND THE OLD STREAM, NOW BEING THE PARK! REMINDS ME OF SAN ANTONIO TEXAS WATER AREA! MY MAIN COMPLAINT, BEING THE COLD WINTERS, BUT OUR NORTHEAST AREA HAS MUCH LESS WIND THE WESTERN PART! IN AUGUST I WILL BE LIVING ON FAMILY LAND FOR A TOTAL OF 82 YEARS! NO MOVING PLANS, LOL!!

[@alanm2842]

that is the meeting of the big Arkansas and the little Arkansas.

[@dahartnett1]

Good list!👍🏼

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks! 😊

[@Visitor2Earth]

I live in Wichita, and for some reason, I was not aware of what is shown here (except the KOTP statue). I'm gonna grab my daughter and grandson and head on over to that walking path in the morning! Thanks for your vids!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

It’s a nice place to walk around and explore. Have fun!

[@bettylouhinrichs1883]

Always enjoy your videos! Thank you for what you do!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Thanks so much!!

[@pettythief43]

I think the most impressive part of this video, is the excellent condition of that nearly 20 year old T-shirt! Congrats on 300!

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

😂😂😂😂

[@tubadaddy76]

Great video. I've read a lot of statistics about Kansas similar to the ones you mentioned. I have a friend who used to live in Sterling KS. She loved it there, but would agree with you that small town life isn't for everyone.

[@Tom-jy3jd]

Nice state to drive through

[@blackberrylady9265]

Moved to junction City at the age of 19...now 67yrs and Loves junction City...Small town Very low Crime, friendly city..great to retired and raise a family without all the Crime....moved here from Mississippi and I love Mississippi but So happy in Kansas...😀😀👈🏾👈🏾💯

[@RingerStudio]

I grew up in western Kansas. I loved the "eternal perspective," aka - you could see forever in any direction. It still strikes me every time I return home. It makes some people uncomfortable, but I really like it. I miss small town living as the big city can diminish both the number and depth of personal relationships and seams less dignified in my opinion.

[@KNGEveryday]

I have lived in many States. For me the main Pro is outside of the large populated areas I feel safe. The con is limited health care in isolated area where towns are so far apart.

[@timwilson3153]

I've lived in this state my whole life (33 years). Sure not a lot to do but if you know where to look, theres more than meets the eye! Im originally from Belle Plaine, Ks and couldn't have asked for a better hometown! Shout out to the Bartlett arboretum, only thing that town is known for lol