Kansas in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just south of Wichita, the small town of Andover invites film buffs to explore a slice of Kansas that once stood in for the classic Americana depicted in movies like “American Honey.” Though not a blockbuster set, Andover’s charming downtown and welcoming community provide an authentic backdrop that recalls the heartland spirit often captured on screen. Visitors can stroll along Main Street, experiencing local shops and cafes that embody the genuine Midwestern vibe, especially lively during summer festivals when the town pulses with the kind of energy filmmakers seek to portray small-town life.
Heading northeast toward Lawrence, about 40 miles west of Kansas City, the University of Kansas campus doubles as a cinematic setting. Known for its striking Collegiate Gothic architecture, it appeared in the cult classic “The Day After,” which depicted a nuclear war’s aftermath. Walking through the campus’s scenic walkways, visitors can appreciate the blend of historic buildings and natural landscapes that made it a fitting location for storytelling that grapples with heavy themes. Early fall is particularly atmospheric here, when the changing leaves add a somber beauty that echoes the film’s tone.
In the heart of the Flint Hills, near the town of Cottonwood Falls, lies the iconic Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, about 90 minutes southwest of Topeka. This sweeping landscape was featured in several documentaries and films highlighting the vastness and timelessness of the American prairie — a setting often romanticized in Westerns and dramas. Visitors can hike the scenic Tallgrass Prairie Trail, a moderate 2.5-mile loop where wildflowers and native grasses sway beneath a boundless sky. The preserve’s unique ecology and panoramic views offer an immersive experience into the environment that inspired many filmmakers. Late spring, when the prairie bursts with blooms and wildlife activity, is an ideal time to visit.
Lawrence’s Liberty Hall, a historic theater downtown, has hosted numerous film premieres and screenings that celebrate Kansas’s cinematic contributions. About 40 miles west of Kansas City, Liberty Hall stands out with its ornate 1920s architecture and intimate atmosphere. Catching a screening here feels like stepping back into the golden age of cinema. The venue’s dedication to independent and classic films makes it a cultural anchor, connecting visitors to Kansas’s ongoing role in the film world. Evening shows in cooler months provide a cozy, community-centered experience.
Traveling further west, the town of Greensburg, roughly two hours northwest of Wichita, offers a different kind of movie moment. After its near destruction in a 2007 tornado, Greensburg was rebuilt with sustainability at its core, a story captured in documentaries and news specials. The Carroll Mansion, a restored historic home, featured in regional films documenting the town’s rebirth. Walking through Greensburg today, visitors see the resilience and environmental innovation that inspired filmmakers. Spring and early fall lend pleasant weather for exploring the town’s green spaces and solar-powered public buildings.
In northeast Kansas, the city of Atchison, about 45 minutes northwest of Kansas City, is famous as the birthplace of Amelia Earhart but also for its period architecture, which filmmakers have used as a stand-in for 19th-century Midwest towns. The Atchison Historic District showcases well-preserved brick buildings and cobblestone streets, evoking the kind of setting found in films about pioneer life and early American history. A guided walking tour through the district reveals landmarks that have appeared in various productions. Autumn, with its crisp air and golden hues, enhances the nostalgic atmosphere here.
Down in the southeastern corner of the state, the small town of Galena, just a short drive from Joplin, Missouri, gained fame as the inspiration for Radiator Springs in Pixar’s “Cars.” While the movie was animated, the real-life Route 66 through Galena captures the spirit of small-town America that animators sought to immortalize. Visitors can cruise the historic stretch of old Route 66, stopping at vintage diners and neon-lit motels that recall the mid-century road trip culture. Summer evenings are perfect for soaking in the nostalgic glow of the neon signs against a clear Kansas sky.
Finally, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchinson, roughly 90 miles northwest of Wichita, has appeared in several documentaries and educational films about space exploration. This museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, including Apollo program memorabilia and Russian space capsules, connects visitors with the cinematic and real-life drama of the space race. Walking the hall of space history here feels like stepping onto a movie set itself, where human ambition and storytelling collide. Winter months, when the air is crisp and the museum’s planetarium shows are indoors, provide a cozy, contemplative environment to dive deep into these cosmic stories.