If Parsons USD 503 families are looking for some fun and exciting summer adventures, the 2026 Sunflower Summer program has great offerings.
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland and Kansas Tourism have announced that more than 230 tourism attractions are participating in the 2026 Sunflower
Summer program, giving Kansas families free access to must-see attractions throughout the state.
Kansas residents with school-aged children from pre-K through 12th grade are eligible to participate.
This year’s lineup of attractions features activities in every region of Kansas, offering opportunities to explore the state’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, unique natural landscapes
and family-friendly destinations.
High gas prices keeping you close to home? Students have free admission to numerous places locally and nearby, such as the: Parsons Historical Museum; Oswego Historical Society Museum; Brown Mansion; Big Brutus; Miners Hall Museum; Ralph Mitchell Zoo; Elk City State Park-Reservoir and Wildlife Area; Independence Historical Museum & Art Center; Dalton Defenders and Coffeyville History Museum; Crawford State Park, Lake and Farlington Fish
Hatchery, Gordon Parks Museum, Fall River State Park- Lake, and Wildlife Area; Cross Timbers State Park - Toronto Lake; Lehigh Portland State Park; and more.
The Sunflower Summer map located on the website can help you pinpoint the location of every destination to help you decide if you want to visit one site or plan a road trip to visit several. You can find the map at sunflowersummer.org.
“Sunflower Summer has been a great way for Kansas families to fall in love with our great state — and everything it has to offer,” Toland said. “Whether it’s visiting a museum, exploring a historic site or spending the day at the zoo — these experiences help families connect to the state we all love and admire.”
The 2026 Sunflower Summer program will run from July 9 through Aug. 2. During this period, Kansas students and one accompanying adult will receive free one-time admissions to each participating attraction. Passes can be claimed through the Sunflower Summer app and redeemed at the attraction upon arrival.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Sunflower Summer back so that Kansas families can really experience their home state in an entirely new way,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe
said. “From iconic attractions to our hidden gems, this year truly showcases the depth and diversity of experiences across the state.”
For the complete list of participating attractions and full program details, visit Sunflower Summer
webpage here.
Families are encouraged to share their journeys on social media using #ToTheStarsKS and
#SunflowerSummer. For more Kansas travel ideas or to order a free Kansas travel guide, visit travelks.com/kansas-250/.