Here is your guide to Manhattan, KS, in the Fall. From festivals to photo ops, you can find it all on my blog!
If you're anything like me, the minute September rolls around, you're lighting candles that smell like cinnamon and plotting out every possible way to soak up fall in the Flint Hills. And let me tell you, Manhattan, KS absolutely shows off in the fall. From golden prairies to pumpkin patches and all the cozy coffee in between, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you're a student looking for weekend adventures, a family planning memory-making outings, or just someone who appreciates a good leaf-crunching walk, this guide is for you.
Where to See Fall Foliage in Manhattan, KS
Nothing says autumn quite like a colorful walk surrounded by trees dressed in their fiery best. Manhattan has plenty of spots to soak it all in:
- Konza Prairie Overlook: Hands down, one of the best views of the Flint Hills. Go at golden hour and thank me later.
- Manhattan Hill Park: Great for a quick sunset stroll and Instagram-worthy skyline shots.
- Linear Trail: Especially around Anneberg Park, this trail lets you enjoy the changing leaves at your own pace.
- Warner Memorial Park: Often overlooked, this quiet park puts on a fantastic color show each fall.
Pumpkin Patches & Fall Events You Can’t Miss
Is it really fall if you haven’t picked a pumpkin or gotten lost in a corn maze? Lucky for us, Manhattan’s fall events are top-tier:
- Britt’s Farm: Pumpkin patch, hayrides, corn maze, and lots of Instagrammable moments.
- A&H Farm: They go all out for fall—think pumpkin donuts, cider slushes, petting zoo, and more.
- K-State Homecoming & Fall Festivities: Parade, pep rally, and all the purple pride you could ever need.
Cozy Coffee Shops with Fall Drinks
Let’s be real, half the joy of fall is found in a cup. These local favorites bring the autumn flavor:
- Radina’s Coffeehouse: Their seasonal lattes are a fall hug in a mug.
- Arrow Coffee Co.: The vibe is unmatched, and the espresso? Chef’s kiss.
- Flight Crew Coffee: Offers great coffee in a fun atmosphere
Fall Photo Ops Around Town
Manhattan is photogenic year-round, but fall? She's a whole model.
- Sunset Zoo with the changing trees in the background
- The trails at Tuttle Creek State Park
- Any of the pumpkin patches with a PSL in hand
- Downtown Manhattan, when the trees start to glow orange
- Blueville Nursery in Manhattan, KS
Free Fall Activities You’ll Love
- Hike the Konza Prairie trails
- Attend a fall farmer’s market
- Decorate your porch with finds from local markets
- Pumpkin Patch- Yearly craft and gift market held in Downtown Manhattan, KS
- Visit the Flint Hills Discovery Center’s seasonal exhibits
Whether you're spending fall mornings hiking the Konza or sipping cider with friends at a local pumpkin patch, there's truly something magical about autumn in Manhattan, KS. Don't forget to tag me in your fall adventures—I'd love to see where the season takes you!
🍂 Follow along for more local guides, seasonal events, and hidden gems in the Flint Hills!
