Unveiling Kansas’s Silver Screen: Exploring the Best Films Set There

Kansas, the heartland of America, has been a captivating backdrop for many famous films, TV shows, and literary masterpieces. From iconic movies like “The Wizard of Oz” to popular TV shows such as “Smallville,” the Sunflower State has offered filmmakers and authors a unique setting to weave their narratives. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the iconic locations in Kansas that have made their mark on the world of cinema and literature.

10 Famous Films Shot in Kansas

Kansas has played host to a plethora of notable films that have stirred audiences worldwide. One such example is the timeless classic, “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), which begins in sepia-toned Kansas before transporting viewers to the technicolor wonderland of Oz. Another notable film shot in Kansas is the critically acclaimed “In Cold Blood” (1967), which chillingly recounts the real-life Clutter family murders in Holcomb, Kansas.

Here are 10 renowned films shot in Kansas:

1. “The Wizard of Oz” (1939)  – Directed by Victor Fleming. This beloved film begins in Kansas before Dorothy is whisked away to the magical land of Oz. The opening scenes were filmed in the plains of Kansas, showcasing the state’s vast, sweeping landscapes.
2. “In Cold Blood” (1967)  – Directed by Richard Brooks. This chilling crime drama was shot on location in Kansas, including the actual Clutter family home in Holcomb, adding an eerie authenticity to the film.
3. “Paper Moon” (1973)  – Directed by Peter Bogdanovich. This comedy-drama road film, set in Kansas during the Great Depression, features various locales in the state serving as the backdrop for a father-daughter con artist duo.
4. “The Gypsy Moths” (1969)  – Directed by John Frankenheimer. This drama about traveling skydivers was filmed in several Kansas locations, including Benton, El Dorado, and Wichita.
5. “Picnic” (1955)  – Directed by Joshua Logan. This classic film about a handsome drifter shaking up a small town was shot in various Kansas locations, including Salina, Hutchinson, and Nickerson.
6. “Kansas Raiders” (1950)  – Directed by Ray Enright. This Western film, about the outlaw Jesse James, was set in and shot in Kansas, offering a glimpse into the state’s history.
7. “Mars Attacks!” (1996)  – Directed by Tim Burton. This science fiction comedy film features various locations in Kansas being invaded by Martians.
8. “Ride with the Devil” (1999)  – Directed by Ang Lee. This American Civil War film was shot in the Kansas City metropolitan area, showcasing the state’s historical significance.
9. “The Rainmaker” (1956)  – Directed by Joseph Anthony. This romantic drama set in a drought-ridden rural town in Kansas was filmed in various locations across the state.
10. “Sarah, Plain and Tall” (1991)  – Directed by Glenn Jordan. This Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, set in Kansas, was shot in the plains of Kansas, capturing the state’s rustic charm.

6 TV Shows Set in Kansas

Kansas has been the setting for several popular TV shows that have captured audiences’ imaginations. One such example is the hit series “Smallville” (2001-2011), which is set in a fictitious Kansas town and follows the life of a young Clark Kent before he becomes Superman. Another popular show set in Kansas is “Supernatural” (2005-2020), where the main characters hail from the town of Lawrence.

Here are some notable TV shows set in Kansas:

1. “Smallville” (2001-2011)  – Created by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar. The show tells the story of a young Clark Kent before he becomes Superman. The series is set in the fictitious town of Smallville, Kansas.
2. “Supernatural” (2005-2020)  – Created by Eric Kripke. This fantasy horror series follows the lives of two brothers who hunt supernatural beings. The main characters hail from Lawrence, Kansas.
3. “Gunsmoke” (1955-1975)  – Created by Norman Macdonnell and John Meston. This classic western TV series is set in Dodge City, Kansas, during the settlement of the American West.
4. “Jericho” (2006-2008)  – Created by Stephen Chbosky, Josh Schaer, and Jonathan E. Steinberg. This post-apocalyptic action-drama series is set in the fictitious town of Jericho, Kansas, where the residents struggle to survive in the aftermath of nuclear attacks.
5. “American Crime” (2015-2017)  – Created by John Ridley. The third season of this anthology crime drama series is set in North Carolina and focuses on labor issues in the agricultural sector. Some scenes were shot in Kansas.
6. “The Day After” (1983)  – Directed by Nicholas Meyer. This made-for-television movie about the aftermath of a nuclear war is set and was filmed in and around Lawrence, Kansas.

Animated Films Set in Kansas

Kansas’ distinctive landscapes and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for animated films. One notable example is “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), which, though not animated, has inspired numerous animated adaptations, including “Tom and Jerry & The Wizard of Oz” (2011) and “Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” (2013).

Here are some animated films set in Kansas:

1. “Tom and Jerry & The Wizard of Oz” (2011)  – Directed by Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone. This animated adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” features the beloved characters Tom and Jerry in the Kansas setting.
2. “Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” (2013)  – Directed by Will Finn and Dan St. Pierre. This animated musical film is a sequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” with Dorothy returning to Kansas after her adventures in Oz.
3. “Barnyard” (2006)  – Directed by Steve Oedekerk. Although not explicitly set in Kansas, this animated film about the life of farm animals captures the essence of rural Midwest America, reminiscent of Kansas’ farmlands.

Famous Books Set in Kansas

Kansas’ rich history and cultural tapestry have inspired numerous literary works. One such example is “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum, a children’s novel that has immortalized Kansas as the home of Dorothy Gale. Another renowned classic is Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood,” a chilling true crime novel set in Holcomb, Kansas.

Here are some classic and contemporary books that are set in Kansas:

Classic Books:

1. “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum  – This children’s novel begins in Kansas, with a cyclone transporting Dorothy and her dog, Toto, to the magical land of Oz.
2. “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote  – This true crime novel chillingly recounts the real-life Clutter family murders in Holcomb, Kansas.
3. “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder  – This historical children’s novel is set in Kansas, where the Ingalls family settles on the prairie.

Contemporary Books:

1. “The Persian Pickle Club” by Sandra Dallas  (1995) – This novel, set during the Great Depression in Kansas, follows a group of women in a quilting club as they navigate friendship and a mysterious murder.
2. “The Homesman” by Glendon Swarthout  (1988) – This historical novel, set in 1850’s Kansas, tells the story of a pioneer woman and a claim jumper who transport insane women from Nebraska to Iowa.
3. “Moon Over Manifest” by Clare Vanderpool  (2010) – This Newbery Medal-winning novel is set in the fictional small town of Manifest, Kansas, and follows a young girl uncovering the town’s past.

Exploring Kansas Filming Locations – Where to Go

To truly immerse yourself in Kansas’ cinematic and literary history, there are several key locations you must visit. Start your journey in Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, which has served as the backdrop for several films, including “The Gypsy Moths” and “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.” From there, make your way to Dodge City, the setting for the classic TV series “Gunsmoke.”

Here are some must-visit places chosen by authors and filmmakers:

1. Wichita  – This city provides the backdrop for several films, including “The Gypsy Moths” and “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.” Wichita’s Old Town district, with its brick-lined streets and converted warehouses, is a must-visit.
2. Dodge City  – Known as the ‘Cowboy Capital,’ Dodge City served as the setting for the classic TV series “Gunsmoke.” Visit the Boot Hill Museum for a taste of the Old West.
3. Lawrence  – This city is the setting for the popular TV series “Supernatural.” Explore Massachusetts Street, one of the most popular locations in Lawrence, with its historic buildings and vibrant dining scene.
4. Salina  – Featured in the film “Picnic,” Salina is home to Oakdale Park, where the annual Labor Day picnic takes place in the movie.
5. Holcomb  – Visit the small town of Holcomb, the setting of Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood.” The Clutter family home, where the infamous murders took place, still stands today.
6. Hutchinson  – Home to the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, Hutchinson was featured in the TV movie “The Day After.”

Where to Sleep in Kansas

When it comes to accommodation, Kansas offers a variety of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploring.

Luxury:

1. The Ambassador Hotel Wichita  – This luxury hotel, located in the heart of downtown Wichita, offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a free shuttle service to local attractions.
2. The Oread  – Located in Lawrence, this upscale hotel is near the University of Kansas and features several dining options, a fitness center, and a spa.
3. The Eldridge  – This historic hotel in Lawrence offers spacious rooms and a prime location near downtown shops and restaurants.

Budget:

1. Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita  – This budget-friendly hotel, located in downtown Wichita, offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
2. Best Western Plus Patterson Park Inn  – Located in Arkansas City, this affordable hotel offers clean rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
3. Sleep Inn & Suites  – Located in Hays, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a complimentary breakfast.

Where to Eat in Kansas

Kansas’ culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. From hearty Midwest comfort food to innovative farm-to-table fare, the state offers a variety of dining options.

Budget:

1. Doo-Dah Diner  – Located in Wichita, this diner offers a variety of comfort food at affordable prices. Try their chicken and waffles or banana bread French toast.
2. The Burger Stand  – Located in Lawrence, this restaurant offers a variety of gourmet burgers and fries at budget-friendly prices.
3. Free State Brewing Company  – Located in Lawrence, this brewpub offers a variety of craft beers and pub fare at reasonable prices.

Luxury:

1. Cheever’s Cafe  – Located in Oklahoma City, this upscale restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their roasted pecan ice cream ball for dessert.
2. The Pritchard  – Located in Oklahoma City, this wine bar and restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their cheese and charcuterie board.
3. R&J Supper Club  – Located in Oklahoma City, this upscale restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their steak tartare.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Kansas, here is a comprehensive itinerary that will take you to the state’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Wichita

• Start your day at the Old Town district, which provides the backdrop for several films.
• Visit the Wichita Art Museum, which houses one of the country’s finest collections of American art.
• Have lunch at the Doo-Dah Diner, known for its comfort food.
• In the afternoon, visit the Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum to learn about the local history.
• End your day with dinner at the Ambassador Hotel’s Siena Tuscan Steakhouse.

Day 2: Dodge City

• Start your day at the Boot Hill Museum, a tribute to the city’s Wild West past.
• Have lunch at Casey’s Cowtown Club, a local favorite known for its steaks.
• In the afternoon, visit the Santa Fe Trail Tracks, a historic site that played a crucial role in westward expansion.
• End your day with dinner at Prime on the Nine, offering a farm-to-table dining experience.

Day 3: Lawrence

• Start your day at Massachusetts Street, a popular location in the TV series “Supernatural.”
• Visit the Spencer Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of diverse artworks.
• Have lunch at The Burger Stand, known for its gourmet burgers.
• In the afternoon, visit the University of Kansas, one of the most filmed locations in Lawrence.
• End your day with dinner at Free State Brewing Company, the first legal brewery in Kansas.

Local Legends and Curiosities About Kansas’ Film Industry

Kansas’ film industry is rich in fascinating legends and curiosities. One such legend is about the filming of “The Wizard of Oz.” It’s said that the film’s producers imported hundreds of birds to release during the “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” sequence, but the birds ended up flying away, never to be seen again.

Another curiosity is about the filming of “In Cold Blood.” Director Richard Brooks insisted on shooting in the actual locations where the events took place, including the Clutter family home, to give the film an eerie authenticity.

Hidden Gems in Kansas

Beyond the well-known filming locations, Kansas is home to several lesser-known gems that have been featured in films and books.

1. Coronado Heights  – This hill, located near Lindsborg, is a popular location for local filmmakers due to its panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
2. Monument Rocks  – These chalk formations, located in Gove County, have been featured in several films and commercials for their unique, otherworldly appearance.
3. Keeper of the Plains  – This 44-foot tall steel sculpture in Wichita, which represents a Native American chief, has been a backdrop for several local films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Kansas

When packing for your film-themed trip to Kansas, it’s important to consider the season. Summers in Kansas can be hot, so pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Winters can be cold, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. In all seasons, pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring various filming locations on foot.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Kansas

Getting around Kansas is relatively easy, thanks to the state’s extensive road network. Renting a car is the best way to travel between different cities and filming locations. Within cities, you can use public transportation, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Uber. If you’re visiting filming locations in rural areas or small towns, consider renting a bicycle for a leisurely exploration.

In conclusion, whether you’re a film fan, a book lover, or a travel enthusiast, Kansas offers a unique journey through the world of cinema and literature. From the enchanting landscapes of “The Wizard of Oz” to the chilling crime scenes of “In Cold Blood,” Kansas invites you to step into the world of your favorite stories. So pack your bags and let the magic of film and literature guide you through the Sunflower State!