Flint Hills Discovery Center facts for kids
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| Established | April 14, 2012 |
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| Location | 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, Kansas 66502 |
| Type | Heritage center, Science center |
The Flint Hills Discovery Center is a special place in Manhattan, Kansas. It's like a museum and a science center all in one! Here, you can learn all about the amazing Flint Hills region.
The center has cool exhibits that show you the history and nature of the Flint Hills. There's also a theater, a fun play area for kids, and a gallery for new exhibits. They even have programs for students and adults, and host many fun events.
Contents
Discovering the Flint Hills
The Flint Hills Discovery Center has many exhibits. They help you explore the plants, animals, history, and culture of the Flint Hills. These exhibits are spread across different zones, including an exciting theater experience.
Main Floor Adventures
- Shaping Winds and Water - Learn how the land in the Flint Hills was formed. See how wind and water created this unique area over millions of years.
- Blowing Winds in a Tallgrass Prairie - Discover the many different plants and animals that live here. Find out how they all work together in the tallgrass prairie.
- The Underground Forest - Explore what's happening beneath your feet! This exhibit shows you the amazing life in the soil. Learn how healthy soil helps the prairie grow.
- Winds of the Past - Travel back in time to learn about the first people here. See how Native American tribes lived in the Flint Hills long ago.
- Where the Air is so Pure - Understand how European settlers came to the area. Learn about the growth of cattle ranching and how it changed the land.
- Voices of the Flint Hills - Hear from people who live in the Flint Hills today. They share their thoughts on things like water, wind power, and how they love their home.
Experience the Tallgrass Prairie Theater
The Horizon Ranch Flint Hills Immersive Experience Theater is a must-see! It shows a short film called Tallgrass Prairie: Tides of Time. This film teaches you about the nature, history, and culture of the Flint Hills. It uses cool special effects to make you feel like you're right there!
Second Floor Fun
- Prairie Playscape - This is a super fun, interactive play area for kids and their parents. It was updated in 2022. You can explore, work, and share in three themed zones. It's a great way to learn by playing!
Tallgrass Gallery: New Discoveries
The Tallgrass Gallery is a large space where new exhibits are always changing. You might see traveling exhibits from other places or special shows made right here. There's always something new to discover!
Prairie Garden Terrace and Trail
Step outside to explore the Prairie Garden Terrace and Trail. This outdoor area shows off special plants and features of the Flint Hills. It's a peaceful place to learn more about the local environment.
Exciting Annual Events
The Discovery Center hosts many fun events throughout the year. Mark your calendars for these!
- Kansas Day - A special celebration of Kansas on January 29th.
- Flint Hills Festival - A festival all about the history, culture, and natural resources of the Flint Hills.
- National Day of the Cowboy - Celebrate cowboys on the fourth Saturday of July.
- Community Day - A free day for everyone to visit, usually in August.
- Breakfast with Santa - A festive holiday event held on the first two Saturdays in December.
- Family New Year's Eve - A fun, family-friendly way to celebrate New Year's Eve on December 31st.
