Google “Kansas stereotypes” and you will find some well-known thoughts about Kansas, but also some that surprised me a bit. The obvious stereotypes are “fly-over state” (What does that even mean?) and “Kansas is flat” (We all know this is not true. Have you hiked at Horsethief Canyon or ever traveled a back country road?) Did you also know there is common misconception that cow tipping is practiced regularly? (Most ranchers I know would shake their heads at such a frivolous activity with one of their biggest investments, and isn’t it dangerous?)

As I began writing this article in celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, I was also reminded of the recent news story wherein New York Mayor Adams claimed that “Kansas doesn’t have a brand.” While he later apologized, the quote still stings. If you haven’t been to the Kansas Tourism website lately (www.travelks.com), the branding is exceptional. The videos are stunning, powerful and tell a beautiful story of our culture, history and potential. Our brand is not a slogan, a logo, or an elevator pitch (though we have all of those). Our true brand is in our people. Our people drive our communities from good to great and from challenge to opportunity.

As Grow Ellsworth County ventures into the tourism world, we see the vast opportunity in front of us. Prior to 2023, county tourism efforts were driven by the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce. Grow Ellsworth County is energized and enthusiastic about advancing our tourism efforts and showcasing the assets and beauty of our county to drive more revenue to our communities and future residents who fall in love with Ellsworth County.

To this end, we are thrilled to announce the opportunity that has come knocking on our door for 2024. The Kansas Sampler Foundation recently announced that Ellsworth County, Lincoln County and Lucas will be the host communities for the Big Kansas Road Trip, May 2024. What an amazing opportunity to highlight the many charming experiences, attractions, events, shopping and PEOPLE we have in these host communities! Stay tuned for more information as we begin planning how to best showcase Ellsworth County to our traveling guests.

As we honor Ellsworth County’s efforts during National Travel and Tourism week, I leave you with the words of a recent visitor to Ellsworth County. Nick Abt, awardwinning Kansas videographer and rural champion, gave a powerful description of Ellsworth County: “When I think about Ellsworth County, I think of rugged beauty, wild west history and a collection of inviting communities that entice me to return time and again with their smalltown charms. Ellsworth County is a place that cannot be fully appreciated in one trip, so I look forward to visiting numerous times until my heart is finally content. I’ve already explored Kanopolis State Park at least a dozen times, and I’m nowhere near satisfied that I’ve seen it all … and that goes for the rest of the county.

“I often tell people who want to visit the area that they should clear an entire week to experience Ellsworth County because you’ll always want more time than you have. I could probably write several more paragraphs that describe my love for this beautiful county in Kansas, but to sum it up in one final statement I’ll say this: Anyone looking for adventure in Kansas has to visit Ellsworth County and adventure will present itself.”

If you think Kansas or Ellsworth County are boring, you’re doing it wrong.