Garden City, Kansas

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City of Garden City, KS – Local Government

Need a friendly Great Plains stop with surprising attractions? Head to Garden City! Located in southwest Kansas, Garden City is a welcoming town full of small-town charm, cultural diversity, and family-friendly attractions. From spotting exotic animals at one of the best zoos in the region to tasting authentic international cuisine, Garden City is a delightful prairie destination you might not expect.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Garden City is during the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). With warm days and cool evenings, these seasons offer the perfect weather for strolling through parks, exploring museums, or enjoying outdoor exhibits at the zoo. Summer is hotter but still manageable for early-morning adventures and late-evening sunsets on the plains.

How to Get There

If you are traveling by car: Garden City is conveniently situated along U.S. Routes 50/400 and U.S. Route 83. It’s about 5 hours west of Wichita and 3 hours northeast of Amarillo, Texas.
By Air: Garden City Regional Airport (GCK) provides daily flights to and from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) via American Airlines, making it easy to connect from major U.S. cities.
By Train: Amtrak’s Southwest Chief line stops daily in Garden City, offering scenic cross-country service to and from cities like Chicago, Albuquerque, and Los Angeles.

Where to Stay

Heritage Inn & Suites – Modern, comfortable lodging with great amenities including a pool and complimentary breakfast, conveniently located near the city’s top attractions.
Best Western Plus Emerald Inn & Suites – A polished option for both leisure and business travelers, with a well-equipped fitness center, indoor pool, and a cozy lounge area.
Comfort Inn Garden City – A reliable, budget-friendly stay with clean rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to the zoo, shopping, and restaurants.