Livin' on the edge good for city

Archive for Saturday, May 24, 2008

Big-name artists, big-time festivals all a part of Bonner Springs experience

May 24, 2008

The continually growing community of Bonner Springs has many options for Kansas travelers "livin' on the edge."

From entertainment and festivals to outdoor activities, Bonner Springs is on the edge of the Kansas City Metro, The Legends at Village West and anything else a perspective traveler could want.

"Bonner is a great place for the family to go visit," said Nancy Johnson, director of tourism.

First is the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame. This "one-of-a-kind" museum, Johnson said, displays exhibits of the past as well as the future in agriculture pursuits. To contact the museum, which is at 630 Hall of Fame Drive just north of the interchange of Interstate 70 and Kansas Highway 7, visit the Web site aghalloffame.com or call (913) 721-1075.

Travelers can visit the Moon Marble Company, 600 E. Front St. Visitors have the opportunity to view demonstrations on marble making, glass making and the history of the marble at this quirky stop. For more information, visit moonmarble.com or call (913) 441-1432.

"It's a unique place to be," Johnson said. "You won't believe what all they have in that building."

For those looking for a little more action, there is the Sunflower Hills Golf Course, 12200 Riverview Road. Known as one of the more challenging yet affordable courses in the area, this 18-hole championship experience is for all skill levels. For more information call (913) 573-8570.

Music concerts are staged from May to October in the outdoor venue, Capitol Federal at Sandstone Amphitheater, 633 N. 130th St. Big-name music acts flow through the venue throughout the summer as visitors enjoys music under the stars either in theater seats or on the lawn. For this season's schedule, visit any online ticket dealer.

The annual Kansas City Renaissance Festival comes into town Labor Day weekend through October. This attraction brings to life a 16th-century village that includes musical and theater entertainment, jousting matches, costumed characters and a feast of turkey legs. The festival is a fundraiser for the Kansas City Arts Institute. For more information, visit kcrenfest.com.

After a tiring day of these activities, travelers can rest in two family-friendly hotels - Super 8 Motel and Hotel Inn Express - located off I-70 at exit 224. There are also two bed and breakfasts for a more luxurious experience - Back N Thyme: Guest House and Herb Garden, 1100 South 130th Street, and The David House, 221 West Front Street.

For brochures or further information about everything Bonner Springs has to offer, visit bonnersprings.org.