ABOUT MANHATTAN

A classic college town

Most colleges can boast about a scenic backdrop, picturesque quad, and bustling student union. But then there are the places known as “college towns,” where activities revolve largely around the school and residents are loyal followers of the hometown university. When it comes to classic college towns, the Little Apple ranks among the best.

Although considerably smaller than its New York namesake (pop. 1.6 million), Manhattan (pop. 50,000) has blossomed into a diversified city with urban amenities while retaining its small-town appeal.

What is there to do in Manhattan?

Arts and attractions

• Enjoy the Beach Museum of Art's traveling exhibits and collection of regional art.
• See animals at Sunset Zoo or watch music fans at the annual jazz festival.
• Tour the Konza Prairie Research Natural Area, the largest tallgrass prairie preserve on the continent.
• Catch a Broadway show or music recital at McCain Auditorium.
• Bring your lawnchair to a summer concert in City Park.
• Visit the historical sites at nearby Fort Riley Army base.

Shopping

• Sample nightlife and restaurants in Aggieville, the state’s first shopping district.
• Visit Town Center Mall, with 60 specialty stores and restaurants, and the historic downtown district.

Sports and recreation

• Cheer on the Cats as they take on Big 12 Conference opponents in 16 Division I sports.
• Boat, fish, and camp at Tuttle Creek Lake, one of the Midwest's largest manmade lakes.
• Golf at Colbert Hills or Manhattan's other public course, Stagg Hill.
• Walk, jog, or bike the citywide trails and parks.
• Play at one of the best softball and soccer complexes in Kansas.
• Take a class in ballroom dance, financial management, or Indian cooking at the UFM Community Learning Center.

What they’re saying about Manhattan

Manhattan's quality of life has won national recognition. CNNMoney.com rates the area as one of the 10 best places in America to retire young. And Men's Journal picks Manhattan as one of the 50 best places to live in America.

How to find us

Manhattan is two hours west of Kansas City, two hours north of Wichita, and an hour east of Salina. Once here you’re no more than 10 minutes away from anywhere in the city, including landmarks, museums, and other tourist destinations.