Looking for cheap Flights to Hays, Kansas, USA (HYS) airport?

Hays, accessible via cheap flights to HYS airport (Hays Regional Airport), is a historic city in Ellis County, Kansas, in the heart of the Smoky Hills. Known as the "Gateway to the West," Hays attracts over 80,000 visitors annually with its Wild West history, German Volga heritage, and vibrant cultural scene. Explore Hays hidden gems like the Sternberg Museum of Natural History at 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601, and enjoy Hays local culture through festivals, historic sites, and local eateries like Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. at 117 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.

History of Hays, Kansas

Hays’ history began with the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, followed by European settlement in 1867 as a railroad and military hub, named after Fort Hays. It grew as a Wild West outpost, linked to figures like Wild Bill Hickok, and later as a center for German Volga immigrants. The Ellis County Historical Society Museum (100 W 7th St, Hays, KS 67601) preserves this legacy, with exhibits on frontier life and Volga German culture. Events like the Wild West Fest highlight Hays historical exploration.

• Ellis County Historical Society Museum: 100 W 7th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Fort Hays State Historic Site: 1472 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Volga German Haus: 107 W 13th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Boot Hill Cemetery: 1472 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.

Geography and Climate of Hays, Kansas

Hays sits in Northwest Kansas, spanning 8 square miles, primarily land, with Big Creek flowing nearby. It’s 150 miles from Wichita, KS, and 260 miles from Kansas City, MO, connected by I-70 and US-183. Attractions like Frontier Park (1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601) offer Hays outdoor activities. The city’s location in the Smoky Hills, with rolling prairies and limestone bluffs, enhances its scenic appeal.

• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Big Creek: 1400 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Wilson Lake: 4860 101st St, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481 (45 miles from Hays).

Hays has a semi-arid continental climate (Köppen BSk), with hot summers (average high 92°F in July) and cold winters (average low 18°F in January). Record highs reach 110°F (July 2011), and lows hit -20°F (January 1989). Annual precipitation is 24 inches, with 17 inches of snow. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Hays nature trails, with mild temperatures and vibrant wildflowers.

Key Demographics & Statistics in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ 2023 population is 21,116 (2020 census: 21,116; 2024 estimate: 21,300), with a median age of 33. It’s 80% White, 10% Hispanic, 5% Black, 5% Other (including 2% Native American). 95% are citizens, 90% U.S.-born. Households: 8,500 (median income $55,000). 45% married, 35% never married. Poverty rate: 14%. Workforce: 60% white-collar, 5% entrepreneurs. Commute: 12 minutes, one of Kansas’ shortest. Education: 35% bachelor’s, 35% high school. Diverse with growing Hispanic influence, reflecting Hays demographics.

Hays spans zip codes like 67601 and 67667, reflecting its neighborhoods: Downtown (67601), West Hays (67601), and North Hays (67601), aiding navigation for residents and visitors exploring Hays neighborhood guides.

Local Neighborhoods & Districts in Hays, Kansas

Downtown Hays is cultural with historic buildings and eateries, West Hays is residential with parks, and North Hays is commercial with shopping, key for Hays neighborhood guides. The Chestnut Street District features vibrant shops and restaurants, preserving the city’s German heritage.

• Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co.: 117 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Chestnut Street District: 100 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.

Economy and Employment in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ economy thrives on education, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism, driven by Fort Hays State University and the oil industry. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, below the national average, with growth in education and hospitality, boosting Hays job opportunities. The city supports over 10,000 jobs in education and healthcare.

• Fort Hays State University: 600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Hays Medical Center: 2220 Canterbury Dr, Hays, KS 67601.
• USD 489 School District: 323 W 12th St, Hays, KS 67601.

Innovation & Technology in Hays, Kansas

Hays is a hub for agtech and education technology, with Fort Hays State University leading in online education and precision agriculture research. The Grow Hays Innovation Center (205 E 7th St, Hays, KS 67601) supports startups in agtech and renewable energy. High-speed internet via Nex-Tech covers 93% of the city, enabling remote work. Challenges include attracting tech talent to rural areas, but grants from Kansas Department of Commerce and partnerships with John Deere promote innovation, supporting Hays remote work.

Hays’ tech scene grows with startups in agtech and tele-education. Fort Hays State University mentors entrepreneurs in data analytics and sustainable farming. Broadband expansion supports telecommuting and online learning, with 5G in Downtown. Collaborations with Wichita drive investment in green tech. Future priorities include smart agriculture and renewable energy, shaping Hays technology trends.

Government & Public Services in Hays, Kansas

Hays operates under a council-manager government with 5 council members. Public services include police, fire, water, and waste, managed by the City of Hays. The Hays Police Department has 40 officers, and fire operates 2 stations. The city maintains 15 parks, 10 miles of trails, and a library system. Economic development focuses on education, healthcare, and tourism, with incentives for sustainable businesses via the Hays Green Initiative, supporting Hays public services.

Legal & Civic Services in Hays, Kansas

The Ellis County Courthouse (1204 Fort St, Hays, KS 67601) handles legal matters, with legal aid at Kansas Legal Services (201 E 7th St, Hays, KS 67601). Civic engagement thrives through the Hays Civic Association, offering voter registration at City Hall (1507 Main St, Hays, KS 67601). The Hadley Center hosts forums. Local elections occur every four years, with voter guides online via the Ellis County Clerk.

Hays encourages participation via community boards like the Hays Sustainability Council, funding neighborhood projects. The Elections Office provides multilingual materials in Spanish and German. Volunteer opportunities exist with groups like Friends of Big Creek. Public meetings at City Hall are open, with virtual access for inclusivity, fostering transparency and supporting Hays community resources.

Infrastructure and Utilities in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ infrastructure supports its education and tourism economy. Midwest Energy manages utilities, with 10% renewable energy from wind. High-speed internet via Nex-Tech covers 93% of the city, with 5G in Downtown. Waste collection is weekly, with a robust recycling program. The city maintains 100 miles of roads, 15 parks, and 10 miles of trails. Public services include a 40-officer police force and 2 fire stations. Recent I-70 upgrades enhance connectivity, supporting Hays infrastructure.

Educational Centers & Learning Opportunities in Hays, Kansas

Higher Education and Trade Schools in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ higher education includes a major university and vocational training, supporting career growth, ideal for Hays school districts.

• Fort Hays State University: 600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601.
• North Central Kansas Technical College: 3033 US-24, Beloit, KS 67420 (60 miles from Hays).

K-12 and Adult Education in Hays, Kansas

USD 489 Hays School District serves 3,000 students across 8 schools with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. Adult education at Fort Hays State University offers certifications in education, healthcare, and agtech, with online and evening classes.

• Hays High School: 2300 E 13th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Wilson Elementary School: 101 E 28th St, Hays, KS 67601.

Deeper Cultural and Community Content in Hays, Kansas

Downtown Hays features Hays murals celebrating Wild West and Volga German heritage. The Hays Arts Council has installed over 10 murals since 2018. Walking tours start at the Ellis County Historical Society Museum, showcasing Hays art tours.

• Chestnut Street Murals: E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Main Street Art: Main St, Hays, KS 67601.

Hays’ agricultural roots include wheat, sorghum, and cattle. The Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market and nearby ranches offer local produce and immersive experiences, supporting Hays farm tours.

• Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market: 1530 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Strickland Farms: 2501 230th Ave, Hays, KS 67601.

The Cheyenne legacy is preserved at Fort Hays State Historic Site, with exhibits at the Sternberg Museum highlighting Indigenous history, key for Hays Native culture. Annual powwows celebrate Native traditions.

• Fort Hays State Historic Site: 1472 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Sternberg Museum of Natural History: 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601.

Local Artists & Creatives in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ creative scene thrives with muralists in the Chestnut Street District and musicians at The Fox Theatre. The Hays Arts Council Gallery (112 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601) showcases regional artists, including works inspired by the Smoky Hills. Downtown hosts galleries, highlighting Hays local artists.

The monthly Hays Art Walk features open studios in Downtown. The Hays Public Library displays local photography and hosts artist talks. The Hays Arts Council mentors young creatives. Artists draw inspiration from the prairies, with events like the Smoky Hill Art Festival showcasing local talent. The festival hosts over 50 artists annually.

Notable People and Culture in Media in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ culture blends Cheyenne heritage, German Volga traditions, and Wild West history. Notable figures include Wild Bill Hickok, a frontier legend, and Melissa McCall, a Paralympic athlete. Hays features in media like “The Wild West Chronicles,” highlighting its frontier past. Local culture thrives in festivals, historic sites, and community events, reflecting a vibrant Hays local culture.

Hidden Gems and Local’s Perspective in Hays, Kansas

Beyond the Sternberg Museum, locals cherish Hays secret spots like Frontier Park and the Hays Aquatic Park for their unique charm.

• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Hays Aquatic Park: 4000 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601.

Hays’ independent scene thrives with eateries and shops offering authentic experiences, from German-inspired diners to craft breweries.

• Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co.: 117 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Thirsty’s Brew Pub & Grill: 2704 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601.

The Wild West Fest and Oktoberfest highlight Hays cultural events. Music venues like The Fox Theatre offer local performances, celebrating German and frontier heritage.

• The Fox Theatre: 1202 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Hays Arts Council Gallery: 112 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.

Wine & Culinary Culture in Hays, Kansas

Hays is near Kansas’ emerging wine region, with tasting rooms like Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery (2580 K-156 Hwy, Marquette, KS 67464, 60 miles from Hays) offering local varietals. The Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market connects to regional farms. Annual events like the Hays Food & Wine Festival, held in Downtown, celebrate flavors, boosting Hays wine tasting.

The culinary scene emphasizes American, German, and comfort foods, with restaurants like Gella’s Diner sourcing local wheat, beef, and dairy. The Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market showcases sunflowers, apples, and artisanal cheeses. Cooking classes at Fort Hays State University (600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601) teach farm-to-table dishes. The Hays Food Truck Rally highlights local chefs and sustainable practices.

Festivals & Events in Hays, Kansas

The Wild West Fest in July, Oktoberfest in September, and Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market events highlight Hays annual events, drawing thousands for music, food, and community.

• Wild West Fest: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Oktoberfest: 100 E 11th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market Events: 1530 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.

Museums to Explore in Hays, Kansas

Museums offer cultural, historical, and natural exhibits, ideal for Hays museum tours.

• Sternberg Museum of Natural History: 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601.
• Ellis County Historical Society Museum: 100 W 7th St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Fort Hays State Historic Site: 1472 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventures Near Hays, Kansas

Big Creek offers fishing and kayaking, while Frontier Park provides hiking and picnicking. Wilson Lake, 45 miles away, supports boating and camping, ideal for Hays outdoor adventures. The Smoky Hills Trail offers 20 miles of biking and hiking paths.

• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Big Creek: 1400 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Wilson Lake: 4860 101st St, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481.

Fishing & Hunting in Hays, Kansas

Big Creek at Frontier Park is renowned for bass and catfish fishing, with public access points. Ellis County Conservation areas allow hunting for deer and pheasant (permits from Kansas DWP), key for Hays fishing spots. The Smoky Hills Fishing Derby draws anglers annually.

• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Wilson Lake: 4860 101st St, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481.

Unique Places & Wildlife in Hays, Kansas

The Smoky Hills host pronghorn, hawks, and prairie dogs, with prime viewing at Frontier Park. The Sternberg Museum showcases dinosaur fossils and native species. Wilson Lake offers scenic beauty, supporting Hays wildlife viewing.

• Frontier Park: 1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601.
• Sternberg Museum of Natural History: 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601.

Sports and Recreation in Hays, Kansas

Planet Fitness (2500 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601) offers fitness classes. The Fort Hays State University Tigers (600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601) promote community spirit with NCAA sports. Frontier Park hosts yoga and events. Youth sports include Hays Youth Soccer. Gross Memorial Coliseum (600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601) supports basketball and events. Community events like the Hays Fun Run encourage fitness, boosting Hays sports activities.

Wellness & Lifestyle in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ wellness scene includes yoga at Smoky Hill Yoga Studio (1301 Pine St, Hays, KS 67601) and fitness at Planet Fitness (2500 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601). Mental health resources include Hays Medical Center (2220 Canterbury Dr, Hays, KS 67601) and teletherapy. Community wellness events like yoga in the park promote outdoor fitness at Frontier Park.

Planet Fitness offers strength and cardio classes. Smoky Hill Yoga Studio specializes in mindfulness and vinyasa yoga. Support groups via Hays Medical Center address mental health and wellness. Trails like Smoky Hills Trail encourage active lifestyles, with free yoga at Frontier Park. Wellness events like the Hays Health & Wellness Expo occur annually, boosting Hays wellness programs.

Health Care & Wellness in Hays, Kansas

Hays Medical Center (2220 Canterbury Dr, Hays, KS 67601) provides 207 beds, offering emergency, cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic care. Telemedicine supports rural patients. The YMCA (1100 Main St, Hays, KS 67601) offers yoga, swimming, and fitness classes. High Plains Mental Health Center (208 E 7th St, Hays, KS 67601) provides mental health support, including crisis intervention. Community health fairs offer free screenings, supporting Hays healthcare services.

Homes for the Elderly & Senior Living in Hays, Kansas

The Hays Senior Center (1300 Main St, Hays, KS 67601) hosts fitness, social programs, and educational workshops. Brookdale Hays (1801 E 27th St, Hays, KS 67601) offers luxury assisted living and memory care. Home health via Hays Medical Center supports elderly residents, ideal for Hays senior living.

Childcare & Parenting Resources in Hays, Kansas

Hays offers childcare at the YMCA (1100 Main St, Hays, KS 67601) and KinderCare (400 E 8th St, Hays, KS 67601). The Hays Parenting Network hosts support groups and workshops on child development. Family-friendly parks like Frontier Park feature playgrounds. The Sternberg Museum offers STEM-focused kids’ programs.

The Hays Public Library (1205 Main St, Hays, KS 67601) hosts storytimes, parenting classes, and summer reading programs. The YMCA provides youth sports and swim lessons. Events like the Wild West Fest include kid zones with crafts and games. The Family Resource Center offers in-home childcare support and parenting classes. Parent meetups thrive in Downtown, supporting Hays family resources.

Pet-Friendly Spots in Hays, Kansas

Hays is pet-friendly, with Frontier Park (1400 US-183 Alt, Hays, KS 67601) and Smoky Hills Trail offering trails. PetSmart (2900 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601) provides supplies. Veterinary care at Hays Veterinary Hospital (1016 E 8th St, Hays, KS 67601). Ellis County Animal Shelter (1308 E 8th St, Hays, KS 67601) hosts adoption events. Pet-friendly trails at Big Creek are ideal for Hays pet-friendly spots.

Ellis County Animal Shelter facilitates adoptions with monthly events and low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Pet-friendly cafés like Gella’s Diner welcome dogs on patios. The Hays Dog Training Club offers obedience and agility classes. Hotels like Hampton Inn are pet-friendly, with pet amenities available.

Best Shops & Boutiques in Hays, Kansas

Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market and Chestnut Street District shops offer local goods, from handmade crafts to artisanal foods, enhancing Hays boutique shopping.

• Smoky Hill Farmers’ Market: 1530 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.
• The Mall: 2918 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601.
• Paisley Pear: 1100 Main St, Hays, KS 67601.

Top Dining Options in Hays, Kansas

Camping & Lodging in Hays, Kansas

Wilson Lake offers camping with scenic views. Lodging options provide comfort for visitors, from historic hotels to modern inns.

• Wilson Lake: 4860 101st St, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481.
• Hampton Inn: 4002 General Hays Rd, Hays, KS 67601.
• Holiday Inn Express: 4650 Roth Ave, Hays, KS 67601.

Real Estate & Cost of Living in Hays, Kansas

Hays’ real estate is affordable, with median home prices at $180,000, well below the U.S.’s $350,000, driven by steady demand. Annual appreciation is 4%. Rentals average $850/month for a two-bedroom. The cost of living index is 78, lower than the national average, driven by affordable housing and utilities. Median household income is $55,000. The market favors buyers due to education and tourism growth, key for Hays real estate.

Urban Development & Future Plans in Hays, Kansas

Hays is pursuing sustainable development through the Hays Green Initiative, with projects like Downtown revitalization adding mixed-use spaces, green infrastructure, and public art. The Hays 2030 Plan aims for carbon neutrality by 2030, focusing on renewable energy and transit improvements. The Big Creek Restoration Project enhances recreational spaces and flood resilience.

The Downtown Master Plan expands the Chestnut Street District with new event spaces and public art. The Hays Regional Airport expansion improves connectivity with plans for additional regional flights. Fort Hays State University’s sustainability programs drive green tech innovation. Challenges include housing affordability for young professionals, but grants from the EPA and Kansas Department of Commerce fund solar projects and smart city initiatives, shaping Hays urban development.

Travel Tips for Hays, Kansas

Hays Regional Airport (HYS) serves regional flights via United Express, with connections to Denver. Downtown and the Chestnut Street District are walkable, with free and paid parking at attractions ($1/hour). The I-70 and US-183 connect to Wichita and Kansas City. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with mild weather and vibrant wildflowers. Pack layers for variable weather and hiking shoes for trails. Check festival schedules for tickets, especially for Oktoberfest. Fuel stations and ATMs are abundant. Respect cultural sites like Cheyenne exhibits. Book lodging early for Wild West Fest, key for Hays travel tips.

Transportation and Getting Around in Hays, Kansas

Hays Regional Airport (HYS) serves airlines like United Express, with flights to Denver. Hays City Transit offers bus routes with $1 fares. Taxis and Uber are available. The I-70 and US-183 ensure access to regional cities. The Smoky Hills Trail supports biking. Amtrak connects to Kansas City via a bus-to-train service in Garden City. Free and paid parking at attractions is affordable. Bike rentals at Hays Bike Shop (1100 Main St, Hays, KS 67601) enhance Hays transportation options.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 21, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.