**Top 5 Cities to Film in Kansas**

Kansas is well-known for its vast plains, endless skies, and warm-hearted communities. But it’s also an excellent place for filmmakers. With its mix of natural beauty, historic locations, and vibrant small towns, Kansas offers a variety of backdrops for films. Whether you’re filming a quiet, rural story or a fast-paced urban scene, Kansas has something for everyone. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Kansas.  Let’s explore the top five cities to film in Kansas.

1. **Wichita**

Wichita is the largest city in Kansas, and it’s a popular filming location for many reasons. This city has a little bit of everything, from a modern downtown to historic neighborhoods and scenic parks. Filmmakers often choose Wichita because it offers a great mix of urban and natural settings.

One of the most iconic locations in Wichita is the Keeper of the Plains. This striking statue sits at the meeting point of two rivers and is surrounded by walking paths, bridges, and beautiful views. It’s a unique location that can bring a sense of calm and beauty to any film.

Downtown Wichita also offers a lively city atmosphere. Filmmakers can capture bustling streets, local restaurants, and cultural spots like the Wichita Art Museum and the Old Town district. Old Town is known for its brick streets and historic buildings, making it perfect for films with a vintage feel.

For more natural scenes, filmmakers can head to Botanica, Wichita’s botanical gardens. The gardens provide a lush, green setting that’s great for outdoor scenes or peaceful moments.

2. **Lawrence**

Lawrence is a charming college town with a vibrant arts scene. Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence has a youthful energy and a creative vibe that makes it a great place for filmmakers. The town is full of unique locations that can add character to any film.

The University of Kansas campus is one of the top filming spots in Lawrence. With its historic buildings, tree-lined walkways, and scenic views, the campus provides a perfect backdrop for films about college life or academic stories. The iconic Campanile bell tower and the natural beauty of Potter Lake offer beautiful, picturesque settings.

Lawrence’s downtown area is also a great place to film. Massachusetts Street, known as “Mass Street,” is full of local shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a lively spot that can add a small-town charm to any film. Filmmakers can capture the feel of a tight-knit community while also showcasing the vibrant and artistic atmosphere of Lawrence.

For more peaceful scenes, filmmakers can visit Clinton Lake, just outside of Lawrence. The lake is surrounded by forests and trails, making it a great spot for outdoor films or nature scenes.

3. **Topeka**

Topeka, the capital of Kansas, is another top choice for filmmakers. It’s a city full of history, culture, and beautiful locations that make it ideal for a variety of films. From its grand government buildings to its scenic parks, Topeka has something for every type of filmmaker.

One of the most famous locations in Topeka is the Kansas State Capitol building. This grand structure, with its impressive dome and stately architecture, adds an air of importance and history to any film. Filmmakers who need a government or historical setting will find the State Capitol to be a great option.

Another great spot for filming in Topeka is Lake Shawnee. This large, beautiful lake is surrounded by gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas. It’s perfect for outdoor scenes that need a serene and peaceful setting. The lake’s scenic views and natural beauty make it an excellent choice for nature films or films with a slower, reflective tone.

Topeka’s history also offers filmmakers plenty of options. The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, for example, is an important landmark that can provide a powerful and meaningful backdrop for films about civil rights or history.

4. **Overland Park**

Overland Park is located in the Kansas City metropolitan area and is known for its suburban charm, modern developments, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a city that combines the benefits of both urban and suburban settings, making it a versatile filming location.

One of the most popular spots in Overland Park is the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. This large garden features a variety of plants, flowers, and walking trails, providing a beautiful natural setting for outdoor films. Filmmakers who need a lush, green backdrop will find the arboretum to be an excellent choice.

For urban scenes, filmmakers can capture the city’s modern shopping areas, like the Oak Park Mall, or explore local restaurants and cafes in the downtown area. Overland Park also has many parks, playgrounds, and residential neighborhoods that make it a great spot for films about family life or suburban living.

Overland Park’s close proximity to Kansas City gives filmmakers access to even more filming options, making it a convenient location for a wide variety of projects.

5. **Dodge City**

Dodge City is one of the most famous cities in Kansas, thanks to its rich Wild West history. It’s a city that’s often associated with cowboys, gunfights, and the Old West. For filmmakers looking to capture that historical feel, Dodge City is the perfect location.

Boot Hill Museum is one of the top filming spots in Dodge City. The museum offers a glimpse into the city’s Wild West past, with historic buildings, exhibits, and reenactments. It’s a great place for filmmakers working on Westerns or films set in the late 1800s. The museum’s authentic setting provides a sense of history and adventure that can’t be found in many other places.

Dodge City’s historic downtown also offers filmmakers a chance to capture the feel of an old Western town. With its saloons, old storefronts, and cowboy culture, the city brings history to life on the screen.

For outdoor scenes, filmmakers can explore the nearby plains and open landscapes that surround Dodge City. These wide-open spaces offer a beautiful and dramatic backdrop, perfect for films that need a sense of freedom and adventure.

In conclusion, Kansas is a state full of diverse and exciting filming locations. Whether you’re looking for the modern cityscapes of Wichita, the artistic charm of Lawrence, or the historical feel of Dodge City, Kansas has something for every filmmaker. Each of these five cities offers a unique combination of urban, suburban, and natural settings, providing filmmakers with plenty of options to bring their stories to life.

Wichita stands out with its mix of modern city life and natural beauty, while Lawrence brings a creative, youthful energy to the screen. Topeka offers a rich history and stately locations, making it ideal for historical films. Overland Park provides a perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience, while Dodge City transports filmmakers back to the Wild West with its historic buildings and wide-open landscapes.

From urban dramas to Western adventures, Kansas offers a wide range of filming possibilities. Its welcoming communities, stunning landscapes, and diverse locations make it a top choice for filmmakers looking to capture the heart and spirit of the Midwest.