Topeka is located in the heartland of the U.S. and is the site of many historic places, such as the courthouse where the famous Brown v. Board of Education court case ensued. In this case, racial segregation in public schools was declared illegal. The city of Topeka earned its moniker from a Native American phrase that referred to a place where potatoes were dug.
The Native Americans of the Great Plains were the primary inhabitants of the Kansas area from the 16th century through the early 18th century, before France and then Spain took over the area. By the turn of the century, the U.S. eventually acquired most of the Kansas area as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
By the late 19th century, the westward expansion was in full swing. Wagon trains followed the Oregon Trail, some settling in Kansas along the way. Eventually, Fort Riley was constructed in the area, and the town began to slowly grow, with steamboats bringing goods to Topeka landing. By the end of the century, the town was known as a major commercial hub.
The first Kansas Capitol was established in 1869, but the Civil War and drought slowed the growth in the area for a period of time. After the war, the town grew so rapidly that the boom eventually ended in disaster for speculators, resulting in a depression era in 1890. Topeka soon bounced back as the automobile industry began to grow, and the Smith Automobile Company was founded there in 1902.
The city of Topeka is still known as a commercial site, but it's also becoming a popular place for tourists who are looking to learn a little more about U.S. history or enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Middle America region.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Topeka, KS?
If you are looking to enjoy the best possible weather in Topeka, then you will want to plan your visit during the seasons of summer and fall. During this time of year, the weather is mostly warm and dry. There is the risk of encountering a tornado this time of year, however, so be sure to stay on top of weather reports and be aware of tornado safety before traveling.
Since the warm weather only lasts through these two seasons, you are likely to encounter higher costs for accommodations, but the cost fluctuations are not too significant. If you are looking to save some money by traveling during the off-season, then it would be best to try to book your trip toward the end of spring. Traveling to Topeka during the winter months is not advisable because you may encounter blizzard-like conditions and severe ice storms.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Topeka, KS:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Topeka, KS. Analyze these line graphs to evaluate the least expensive months to book in Topeka for your upcoming travels.
What Are Some Luxury Hotel Options in Topeka, KS?
If you are more focused on amenities and more upscale room accommodations, there are many higher-end hotel options in and around the city of Topeka. While not necessarily considered luxury accommodations like resorts, the hotels below provide guests with the best in amenities and room options to help them create an ideal trip.
The Residence Inn, located on Southwest Westport Drive, features rooms that are outfitted with kitchens with refrigerators and stovetops, sofa beds, smart televisions with cable programming, and microwaves. You will also enjoy many amenities during your stays, such as fitness facilities, an indoor pool with a spa tub, complimentary daily breakfast, a barbecue area, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is also conveniently located close to popular attractions such as the Museum of the Kansas National Guard.
Another great upscale hotel in the area is the Courtyard by Marriott. During your stay, you will enjoy comfortable rooms that feature in-room safes, desks, hair dryers, microwaves, and cable programming. To make the most of your stay, you can take advantage of the 24-hour fitness center, enjoy room service, grab a quick bite at the coffee shop, take a walk on the terrace, or enjoy lunch in the picnic area. You will be just a short drive away from the Topeka Zoo and Lake Shawnee, both perfect stops for afternoon trips.
What Are Some Budget Hotels in Topeka, KS?
3 Star Average Prices: $84.64
When traveling on a budget, it is likely that you are looking to find budget-friendly accommodations that provide what you need to make your trip complete. The good news is, there are plenty of accommodations in and around the Topeka area where you can get the most bang for your buck.
One such option is Motel 6. Located on Fairlawn Road, this hotel features clean rooms with cable programming, complimentary internet access, and housekeeping services. Amenities at the hotel include a vending machine, free Wi-Fi, coffee and tea, and complimentary daily newspapers. The hotel is located close to the downtown area, just a short distance from the Topeka Zoo and Heartland Park.
Another great option for more budget-conscious travelers is the Baymont by Wyndham, which is located near the Kansas Museum of History and Lake Shawnee. The guest amenities include free Wi-Fi and daily breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a business center with a computer station. Your room choice will include cable programming, a desk, a coffee and tea maker, and a hair dryer.
2 Star Average Prices: $68.56
What Are the Top Hotels in Topeka, Kansas, for Discounts?
There are many hotels in and around the area of Topeka where members of certain groups — such as AAA members — are offered discounted rates off of their nightly stay. If you belong to one of these groups, you can choose from one of these accommodation options to save even more on your next vacation.
If you are an active or retired member of the military or government, you can enjoy a discount for your stay at the Best Western Plus in nearby Lawrence, Kansas. The hotel is located by many of the popular stops in the area, such as the Spencer Museum of Art and the Kansas City Expo Center. Amenities that the hotel offers include a picnic area, an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour fitness center. Rooms at the hotel are extremely comfortable with microwaves, 42-inch LED televisions with digital programming, desks, and coffee and tea makers.
Military members and government workers will also receive discounted rates when they book their stay at the Holiday Inn Express on Southwest Robinson Road. The hotel is right by the Kansas Museum of History and close to the historic site of the Brown v. Board of Education decision. Rooms at the hotel are outfitted with microwaves, refrigerators, hair dryers, cable programming, and safes. Amenities that you can take advantage of during your stay include a 24-hour business center, fitness facilities, free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, and a complimentary buffet breakfast.
What Are Some of the Best Value Hotels in Topeka, KS?
If you are looking for the perfect mix of location, amenities, and comfort for your trip to the Topeka, Kansas, area, there are a number of hotel options that provide you with just that. One of the top hotels in the Topeka area is the Capitol Plaza Topeka. The hotel is located right in the downtown area and is close to the Brown v. Board of Education Historic Site and the Kansas State Capitol.
You can choose from standard or executive rooms that come equipped with cable programming, complimentary newspapers, microwaves, and coffee and tea makers. The hotel has plenty of amenities, including a business center, free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, a spa tub, and laundry facilities.
Another great hotel located in Topeka is the Homewood Suites by Hilton. During your stay, you will enjoy amenities such as fitness facilities, a terrace, an indoor pool, laundry facilities, a pool table, and an arcade and game room. Rooms at the hotel include 42-inch flat-screen televisions with cable programming, safes, and daily newspapers. You will also enjoy the hotel's excellent location by the Topeka Zoological Park and Mulvane Art Museum.
What Is There to See and Do in Topeka, KS?
There is no shortage of things to see or do when you make a trip to the Topeka area. One of the must-see stops to put on your list is the historic site of the Brown v. Board of Education, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. If you enjoy beautiful architecture, then you should also make a stop at the Kansas State Capitol Building.
Outdoorsy people will enjoy a trip to Lake Swanee, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and other recreational water activities. You also may want to take advantage of the many museums located in the area, including the Kansas Museum of History, Mulvane Art Museum, and the Combat Air Museum.
No matter what you are going to Topeka for or how big or small your budget may be, you can find the perfect accommodations to suit your budget and needs for the perfect trip you will never forget.
FAQs about hotels in Topeka
How much does a cheap hotel in Topeka cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Topeka can be as cheap as $68.56 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Topeka cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Topeka has been $84.64 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city: Topeka, KS
Below are reviews of the city of Topeka, KS from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Nice location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Loved Topeka, friendly people.
John R., from 19-Nov-2024
"Nice Downtown"
Score
4.0 / 5
Downtown was nice.
Rebecca R., from 29-Aug-2024
"Everything in close proximity."
Score
5.0 / 5
The city was fine; everything was in close proximity.
Dorothy C., from 02-Jul-2024
"The town was very green and comfortable."
Score
4.0 / 5
The town was very green and comfortable.
Michael D., from 29-Jun-2024
"Great Restaurants & Casino"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was business. Some great restaurants casino nearby.
William G., from 25-Jun-2024
"Beautiful City"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful city!
Debbie G., from 06-Jun-2024
"Great location near mall, eateries and entertainment!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Our hotel was close to everything we could possibly need. The mall, all kinds of dining establishments and even entertainment options weren't far.
Rachel N., from 12-May-2024
"Clean Green City"
Score
4.0 / 5
Appears to be a clean city. Many green areas. Beautiful Episcopal Cathedral.
Alice E., from 26-Apr-2024
"Nice!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice!
Terry H., from 31-Dec-2023
"Great Chinese Restaurant"
Score
4.0 / 5
I liked the Hong Kong China in north Topeka!
Rhoda P., from 28-Dec-2023
"Loved It!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Loved it!
Jerry D., from 02-Dec-2023
"T.H.E. Archery Club"
Score
5.0 / 5
T.H.E. Archery Club was great. Loved the Blind Tiger.
Robert R., from 03-Oct-2023
"Great Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
The location. Within 15 mins. of interstate, shopping, eating, wedding venue.
Sheri W., from 26-Sep-2023
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
The location is within 15 mins. of interstate, shopping, eating and wedding venue.
Sheri W., from 25-Sep-2023
"Shopping & Wide Variety of Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
It has shopping and a wide variety of restaurants to choose from.
Kathleen S., from 16-Sep-2023
"Good Central Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ease of access to other areas.
Judy F., from 16-Sep-2023
"The Capital"
Score
5.0 / 5
Visited the capital and several restaurants.
Michael C., from 14-Sep-2023
"Superb Hotel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The hotel and service were superb!
Deborah W., from 06-Sep-2023
"Topeka is a nice historic city!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Topeka is a nice historic city!
Sam S., from 05-Sep-2023
"Beautiful Place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Visited family so didn't have time to really explore. The little I saw downtown and the Capital Building are beautiful.
Nancy B., from 21-Aug-2023
"Great Customer Service"
Score
5.0 / 5
The gentleman who served breakfast was fast and very kind. Bev the bartender was great! She was extremely kind and helpful finding places in town! We need more people like Bev!
Christina O., from 26-Jul-2023
"I Recommend This Hotel!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Based on my experience with this hotel and location - I would recommend!
Larry G., from 20-Jul-2023
"Great Location on the Main Strip"
Score
4.0 / 5
Th location of the hotel was on the main strip. I found the main strip to meet any tourist's needs for everything!
Brittany S., from 01-Jul-2023
"Great location near Nclex Testing."
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy driving for us, five minutes from Nclex Testing. Eight minutes to my sons house and everyone we talked to was kind and friendly ( the best part).
Marjorie P., from 27-Jun-2023
"Gage Park & the Zoo"
Score
5.0 / 5
I grew up just outside of Topeka and it remains a favorite place to visit. Gage Park and the Zoo have always been great. We did not have opportunity to visit them on this trip. There are many historical areas in and around Topeka.
Cheryl H., from 15-Jun-2023
"No Traffic!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's easy to drive around Topeka. No heavy traffic and friendly people.
Linda W., from 04-Jun-2023
"Excellent Shopping"
Score
4.0 / 5
Excellent shopping!
Barbra S., from 16-May-2023
"Lots of Food & Shopping on Wannamaker Road!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like Wannamaker Road, lots of food and shopping places.
Harorld B., from 05-May-2023
"Clean area with lots of fast food joints. "
Score
5.0 / 5
The area we stayed in was clean with lots of fast food joints.
Tricia H., from 17-Apr-2023
"Clean and Comfortable rooms, friendly staff, good breakfast!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean and Comfortable rooms, friendly staff, good breakfast! My husband n son enjoyed exploring the State Capitol
Greg D., from 28-Mar-2023
"Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Shopping!
Jolene B., from 08-Mar-2023
"Will Stay at Hotel Again!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I stayed one night on my way from Minnesota to Arizona. I will stay on my way back in February as well!
Sheryl L., from 08-Jan-2023
"Golf courses and sports bars!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Golf courses and sports bars!
Lonnie L., from 08-Nov-2022
"NHRA RACETRACK"
Score
5.0 / 5
NHRA RACETRACK
Mike M., from 30-Aug-2022
"The Brownstone"
Score
4.0 / 5
Enjoyed a beautiful wedding at The Brownstone!
Scott J., from 23-Aug-2022
"Good Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good traffic flow on interstate. Assorted restaurants available
Rosemary G., from 23-Aug-2022
"Fun with family!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Fun with family!
Calvin J., from 07-Aug-2022
"Topeka West"
Score
5.0 / 5
My granddaughter graduated from Topeka West. The convenience of restaurants and shopping.
Susan B., from 17-May-2022
"Topeka is a good city with all amenities!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's a good city with all amenities!
Kenneth M., from 16-May-2022
"It’s a good city with all amenities!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's a good city with all amenities!
Kenneth M., from 15-May-2022
"Great location and stay!
"
Score
4.0 / 5
There were plenty of restaurants and stores near by the hotel. We were attending a wedding near Perry Lake and found these accommodations more comfortable.
Teri L., from 11-Oct-2021
"Fun"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Zoo was great and the people were polite and nice
Donald S., from 02-Oct-2019
"Fun
"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Zoo was great and the people were polite and nice
Donald S., from 02-Oct-2019
"Convenient"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy to get around
Bryce B., from 25-Sep-2019
"Beautiful Area and Softball Parks"
Score
4.0 / 5
Topeka was easy to get around, found a couple of good eating places on Topeka Streets. Saw several nicely kept neighborhoods, Lake Shawnee was beautiful. My daughter was camped there, and the softball parks were amazing. People were all nice wherever we went
Christine K., from 20-Jul-2019
"Great Place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Topeka has rolling hills, very pretty. The weather was nice, not hot and humid like Louisiana.
Kim D., from 17-Jul-2019
"Topeka was AWESOME! "
Score
4.0 / 5
I highly advise ordering the Baked Potato Pizza fom Glory Days Pizza, taking the visitors guided tour of the Capital building (starts every hour on the hour), take a selfie on the capital stairs, visit Subway sandwich shop and picnic in the shade on the capital grounds. (*Remember to not leave trash or trample the grass!) Stay at the Cyprus hotel (shower architecture was incredible), visit the Weather Room for drinks and spend some time walking the downtown as there are many tributes. The next morning get breakfast from The Hanover Pancake House and add the ham to whatever you order - it's thick, smokey, not fatty, and melt in your mouth good. All of it - WORTH IT!!
Catherine L., from 05-May-2019
"Great"
Score
4.0 / 5
Westridge Lanes was a very nice establishment to bowl our tournament in. The staff was very friendly, and the food was .... let's just say not your ordinary bowling center food. You have to try the chicken strips, the best I have ever had.
Cheryl K., from 02-Mar-2019
"Very Conveniently Located"
Score
5.0 / 5
Our hotel was super close to food options! Everything was nearby.
Kathlyn M., from 21-Mar-2016
"City Sports Tournament"
Score
5.0 / 5
The Bettis sports complex was a great place to play ball.
Stephanie B., from 27-Apr-2015
"Gallery Suggestions"
Score
5.0 / 5
We visited two top notch art galleries in Topeka: the Mulvane Art Museum at Washburn University and the Sabatini Gallery in the Topeka Public Library. Both galleries had lovely exhibits in a well-curated show.
Taren S., from 19-Jan-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Topeka, KS shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 51 reviews