Topeka, city, capital (1861) of Kansas, U.S., and seat (1857) of Shawnee county. Topeka lies on the Kansas River in the eastern part of the state. The name Topeka is of uncertain Indigenous origin; one interpretation is “smoky hill,” and another is “a good place to dig potatoes.”

Explore Topeka, KS! Enjoy historic sites, arts, dining, parks, and family fun in the capital city with warm hospitality and unique experiences.

Topeka is the capital of Kansas. Visitors come to see the Kansas Museum of History, Topeka Zoo, and Renisch Rose Gardens. The metropolitan area is rich in history and highly favored by nature. In 2019, it was home to 125,000 people.

The name "Topeka" is a Kansa-Osage word that means "place where we dig potatoes", [11] or "a good place to dig potatoes". [citation needed] As a placename, Topeka was first recorded in 1826 as the Kansa name for what is now called the Kansas River.

Tours in and around Topeka Book these experiences for a closer look at the region.

Topeka, Kansas Attractions Unusual landmarks, museums, roadside attractions, and hidden wonders in Topeka and the surrounding area. City on the continent-crossing artery of I-70, west of Lawrence and Independence, offers a variety of quirky statues, locally built art environments, and historical landmarks.

If you come to Topeka in the summer, you’re sure to spend some time in Gage Park, which is home to the city’s zoo and a whole patchwork of other attractions including an enchanting carousel from 1908.