There were a record number of visitors to the Flint Hills Discovery Center in 2023. Interim Director for the Center Stephen Bridenstine informed the Manhattan Parks and Recreation that there were 95,507 visitors. A total of 75,583 were regular visitors.

Seventy percent of the visitors were from outside the area. The economic impact on the community totaled in the 1.5 to 2.3 million dollar range. That comes not only admission fees but in areas such as eating out and shopping. There was a conservative estimate of $50 per day. The number of visitors to the Center is down this year.

The next upcoming exhibit at the facility, Stepping into the Prairie, opens Nov. 16. It is being funded by a $200,000 state grant and $200,000 from the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.&nbsp; There are also plans to bring the popular Flint Hills Festival back in May of 2025. And funds are being raised for an all weather shade structure.

By Dewey TerrillLittle Apple PostThere were a record number of visitors to the Flint Hills Discovery Center in 2023. Interim Director for the Center Stephen Bridenstine informed the Manhattan Parks and Recreation that there were 95,507 visitors. A total of 75,583 were regular visitors.Seventy percent of the visitors were from outside the area. The economic impact on the community totaled in the 1.5 to 2.3 million dollar range. That comes not only admission fees but in areas such as eating out and shopping. There was a conservative estimate of $50 per day. The number of visitors to the Center is down this year.The next upcoming exhibit at the facility, Stepping into the Prairie, opens Nov. 16. It is being funded by a $200,000 state grant and $200,000 from the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.&nbsp; There are also plans to bring the popular Flint Hills Festival back in May of 2025. And funds are being raised for an all weather shade structure.The Center is 12 years old.&nbsp;

Flint Hills Discovery Center enjoys good year in 2023