Kansas Sunflower Summer returns in 2026 with shorter season, same family-friendly benefits
Information obtained from sunflowersummer.org
TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas families can once again explore the state for free this summer as the Sunflower Summer Program returns July 9 through Aug. 2, 2026, offering free admission to attractions statewide for Pre-K through 12th-grade students.
The program, funded by the Kansas State Legislature, covers all Kansas resident students — whether enrolled in public, private or homeschool settings — and allows one accompanying adult to receive a free ticket voucher per visit. Additional adults in the party must pay out of pocket.
This year's season runs shorter than in previous years due to limited legislative funding. Program officials noted the timeline may be further adjusted depending on participation levels and encouraged families to check the Sunflower Summer mobile app before visiting any attraction.
Who Qualifies
Kansas residency is required. Out-of-state visitors are not eligible for free tickets, though program administrators note the app can still serve as a travel guide for families visiting the state.
Students must be actively enrolled in Pre-K through Grade 12. Infants and toddlers do not qualify. Students enrolled in transitional education programs are also eligible.
Grandparents and other non-guardian caregivers may participate through the app's ticket transfer feature. A parent or legal guardian may transfer a student's free admission ticket to another adult who has the app downloaded. Once used, the ticket counts as the student's one entry to that venue for the season.
How the Program Works
Each student receives one free admission per participating attraction per season. The app "stamps" used tickets to prevent reuse. Families may visit multiple attractions in a single day.
For Kansas State Parks, families should visit the park office or nearest gatehouse to redeem a green Sunflower Summer vehicle permit, valid through 2 p.m. the following day. Some parks without on-site offices have specific redemption instructions listed in the app.
Families without smartphones may obtain paper vouchers directly from staffed attraction locations.
Accessibility and Age Appropriateness
Accessibility amenities vary by location. Families can review each venue's offerings through its listing on TravelKS.com under the "Amenities" tab or by contacting the attraction directly.
Program administrators advise parents to research individual attractions in advance, as some exhibits may contain themes or environments not suitable for all ages, despite all listed venues being considered student-friendly.
What's New in 2026
Rules established in 2025 remain in effect. Only one adult admission is covered per transaction, regardless of how many adults are present. A complete list of participating attractions will be announced later this summer.
For more information or to download the app, visit the Sunflower Summer website.