Cybertrips: Head west (or east) for the Kansas State Fair

There's still a chance to take in a state fair before the fall harvest season. Just head across the Plains to the Kansas State Fair, and then take the opportunity to see more of the state that boasts it was where the West began.

This year's Kansas State Fair — www.kansasstatefair.com/ — is set for Sept. 7-16 at Hutchinson, a short drive northwest of Wichita. See the 4-H exhibits and cheer for the best sheep showmanship, admire the entries in the Fine Arts and Professional Arts exhibitions and pick up some ideas from the food contest. There's even a spelling bee and twins contest. And when you need to sit for a spell, you can head for the grandstand for the free Lawn Mower Races or buy a ticket to see performances by Gretchen Wilson or Chicago.

While you're in Hutchinson — www.visithutch.com/ — visit other attractions including the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, home of the Apollo 13 command module Odyssey and other aerospace highlights. The "Attractions" page also has links to the nearby Yoder Amish Community, plus the local zoo and water parks for your kids. And the "Accommodations" section will help you find a place to stay, from motels to bed & breakfast inns and campgrounds.

For something a little different, get out of the sun and visit the Kansas Underground Salt Museum — www.undergroundmuseum.org/ — located 650 feet beneath the prairie in a working salt mine. Click on "Why Hutchinson" and then "Salt City" to learn a little about the local salt industry.

Next, head back down the road to Wichita — www.visitwichita.com/ — the state's biggest city. Be patient; this Web site takes a while to download. Click on "Entertainment" for links to the local night life, amusement parks, museums and dinner theaters. And wineries; yes, Kansas has wineries. If you want to take it easy, look for "Tours" and the Western Heritage Tour, taking you to the Old Cowtown Museum and more, or the Historic Trolley Tour.

For a little variety, visit Oldtown Wichita — www.oldtownwichita.com/ — an area of clubs, restaurants, galleries, restaurants and shops in the heart of the city.