How to get to Hays

Hays is a colourful city in the heart of Kansas, combining the atmosphere of the Wild West with the modern comfort of a university hub. You can reach Hays in various ways: from a direct flight to a scenic road trip along wide American highways. A journey to this corner of the USA offers the opportunity to touch the history of the frontier and enjoy the tranquillity of the endless prairies.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a flight to the regional Hays Airport (HYS), which is located just a few minutes' drive from the centre. This aviation hub provides convenient connections for travellers who value time and comfort, and it is well-connected to the city's infrastructure.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities: Dodge City or Salina, located less than 150 kilometres from your destination. Alternatively, the airport in McCook is suitable, though the transfer from there will take a little more time.

There is no direct railway service to the city, as Hays does not have its own train station. Train travel enthusiasts will need to plan a route involving a transfer to a bus or a rental car at nearby transport hubs.

The nearest station serving long-distance trains (such as Amtrak) is located in Dodge City. From there, you can reach your final destination by road, covering a distance of approximately 140 kilometres.

At the moment, precise information regarding regular intercity bus services directly to Hays is limited. Travellers are advised to check schedules with major national carriers or regional operators in advance before travelling to the USA.

Bus services often connect small towns with major regional transport hubs, so it is worth considering a combined route. Given the lack of direct data on bus services, renting a car may be a more reliable and flexible alternative for a trip to Hays.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient ways to get to the city while enjoying views of the American hinterland. From the city of Salina, the road takes only about one and a half hours (155 km), making this route quite popular and untiring for drivers.

A journey from historic Dodge City will last approximately 1.8 hours, during which you will cover about 170 kilometres. If you are departing from McCook, expect to spend about 2.5 hours on the road, driving nearly 240 kilometres along the region's scenic highways.

Hays is a welcoming city with a rich history, but as with any journey, a little preparation will make your trip much more comfortable. Here are some useful recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is continental, with hot summers and cool winters. It is recommended to wear clothes in layers to easily adapt to weather changes, as well as comfortable shoes for walking.
2. Transport. Public transport is not widely developed, so car rental is the best way to move around the city and its surroundings. This will give you the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keeping a small amount of cash (in small denominations) is useful for tips or minor purchases.
4. Health and Safety. Hays is a safe city, but standard precautions are always advisable. In emergencies, dial 911. Having medical insurance for tourists is mandatory.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are friendly and usually happy to help, even if your language skills are not perfect.
6. Local Etiquette. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount, as this is an important part of the staff's earnings. Be polite and smile.
7. What to Avoid. Do not enter private properties or farms without the owner's permission—private property rights are strictly protected here.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to visit the historic Fort Hays to better understand the spirit of this place and learn about the days of the Wild West frontier.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and allow you to fully focus on exploring the unique atmosphere of Kansas.