“The BKRT Pop Up is an event that feels like a community open house for attractions and locally-owned shops and restaurants.” said Monica Frye, KSF’s Explore Kansas Program Manager. “In Concordia, explorers will find a series of mini-talks and tours that feature intriguing places and stories not normally shared with the public - a real behind-the-scenes look.”
The core audience at the BKRT are members of the Foundation’s Kansas Explorers Club, but these events are open to anyone who would like to explore these Kansas communities. Communities that are selected are asked to be good at being themselves so explorers can have an authentic experience.
The event in Concordia is special because Susie Haver, who is Honorary Kansas Explorer #1 for 2026, is the director of Cloud County Tourism. Susie, along with Michelle Bombardier, co-director of Cloud County Tourism, are excited to welcome Kansas Explorers Club members and friends to their community. Explorers will be able to visit attractions such as the National Orphan Train Complex, Camp Concordia POW Camp, and the Brown Grand Theatre as well as other unique attractions in Concordia.
The mission of the Kansas Sampler Foundation is to preserve and sustain rural culture. For more information on the BKRT, go to bigkansasroadtrip.com.
