For countless ages, the Flint Hills have sustained life, as an inland sea, as grazing and hunting grounds teeming with bison, and as agricultural land that feeds millions. Envisioned with the purpose of continuing this legacy of connection to life-giving land, Prairiewood is nestled amongst 600 private acres set aside specifically as a tallgrass prairie preserve.
Located just a mile west of Manhattan, Kansas, Prairiewood offers first-class lodging, event spaces, and community programming, all thoughtfully assembled to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Whether an individual or couple looking for a place to rest and renew, family or friends seeking an inspiring retreat, a bride-to-be planning her perfect day, or a board of directors requiring a state-of-the-art meeting room, Prairiewood won’t disappoint. We invite you to come see how the rare privacy, unparalleled service, and stunning beauty of this special place will exceed your highest expectations.
In the Beginning
The dream for Prairiewood began nearly 15 years ago. It started with a simple vision for saving some of the native tallgrass prairie in and around Manhattan, Kansas. Along the way, we became increasingly compelled by the idea of using the prairie to provide a place where the values of the land can find their way into the hearts and souls of its visitors — a place where the senses are awakened, perspective is renewed, and imagination is inspired.
Welcome to Prairiewood
Since opening in January 2010 with a single guest house, we have worked diligently to bring together all the pieces of such a place, by acquiring land, restoring prairie, blazing miles of hiking trails, assembling a team of tremendous individuals — and by creating exquisite lodging, meeting, and event spaces.
To be Continued
The story doesn’t end there. As we grow and learn, so too will the vision for where we are headed. We always envisioned our story taking unexpected but delightful turns, turns which bring together our diverse community and celebrate our common love for this unique landscape. In many ways, that transformation is already happening. Known throughout the regions as the premier destination for distinctive and memorable experiences, we have increased public access to our spaces and our preserve in exciting ways.
The fabric of Prairiewood is rich with a group of wonderful individuals, all of whom, in their own way, have helped to make Prairiewood a reality. Whether helping with its inception or simply reserving a stay, the story of Prairiewood has been shaped by those surrounding it. We continue to be grateful for those valued individuals, and we would be honored to have you become a part of our story, too.
Your Hosts
We fell in love with the tallgrass prairie when we each came to Manhattan to attend Kansas State University. We have made the Flint Hills our home ever since 1997 and, for nearly fifteen years, Prairiewood our labor of love. Having raised our three children here amidst the abundance of these surroundings, we continue to be compelled by this special place.
Prairiewood is very unique and very versatile. We strive to make it intentionally intimate, unusually private, and thoroughly welcoming. While just next to town, there is feeling of being a million miles away. The land has a subtle yet profound beauty that tends to calm our nerves and inspire our dreams. We take great pleasure in sharing this very special place which we so love.
— Rebecca & Kail Katzenmeier