Bonner Springs, Kansas was named for the mineral springs near the town, which were thought to have healing qualities.
With a town population of just over 7,000 residents, lovely Bonner Springs, Kansas is the picture of tranquil Great Plains living. Covering a total area of 15.73 square miles and located just to the west of Kansas City, Kansas, this one-time Kansas River boom-town is one of the oldest established settlements in the state. Though once a center for agriculture and trade, Bonner Springs is now a thriving community with ample opportunities for entertainment and shopping. If you aren't completely sold yet, consider the lower-than-average crime rates and convenient distance to Kansas City.
Moving to Bonner Springs
Bonner Springs is a small suburban community with three major neighborhoods. While you can scope out each neighborhood for places to rent, your best bet when looking for a vacant apartment will be in the City Center. With vacancy rates higher than the national average and decent prices, you're sure to find a nice one or two bedroom apartments for rent in this neighborhood. Be aware that you may or may not have neighbors from month to month, depending on the current demand for space.
If you're planning a move to Bonner Springs, you should plan well in advance. Pay attention to specifics and be sure to have credit checks and security deposits ready to go. Be aware that you'll need your trusty automobile for most of your daily activities: Bonner Springs scores a reasonable 54 on the website WalkScore.com, but that means you can't walk everywhere.
Where to Live
It's a small town so you can't be too surprised to hear that there isn't much in the way of neighborhoods. Check out the areas below to see which area is better suited to your lifestyle.
Lake of the Forest: This neighborhood is pretty popular, so good luck finding a space for rent here! If you do, you'll be pleased by this neighborhood's proximity to the Kansas Turnpike, Cricket Wireless Amphitheater and the Kansas Speedway. Despite these nearby attractions, Lake of the Forest has a reputation for being among the quietest neighborhoods in America. Be prepared to pay a little more for your peace and quiet in this area, however, for your new home for rent.
Loring: The westernmost area of Bonner Springs. Housing in this neighborhood is mostly of the rental house and mobile home variety. Like Lake of the Forest, places here can be hard to come by. The good news? If you do manage to squeeze into one of Loring's rental properties, your commute to work in Kansas City probably won't be longer than 30 minutes.
What To Do
If you choose Bonner Springs as the place to find your next rental apartment, you won't want for entertainment or some of the best eats in the country. Kansas City, just a few minutes away, is the home of award-winning barbecue joints and unique cuisine.
But why drive when there's plenty to do in town? The Travel Channel's own Man Vs. Food visited Bonner Springs in 2010 just to take on Papa Bob's Barbecue's "Ultimate Destroyer." For unique food, fun and music, check out the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, in town from Labor Day through Columbus Day.
If you're more into museums, the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame is just next door, and features exhibits from America's farming age. Or, if you're into big-name musicians but enjoy the fresh air, you could get tickets to a concert at Cricket Wireless Amphitheater, which features such artists as Brad Paisley, Skrillex and Rascal Flatts. There are city parks for sunny days and laid-back fun.
Whatever your pleasure, the town of Bonner Springs, Kansas can provide it. Like the city motto says, "Life is better in Bonner Springs."
