
Blue Earth Plaza
A modern city square featuring a striking fireplace and music-synchronized water features, transforming into a magical light display during holidays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Water features are active

Blue Earth Plaza
Best Time
Water features are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern city square featuring a striking fireplace and music-synchronized water features, transforming into a magical light display during holidays.
"The Festival of Lights is awesome..... Good time to spend with family riding Horse Charriots, taking pics with Santa or just hang out taking pics of the decor...."

Confirm Water Features 💧
Check if the water features are running before you go; they can be out of order.
Holiday Lights Spectacle ✨
The Festival of Lights is a must-see during winter, offering a festive family experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Musical Water Fountains
Central Plaza
Watch water dance to music in a dazzling synchronized display. A summer delight for kids and adults alike!

The Grand Fireplace
Central Plaza
A striking modern fireplace that adds warmth and ambiance, especially during cooler evenings.

Festival of Lights
Throughout the Plaza
Experience a magical holiday transformation with stunning light displays and festive cheer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Water Feature Status
Holiday Magic is Real
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Thanksgiving weekend
Confirm Water Features 💧
Check if the water features are running before you go; they can be out of order.
Holiday Lights Spectacle ✨
The Festival of Lights is a must-see during winter, offering a festive family experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun 🧸
There's a play area that grandkids enjoyed, making it great for families.
Explore Local Dining 🍽️
Combine your visit with exploring local eateries and bars around the plaza.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Water Features 💧
Check if the water features are running before you go; they can be out of order.
Holiday Lights Spectacle ✨
The Festival of Lights is a must-see during winter, offering a festive family experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun 🧸
There's a play area that grandkids enjoyed, making it great for families.
Explore Local Dining 🍽️
Combine your visit with exploring local eateries and bars around the plaza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Blue Earth Plaza is praised for its modern design, especially the fireplace and festive holiday lights. Visitors enjoy the synchronized water features when operational and the family-friendly play area. However, some disappointment arises when the water features are broken, impacting the experience.
"Went to the dock diving competition. A nice venue. Play area for grandkids."
Rhonda Roberts
"This place is always a joy to visit during the holidays. Seeing as this is my hometown I always love coming back to visit especially at Christmas time. Manhattan takes great pride in keeping up its appearances, creating a festive environment and ensuring all people whether you live in Manhattan or just visiting Manhattan enjoy their experience here. The Festival of Lights is fun for the whole family and gets better each holiday season. Please stop by not just for the festival of lights but also to take in the sights, enjoy some local dining, bars, the discovery center, and visit K-state university and Fort Riley while your are here. As always Happy travels-A"
A Ruiz
"I was very disappointed.
I stayed at the candlewood suites many times while in town for work and have told my wife about the plaza and the cool water features.
We decided to travel down from Seward, Ne. To stay at the same hotel and enjoy the water features I had been telling her about. But they were not running (broken ) on memorial Day weekend during our visit.
We found many other things to do, but I was really very bummed about this. Is there any timeline that it will be fixed?
AK"
Alan Kortmeyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blue Earth Plaza is centrally located in Manhattan, Kansas. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation routes may also serve the area, though specific details would require checking local transit schedules.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available near the plaza. It's advisable to check for any specific event parking restrictions or recommendations.
If you are staying in downtown Manhattan, the plaza is likely within walking distance. It's a central hub for the city.
The plaza is designed with modern features, suggesting good accessibility. However, it's always best to confirm specific accessibility details if needed.
Using GPS navigation with 'Blue Earth Plaza, Manhattan, KS' should lead you directly to the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Blue Earth Plaza is a public space, so generally, no tickets are required for entry. Enjoying the grounds and water features is free.
As an outdoor public plaza, it's typically accessible at all hours. However, specific features like the fireplace or water fountains may have operational times.
The Festival of Lights is usually a free community event, though some associated activities might have a small charge.
While the plaza is a public space, inquire with the local parks and recreation department for any possibilities of booking private events or areas.
General public space rules apply. Be respectful of the area and other visitors. Specific event rules may be in place during festivals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the modern fireplace, the music-synchronized water features, and during the holidays, the spectacular Festival of Lights. There's also a play area for children.
Unfortunately, reviews suggest the water features can sometimes be broken and may not be operational, even during peak times like Memorial Day weekend. It's best to check ahead if this is a priority.
In the summer, the highlight is the water features, which kids often enjoy playing in. The plaza is also a pleasant spot for a stroll.
Families can enjoy the play area, the water features (when operational), and the festive atmosphere, especially during the Festival of Lights.
Yes, the modern design, fireplace, and especially the light displays during the holidays offer great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Blue Earth Plaza itself is a city square and doesn't typically have restaurants within it. However, it's surrounded by local dining options.
The area around the plaza offers a variety of local dining, including bars and eateries, catering to different tastes.
Picnics are generally welcome in public plazas, but it's always good to check for any specific local ordinances regarding outside food.
You can likely find cafes and coffee shops in the vicinity of the plaza, perfect for a pre or post-visit refreshment.
The open space of the plaza makes it a pleasant spot for a picnic, especially on a nice day.
📸 📸 Photography
The modern fireplace, the synchronized water features, and the overall architectural design offer great photo opportunities. During the holidays, the Festival of Lights is a prime subject.
Absolutely! The illuminated fireplace and the Festival of Lights create a stunning backdrop for night photography.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can be beautiful for capturing the plaza's architecture. Evenings are spectacular with the lights and water features.
Drone usage in public spaces is often regulated. It's essential to check local FAA and city ordinances before flying a drone over Blue Earth Plaza.
During the Festival of Lights, there are often opportunities for photos with Santa and other festive decorations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the summer evenings when the water features are most likely to be active. For a truly enchanting experience, plan a trip during the holiday season to witness the spectacular Festival of Lights. Remember to check the status of the water features beforehand if they are a key attraction for your family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Evenings are particularly rewarding, as the illuminated fireplace and the synchronized water features (when active) add dynamic elements to your photos. The plaza's design is inherently photogenic, making it a rewarding location for capturing unique urban landscapes and seasonal celebrations.
🚶♀️ Strollers & Walkers
Whether you're looking for a peaceful daytime walk or an evening stroll to admire the illuminated fireplace, the plaza provides a welcoming atmosphere. It's a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the urban landscape at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Water Features
It's advisable for visitors planning a trip specifically to see the water features to confirm their functionality beforehand. This might involve checking local community forums, social media updates from the city, or contacting the local parks department. Despite potential maintenance issues, when working, they are a significant draw and a highlight of the plaza's modern design.
When operational, the water features provide a lively atmosphere, especially during evening hours when they can be combined with the plaza's ambient lighting. They serve as a focal point for gatherings and a playful space for children, embodying the plaza's role as a vibrant community hub.
Experiencing the Festival of Lights
Visitors can expect a range of activities during the festival, often including opportunities for photos with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, and simply enjoying the dazzling decorations. It's a popular time for community members and tourists alike to gather, take memorable pictures, and soak in the cheerful ambiance. The festival consistently receives praise for its growing scale and festive execution, making it a must-visit during the winter months.
The Festival of Lights not only provides a visually stunning experience but also fosters a strong sense of community. It's a time when Manhattan truly shines, offering a heartwarming and engaging holiday celebration for everyone. The event underscores the city's commitment to creating memorable experiences for its residents and visitors.
Modern Design and Ambiance
The plaza's layout is intended to be inviting, with open courtyards and well-maintained grounds that encourage leisurely strolls and relaxation. The integration of elements like the fireplace and the water features (when active) showcases a thoughtful approach to urban public space design, aiming to provide both aesthetic pleasure and functional enjoyment for visitors.
Beyond the main features, the plaza is surrounded by local shops and dining establishments, enhancing its role as a vibrant hub within the city. This integration of public space with commercial activity creates a dynamic environment that draws people for various reasons, from casual visits to enjoying local culture and cuisine.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit