So you’re coming to Manhattan, KS for Camp #Sketchapod2024… where do I stay? What are some good places to eat? Am I missing something that I should bring?
We answer all these questions here!
Flying in? We got you.
If you are flying in, try to book a flight arriving into Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) on the Thursday before the event and departing the Monday after the event. Team Sketchapod will strategically plan on sending at least one team to shuttle people to and from the airport for as many campers who need it as possible.
Your stay just a walk away from K-State.
When it comes to lodging, attendees can purchase on -campus housing at a reduced rate. Check out our post that goes in-depth on housing. If you don’t wish to stay on campus for $39 per night ($117 for 3 nights), you can check out the nearest hotels we recommend that are in walking distance of campus. Be sure to triple-check the location of the hotel you book. There are multiple Holiday Inns in Manhattan, KS!
Get some steps in, eat great food.
For those wanting to eat near the campus area, we recommend checking the nearby eateries at Aggieville, the oldest shopping distrcit in all of Kansas! Don’t let its age fool you; the entertainment scene is as cozy as ever and has free wi-fi!
Short drive to local favs!
Feeling adventurous and want to venture further out from walking distance of the campus? Here are a few local favorites.
Be prepared! Some packing recommendations.
- Want to draw specific specimens? Bring them! 3-4 printed, color photos of arthropods OR specimens you would like to practice illustrating. We encourage Coleoptera, Hemiptera, or Orthoptera if you are new to illustration.
- Bring the tech you have! We highly recommend campers bring their laptop and/or tablet if they have one. If you are taking a digital track on day 2, pre-install Adobe Creative Cloud (CC) Suite on your laptop and/or have Procreate installed on your tablet and bring your pen! Don’t have tech, Adobe CC subscription or Procreate? Don’t worry; we will have access to computers, the Adobe CC Suite and iPads with pens for campers to share and test out!
- Stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle to cut down on plastic! There are water fountains available around campus. It will also come in handy when we tour the Konza Prairie.
- Bring a camera! Take pictures throughout the event especially when we’re at the Konza Prairie. If you post any pictures from the event online, make sure to use #Sketchapod2023 so we can all share our moments!
- Pack for an outdoor day. On day 3, we plan of touring the Konza Prairie, weather permitting. Don’t forget to bring close-toed shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
For any questions, please reach out to co-organizer Erin Hodgson (ewh@iastate.edu)!