2024's 9 Most Scenic Kansas Towns
The beauty of Kansas is subtle; it does not strike one like a hurricane. It takes time to appreciate and, therefore, is easy to miss. But this does not mean there is nothing to it. If you are looking for some of the best sunsets in the world, Kansas should be on your bucket list. This is especially true in fall or spring, typically when farmers are burning their pasture. Kansas City is cute and artsy, but there are other smaller haunts where the mood is a bit more relaxed and slow-paced. Think of Salina, with its eye-catching murals — or charming Lindsborg, known for its Swedish heritage. Looking for the most scenic spots? Discover below 2024's 9 most scenic towns in Kansas.
Salina
If you love gorgeous architecture and buildings that are cute and historic — Salinia will leave you blown away. Downtown Salina, with its eye-catching murals, wide streets, and beautiful sculptures, is a pleasure to leisurely amble through while soaking up the views and taking pictures. Mural at the Mill, which depicts children at play, is a photo-op venue that often draws mesmerized looks from first-time visitors. It is painted atop a mill elevator, whose history goes back more than a century. Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, formerly Fox Theater, is a lovely, iconic landmark that features wonderful acoustics and comfortable seating. It was built in the Roaring 20s. Cross the street to Marinelli, especially if you consider Italian cuisine tantalizing.
Lindsborg
Whether you want to start with soaking in the historical ambiance of Coronado Heights, an old castle perched on top of a small hill with fantastic views — or some frozen hot chocolate at White Peacock, a cute little coffee shop smack in the middle of downtown Lindsborg, a trip to this charming, slow-paced town will exceed your expectations. Of course, Lindsborg is known for its Swedish heritage, and the connection is hard to miss. For example, there is the Hemslojd, a Swedish gift shop loved for its large selection of dala horses. Check out the Old Mill Museum, an awesome time capsule that provides interesting self-guided tours.
Hays
You can start with appetizers. Hays is close to the Cathedral of the Plains ( St. Fidelis Cathedral), an architectural masterpiece with an interesting history. We are talking about one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. This done, downtown Hays provides top-tier optical nourishment and boasts a long line-up of heart-warming attractions. Spots to hit include the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, where you will enjoy an up-and-close encounter with rattlesnakes, among other venomous reptiles. Their dinosaur exhibit is particularly on point. Brews on the Bricks, which takes place every year in June, features toe-tapping music, giant yard games, and an incredible variety of craft beer. If you can, spend some time at Gella's Diner and LB Brewing. Their Beef Stroganoff is a masterful work of art and culinary precision.
McPherson
McPherson is in central Kansas, a region known for its wind-swept prairies, wide-open skies, and magical sunsets and sunrises. Bright auburn leaves, especially in the right season, imbue the whole area with a gay, mesmerizing ambiance. The Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, with its wildflowers and Native grasses, presents nature at its most pristine. Taking the cue, the McPherson Valley Wetlands, which spans over 4,000 acres, is a fantastic venue for viewing migratory birds in full plumage. You can hit up sections of the Sunflower Santa Fe Trail, which links McPherson with Marion. Alternatively, visit the McPherson Museum and Arts, which preserves cultural artifacts from as far as China and Africa. Their Globe Refiners Exhibit presents the first basketball team to win gold at the Olympics. Check out the McPherson Opera House as well, if just to admire its architectural excellence. Plus, its history goes back to 1889.
Pittsburg
Once a dusty mining town and a railroad stop, Pittsburg has today transformed itself into a top-notch vacation destination. Pittsburg is quirky and artsy, with several eye-catching murals enhancing its scenic appeal. A leisurely stroll along Broadway, for example, will bring to view several handsomely done murals, a fantastic combination of color and skill. As its name suggests, Main Street Axe Company is a great, off-the-beaten-path place to figuratively bury the hatchet. Plus, they show visitors how to throw axes, so no problem if you haven’t handled one. There is the Pittsburg State University and its Reflection Pond, an awesome place to spend some reflective moments. The university is old — but beautiful — and has been a feature of the town from when Theodore Roosevelt was president of the United States.
Dodge City
A hearty breakfast at Red Beard Coffee should set the tone for one’s adventure in Dodge City, a frontier cowtown that still has echoes of the Old West. Red Beard is loved for its warm and relaxing atmosphere, along with its convenient location on Gunsmoke Street. Dodge City is big on biking, and a trip should include a dirt bike ride along a river-bottom trail at night. There is the well-maintained Dodge City Raceway Park, a short dirt track that draws hordes of racing fans every season and seats nearly 3,500. Boot Hill Museum recreates the early days of Dodge City, complete with staff donning period attire, a fully restored saloon, and a heart-gripping gun show. Stroll along Wyatt Earp Boulevard, an artsy stretch dotted with several bronze statues.
Abilene
History buffs cannot miss the connection between Dwight Eisenhower, one of three generals to hold the highest military rank in the history of the United States — and Abilene, an Old West town with a history that mirrors Hollywood. Eisenhower once called Abilene home. It is here that his character was formed and chiseled, gifting America a consummate military leader with exceptional credentials. For more of this history, visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, one of a handful of presidential libraries under the auspices of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Hop onto an open car with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad and enjoy the rolling scenery on a stretch filled with history and nostalgia. There is the Greyhound Hall of Fame, a nod to the state’s greyhound racing history and culture.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a beautiful, slow-moving town with a hilly backdrop right next to the Mississippi River. It is quaint and boasts the best thrift and antique stores for miles. Traipse through Delaware Street, where you will find Leavenworth Antique Mall and Reunions Antiques, some of the best antiquing venues in Kansas. The many booths and unique items on display speak to almost every sense of fashion and style. Also, with its many beer, tasting rooms, and wine spots — and the colorful show it puts on during holidays, one may imagine she is in some Little Bavarian town beautifully set along the Rhine. There are wineries galore, especially in the luxuriant Yakima Valley, which provide yummy views of the surrounding landscapes. Icicle Brewing is right on Front Street and has outdoor seating. Order grilled cheese when here as you mingle with locals and people-watch.
Atchison
Atchison is the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, the celebrated aviation pioneer who, in her attempt to become the first female to circumnavigate the globe, disappeared over the Pacific Ocean. Atchison riverside setting (it's on the Missouri River) envelops it with rustic charm and enhances its aesthetic appeal. Stroll down the scenic waterfront and branch to Trotter's on the River, especially if you want to relish a plate of catfish with a river view. There's the bridge, which adds character to the stretch, and the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum (Ninety-Nines), which keeps interesting memorabilia about Amelia and her legacy. For those who love paranormal experiences, the Sallie House is a haunted house. It is the place to be, therefore, if you want to stay and interact with other unusual guests.
The Takeaway
Kansas is loved for its wavy, wind-swept prairies. The sunrises are spectacular, and the sunsets even more. People are mostly friendly and warm, attributes often associated with the Midwest. Although you will get a blast in its big cities, including Wichita and Kansas City, smaller communities are bastions of unalloyed pleasure. Some of them are incredibly beautiful. Plus, they are more authentic and have character. Standouts include Lindsborg, Salina, and Leavenworth. Pack a good camera, and curate a heart-warming playlist. Life is for the living.
