7 Coolest Kansas Towns For A Summer Vacation In 2025
Kansas occupies a unique position in the heart of America’s Great Plains not just geographically, but increasingly as one of the country’s coolest vacation destinations. Known for its crucial role in the USA’s westward expansion, the “sunflower State” was once a crossroads for frontier explorers and cattle drives… and even rogue cowboys on the run from the law. An agricultural hub that continues to supply the nation with grain and beef, this Midwest state continues to display that Old West spirit, a heritage that’s especially evident in its coolest small towns. Packed with character and unique stuff to do, these seven towns in Kansas promise a cool summer vacation experience, whatever your interests.
Dodge City
Dodge City’s reputation for its Wild West heritage is legendary. Once known as the “Queen of the Cowtowns,” its location in southwestern Kansas saw it become a major stop along the Santa Fe Trail in the late 19th century. Little wonder, then, that it quickly gained a reputation not just for cattle drives but also for sometimes rough frontier justice. You can learn more about this period at the excellent Boot Hill Museum. Located at the site of the original Boot Hill cemetery, it’s home to thousands of Old West artifacts, fascinating educational exhibits, and even reenactments of historic gunfights.
Also, check out the Dodge City Trail of Fame, an easy-to-follow walking tour that celebrates local legends like Wyatt Earp. The Depot Theater, set in an old railway building, is on the route and hosts performances throughout the summer season. Summer also brings with it the Dodge City Days, a 10-day extravaganza in late July that features parades, rodeo events, carnivals, and live music. To experience the town in comfort, check into the Historic Dodge House Hotel, a replica of the city’s early lodging establishments and now featuring a convention center.
Abilene
The small town of Abilene rose to fame as the childhood home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. You can learn more about this remarkable man’s life at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home, a cool place to visit for those wanting to know more about American leadership and domestic life in the mid-1900s. Another must-see is Seelye Mansion, built in 1905 and featuring original Edison light fixtures, a Tiffany-designed fireplace, and a rare private (and still operational) bowling alley in the basement. The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad is another must-do and provides scenic summer excursions aboard classic rail cars pulled by vintage diesel locomotives through the picturesque Smoky Hills region.
Other hints of the town’s fascinating past include Old Abilene Town with its recreated Old West buildings and re-enactments. The Greyhound Hall of Fame, which pays homage to the city’s longstanding greyhound racing tradition, is also worth a visit. Popular summer events include the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo in early August, drawing top riders and fans alike to Abilene. After a day of fun, head to Engle House Bed & Breakfast or the Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast, both of which offer a dose of authentic Midwest hospitality.
Lindsborg
Nicknamed “Little Sweden USA,” Lindsborg was established by Swedish immigrants in the late 180s and is definitely one of Kansas’ coolest towns. Scandinavian influences are everywhere, especially noticeable in the colorful Dala horse statues dotted around town. You can even pick up smaller versions of these famous Swedish equines, along with other locally produced handicrafts, at Hemslöjd, a well-known shop featuring hand-carved and hand-painted souvenirs. Downtown’s brick-paved streets are fun to wander and lead to cool galleries and shops that also sell Scandinavian art, as well as to the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, home to a collection of the famed Swedish American painter’s works.
For those traveling in the late summer of 2025, plan to take in an outdoor concert at the Swensson Park amphitheater (it also often features Swedish traditional music and folk dancing). When it comes time to bed down for the night, the Drom Sott Inn evokes the town’s European heritage with décor imported from Sweden and a hearty breakfast buffet of Scandinavian delicacies. Alternatively, Rosberg House Bed & Breakfast offers an intimate setting in a restored Victorian-era property that’s centrally located.
Wamego
Wamego’s cool factor is due to its being able to offer visitors a healthy slice of Americana with a dash of Hollywood nostalgia. Just east of Manhattan, KS, Wamego has a special connection to The Wizard of Oz. The colorful Oz Museum along Lincoln Avenue (just look for the brightest, greenest building in town) displays original film memorabilia such as Munchkin costumes, rare movie posters, and first-edition copies of L. Frank Baum’s novels. Across the street, Toto’s TacOz and the Oz Winery keep the theme going for curious travelers looking for other cool things to do in Wamego.
Wamego City Park is another highlight and features scenic walkways, a historic Dutch Mill, and a quaint pond, along with free concerts. While the town’s spring’s Tulip Festival is popular, summer brings relaxed afternoons at the historic Columbian Theatre which regularly hosts plays and musicals. Outdoor enthusiasts should make the short drive west to Konza Prairie Biological Station for miles of hiking trails through tallgrass prairie. If you’re looking for somewhere cool to stay in Wamego, consider The Simmer Motel for its classic roadside lodging experience.
Hutchinson
Hutchinson is best known for the Cosmosphere, a Smithsonian-affiliated space center and museum housing one of the world’s largest collections of U.S. and Russian space artifacts. Highlights include the Apollo 13 command module and Vostok and Mercury spacecraft exhibits, complemented by interactive STEM experiences suitable for visitors of all ages. For a dramatic change of scenery, head underground to Strataca, an active salt mine that also has a museum detailing the geological and industrial history of salt extraction. The coolest part of your visit? Hopping aboard an underground train for a look at the mining process up-close.
If you’re planning a late summer arrival, the Kansas State Fair comes to Hutchinson’s fairgrounds in early September and brings with it cool carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and some of the state’s best food stalls (the fairgrounds also hosts summer events like horse shows and local festivals). Need somewhere to stay? The Fairfield Inn & Suites Hutchinson offers a modern, family-friendly option close to attractions.
Atchison
Situated along the Missouri River, Atchison is famous as the birthplace of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, located in a charming Victorian home, pays tribute to the accomplishments of one of America’s most celebrated pilots, one whose mysterious disappearance still baffles. Come in late July for the annual Amelia Earhart Festival with its live music, educational exhibits, and firework displays. Atchison also has an extremely walkable downtown with easy access to Riverfront Park with its trails and scenic overlook where you can kick back and watch barges navigate the Missouri River.
Don’t skip the Atchison County Historical Society Museum at the old Santa Fe Depot. In addition to artifacts of indigenous cultures and the railroads, there’s also a fun mini train that kids are going to find ultra-cool. For those wanting to extend their time in this cool Kansas town, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites provides amenities like an indoor pool and fitness center and is located close to all the major attractions in Atchison.
Hays
With a fascinating heritage shaped by Old West outposts and the presence of Fort Hays State University, Hays ranks up there with these other cool places to vacation in 2025. Start your visit at the Fort Hays State Historic Site to learn how the military protected area settlers in the late 1800s. The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is another cool place to visit and is famous for its fish-within-a-fish fossil, as well as its interactive exhibits about the region’s ancient past. The downtown core is also fun, especially if you’re a fan of good craft beer. If that sounds like you, stop at Defiance Brewing Co. for great local craft brews.
Summer in Hays features the Wild West Festival around the Fourth of July, complete with parades, live concerts, and (naturally!) plenty of fireworks. Be sure to also include Frontier Park on your Hays holiday itinerary. Bordering Big Creek, this large green space is perfect for a midday picnic or a riverside sit-down. As for live music and fun, the eclectic Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market offers both, along with good grub. And for those staying for a vacation, the Hilton Garden Inn Hays features clean rooms, on-site dining, and convenient access to main highways and the downtown core.
The Final Word
Together, these awesome Kansas towns demonstrate that big adventures often lie in the smallest of places. Each of these cool communities present a glimpse into Kansas past and present, from cattle drives and shootouts in Dodge City to presidential connections in Abilene… and so much more. As you plan your 2025 summer getaway, consider these seven cool Kansas towns for an unforgettable and authentic Sunflower State experience.
