7 Picturesque Small Towns in Kansas for a Weekend Retreat

It should come as no surprise that a place nicknamed The Sunflower State is home to several picturesque small towns. Known for the wild sunflowers that grow here and the impressive wheat production, Kansas is a beautiful place to visit year-round. From Wild West-themed towns to impressive waterfalls and important historical sites, it is easy to spend a weekend in one of these small Kansas towns.

Dodge City

Saddle up for a fun-filled weekend in Dodge City, Kansas. Known for its cowboy culture and Wild West history, Dodge City has an abundance of things to see and do for the whole family. First, head to the original site of the Boot Hill Cemetery and take a tour of the Boot Hill Museum. Here, visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of the grounds, take in an old-timey variety show, grab a tasty sarsaparilla at the bar, and shop for sweet treats at the general store.

During the warmer months, a stop at the Long Branch Lagoon is a must. The western-themed waterpark features waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad, and a wave pool. Those looking to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this small town will want to take a trek on The Gunsmoke Trail. The 4.25-mile trail is easy to navigate and is a great way to see the city. As for spending the weekend, visitors will find an abundance of name-brand hotels in the area, as well as a few western-themed accommodations like the Wyatt Earp Hotel.

Leavenworth

From scenic parks and trails to museums and historic houses, Leavenworth, Kansas, appeals to a wide range of travelers. The town played a big role in settling the West and was notably the first city founded in Kansas. Today, Leavenworth is home to interesting sites including the CW Parker Carousel Museum. Here, visitors can admire an array of restored carousels as they learn all about CW Parker and his time spent in the carnival industry.

Keep the museum vibes rolling with a visit to the National Fred Harvey Museum, or take the adventure outdoors and explore North Esplanade Park. The park features walking and biking trails, swings, and a scenic overlook. For even more outdoor beauty, be sure to wander the Three-Mile Creek Walking Trail or hit the road and drive along the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway.

Abilene

Enthusiastic travelers looking for a weekend of fun will be racing to “The Greyhound Capital of the World.” Also known as Abilene, Kansas, this charming small town is ripe with natural beauty and fun things to do for people of all ages. To start the trip off right, pay a quick visit to the Greyhound Hall of Fame, where dog lovers can marvel at the incredible racing dogs throughout history. Next, head to Eisenhower Park and Rose Garden where visitors will be greeted with a stunning water fountain and over 150 different types of roses. The grounds are also home to hundreds of different flowers and paved walking paths.

A trip to Abilene is not complete without a ride on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad. Described as a “living history museum project,” this historic steam train offers riders a first-hand look at steam train operations. Additionally, keep an eye out for themed train rides and those offering dinner service. For unique places to spend the night check into Abilene’s Victorian Inn, a quaint bed and breakfast that appears to be pulled from another time.

Lucas

Interesting art installations linger around every corner in Lucas, Kansas. Cheerfully dubbed the “Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas," this small farming town is an ideal getaway for artists and art lovers alike. Start a trip to Lucas off with a visit to the enchanting Garden of Eden. Originally built by SP Dinsmoor, The Garden of Eden Cabin is surrounded by sculptures and filled with historic stories. Other notable public art spaces include the Bowl Plaza, a public restroom shaped like a giant toilet, and Millers Park, a beautiful outdoor area lined with sculptures.

For a more traditional look at grassroots art, head to the Grassroots Art Center, where visitors can enjoy an ever-changing collection of stunning artwork. A stop at The World's Largest Collection of the Smallest Versions of the World’s Largest Things is also a must while in town. For accommodations in Lucas, head to the Horseshoe Lodge. There are also plenty of hotels within 10 to 20 miles of town.

Atchison

Atchison, Kansas, is a small town situated on the Mississippi River Bend. Known as the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, Atchison is filled with historic sites and local charm. From the tree-lined brick streets to the quiet local parks, this beautiful little town has everything one needs for a perfect weekend away. Visitors will have their choice of places to stay, ranging from standard Holiday Inns to local gems like the Inn On Oak Street. After settling on accommodations, spend time visiting the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum and the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum to learn more about the famous pilot’s life and work.

On hot days, a visit to the splash pad at Independence Park is a must. Those looking for a peaceful stroll will want to take a walk through the International Forest of Friendship, a nature-filled memorial for those involved in aviation and space exploration. Finally, take a quick 6.2-mile drive outside of town to explore the Lewis and Clark State Park, which offers hiking, biking, camping, and areas for play.

Hays

Hundreds of miles from Atchison, travelers will find the picturesque town of Hays, Kansas. While in town, take the whole family to marvel at prehistoric dinosaurs and fossils at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Those visiting Hays during the warmer months will want to take respite from the heat at Hays Aquatic Park. The park features water slides, a lazy river, diving boards, and poolside lounges.

Finally, history buffs will have a blast at Fort Hays State Historic Site, where famous soldiers’ clothing, weapons, and personal items are all on display. Hays also features a handful of recognizable hotels, making finding weekend accommodations easy.

Cottonwood Falls

Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, is a scenic prairie town offering some of the prettiest views in the area. Start the trip off on a good foot with a visit to the nearby Chase State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area. Here, hikers will find the beautiful three-tiered waterfall called Chase Lake Falls. After admiring the cascading water, it is time to venture to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. While here, travelers will find nearly 11,000 acres of land ripe for exploration.

Discover hiking trails, historic buildings, and various plants along the journey. Those looking for a place to spend a few nights will want to check into the Grand Central Hotel & Grill, which offers cozy accommodations and fine dining all in one spot.

From hiking enthusiasts looking to discover nature's beauty to history buffs who are curious about Amelia Earhart's birthplace, there is fun for the whole family here in The Sunflower State. Travelers looking for an easy weekend getaway filled with fun things to see and do should consider Kansas.