7 Undiscovered Small Towns in Kansas
Kansas, one of the most well-known locations in the Midwest, played a significant role in America's 19th-century expansion. Numerous legends about the fabled Old West have their roots in this remarkable state, and its charming towns all hold secrets just waiting to be unearthed. From Dodge City to Leavenworth to Fort Scott, these undiscovered towns will attract travelers seeking a deeper understanding of America's natural beauty and history of the Midwest.
Wamego
Wamego, one of the most undiscovered towns in Kansas, is home to a Wizard of Oz-themed museum. Journey down the yellow brick road into Emerald City to explore many artifacts and exhibits from the iconic book and film. Inside, find everything from a reproduction of the Haunted Forest sign to hand-jeweled ruby slippers covered in more than 3,500 Swarovski crystals. The museum also features a remarkable store of unique keepsakes to remember your visit.
The Oz Museum is just one of the many fascinating attractions in this whimsical town. Visit wineries, see a Broadway show, stroll a historic village, or dine at a charming bakery and restaurant. This small town also has lovely events, like Oztoberfest, that takes place in the heart of downtown Wamego.
Dodge City
Dodge City gained notoriety as an authentic Old West frontier community with gunfighters, gambling halls, saloons, and brothels back in the day. Today, the small town has many historical sites, museums, and landmarks dedicated to its Old West heritage. The Boot Hill Museum, for example, is one of them. Situated on the former location of Boot Hill Cemetery, the museum is home to many exhibits, artifacts, and a lively variety show that depicts the city's past culture.
The "Boot Hill" theme continues throughout the town with the Boot Hill Distillery and Boot Hill Casino & Resort. Dodge City also has art galleries, golf courses, and many parks, including Wright Park, which houses the Dodge City Zoo.
Cottonwood Falls
Cottonwood Falls is a small community nestled in Flint Hills along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. Many landmarks, including the French Renaissance-style Chase County Courthouse, the oldest courthouse in Kansas still in use, are a significant part of the town's history. Other sites and points of interest include the Chase County National Bank, Cottonwood River Bridge, Chase Lake Falls, and Chase State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area.
This town also has historic houses you can stay in, such as the Prairie House and the 1879 Stone House, built in the late 1800s and 1900s. You can find great places to eat and drink in the downtown district. The Grand Central Hotel & Grill offers incredible hospitality in a pleasing dining atmosphere, while the Doghouse Saloon provides a lively atmosphere. There are also many art galleries, antique shops, and museums to explore within this charming town.
Leavenworth
Because Fort Leavenworth is the oldest continually occupied fort west of the Appalachian Mountains, Leavenworth is deep-rooted in rich history. The Buffalo Soldier Monument and its history museum are the main draws of this landmark. It is worth exploring a day as it features a golf course, picnic spaces, and views of the Missouri River. To learn about the town's history, visit the Leavenworth County Historical Society or the First City Museum, which details the early Leavenworth manufacturing and frontier railroad sectors.
Another fascinating place is the Richard Allen Cultural Center & Museum, which pays homage to African-American history with various artifacts and exhibits. To see more of what Leavenworth has to offer, explore the 28-block historic shopping district, which has a variety of gift shops, eateries, breweries, and antique stores.
Ottawa
Ottawa, a town with endless charm, will pique your curiosity. It is home to Plaza 1907, the oldest operating cinema in the world, a must-visit for any movie buff. Whether you are there to catch a flick or to explore the movie memorabilia museum, Plaza 1907 is a unique experience. The town also houses the Carnegie Cultural Center, a vibrant hub for art and culture. To delve deeper into the town's history, a visit to the Old Depot Museum, which focuses on the local history of Franklin County and the significance of railroads in small towns, is ideal.
Abilene
Abilene is the hometown of Dwight Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States, which is why the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home is a significant attraction for this town. Throughout the massive complex, you can explore the working library, gaze at exhibits, see beautiful murals, shop at the gift store, and tour the 19th-century Boyhood Home where the Eisenhower family resided.
Abilene is also home to the Greyhound Hall of Fame, which has greyhound breed and racing memorabilia, photographs, and interactive exhibits. The Great Plains Theatre is another part of the Abilene community, as it showcases the arts and culture scene with theatrical performances, youth programming, and a movie theater. Visiting Old Abilene Town is the perfect way to get a feel of the Old West.
Fort Scott
Fort Scott, once home to an active Army fort, played a significant role in the American Civil War. Today, visitors can learn more about this historic part of American history by visiting the Fort Scott National Historic Site. This iconic site is open year-round and features historic structures, a parade ground, and five acres of restored tallgrass prairie. See many exhibits, take a guided tour, or participate in a history program.
A trolley tour is also ideal as you can learn interesting facts and more history about Fort Scott. Another place to explore is Gunn Park, a beautiful 155-acre recreation area with shelter houses, fishing opportunities, camping sites, playground areas, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
Explore These Undiscovered Towns In Kansas
Kansas has many undiscovered gems waiting to be discovered. The next time you are in the Midwest, consider visiting the quaint Kansas towns. Whether you want to experience the Old West charm of Dodge City or visit historic landmarks in Leavenworth or Fort Scott, these lesser-known communities in Kansas are worth discovering.
