8 Small Towns In Kansas With Big Charm

Kansas, also famously known as the 'Sunflower State,' is landlocked by Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado. The state was named after the Kansas River that flows abundantly through it. First settled in 1827, the state boasts a copious amount of historical sites and heritage, which visitors can explore in great detail at the numerous monuments and museums all over the region. Much of this heritage and the natural beauty that Kansas offers is harbored in small towns hidden from the majority of tourists that have a charming and insightful experience to offer curious travelers.  

Abilene

Abilene is located in Dickinson County of Kansas, along the Smoky Hill River, and derives its name from the biblical Abilene, which meant "grassy plains." The town was the home of President Eisenhower, making it a mine of historical information. Head to the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home to dive into the former president's life and learn more about the town's rich heritage. Continue this trip into the past by venturing to the Seelye Mansion, which portrays the architecture, furniture, and lifestyle of the 1900s. Stop by the World's Largest Belt Buckle in Eisenhower Park and catch a professional theatre show at the Great Plains Theatre.  

Dodge City

Dodge City, named after the nearby Fort Dodge, is nicknamed "The Wickedest Little City in America" for its history and culture as a wild frontier Old West town. The town has been home to numerous cowboys and gamblers who moved to the city in the early days. Although the city's wild side has been tamed, it still preserved that rich Old West history, which can be explored in the Boot Hill Museum, providing an exciting and interactive experience of the past. Those intrigued by cowboy culture should attend the numerous events that The Dodge City Roundup Rodeo hosts, showcasing cowboys and cowgirls performing feats such as bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping, etc. Stop by the Boot Hill Distillery to taste spirits made with local farm ingredients, or try your luck at the Boot Hill Casino & Resort.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth, also known as the first city of Kansas, lies along the Missouri River and is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. As one of the oldest cities in the state, Leavenworth is bursting with historical attractions, and tourists can begin by exploring this rich heritage at the C. W. Parker Carousel Museum or the First City Museum. Then head to Fort Leavenworth, the third-oldest active military installation in the country, where visitors can see historic sites and homes, explore a world-class museum, take a picture with the Buffalo Soldier monument, picnic with views overlooking the Missouri River, and much more. Sunny days can be spent relaxing at the Leavenworth Landing Park or exploring the numerous biking and hiking trails it has. Make sure to take home some fresh produce from the seasonal Leavenworth Farmers Market. 

Wamego

Wamego is a small town in Pottawatomie County that offers big experiences, especially for those who are fans of the classic American movie The Wizard of Oz. Start your trip into this magical land at the Oz Museum, which boasts one of the largest collections of privately owned memorabilia from the movie and takes visitors on an immersive journey of the fictional world. The town also has its own yellow brick road and 18 totos scattered around town to make tourists feel as if they were transported inside the movie itself. Visitors can also explore the historic Schonhoff Dutch Mill or catch a live performance at the Columbian Theatre. Those who find themselves in town during October should make sure to indulge themselves in the town's annual OZtoberFest. 

Cottonwood Falls

Cottonwood Falls is located along the Cottonwood River and in the heart of the Flint Hills, making it a perfect escape from the hubbub of urban life and into the serenity of nature. Take a drive on the famous Flint Hills National Scenic Byway to witness breathtaking views of native grasses and flowers in the tallgrass prairie, a rare landscape to find in the country. Go fishing in Chase State Fishing Lake or enjoy the three tiers of rushing water at Chase Lake Falls. Hike up the Schrumpf Hill for the Scenic Overlook, which is the perfect natural background for eye-catching photography. History buffs can explore the town's heritage at The Cavalry Historic Barn and the Chase County Historical Society Museum, the latter of which also hosts the annual Chase County Sesquicentennial Celebration. 

Lindsborg

Lindsborg is a small town in McPherson County, Kansas, which is known as "Little Sweden" for the influence of Swedish, Nordic, Scandinavian, and German heritage that it preserves. Those interested in the town's history should take a trip to the Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum, which has exhibits spread across twelve buildings to depict the true life of the 1800s. Some might find it interesting to stop by the historical sites such as the Freemount Lutheran Church and the Höglund Dugout as well. Enjoy the town's merry weather by hiking or biking along the Välkommen Trail or picnicking at the Old Mill Campground. Art enthusiasts can tour the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery and Clara Hatton Center to witness the artwork of famous local artists. 

Marysville

Marysville is located in close proximity to the Big Blue River in northern Kansas and invites visitors to explore its rich history and natural landscapes despite being a relatively small town. Begin the trip by heading to the Pony Express Home Station and Museum, which has become the site of local lore and commemorates the fact that Marysville was the first home station on the express route west of Missouri. Enjoy the outdoors with your pet at the Black Squirrel Bark Park, or try something new by playing a nine-hole round of disc golf at Marysville's City Park, which offers breathtaking views as a bonus. Make sure to get a picture with the enormous Pony Express Rider Sculpture before leaving town. 

Lecompton 

Lecompton, situated in Douglas County, Kansas, is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in the United States, as this is the town where the Civil War started and also where slavery first began to die. Delve into this rich national history at the Constitution Hall and the Territorial Capital Museum which allows visitors to explore the town's past before and after the war. The Historic Lecompton Jail and Lecompton Post Office are also sites that are bound to intrigue history buffs. Take a walk through town and admire the famous Resilience mural on E. Woodson Street. End with a relaxing day boating and floating at the Kansas River canoe and boat access. 

In conclusion, the smaller towns of Kansas, often overshadowed by more popular destinations, carry hearty charm and reveal a tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. From exploring the life of President Eisenhower in Abilene or learning about the Civil War and the anti-slavery movement in Lecomption to delving into the Old West culture at Dodge City or stepping inside the magical world of Oz at Wamego, there is a town on this list that is bound to captivate every kind of traveler. So, pick up a duffel bag and head into the obscure towns of the Sunflower State to partake in a journey of discovery and appreciation.