9 Gorgeous Kansas Towns To Visit In 2023
Revered for its southern culture and vast tallgrass prairies, Kansas is a must-see destination in 2023. The Sunflower State offers breathtaking views of natural beauty, unspoiled by skyscrapers or city lights, boasting views of a plethora of historical sites and pristine prairies, as well as access to an abundance of state parks and nature trails. Alongside its great outdoors, the state has a rich history and heritage and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether it is the warmth of the summer, depth of fall, or crisp cool air of winter that draws you in, there is something to enjoy year-round in these gorgeous Kansas towns.
Lindsborg
One of the friendliest towns in Kansas, Lindsborg is a small community proud to display its Scandinavian heritage, earning it the nickname "Little Sweden." Visitors enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors in plenty of locations, including the 2.5-mile Valkommen Trail, the Smoky Hill River, and Heritage Square, which reveals a glimpse into the town's early days. Coronado Heights is just 10 minutes outside of town, featuring a stone castle overlook constructed during the time of the Great Depression.
Speaking of architecture, the town boasts a collection of buildings from the 1800s. Also, Dala horse sculptures, a national symbol of Sweden, line the town's streets, adding color and character to storefronts and restaurant entrances. There are a number of galleries for visitors to peruse and enjoy unique artwork, including the Small World Gallery, Hands of Time Gallery, and Birger Sandzen Memorial Gallery.
Atchison
Atchison is one of the best small towns in Kansas to chill out and also the birthplace of Amelia Earhart. Travelers enjoy camping, hiking, and fishing in spots such as Warnock Lake, Atchison River Walk, and Independence Creek Hiking/Biking Trail. The dynamic town is home to over 20 sites that are on the National Register of Historic Places, such as the opulent Evah C. Cray Historical Home Museum, the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, and the Atchison County Courthouse, constructed from 1896 to 1897. Other points of interest include Atchison Rail Museum, Glacial Hills Scenic Byway, and Riverwood Winery. October is an especially charming time to visit as the town is chock full of Halloween spirit, hosting haunted trolley tours and tours of "haunted" homes such as Sallie House and 1889 McInteer Villa.
Dodge City
Nestled on the banks of the Arkansas River, Dodge City, established as Fort Dodge in 1865, earns a spot in history as a frontier cowtown, as well as the title "Wickedest Little City in the West." Today, the metropolis maintains its rich background and southern charm, sharing a glimpse into the history of the Wild West. Visitors travel back in time with a visit to the Boot Hill Museum, the Long Branch Saloon Variety Show, and the Old West Photo Parlor. Dodge City Brewing is a great place to indulge in fresh brews, while Long Branch Lagoon Water Park is the ideal location for a summer getaway. Walking and biking trails are scattered all over the city, including a piece of the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, ideal for exploring its natural beauty, while the Historic Dodge City Walking Tour is a great way to learn all about the town's charm.
Leavenworth
One of the most picturesque small towns in Kansas, Leavenworth sits on the banks of the Missouri River, branding itself as Kansas' first city, founded in 1854. The town's historic main street documents the town's depth, featuring almost 300 local businesses, including Artistic Works by Lu, Candle Queen Candles, and the Kansas Country Store. For those interested in a leisurely walk or drive discovering the town's storied past, be sure to head out on the self-guided Historic Wayside Tour. Other popular attractions include the Art Walk on Shawnee Street, the 1880s Victorian-era Carroll Mansion, and the weekly Leavenworth Farmers Market. For outdoorsy adventurers, the town offers camping at Riverfront Park Campground, as well as fishing and hunting at Fort Leavenworth FMWR.
Council Grove
Known as the 'Main Street of the Flint Hills,' Council Grove sits along the shores of the Neosho River and is home to over 25 national historic sites. Kaw Mission State Historic Site and the Kaw Nation's Allegawaho Memorial Heritage Park share a glimpse into the history of the Kaw (or Kansa) Indigenous Tribe, while the historic Hays House 1857, Last Chance Store, and Terwilliger Home document 19th-century architecture. The Council Grove City Lake and Council Grove Federal Reservoir attract anglers, boaters, and campers alike, while foodies may find themselves drawn to Council Grove's charming eateries, such as Hays House 1857, Flint Hills Saloon & Eatery, and Knuckle Sandwiches. A ride on the Council Grove Trail Trolley is essential, where visitors enjoy traversing around the town and listening to tales of its storied past.
Abilene
A charming small town, Abilene is the childhood home of former US President Dwight D. Eisenhower, nicknamed "Queen of the Cowtowns." The small town features a number of unique attractions, including the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, the World's Largest Belt Buckle, and the Abilene Cowboy, a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Visitors can also ride the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, a 100-year-old steam engine, taking in the scenic views and enjoying a scrumptious dinner. Delve into the town's past with a trip to Seelye Mansion, featuring furnishing from 1904, the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and Old Abilene Town, which also hosts Chisholm Trail Days during Labor Day weekend. There are also several spots to stay the night and experience the town's charm, such as Engle House Bed & Breakfast, Covered Wagon RV Resort, and Abilene's Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast.
Baxter Springs
Home to breathtaking natural mineral springs, Baxter Springs, is the ideal destination for a summer getaway, but it also offers opportunities for year-round recreation. The town's Military Avenue is part of Route 66, there is a National Cemetery designated by President Abraham Lincoln, and visitors enjoy fishing on Spring River. On top of that, travelers may partake in a historic walking tour or visit several museums, such as Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum. Fort Blair Historic Site offers a unique insight into Kansas' history, once a Union Army Civil War Fort. Rainbow Bridge, located along Route 66, is one of the last remaining Marsh Arch Bridges, offering scenic views and a relaxed road trip.
Junction City
Known for combining the charm of a rural town with the excitement and amenities of the big city, Junction City sits at the junction of the Republican River and Smoky Hill River, hence the town's name, which converges into the Kansas River. Geary Community Farmers Market, Geary State Fishing Lake, and Wildlife Area, and Farnum Creek Park are all popular destinations among travelers and locals alike, offering access to the town's natural beauty and insight into its charming community. Discover the town's history with a visit to Geary County Historical Museum, Spring Valley School House Historic Site, or Starcke House Museum. Visitors can stay overnight at Owl's Nest RV Campground, Rock Springs 4-H Center Retreat Center, or Homestead Motel for an extended taste of the town's beauty and essence.
Hutchinson
Home to salt mines since 1887, Hutchinson earns the nickname "Salt City," though many locals affectionately title it "Hutch." The town sits within the beautiful Kansas prairie, making it the ideal destination for nature walks, camping, fishing, biking, and hiking, or even venturing 650 feet underground into the caverns of a working salt mine. A trip to the Cosmosphere shares a glimpse into the Space Race, featuring interactive science exhibits perfect for the whole family. Dillon Nature Center, Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm, and Hutchinson Zoo offer travelers a chance to learn about wildlife and flora and fauna, both from the area and from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy a quaint stay in spots such as Sand Hills State Park campground or Whitetail Acres Victorian Bed and Breakfast.
Enjoy These Gorgeous Kansas Towns!
Whether the historic details of Dodge City pique your interest or the haunted trolley tours of Atchison appeal to your ideal October getaway, there is something to discover in these gorgeous Kansas towns this year. Delve into the charming tales of the Sunflower State, wander the breathtaking tallgrass plains, and revel in the depth that each of these small towns offers. Wherever you visit, there is a sure chance you will want to return to Kansas next year!
