The Most Picturesque Small Towns in Kansas

There is more happening in Kansas than you think! Nestled in the heart of the American Midwest, the Sunflower State is home to vast plains and some of the most amazing sunsets. These picturesque small towns offer a rich history, magnificent architecture, and small-town charm you can only find in the Midwest. From quirky museums like the Oz Museum and the Davis Memorial, these towns take you on a tour of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Get ready to enjoy fantastic views, dine on great food, and learn a little more about the great American Midwest!

Abilene

Traveling to Abilene is like stepping into a modern-day Western. With a rich history of cattle drives and cowboys, there is so much to discover. Plus, it’s the hometown of Dwight D. Eisenhower, and visitors can tour his historic childhood home. Explore the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, and learn a little more about the 34th president of the United States.

Abilene is home to a few notable museums, such as the Greyhound Hall of Fame and the Seelye Mansion. You can also head to the historic Great Plains Theatre to catch a show. No trip to Abilene is complete without visiting Old Abilene Town, which is host to fun festivals, reenactments, and live music in the heart of downtown.

Fort Scott

Fort Scott has a rich history as a focal point of the Civil War. The Fort Scott National Historic Site, one of Kansas’s 8 Wonders, preserves the area's deep history with relics from the era the fort was established, reenactments, and site exhibits that are perfect for history buffs. While the Fort Scott National Historic Site is enough to keep you occupied for a full day, there is much more to explore in the downtown area.

Head to one of the many local restaurants or breweries, or shop in one of the many quaint boutiques. Be sure to check out the Gordon Parks Museum or the Museum of Creativity.

Atchison

The humble town of Atchison is like stepping inside a postcard. From its stately manors, church, and museums, it’s a lovely spot to spend an afternoon exploring. Atchison is the home birthplace of Amelia Earhart! The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, located in the downtown area, is a must-see for visitors. Learn more about Amelia Earhart as you explore her humble childhood home with a gorgeous view of the Missouri River.

Take a tour of the amazing Muchnic Art Gallery, or book a ticket for a live show at Theatre Atchison. The best time to visit Atchison is during the Amelia Earhart Festival. It’s like a giant party with food vendors and live music in honor of Atchison’s famous daughter. If you are feeling brave, book a stay at Atchison’s famous haunted house, The Sallie House.

Cottonwood Falls

Cottonwood Falls is the perfect blend of history and nature. It’s situated in the heart of Flint Hills and offers no shortage of scenic views. Head to the Roniger Memorial Museum, which displays unique Native American artifacts, or the Chase County Historical Society Museum to learn a little more about the historic town. If you love art, make sure you stop at the Flint Hills Art Gallery!

Aside from museums, shopping, and historical landmarks, Cottonwood Falls is a great place to relax. The Chase State Park is nestled on 383 acres of woods with a 109-acre lake perfect for fishing and sunset views. This park was built in 1954, and is a great place to unwind and take in some of the most beautiful scenery Kansas has to offer!

Dodge City

The expression “get out of dodge” dates back to this bustling cattle town founded in the late 1800’s. Back then, Dodge City was notorious for gunfights, gambling, and shady saloons. Today, you won’t want to get out of Dodge City, you will want to stay longer! Downtown Dodge City is home to many historical sites like the Boot Hill Museum, the Home of Stone, and the Depot Theater.

One of the more interesting sites is The Long Branch Saloon which is restored to its former glory. Exploring the saloon is like stepping back in time (sans the gunslingers).

Wamego

If you prefer geological history and Native Americans over cowboys, you have to check out Wamego. It’s a sleepy little town west of Topeka with tons of things to do within its city limits. Check out the quirky Oz Museum which is a tribute to all things Oz, or head to the Wamego Historical Museum to learn more about this quaint little city. Or, stand in awe of the stunning Columbian Theatre Museum and Art Center that dates back to the 1890s.

Wamego's claim to fame, however, is the Schonhoff Dutch Mill. It's a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a must-see for travelers to Wamego. The old Mill offers fantastic views of Wamego City Park and is a great place to relax, unwind, and take in the historic landscape.

Norton

If you are on the lookout for a cozy rural town with friendly locals, good food, public parks, and historic landmarks, look no further than Norton. Head to Elmwood Park for local activities like disc golf and the annual Norton Home Owned Carnival every July. Norton also hosts an Annual Car Show every summer that transforms the downtown area into a public party with food trucks, live music, and a beer garden.

If you prefer a more laid-back scene, head to the modern Norton Aquatic Center which is open to the public during the summer months. Check out the Dane G. Hansen Memorial Museum, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Prairie Dog State Park!

Hiawatha

Situated near the banks of the Missouri River is the quaint town of Hiawatha. Hiawatha may be small, but there is no shortage of interesting and historic attractions. Head to Davis Memorial which is a finalist in the 8 Wonders of Kansas. The six marble statues are a tribute to the owner's quirky nature and a must-see for visitors.

Hiawatha is also referred to as the "City of Beautiful Maples," and a great place in Kansas to admire the stunning fall foliage. A great spot to view the leaves is along the hiking paths of the Historic Oregon Trail. It offers plenty of accessible trails to take a leisurely and historic hike while appreciating the changing of the leaves during the fall. While you are there in the fall, make sure to check out the Halloween Frolic, which is the longest-running Halloween celebration in the United States!

Explore the Great American Midwest

Spending a day in these quaint, picturesque towns is like stepping back in time. Enjoy the historic landmarks that harken back to the old days of cowboys and cattle drives, and enjoy a Civil War reenactment or two! Head to a festival (like the Halloween Frolic in Hiawatha), engage with friendly locals and partake in some of the best food the Midwest has to offer. Get your camera ready, because the scenery is spectacular. These small towns prove that there is so much to discover in the Sunflower State.