These 10 Towns In Kansas Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2024
What qualifies a town to be dubbed one of the best? Some getaways are automatically ranked high due to their location, such as places that house the national monuments we grew up reading about in books or hearing about on social media. Still, there is more to it than that; Kansas is home to far more than being the setting for The Wizard of Oz. Named after the Kansas River, which got its name from the Kansa people, this state was originally occupied by the Caddoan Wichita before European colonization. It has long been home to some of the most breathtaking rivers and endless green fields. Whether you enjoy hiking, stargazing, wine tasting, museum tours, or birdwatching, Kansas will deliver—and then some. Its status as home to some of the best-ranked towns in the U.S. will undoubtedly be vindicated. So pack your bags, and get ready to be amazed, because every one of these towns will have that effect.
Hays
Starting with Hays, this town made the favorites list thanks to its incredible Oktoberfest event. Every year, it brings visitors statewide to taste authentic German food, good music, and dancing. The town also has a good bit of historical influence. Known for the Fort Hays State Historic Site, visitors can explore the role of this seemingly unremarkable structure. Speaking of history, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History has paleontology exhibits worth checking out. However, if you are more interested in spending time outdoors, Hays also offers excellent spaces like Centennial Park, with trails and green areas for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
Abilene
Known for the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, Abilene brings history enthusiasts from all around to learn about the former president’s life, making it one of Kansas's top destinations. The town does have a railroad history as well. It was a key stop on the Chisholm Trail, essentially marking its importance in the cattle-driving days of the late 1800s. For entertainment, Old Abilene Town is a recreated Wild West town that does shoot-out reenactments and tours. There are also local diners where recipes have been passed down for generations, ensuring that you get the authentic taste of Kansas with each bite (typically held in early October, during September, or in the summer).
Lindsborg
A Swedish heritage put Lindsborg on the map, celebrated through its biennial Svensk Hyllningsfest, held in October during odd-numbered years. These rare events are definitely worth planning an entire trip around. Aside from that, you can find dozens of Dala horse statues painted in colorful designs by local artists, as “Little Sweden” has great artistic influence. Many art galleries, such as the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery, line the streets, and you will notice that the community buildings maintain Scandinavian-inspired architecture. Many tours around this town were and are founded and maintained by Swedish immigrants to help visitors better understand its history. Alternatively, you can visit the Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum for a self-guided experience.
Dodge City
Recognized for its Wild West past, Dodge City attracts many visitors—especially because of its Boot Hill Museum, which many Old West enthusiasts appreciate. It reached film fame as the setting for the movie Gunsmoke and capitalizes on its Wild West reputation with events like the annual Dodge City Days. You cannot come to Dodge City without a good camera and a pair of comfortable shoes. There are many historical structures—original buildings along Front Street that capture the city’s 19th-century saloon and general store vibe. There is a strong cowboy influence here. The annual PRCA Rodeo celebrates the town’s cowboy heritage, and the Santa Fe Railroad (passing through the town) is one of the many historical points you cannot overlook.
Atchison
The quaint town of Atchison was named a favorite for its connection to major aviation figure and pioneer Amelia Earhart, who was born here. The annual Amelia Earhart Festival celebrates her life and legacy. Atchison is also known as one of the most haunted towns in Kansas, which usually comes in handy on Halloween. Its preserved Victorian mansions attribute to that, and you can see for yourself with a visit to the Muchnic Art Gallery, now an art center in a historic building. For a more natural setting, the town is perfectly positioned along the Missouri River, giving you a popular riverwalk that is superb for sightseeing and picnicking.
Wamego
This brings us back to The Wizard of Oz fame. Wamengo is known for its Wizard of Oz Museum, bringing fans of the classic story to explore exhibits and other interesting displays. The annual Oztoberfest also draws visitors who dress up as characters from the movie and books, and is an especially fun themed activity that puts this town on the map. One of Kansas’ oldest structures, the town’s City Park has a historic Dutch Mill that dates back to the 1800s—worth checking out if you are finished enjoying the Oz-themed activities. If not, the Oz Winery offers tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample Kansas-made wines.
Fort Scott
Many historic structures put Fort Scott on the map. This small town of 7,000 residents is known for its National Historic Site; it has buildings preserved from the 1840s, helping residents take a tour of early Kansas military history. If you are also interested in the farming scene, the Fort Scott Livestock Market is a regional draw to many, bringing farmers and tourists every Friday and Saturday. Aside from that, the town used to be an important stop along the rail lines in the late 1800s, so it's worth checking if you were too late or too early for the Good Ol’ Days Festival that takes place each June.
Ellsworth
A historic town with an equally historic downtown area. Ellsworth made the list for its role as one of the Wild West’s “wickedest” cow towns—with historical reenactments that take place in the summer. For a taste of the authentic Old West, you can visit the historic downtown area and its preserved original storefronts. If you are coming to enjoy the natural beauties Kansas has to offer, the nearby Kanopolis Lake has boating and fishing opportunities, which is great news for families and anglers. It is also a good bit of fun to see the Ellsworth Cowtown Days and Rodeo for rodeo competitors and visitors alike.
Council Grove
This small town of 2,200 made the list for its role on the Santa Fe Trail; however, the historic Last Chance Store is not something you or any travelers can gloss over on the trail. Many preservation efforts also take place in Council Grove, with the Council Oak tree commemorating the treaty between the Osage Nation and the U.S. government, symbolizing peace. The town’s main street is quite walkable, with several stops, such as historical markers and plaques. However, the highlight is the Kaw Mission Historic Site, which preserves a 19th-century building that was once used to educate Kaw tribe children.
Chanute
Last but not least, named after aviation pioneer Octave Chanute, the town celebrates aviation history thanks to its connection to the Wright brothers. This place is popular for the sea and not just the air. Chanute enjoys a popular aquatic center that families and locals love to visit during the warmer months. Historically, Chanute has been a key railway stop, working hard to preserve the rail cars and railway exhibits that enhance the small-town feel. Additionally, there is a hidden gem: Chanute’s historic theatre and the Tioga Suites Hotel, which provide a glimpse into 1920s architecture and old-time entertainment (best checked on the Chanute Community Theatre's website).
Kansas has always echoed that famous line, “There is no place like home.” Once there, everything exudes a homey feel—familiar and comforting—and you will want to return again and again. There are always special spots that put the place on the map, and these towns are no different. This state does have a lot to offer, and there are more reasons than not for its many beautiful towns to make waves. It is often the historical value that puts these places on the map in the first place, so it is perhaps a good idea to get a bit of background before visiting a place. That goes for any getaway because, as we all know, it is not just about the land itself or the places built on top of it, but what lies underneath that tells the real story!
