These 8 Towns in Kansas Have Bustling Main Streets
Kansas is known for its untouched wilderness and stunning natural beauty, but rarely do the small towns of this state get their time to shine. Charming communities have something worthwhile to offer those willing to travel throughout Kansas, ranging from the ranch-style Cottonwood Falls to the Old West charm of Dodge City to the whimsical town of Wamego. These towns are a treasure trove of local exploration along its bustling main streets. From quaint cafes and the finest restaurants to famous landmarks and historic museums, there is plenty to entertain locals and tourists, promising an unforgettable experience in Kansas.
Salina
Located in Saline County, Salina is a charming place to visit. Its Main Street is picturesque, with gateway arches, towering sculptures, intriguing murals, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Along Santa Fe Avenue, one of the bustling streets in downtown Salina, are stores and boutiques like Eccentricity Womens Clothing and Blushe Boutique. Put your creativity to the test at the walk-in pottery studio On The Pot, or browse a selection of books at Red Fern Booksellers. There are many great restaurants and cafes to dine at after shopping. Barolo Grille and YaYa's Euro Bistro are ideal for a light lunch or an early dinner before catching a concert or play.
The downtown area also has historic buildings like The Stiefel Theatre, a performance hall that opened as The Fox-Watson Theatre in 1931. City Lights Stage, on the southwest corner of Santa Fe Avenue and Ash Street, is the place for live music and other entertainment. Throughout the year, the vibrant downtown area hosts significant events and festivals. One is the Smoky Hill River Festival, an arts and music event annually in June. The town also gets into the holiday spirit yearly with its Christmas Festival & Parade of Lights event.
Dodge City
When visiting Dodge City, you can expect to see much of its Old West heritage displayed throughout the town. If you head downtown, many historical sites, museums, and landmarks line the streets. Located on the original site of Boot Hill Cemetery, the Boot Hill Museum has artifacts, exhibits, and a fun variety show portraying the city's culture from many years ago. It also houses an Old West photo parlor and a restaurant. The Boot Hill Distillery offers a tour and tasting experience just steps from the museum. The Dodge City Brewing Company is another local favorite with award-winning beers that match its specialty pizzas.
Eat at popular restaurants like Casey's Cowtown Club or Cowboy Capital Saloon & Grill. Coffee lovers will want to visit Red Beard Coffee for their favorite beverage. Those in need of old-fashioned ice cream desserts should check out Paletería Juaritos. The beautiful Wright Park, home to the Dodge City Zoo, a playground, garden, and skatepark, is located south of downtown.
Hutchinson
Hutchinson in Reno County is home to Kansas's largest owner-operated antique district. Many antique stores, which sell everything from home decor to collectibles, are housed within historic buildings from the late 1800s. In the heart of downtown, you will come across unique artwork and sculptures from local artists and see musicians and entertainers perform. The bustling area also draws crowds to the Reno County Farmer's Market.
Various dining and drinking options are available, from casual eateries like Daybreak Cafe and Hickory Stik to brewpubs like Sandhills Brewing and Salt City Brewing Company. Treat yourself to a show at Hutchinson's Historic Fox Theatre or Stage 9 for evening entertainment. Downtown Hutchinson also has a river walk, an amphitheater, water parks, and park areas.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is built on so much history as it is the site of Fort Leavenworth, the oldest continuously active fort west of the Appalachian Mountains. This landmark is known for the Buffalo Soldier Monument and its historic museum. It also has picnic areas and a golf course and offers views of the Missouri River, which makes spending a day here worth it. Exploring Fort Leavenworth is just one of the things to do in this town. A 10-minute drive from there will put you at the center of Leavenworth's downtown area, with many restaurants, retailers, lively entertainment, and fun along its main streets.
Dine at Luigi's 418, a premier Italian restaurant in Leavenworth, or Ten Penny Restaurant for excellent pub fare. You will also want to shop at the Leavenworth Antique Mall for quirky items and collectibles. The vibrant country bar Tom's Country Stampede is a must for a fun night out. In the center of downtown is Haymarket Square, which thrives with local events, including farmers' markets, art fairs, parades, and concerts.
Cottonwood Falls
Nestled in Flint Hills, situated along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, Cottonwood Falls is a beautiful ranch community. Enjoy a peaceful stay at the historic Grand Central Hotel & Grill, with its old-school charm and Western feel in the heart of its downtown district.
Just steps from Main Street is the Flint Hills Gallery, from Flint Hills artists Judith and Ken Mackey. Nearby, explore stores, including Tallgrass Antiques or even Prairie PastTimes, which has live music on Friday nights. The downtown area is also great for grabbing a coffee at HeBrews CoffeeHouse or drinks at Doghouse Saloon. You will even come across a historic museum and the oldest courthouse in Kansas. Swope City Park & Campground is a short drive or walk away for outdoor recreation. Chase Lake Falls is also an excellent addition to your stop in Cottonwood Falls.
Wamego
A 45-minute drive from Topeka will put you in Wamego, a whimsical town worth visiting. In the heart of downtown Wamego, take a picture in front of the Yellow Brick Road structure before visiting the Oz Museum, which pays tribute to the iconic Wizard of Oz book and film with artifacts, exhibits, and a museum store. After the museum, a stop at Oz Winery for wines and gift items inspired by the classic novels written by L. Frank Baum is a must. The streets in this town are also adorned with Toto statues by local artists, which add a touch of whimsy and charm for Wizard of Oz fans.
Also in downtown Wamego is the Columbian Theatre, which entertains everyone with concerts and Broadway musicals, and the Wamego Historical Museum and Prairie Village. Local eateries in the area include Toto's TacOz, Barleycorn's Downtown Deli, and 4th & Elm Bar & Grill. Wamego City Park and access to the Kansas River provide opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Emporia
Emporia lies between Topeka and Wichita, making it an ideal place to experience small-town hospitality. Along Commercial Street in downtown Emporia are a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions, all within walking distance of each other. Visit the Emporia Arts Center, which provides an insightful look at the Emporia art scene. Next door is the Emporia Granada Theatre, which hosts many concerts, shows, and events. The Lyon County History Center is another excellent place with exhibits and a gift store featuring Kansas and local items.
Downtown Emporia offers fabulous shopping with gourmet candies at Sweet Granada Chocolate Cafe, eclectic gifts at Trox Gallery and Gifts, and unique Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall items. For places to eat, enjoy breakfast at Commercial Street Diner, delicious sandwiches at Amanda's Bakery & Cafe, or award-winning barbecue at BobbyD's Merchant Street BBQ. Downtown Emporia hosts a monthly First Friday Art Walk, block parties, and parades, which take over its busy streets.
Ottawa
Ottawa, located along the Marais des Cygnes River in Franklin County, gives visitors a taste of small-town Kansas charm. If you head down to Main Street, you will see that it is lined with antique and specialty shops, clothing stores, boutiques, and galleries for those looking to spend the day shopping and exploring. For a place to eat and drink, Corner Market is a place that has it all. Grab a coffee, have a sit-down meal, or order a cocktail there. Pizza Village and El Sol Mexican Restaurant are also popular local eateries.
Visit the sports bar OnCue or Not Lost Brewing Company for a vibrant atmosphere on any night of the week. Along Main Street is Plaza 1907, the world's oldest movie theater, which houses a movie memorabilia museum. The Rink is nearby for roller-skating fun.
Explore Bustling Main Streets
As you can see, Kansas is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The next time you visit the Midwest, consider exploring what Kansas offers in charming towns, such as Cottonwood Falls, Dodge City, or Wamego, which have some of the most bustling main streets and best downtown districts.
