7 Cozy Kansas Destinations To Visit In 2025

Kansas, known as the Sunflower State, blends a rich history, vast landscapes, and warm Midwestern hospitality. Located in the heart of the Midwest, it played a crucial role in American history, from the pioneer days and westward expansion to the turbulent Bleeding Kansas era, which helped shape the fight against slavery. The state is home to the Flint Hills, one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems, and vibrant small towns like Cottonwood Falls, Lindsborg, and Abilene, each providing unique cultural and historical experiences. Visitors can explore historical sites like Fort Scott and artistic communities like Lucas, which mix history with contemporary attractions. Whether enjoying a peaceful prairie sunset, exploring frontier history, or attending a Swedish festival, Kansas offers travelers a welcoming and cozy experience in 2025.

Lindsborg

A pleasant place to visit in 2025 is Lindsborg, a town in the middle of Kansas that feels like a European retreat. In the summer, the Midsummer's Festival, a traditional Swedish festival, makes its way to Riverside Park for another year. The community will come together in the fall to commemorate Lindsborg's Swedish roots through folk dancing, food, and parades during the biennial Svensk Hyllningsfest. The festival is an ideal event to experience in 2025 because it only occurs every two years.

Stay at the Rosberg House, a Victorian Queen Anne bed-and-breakfast with elegant rooms, modern amenities, and a beautiful garden. Stroll downtown Lindsborg to explore boutiques, antique stores, and establishments like Anderson Butik, Hemslöjd, and The Good Merchant, which sell Swedish gifts, handcrafted items, and baked goods. Discover Lindsborg further at the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, featuring artwork by Swedish-American artist Birger Sandzén. Coronado Heights Castle, a short drive from town, has picnic spaces, hiking trails, and views of the Kansas grassland.

Cottonwood Falls

Cottonwood Falls offers prairie views, historic charm, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a cozy place to visit. Retreat to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve for an outdoor adventure, with fishing, hiking, nature trails, historic sites, bison viewing, and exhibits at the visitor's center. Learn about the town's past at the Chase County Historical Society Museum before marveling at artwork from local artists at the Flint Hills Gallery. In the heart of the downtown district is the historic Grand Central Hotel & Grill, offering an old-school and Western feel.

In June, the Evans Ranch will host the Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event, celebrating the music, art, and ecology of Flint Hills. Expect a fun-filled day of talks, guided prairie walks, local musicians and poets, stargazing, powwow dancers, and a sunset concert by the Kansas City Symphony. In July, the Chase County Fair takes over the Chase County Fairgrounds in Swope Park for a week of activities and attractions for all ages. At the end of the year, get into the holiday spirit at the two-day Chase County Country Christmas event.

Abilene

Abilene, a rich blend of historical attractions and cultural experiences, is one of the most charming Kansas towns to visit in 2025. A must-see is the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States, who was raised in Abilene. Climb aboard a historic train via the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad before traveling back in time to the Wild West at Old Abilene Town. Explore more of the small town by visiting the Greyhound Hall of Fame Museum, taking in a show at the Great Plains Theatre, visiting the historic Seelye Mansion, or booking a room at Engle House Bed & Breakfast.

Throughout the year, Abilene hosts a variety of events and activities. The Abilene Downtown Antique Fest in May features antiques, vintage finds, and handcrafted items from vendors. The town celebrates Independence Day with a patriotic parade, live music, and fireworks. Additionally, at the end of July, cowboys and cowgirls come together for the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo for three nights of rodeo fun. Heritage Day at the Dickinson County Heritage Center returns in October with history demonstrations, steam engine carousel rides, an antique tractor show, a classic car show, model trains, and a vendor fair.

Wamego

Wamego's history, culture, and small-town charm make it a worthwhile stop in northeastern Kansas. The Oz Museum is one of the town's best-known attractions. It is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen in 2025. In the meantime, some Oz Museum exhibits are on display at the Columbian Theatre.

Wamego City Park has walking trails and a museum showcasing the town's history. Access to the Kansas River allows outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Wamego also hosts the Wamego Tulip Festival, an extravagant Fourth of July celebration, and OZtoberfest, which combines the Wizard of Oz and Oktoberfest. From campsites to inns, like Wamego Inn & Suites, Wamego has plenty of lodging options that are close to everything.

Council Grove

Council Grove is a historic town with pioneer-era buildings, walking trails, and peaceful retreats. Explore Santa Fe Trail landmarks on Main Street, like the Hays House, the Last Chance Store, and the Post Office Oak Museum. The Cottage House is ideal for staying and enjoying the town's charm.

Council Grove's heritage is showcased with events like Washunga Days, which takes place in June. In the fall, the Candlelight Charm event offers festive shopping. Additionally, Second Saturdays provide year-round entertainment with different experiences each month.

Fort Scott

Fort Scott, established in 1842, is a town that offers not only historical significance but also a warm small-town atmosphere. The Fort Scott National Historic Site, a preserved fort that played a pivotal role in the US Army's westward expansion, the Civil War, and the anti-slavery movement, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Explore original buildings, interactive exhibits, and reenactments to better understand the town's past. Other enjoyable places in Fort Scott are Gunn Park and Lake Fort Scott, which offer outdoor relaxation. For accommodations, consider Courtland Hotel & Day Spa.

Lucas

Lucas is a small but lively town to visit in 2025. Celebrated for its quirky art scene, it is home to the Garden of Eden, a world-renowned sculpture park and home that is open for tours. Adding to the town's eclectic charm are the Grassroots Art Center, which showcases works by self-taught artists, and the World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things.

Lucas hosts events such as April Fool's-A-Palooza, the Adams Apple Festival before Labor Day, the Spook Parade before Halloween, and Santa Claus Day before Christmas. Lodging options include the Garden View Lodge and Lucas RV Park, which are close to many of the area's attractions and sights.

These Kansas Towns Offer a Pleasant Getaway

Exploring small towns in Kansas provides an enriching travel experience in 2025. These communities blend historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty from Fort Scott to Cottonwood Falls. Visitors can look forward to diverse attractions and events throughout the year in these Midwest towns, as well as warm hospitality and accommodations, from charming bed-and-breakfasts to historic hotels.