15 Must-Visit Small Towns in Kansas

Colby, known as the "Oasis of the High Plains," blends outdoor adventure with rich local culture. Fishermen and families will enjoy Sappa Creek and Fike Park. Don’t pass up a visit to the Prairie Museum of Art and History to delve deeper into the area’s storied past and vibrant culture.

In the heart of the Flint Hills lies Cottonwood Falls, a small town with a population just shy of 1,000. It’s home to the Chase County Historical Museum and the breathtaking Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Here, you might catch a glimpse of bison roaming freely, or enjoy the beauty of Chase Lake Falls.

Council Grove is a town brimming with history, from the Kaw Mission State Historic Site to the famous Council Oak, a witness to pivotal meetings along the Santa Fe Trail. This town is also a haven for foodies, boasting establishments like the Hays House 1857 Restaurant and Tavern, where dining feels like a step back in time.

Abilene is not just another dot on the map, it's a treasure trove of cultural gems. Here you can visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home, or make a stop at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. For nature enthusiasts, nearby Milford State Park offers the largest lake in Kansas, where wildlife, including wild turkeys, roam free. Don’t miss the Dickinson County Heritage Center, where you can step back in time in an original log cabin and schoolhouse.

Atchison is a town steeped in history, with Victorian-style homes that harken back to its days as a vital transportation hub. For those who like a good ghost story, the Haunted Trolley Tour will send shivers down your spine. Aviation buffs will be drawn to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, celebrating the famous aviator's legacy. And for those who enjoy live theatre, Theatre Atchison has been delighting audiences since 1984.

Dodge City, once known as "The Wickedest Little City in America," embodies the spirit of the Wild West. This iconic frontier town on the Santa Fe Trail invites visitors to explore its rich history at sites like the Boot Hill Museum and the Ford County Courthouse. The Mueller-Schmidt House, or "Home of Stone," is another must-see for history buffs.

Driving into Fort Scott along the Frontier Military Historic Byway is like travelling back to the mid-19th century. Established in 1842, the town has preserved its historical charm with brick streets and period architecture. The Fort Scott National Historic Site showcases 20 historical buildings and offers a glimpse into the town’s significant role in American history with meticulously restored interiors and artefacts.

Lindsborg, affectionately known as “Little Sweden, USA,” celebrates its Swedish heritage through art, culture, and community events. Visitors can explore the Sandzén Memorial Gallery, home to works by the "American Van Gogh," Birger Sandzén. The town also hosts numerous Swedish festivals, where you can experience traditional music, dance, and crafts.

Liberal offers a whimsical escape with the Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz exhibit, where fans of "The Wizard of Oz" can step into a life-sized replica of Dorothy's home and follow it up with a stroll along the Yellow Brick Road. Liberal's Mid-America Air Museum, one of the largest aviation museums in the United States, provides a comprehensive look at the history of flight.

Wamego is the perfect spot for relaxation and indulgence, especially during the annual OztoberFest, celebrating "The Wizard of Oz." The town’s peaceful atmosphere is ideal for leisurely walks, and its local winery offers the perfect end to a lazy day with tastings of regional wines.

Marysville, also known as "Black Squirrel City" due to its unique furry residents, boasts a rich pioneering history. The Pony Express Home Station No. 1 Museum is a highlight, commemorating Marysville's role as the first home station on the historic Pony Express route. You can also stroll through the historic downtown and admire well-preserved 19th-century buildings, offering a picturesque glimpse into America's frontier days.

Medicine Lodge, located in the Gypsum Hills, is known not just for its stunning red hills backdrop, but also for its rich Native American past. The town holds an annual Peace pact Festival, which commemorates the signing of the 1867 pact with local tribes. Visitors can also explore the Stockade Museum and Carry Nation Home, which provide insights into the town's colorful past and artistic endeavours.

Hays, the historic heart of the Wild West, offers a blend of history and adventure. Fort Hays State Historic Site provides a look into the life of the frontier military. For a taste of modern day Hays, visit the local breweries and vibrant art scene, including the Hays Arts Center Gallery. Don’t miss the annual Wild West Festival, which brings fireworks, concerts, and a taste of local culture each summer.

Norton's initial business sector has evolved into the historic downtown area that locals now enjoy for its diverse restaurants, coffee shops, and independent companies. However, this small hamlet is well-known for its neighbouring hiking, hunting, and fishing options in the Norton Wildlife Area (also known as the Keith Sebelius Reservoir). Prairie dogs can also be seen in Prairie Dog State Park, where a small family of about 300 prairie dogs has settled just south of the park office.

Salina is the cultural hub of central Kansas, offering a rich mix of art, history, and entertainment. The Salina Art Center sparks creativity with its contemporary art exhibitions and workshops. History buffs will appreciate the Smoky Hill Museum, which explores the region's pioneering past. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rolling Hills Zoo provides a chance to connect with wildlife in beautifully landscaped surroundings.