The US state of Kansas has many nicknames, including the Sunflower State and the Wheat State. Tourists heading to Kansas usually flock to the big cities like Wichita and Kansas City, basking in the eclectic city views and enjoying the local culture. Undoubtedly, the charm of these cities inevitably attracts enthusiastic tourists seeking good barbeque or exploring the birthplace of Dorothy Gale.
However, travelers seeking a quieter vibe must check out some of the small towns that make up Kansas. Whether it's exploring the unique landscape of the tallgrass prairies or checking out some kooky attractions, these small towns will have travelers craving a quiet getaway in the Sunflower State.
10 Cottonwood Falls
Cottonwood Falls is a destination for history buffs; travelers can check out the Chase County Courthouse, the oldest courthouse west of the Mississippi River. After checking out the courthouse, tourists can head to the Chase State Fishing Lake and enjoy a quaint walk around the spillway waterfall. This park is also great for camping and fishing!
With a quaint population of 910 locals, Cottonwood Falls is a great getaway destination for families, introverts, and those seeking a peaceful weekend in a quiet town!
9 Lindsborg
Also known as "Little Sweden", this Kansas city of 3,500 citizens is known for its ties to Swedish traditions. Lindsborg is even a sister city to Munkors, a city in Sweden!
Despite being small, the city offers visitors an array of attractions, from Coronado Heights to the Höglund Dugout. Public art is also sprawled across the city in the form of paintings, public installations, and iron sculptures.
Those seeking a quiet nature retreat in Lindsborg should check out the Välkommen Trail and walk on the railroad bridge. The city is studded with cute boutiques and unique local restaurants, some of which serve authentic Swedish cuisine!
8 Wamego
Standing at a population of 4,400 people, the small town of Wamego offers an array of activities suitable for travelers interested in arts and theatre. The OZ Museum is a definite must-see for those who loved the Wizard of Oz; this museum features 100-years' worth of art, exhibits, and memorabilia from the beloved franchise.
Moreover, Wamego also hosts events all-year-round such as Wamego's annual Tulip Festival and OZtoberFEST (the festival made for the ultimate Wizard of Oz fanatic)! Visitors can also grab some fresh tacos at Toto's TacOZ, a restaurant named in homage to the legendary movie.
7 Atchison
Home to about 10,958 people, Atchison, Kansas is the birthplace of Amelia Earhart. Every July, to honor the world-famous female pilot, the city hosts the Amelia Earhart Festival.
Atchison Kansas is also loved by paranormal enthusiasts, due to its reputation as the most haunted town in the US! Ride the haunted trolley and learn about Atchison's haunted (and seasoned) history. Meanwhile, adventurous travelers can prove their bravery and spend a night at the Sallie House, a hotspot for creepy (and unexplainable) paranormal activities.
6 Norton
Found in 1872, Norton is a small town in western Kansas. With 2,900 citizens, Norton offers visitors the small-town vibe they're searching for in a weekend getaway. Tourists must visit the Prairie Dog State Park, known for its fishing, camping grounds, and occasional sights of the black-tailed prairie dog. Nature enthusiasts should also check out the Keith Sebelius Lake by the Prairie Dog Creek, which is an artificially constructed reservoir for controlling floods and local water supply.
5 Mullinville
Located along Highway 400, the quaint town of Mullinville is home to 235 people! Despite its size, Mullinville is not without its charm. Visitors can check out the Fromme-Birney Round Barn, a historical piece of architecture built in 1912, and has since converted into a museum. To bask in some local art, tourists should stop by the M.T. Liggett Art Environment and check out some kinetic art displays crafted by M.T. Liggett himself!
4 Strong City
Located in Chase County, Strong City stands proud with a population of 480 people. Thousands of tourists flock to this small town every year to take in the views of the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway while enjoying Strong City's other attractions. Specifically, visitors love spending a day at the Tallgrass Prairie National Park to awe the beauty of the tallgrass landscape. Every June, tourists enjoy checking out the Flint Hills PRCA Rodeo to try their hand at bull riding, barrel racing, or steer wrestling.
3 Oberlin
The historic town of Oberlin is a must-see destination for history lovers! Visitors will appreciate the unique boutiques, shops, and restaurants in the area. Spend a couple of nights at the historic Landmark Inn and enjoy some local fare at the Teller Room Restaurant (which used to be the lobby for the Oberlin Bank).
2 Oswego
With only 1,676 locals, Oswego is a small town that many travelers can enjoy. Tourists can enjoy a day at the Historical Riverside Park, offering 90-acres of area for enjoying a quiet picnic or walk. The Park is also home to several amenities, including the Oswego Community Center and the Labette County Fairgrounds.
1 Beloit
Known as "The Heart of the Solomon Valley" Beloit is located in Mitchell County. Despite its small-town status, Beloit offers visitors an array of entertainment venues and fun activities. To bask in some local history, tourists should look at the Mitchell County Courthouse or St. John's Catholic Church. Visitors can also spend a day at Waconda Lake or the Glen Elder State Park!