There are a surprising number of ways you can divide up the United States into two. One method is to take the 48 contiguous states (this method excludes the distant Hawaii and Alaska) and find the halfway point of those. When measured by that technique, do you know where is the middle of the United States? Drum roll please… you guessed it, Kansas! The little town of Lebanon is so small it’s barely a blip on a map, but it’s got the honor of being the Halfway Point of the Contiguous 48 States.

The population of Lebanon hovers right around 300 people. The town is less than half a square mile in area.
Prantik Pandey/Google Maps
This small town in Kansas was founded in 1876, and a decade later, moved about four miles away to where it is today.
Since then, Hawaii and Alaska have become states, so technically, Lebanon lost its status as the true center.
Mennonite Church USA Archives/Wikimedia Commons
That title now goes to Belle Fourche, South Dakota. However, Lebanon is still the official answer to the question, "Where is the middle of the United States?" when talking about the contiguous states.
Interestingly, Lebanon had already made history once before!
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
In February 1908, the temperature there dropped to -40 °F, which is still the lowest temperature ever recorded in Kansas.

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Lebanon has a small plaque marking its status as the center of the United States.
48states/Wikimedia Commons
Its a great spot to stop and take a photo to add to your travel memories book.
The nearby visitor's center is also a great place to stop. It's got some information about the history of the town.
Robert Wilson/Google Maps
While you're downtown, make sure to check out the historic jail and local shops. Many of them sell souvenirs advertising Lebanon's claim to fame.
The adorably small "U.S. Center Chapel" is not technically right at the center point of the country, but it's nearby.
U.S. Center Chapel, 130 Rd, Lebanon, KS 66952, USA
Robert Willson/Google Maps
As churches go, it's definitely worth a peek while you're in the area!

Have you ever been to Lebanon? If so, what were your favorite parts? Were you aware of its claim to fame as the center of the contiguous states? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

To take a look at another interesting small town in Kansas, read this article about Baxter Springs.

If you’re still in the mood for more Sunflowerr State adventures, take a look at this video:

 

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More to Explore

Exploring Kansas

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | April 26, 2023

Where can we find other small towns in Kansas?

  • Paola is a quaint small town just a short drive from the Kansas City metro area with lots of restaurants, farming entities, and a little airstrip used by local pilots.
  • Hiawatha possesses a great deal of history, including a historic clock tower, museums, and the Davis Memorial.
  • Wellington is where you will find numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, and it is known as the "Wheat Capital of the World."

Read on to learn more about some of the many other charming small towns in Kansas.

Where can we find lakes in Kansas?

  • Tuttle Creek Lake in Manhattan offers camping, fishing, nature trails, and more.
  • El Dorado Lake features stellar fishing, and boating, and is situated inside of what has been called one of the best state parks in America.
  • Cedar Bluff Reservoir is the place to enjoy water sports, fishing, and sunbathing.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful lakes in Kansas.

Where can we find wineries in Kansas?

  • The Rowe Ridge Vineyard & Winery in Kansas City is a beautiful family-owned business with a tasting room and group gathering spaces.
  • The Stonehaus Farms Winery in Lees Summit is a great urban gem popular for tastings and special events throughout the year.
  • The Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery in Excelsior Springs is set on a beautiful expansive property with dramatic views of the surrounding countryside.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other lovely wineries in Kansas.

 

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Lebanon, KS 66952, USA