Have you ever felt like you just wanted to explore, but you didn’t know where to begin? You might not think of Kansas when you’re looking for adventure, but it can be found in even the simplest places – even here. These small towns in Kansas are the perfect day trips to take on those days when you feel extra adventurous. Just pick one, and start planning your amazing day!

1. Abilene
Jim Maurer/Flickr
Abilene, KS 67410, USA
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
Abilene is a happy, quiet town on the eastern half of Kansas, between Salina and Junction City. This town of around 7,000 people is pretty small, but not small enough to feel empty. In town, you've got a plethora of options to spend your day exploring. There's the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad , the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Old Abilene Town, and the Town Gunfighters every weekend at the Heritage Center. If you like architecture, there are also a few mansions you can adore from afar, as well. Read more about beautiful Abilene, Kansas, in this delightful article.
2. Lindsborg
Chris Murphy/Flickr
Lindsborg, KS 67456, USA
Louetta S/TripAdvisor
For those of you who haven't been to Lindsborg yet, it's more charming that you could imagine. It's a small town of about 3,500 people, many of them of Swedish descent. Just south of Salina, this little town is full of heritage and celebration of culture, from the moment you cross into town. All across town, you'll see painted Dala horses that range in theme from classic Swedish red to floral and even sports patterns. Every other year, you'll find that their Svensk Hyllningsfest is the place to be, if you can nab a ticket. You'll enjoy all sorts of cultural traditions and foods as you celebrate their local heritage. As for places to go, the streets are lined with small businesses that all have their own wares that might just catch your eye. Maybe you need a Dala horse of your own! Learn more about Lindsborg and its fascinating origins in this insightful article.
3. Lecompton
M Stewart/Flickr
Lecompton, KS 66050, USA
John Jackson/Flickr
Lecompton is an underrated town for sure, especially if you've never been to this area before. It's a small town hidden between Lawrence and Topeka, with about 650 residents. Its absolutely packed with history, dating back to before Kansas was even a state. It's known as the birthplace of the Civil War, as well as the location where slavery began to officially die. It was also the former official location of the capital of the Kansas territory. Some great places to visit in town include the 1856 Constitution Hall, The Rowena Hotel, and The Territorial Capitol Museum. Check this article out for an itinerary for the perfect trip to Lecompton!
4. Wilson
Duncan Rawlinson - Duncan.co/Flickr
Wilson, KS 67490, USA
Duncan Rawlinson - Duncan.co/Flickr
Wilson is another captivating town full of similar heritage, but this time it's the Czech capital of Kansas. Wilson sits between Hays and Salina, and contains a population of around 800 people. Like Lindsborg, they also have a cultural celebration called Czechfest where they all get together and share their culture and traditions. Here in Wilson, you can look forward to seeing the World's Largest Hand Painted Czech Egg, visiting local shops, and the historic (and rumored haunted) Midland Railroad Hotel & Restaurant.
5. Goodland
Drew Tarvin/Flickr
Goodland, KS 67735, USA
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
Goodland is a wonderful city in northwestern Kansas along I-70 that's just begging to be explored. This town and its roughly 4,500 residents are all lucky to live somewhere so beautiful and full of life. When you're exploring Goodland, some key attractions include the World's Largest Easel, High Plains Museum, and the Ennis-Handy 1907 Victorian home. Everywhere you visit, including the local businesses here, you'll find people happy to meet you for the first time.

Though these towns are wonderful and packed full of things to do and see, there is one town that you wouldn’t want to be caught in alone at night. It’s just too spooky! Explore it only if you dare…

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips in Kansas

Tori Jane | March 03, 2022

What are some awesome day trips to do in Kansas?  

Kansas is nowhere near as boring as many people tend to claim it is. In fact, there are all sorts of fun and interesting things to do in Kansas that aren’t boring at all. Our beautiful state is home to 28 amazing state parks and five National Parks, and each one is a perfect option for a day trip. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, check out the amazing Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, which is some of the last-remaining tallgrass prairies left in the entire region. You can embark upon sunflower field road trips, where you visit field after field of dreams in the state known for its amazing sunflower summers. Visit some local farms, or maybe cruise on Route 66, a portion of which goes right through Kansas. There are also all kinds of adorable small towns worth a visit scattered around the state; some of our favorites include Hays, Lindsborg, and Lucas, which is known for its eclectic arts community. Need more ideas? Check out this article full of ideas for day trips in Kansas.  

What are some unique things to do around Kansas?  

There are all kinds of unique things to do around Kansas that you won’t really find anywhere else. Kansas is rich in history and natural beauty, and it’s easy to get lost when you’re having such an interesting time. Some of our favorite offbeat and unique things to do in Kansas include visiting the Oz Museum, which is exactly what it sounds like. What better place for an entirely Wizard of Oz-themed museum than beautiful Kansas? After all, it IS home. Then, you’ll want to check out the Geographic Center of the Contiguous United States, which can be found near Lebanon. It is what it sounds like: the literal center of the USA. Finally, make sure to check out something fun like the Museum of Odd in Lawrence. There are all kinds of weird and wonderful places in Kansas – you just need to know where to look!  

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