Is it just us or does Kansas seem to be a mecca for small, yet picturesque towns? If you are looking to visit (or live in) a lovely town of less than 10,000, you will definitely want to check out these charming spots that we think are some of the best small towns in Kansas.

1. Cottonwood Falls
Wikimedia Commons
Welcome to the poster child of lovely small towns. You’ll never run out of things to do in this charming town. In addition to historic structures, a thriving main street, the surrounding Flint Hills, and a population of less than 1,000, Cottonwood Falls is home to its original brick-paved streets that are hard to come by today.
2. Larned
Wikimedia Commons
Welcome to Larned; a friendly town of nearly 5,000 where, as one reader put it, everyone looks out for and takes care of one another.
3. Sterling
City of Sterling, Kansas Facebook
The motto of this 2,500 person town couldn't be more appropriate: "Where the Quality of Life Shines!" See for yourself after just one visit.
4. Paola
Wikimedia Commons
Unforgettable home cooking, boutiques, and an undeniable sense of pride await you in this quaint town of just over 5,000. If you'd like to extend your stay, Hoot Owl offers some unique glamping opportunities!
5. Hiawatha
City of Hiawatha, KS Facebook
Do you see this unique outline? Not something you'd expect to see in a town of 3,200, is it? In addition to the historic clock tower (pictured), the town is also home to two memorable museums and the impressive Davis Memorial. Hiawatha is also incredibly stunning in the fall, so take note, leaf peepers!
6. Wellington
City of Wellington, KS Facebook
There's a lot more to the "Wheat Capital of the World" than just a thriving agriculture scene. In fact, Wellington is also home to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities and more than 8,000 friendly neighbors.

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7. Downs
City of Downs Facebook
Have you ever wondered what's at the end of a rainbow? Why it's Downs, Kansas and its 900 residents, of course!
8. White City
Get White City Facebook
Since my mom and her siblings all grew up around White City (and graduated from WCH), I have visited the town of 700 numerous times and can vouch for both its charm and friendliness.
9. Oberlin
Oberlin-Decatur Economic Development Facebook
Named for Oberlin, Ohio, the small town of 1,900 has truly broken out and become its own in the last 130 years with a series of famous landmarks and festivals.
10. Wakefield
City of Wakefield Facebook
Do you enjoy spending summers on the lake? Then you best get yourself to Wakefield, which boasts a population of about 1,000 AND borders the enchanting Milford Lake.
11. Phillipsburg
Phillipsburg Chamber & Main Street Facebook
Excellent schools, community events, and so much more are waiting for you (and your family) in this charming town of just over 2,500.
12. Paxico
Wikimedia Commons
What the modest town of only 250 lacks in size, it makes up for with its surprisingly diverse shopping, cafes, and even a delicious winery. Cheers!

Do you hail from any of these small towns? Let us know in the comments below!

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More to Explore

best small towns in Kansas

Jackie Ann | April 14, 2021

Where is the best place to live in Kansas?

The Sunflower state is home to a number of quaint towns full of friendly midwestern charm ideal for families to put down their roots. Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Kansas is Leawood, a delightful suburb found just outside of Kansas City. With a population of 34,670, Leawood boasts a lively community while still maintaining a small town charm. Residents of the area enjoy beautiful neighborhoods, relaxing recreation areas, and easily accessible shopping and entertainment districts. Additionally, Leawood’s Blue Valley School District is one of the top school districts in the country, making the area extremely attractive to families with little ones.

What are the most charming small towns in Kansas?

Tucked away within our borders is an abundance of charming small towns to discover ranging from historic Wild West destinations to bustling arts communities. Located along the Chisholm Trail, the scenic town of Abilene is steeped in a rich Kansas history. The Old Town district gives visitors a fascinating glimpse back in time reflecting the region’s unique heritage where history buffs can tour western saloons, museums, and an American Indian Art Center featuring tribal art exhibits. The town of Council Grove located on the Santa Fe Trail is full of fascinating historic sites offering a time capsule of 19th century midwestern life. Take a journey on the Frontier Military Historic Byway to Fort Scott and explore the town’s impressive original architecture dating back to the mid-1800s.

What is the oldest town in Kansas?

Founded in 1854, Leavenworth was the first city established in the territory of Kansas and played a key role throughout the history of America’s western expansion. Fort Leavenworth was built on this site in 1827 and served as a supply post for campaigns into the west. During the Civil War and antebellum eras, it operated as a base for the Union Army and a refuge for freedom seeking African-American slaves. These days, Leavenworth is home to a wealth of attractions from compelling heritage museums to fun-filled recreation areas boasting 25 public parks and public community centers full of exciting amenities.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845, USA
Larned, KS 67550, USA
Sterling, KS 67579, USA
Paola, KS 66071, USA
Hiawatha, KS 66434, USA
Wellington, KS, USA
Downs, KS 67437, USA
White City, KS, USA
Oberlin, KS 67749, USA
Wakefield, KS 67487, USA
Phillipsburg, KS 67661, USA
Paxico, KS 66526, USA