Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Kansas

Road-tripping is one of my favorite things to do, and I think the American Midwest, with its broad landscapes and charming small towns, is one of the best places for it. When you're looking for a weekend escape that avoids the typical tourist traps, I don't think you can go wrong pointing your car toward the Sunflower State and the wide-open expanse of the Flint Hills. It's here that you'll find Cottonwood Falls, a small historic town in Kansas that feels completely untouched by the rush of modern life. If you love historic Midwestern towns as much as I do, Cottonwood Falls belongs on your bucket list.

The History Behind This Small Historic Town in Kansas

The story of Cottonwood Falls stretches back to well before the state was officially recognized by the federal government. The area saw its first permanent settlement in 1854 when a trader named Seth Hayes established a cattle ranch near the banks of the Cottonwood River. By 1859, the surrounding land was organized into Chase County, and the growing riverside community was designated the county seat.

In 1873, the city erected the iconic Chase County Courthouse, the town's most recognizable landmark. It was built from native limestone in French Renaissance style and boasts a distinctive red roof—its clock tower is visible from throughout the town. It's the oldest courthouse in continual use in the entire state of Kansas, and you can even take a self-guided tour to get a closer look at its intricate ironwork and stonemasonry.

Best Things To Do in This Historic Gem

Beyond the courthouse, the historic downtown area is perfect for a few hours of exploring. You'll find many well-preserved buildings from the late 1800s, including the Samuel N. Wood House and the historic Cartter Building, both of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Swing by the Chase County Historical Society Museum to learn more about the town's past through its collection of early artifacts, local newspapers, and historical photographs.

If you're like me and want to spend some time in nature, you won't have to travel far. Cottonwood Falls sits right along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, a breathtaking 47-mile route that offers sweeping views of the remaining native tallgrass prairie. Take a quick drive to Chase State Fishing Lake just west of town, which features excellent fishing piers and an unexpected natural waterfall—Chase Lake Falls. If you time your visit right during the warmer months, you might even catch the Prairie Fire Festival or one of the lively community events at the historic Swope Park.

Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore in Cottonwood Falls

Compared to other historic towns in Kansas, Cottonwood Falls offers an incredibly high level of hospitality and comfort. Once you work up an appetite from walking the scenic byway, plan on grabbing dinner at the Grand Central Hotel and Grill. Operating in a building that dates back to 1884, this local staple is famous for serving a fantastic country-fried steak, which you should absolutely follow up with a slice of their warm chocolate fudge cake. For lodging, check out some of the fantastic Airbnbs in Kansas. I'm pretty sure you'll find something to love about one of the many unique stays in the Sunflower State.

Before leaving town, definitely make the quick drive north to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Strong City. There, you'll have an opportunity to hike through one of the last remaining expanses of this endangered ecosystem and observe a roaming bison herd. When you're ready to make the trip to this historic small town in Kansas, check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to seamlessly map out your driving route and string together all these incredible Flint Hills stops.