We have said it before and we feel confident enough to say it again: Kansas has by far the most picturesque small towns (with a population of less than 5,000) in the entire country! In order to take in as many of these places as possible, we have researched and mapped out a memorable small-town road trip in KS to some of its most beautiful small towns. Welcome to the best small towns to visit in Kansas!
Feel free to follow along on this interactive map, and do it in any order you please!
1. WaKeeney (Population: 1,862)
The first stop on this Kansas road trip is WaKeeney. It is lovely year-round, but we recommend visiting both now and after Thanksgiving when the "Christmas City of the High Plains" comes to life with an assortment of colorful lights, events, and even a visit from Old St. Nick!
2. Phillipsburg (Population: 2,581)
Phillipsburg isn't only home to friendly folks and a quaint downtown area; it is also home to a number of museums, including the historic Fort Bissell (pictured) and C&R Railroad Museums.
3. Wamego (Population: 4,372)
Follow the yellow brick road to Wamego; the official home of the Oz Museum, Winery, and Toto's Tacoz! (Not to mention a charming old Dutch Mill, bright gardens, and several other area treasures.)
4. Council Grove (Population: 2,182)
Not only is this beautiful Flint Hills town a foodie's paradise (with iconic restaurants like the historic Hays House and Saddlerock Cafe), but it is also a favorite among history buffs, as the town once served as a stop along the Santa Fe Trail.
5. Cottonwood Falls (Population: 903)
Located just down the road from Council Grove, Cottonwood Falls is THE place to shop with a number of unique boutiques and mom-and-pop stores along the town's charming brick-paved Main Street!
6. Lindsborg (Population: 3,481)
Little Sweden, U.S.A. is sure to leave you thinking you aren't in Kansas anymore with its authentic shops, restaurants, and vibrant Dala horses at every turn.
7. Lucas (Population: 390)
The last stop along our small-town road trip is quirky Lucas, which houses a number of fabulous grassroots art displays including the infamous Garden of Eden, Bowl Plaza, and Deeble Sculpture Garden (pictured).
Have you been to any of the towns on this small-town road trip in Kansas? What are your favorite towns to visit? Let us know the best things about them in the comments. Not ready for the road trip fun to end? Are you ready to hit the road again? Here are a few more Kansas road trips you're sure to enjoy:
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kansas/unforgettable-kansas-road-trips/
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