The Perfect Kansas Getaways To Take If You Have Been Dreaming Of Traveling The World

We get it: as much as we love it, the Sunflower State isn't exactly the same as a European vacation. But we also know that it's not always possible to swing for a Euro tour. That's why the concept of "vacation dupes" has been taking off on social media lately. It's destinations that will give you a similar to feel to dream locales like Europe at a fraction of the expense. If you're looking for some great European vacation dupes in Kansas, we've got you covered with a few wonderful getaways:

1. Hays in October

Hays is the largest city in northwest Kansas. It's a college town, home to Fort Hays State University.

However, it's also home to one of the Midwest's largest Oktoberfests! The Hays Oktoberfest takes place in the city's Municipal Park and it's always a blast. This year's event is scheduled for October 4-5, 2024.

Oktoberfest Hays has tons of fun for the entire family, with traditional costumes, delicious food (and beer), games, a vendor market, and more.

2. Wilson in July

Wilson is a small city in central Kansas that's known as the Czech Capital of Kansas. It's got a population of under 900, but has tons of Czech pride.

The town is home to the largest Czech egg in the entire world. The beautiful egg is 20 feet tall! There are other smaller eggs to spot around town, and lots of things to do in Wilson, KS.

Visit the last weekend of July and you can enjoy the Wilson After Harvest Czech Festival. The festival features a parade, arts and craft vendors, live entertainment, and more.

3. Lindsborg

Lindsborg is perhaps the town that first comes to mind when people think of vacation dupes in Kansas. There's certainly a reason why this place is known as America's Little Sweden.

The town's every-other-year fall festival Svensk Hyllningsfest is next scheduled for October 2025. It features Swedish performers, Swedish foods, craft vendors, and an hour-long Grand Parade.

However, you'll find plenty of Swedish charm no matter what time of year you visit this place. Hemslojd, Inc. is one of several charming Swedish shops in Lindsborg, KS that features tons of Swedish goods. A Dala horse is a great souvenir from your visit here. If you're looking for the perfect place to stay in Lindsborg, it doesn't get much better than this adorable stone cottage.

Have you been to any of these vacation dupes in Kansas? Any others you'd suggest? Share your thoughts in the comments!