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 road trip through a few of Kansas’s most beautiful small towns! (Link to original map can be found here.)
Google Maps
- Wakeeney (Population: 1,862)
WaKeeney, KS Travel & Tourism Wakeeney 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!
- Phillipsburg (Population: 2,581)
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn 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.
- Wamego (Population: 4,372)
Flickr/Kansas Tourism 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.)
- Council Grove (Population: 2,182)
Wikimedia Commons Not only is this beautiful Flint Hills town a foodie’s paradise (with iconic restaurants like the historic Hays House and Saddlerock Cafe), it is also a favorite among history buffs, as the town once served as a stop along the Santa Fe Trail.
- Cottonwood Falls (Population: 903)
Flickr/frank thompson photos 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!
- Lindsborg (Population: 3,481)
Flickr/Kansas Tourism 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.
- Lucas (Population: 390)
Flickr/Kelly Ludwig 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).
Not ready for the road trip fun to end? We dare you to try the Ultimate Terrifying Kansas Road Trip!
Google Maps
WaKeeney, KS Travel & Tourism
Wakeeney 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!
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
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.
Flickr/Kansas Tourism
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.)
Wikimedia Commons
Not only is this beautiful Flint Hills town a foodie’s paradise (with iconic restaurants like the historic Hays House and Saddlerock Cafe), it is also a favorite among history buffs, as the town once served as a stop along the Santa Fe Trail.
Flickr/frank thompson photos
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!
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.
Flickr/Kelly Ludwig
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).
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