10 Of The Friendliest Towns In Kansas
The Sunflower State is as enticing as it sounds. With a comfy 8th place spot on the World Population Review ranking of Friendliest States, Kansas is thriving with warm-hearted locals and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. The state offers everything from energetic county fairs to cozy coffee shops, all surrounded by gently rolling landscapes dotted with picture-perfect farms, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout. From corner to corner, guests are greeted with unmatched hospitality and the comforting feeling of home in this beautiful Midwestern state.
Lindsborg
Have a taste of the Swedish life in Kansas’ own Little Sweden. Located in central Kansas, the town of Lindsborg is steeped in Scandinavian heritage and culture. Join the locals for the biennial Svensk Hyllningsfest. Held in October, step into a different world at this lively event. Be in awe of the Swedish Folk Dancers, check out the intriguing attire at the Swedish Costume Exhibit, and learn something new at the live demonstrations. Be sure to grab a ticket for the Smörgåsbord, featuring dozens of Swedish dishes made with time-honored recipes from the early settlers. The Midsummers Festival is another Lindsborg tradition not to be missed. Celebrate the summer solstice with a Kubb Tournament, a Swedish Hymn Service, the raising of the Midsummer Pole, and craft demonstrations.
Lindsborg is a Swedish storybook come to life throughout the year. Grab a comfy seat and savor Swedish cuisine at Crown and Rye. With a diverse menu, choose from home-style favorites such as Smörgås, Kottbullar, Kaldolmar, or Varmlandskorv. Rest assured, there are classic chicken tenders, burgers, Parmesan garlic fries, and salads for the less adventurous eaters. Conveniently located on N. Main Street, pick up a unique souvenir from Hemslojd to forever remember the time in Lindsborg. From Dala Horses and Tomtes to Swedish-style dolls, Scandinavian treats, coffee, tea, and decor, there is something for everyone.
Abilene
Abilene is as beautiful as it is welcoming, radiating small-town American charm with a historic district full of striking brick architecture. The town regularly earns awards and is consistently ranked among USA Today’s best historic small towns. Join the festivities at Cowtown Christmas, a beloved annual event typically held on a December weekend. Watch as the town comes alive with holiday excitement and venture down Christmas Tree Lane to marvel at residentially decorated trees. Catch a holiday musical, meet with Santa for breakfast, crafts, and storytime, and then shop at the Christmas market. Cowtown Christmas captures the essence of a tight-knit community in Kansas.
Steeped in history, Abilene is commonly known for being Dwight D. Eisenhower’s hometown. Spend a good chunk of the day at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Purchase a ticket and take a tour of Eisenhower’s Boyhood Home, containing the family’s original furnishings. Take a photo with the presidential bronze statue and then continue to the museum to dive further into Eisenhower’s early years and his time as president.
Grab the kids and head to Dickinson County Heritage Center for a ride on the historic carousel. Since 1901, the horses and Wurlitzer Band organ music have been crafting smiles and nostalgia. With hand-carved craftsmanship by German immigrants, the ride is truly one-of-a-kind.
Winfield
Located just 30 minutes from the Oklahoma border, Winfield is a scenic and inviting college town, alive with culture and friendly spirit. Locals eagerly await the Walnut Valley Festival every September. Typically spanning around five days, the festival is jam-packed with a variety of musical performances, an arts & crafts show, and contests. Fill up on all the good eats, such as pizza, burgers, funnel cakes, and donuts, while checking out all the fun. Out-of-towners will be happy to know that camping spots are available for those wishing to stay more than a day. Summertime also means the Cowley County Fair is back in town. Featuring classic activities, get ready for a massive list of events, including a horse show, junior rodeo, livestock exhibit, barnyard olympics, and a carnival.
Make new friends and raise a glass at Ladybird Brewing. Try hand-crafted brews made with locally sourced ingredients. For other tastes, a small assortment of wines, bourbons, and scotches is available. Throughout the year, catch an event at Ladybird Brewing. From trivia nights to live music, every month has something happening.
Lucas
Venture off the beaten path to Lucas, a tiny town in rural Kansas. Home to around 341 people, as reported by World Population Review, this delightful area is the kind of place where everyone is familiar with each other. Artsy and eccentric, Lucas boasts a diverse creative scene and intriguing attractions. The sculptures in the Garden of Eden are a must-see. Take a self-guided tour of the outdoor masterpieces, including The Slaying of Abel, the Chain of Life, The Devil, and The Soldier. For a complete look at this fascinating feat, take a guided tour of the interior and the Mausoleum.
Tiny, but mighty, Lucas knows how to run events. Mingle with Lucas residents at the April Fools-A-Palooza, a community art extravaganza held at various businesses around downtown Lucas. Previous festivities included Sculptures in Miller’s Park, a Diorama Open House, World’s Smallest Poem Kit, Hidden Post Office Box Art, a chance to chat with artists, and a live dog show at Bowl Plaza.
Another not-to-be-missed event is the annual Adams Apple Festival. While the activities vary from year to year, visitors can look forward to apple-themed contests such as apple peeling, throwing, decorating, and recipe competitions. On top of all the juicy, fruity fun, bring the kids for the carnival, talent show, three-legged race, and apple cornhole.
Concordia
During the autumn months, when warm hues take over the Kansas landscape, join the crowd for the beloved Fall Fest. Downtown Concordia comes alive with magic. Start the day off with all you can eat pancakes and then be enchanted by the packed day of excitement with adorable events like the turtle races, frog jumping contest, pets and pumpkins, and pony rides. With a parade, pop-up museum, and kids' corner featuring a bounce house, free animal balloons, and a train ride, the Fall Fest is an event families look forward to each year.
Support the locals by immersing in Concordia community arts at the Brown Grand Theatre. A long-standing landmark since 1907, get comfy in the historical theatre and enjoy the show. Offering a variety of genres sure to please everyone, future 2025 showcases include a Haunted Tour, a Taylor Swift Tribute Show, A Christmas Chaos, and movie screenings such as Elf and Paddington.
Step back in time at the Cloud County Historical Society Museum. Intriguing to all ages, the museum captures a wide array of topics. Wander around and see a Lincoln-Page biplane, a windmill with a water pump, farming equipment, military memorabilia, and a soda shop replica. From a Betty Boop display to wildlife exhibits, the Cloud County Historical Society Museum is a fantastic way to spend a few hours.
Wamego
As a resident of Tornado Alley, Kansas gained its reputation for these massive whirlwinds largely due to its iconic role in the classic movie The Wizard of Oz. There is no place like home, or at least Wamego, when it comes to honoring this timeless film. Take a stroll down the town’s own Yellow Brick Road by Lincoln Ave and admire the painted Wizard of Oz murals. There are six striking masterpieces to be seen, and the art makes a phenomenal photo opportunity. Continue to the Oz Museum, and dive into the enthralling world through thousands of artifacts, including movie props, original posters, character masks, and a replica Haunted Forest sign.
Finish off the day at the Oz Winery and take home a bottle of Oz-inspired wine. The labels themselves are a work of art and perfectly capture the film’s vibe. Come back in the fall for the OZtoberfest. From a Toto-look-a-like contest to Oz photo ops, a market with locally made items, and costumed characters roaming about, the event is truly one of a kind.
Valley Center
Just 20 minutes north of Wichita, Valley Center offers a welcoming community set against a picture-perfect landscape of flat plains and gently rolling terrain. Spend some time at Elderslie Farm, which nicely embodies a hometown feel. From mid-June until mid-July, go blackberry picking and take home a basket of these juicy beauties. Savor fresh eats at the on-site Bramble Cafe with healthy fare, or kick it up a notch and book a table at the Elderslie restaurant. Only open Thursday through Saturday, the farm-to-table dinners are mesmerizing and mouthwatering.
Get to know Kansas’ residents at one of the local events. The annual Valley Center Fall Festival is always full of excitement. Watch the parade and see who is awarded the best float. Smaller guests will love the Kids’ Festival in Lion’s Park, the Kids Fishing Derby, and the Frog & Turtle Races. The event is one of the best ways to kick-start the fall season in September in Kansas. Equally as thrilling, get rowdy at the Valley Center Western Days, celebrating 75 years of magic in 2025. Over the years, various activities have been added, including a chili cookoff and a parade. Get in on all the fun with carnival rides, live performances, alluring exhibits, and appetizing meals from the food vendors.
Council Grove
Steeped in history, Council Grove boasts a legendary spot on the iconic Santa Fe Trail. Among its 25 historic sites, the Kaw Mission State Historic Site stands out as the main attraction. This museum is one of the oldest buildings in the area, offering a remarkable glimpse of early Council Grove life, with exhibits about the Kaw Indians and the Santa Fe Trail. The Last Chance Store is another significant landmark, as it served as a supply store along the Santa Fe Trail. In 1866, it became a grocery store, and later, it was converted into a family home. Built out of stone and lumber, the Last Chance Store is a striking look at Kansas’ early roots.
Celebrate with the friendly Council Grove community at the annual Washunga Days. Gather together and honor the thriving culture of Kansas. With a car show, craft show, kids' activities, a parade with candy, and live music, Washunga Days is one of the best ways to warm up under the summer sun. Visit the food vendors to fuel up during the day. Choose from Doners, Cali-style Street Tacos, grilled masterpieces, carnival-style eats, and authentic New York pizza to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
Wilson
As the Czech Capital of Kansas, Wilson combines a unique flair with Midwestern hospitality. Take a memorable photo with the World’s Largest Czech Egg. Adorned with intricate designs by local artist Christine Slechta, this striking attraction is a sublime tribute to Wilson’s Czech heritage. Just down the street, feel right at home with a Kolache from Made From Scratch. The beloved Czech pastry is commonly filled with fruit and sometimes topped with cherries, apricots, or poppy seeds.
Continue honoring Czech roots at the annual Wilson After Harvest Czech Festival. Featuring two days of non-stop action, cheer on the competitors at the derby race, cornhole tournament, and a beer stein holding contest. From axe throwing to the Miss Czech princess pageant, a carnival, and kids' activities, there is something for everyone.
Savor the moment a little longer by booking a stay at the Railroad Hotel, a 1899 town gem. Every room is distinct, combining contemporary comfort with touches of the past. With two on-site eateries and a convenient location, the Railroad Hotel is one of Wilson’s top-tier accommodations.
Hoxie
Hoxie is a small Kansas town tucked away in the state’s northwest corner. One of the ultimate ways to receive a warm Kansas welcome is by attending the Sheridan County Fair. Spanning around five days, gather for all the family-friendly happenings in this inviting small town. The fair features everything from food and horticultural exhibits to barnyard Olympics, a lively livestock sale, produce-growing contests, horse shows, a carnival, and a festive parade.
Spend a few hours exploring and supporting local businesses in this friendly, rural small town. Get comfy and sink into a chair of your choosing at Oscar’s of Hoxie. With seasonal specialties, such as caramel apples in the fall and fruit energy refreshers in the summertime, the cozy cafe is a cherished local delight. Meet up with a friend and chat over coffee and some lunch at Oscar’s for a day well spent in Hoxie. After getting some much-needed energy, stop by the Sheridan County Historical Society and Mickey’s Museum. Discover the area’s history through thoughtfully curated exhibits.
Receive a Warm Kansas Welcome
Ranking in the top 10 for Friendliest States according to World Population Review, Kansas prides itself on serving up top-quality midwestern hospitality. From small towns like Lucas to Hoxie, these communities know how to bring classic American family fun to life. Take the kids along to exciting events such as fall festivals, carnivals, art and culture attractions, and county fairs. Wamego’s quirky Wizard of Oz-themed attractions and Lindsborg’s enchanting Swedish-style town are not to be missed when visiting this welcoming state.
