7 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Kansas
Kansas is perhaps the state most emblematic of the United States Midwest region. A geographic combination of prairies, farmland, and rolling hills, the quintessential image of Americana is wrapped up in the natural beauty of the state, especially in the small towns that populate these landscapes. As we delve into the stories of these towns, from the oasis of culture in Colby to the frontier legacy of Hays, we discover the multifaceted beauty of Kansas—a state that truly embodies the spirit of America's heartland. These towns outline some of the best and most offbeat of what Kansas has to offer.
Colby
An oasis of history and culture amongst the stretches of Kansas’ prairie land, Colby is a perfect small town stop for anyone traveling through the state. Historically centered on the agriculture that dominates the landscape, there are connections to the farming heritage of the town all throughout it. The Prairie Museum of Art and History is perhaps the most prominent and certainly worth a visit. Home to a collection of art and artifacts telling the story of the region, the museum also operates the Cooper Barn, the largest barn in Kansas. The Cooper Barn dominates the skyline of the town, but Colby's most well-known landmark is probably Wheat Jesus- a billboard on the highway that features exactly the image you think it does. Guests to the town will want to check out the Colby Walking Trails and Fike Park, which both offer excellent ways to get out under the prairie skies and take in the clear air and beauty of the prairies.
Lecompton
Despite its meager size and appearance, Lecompton in eastern Kansas is one of the most historically impactful municipalities in the United States. It was in this little town that political actions were taken that would lead to the Civil War, and Lecompton has adopted as its nickname, “Birthplace of the Civil War, Where Slavery Began to Die.” As one might expect, this history has been well-preserved, and sites like the Constitution Hall, the Democratic Headquarters building, and the Lane University & Territorial Capital Museum are still active and open for guests to explore and learn about the events that would come to shape the country. In addition to its connection to history, Lecompton is also a beautiful little town to visit, and travelers should make sure to stop at the Hillcreek Market for some fresh farm produce and at Aunt Netters Cafe for some freshly brewed coffee and a gourmet cupcake.
Chanute
Drive two hours south of Lecompton to find the town of Chanute. A center of culture and art, the town is the perfect spot amongst Kansas’ fields of farmland to enjoy a variety of museums and galleries. The Chanute Art Gallery is a perfect place to start, hosting rotating exhibits featuring both local and regional artists. The Lloyd Zimmer Books and Maps collection, as well as the Vintage West antique store, are excellent spots to observe and shop for a diversity of treasures. Finally, the Martin and Osa Safari Museum is one of the most distinguished facilities of its type, offering an unparalleled look at the nature photography of two of the medium's pioneers. Katy Park, with its hiking and biking trails, is the perfect complement to days spent exploring the galleries, allowing visitors to get out into the beautiful Chanute nature.
Wamego
Among the most beautiful small towns not just in Kansas but the whole country is the small town of Wamego. Located west of Topeka on the northern shore of the Kansas River, the town has much more to see and do than its size might suggest. Chief amongst this is the famous OZ Museum, which displays over 2000 pieces of memorabilia relating to the Baum classic and its landmark film adaptation. Wamego is filled with Oz references, including but not limited to an Emerald City playground, a smattering of painted Totos hiding around town, and a stunning walk along a real Yellow Brick Road. Autumn brings OZtoberfest, just one of Wamego’s exciting festivities. The Columbian Theatre is a historic spot to experience scintillating performing arts of every variety, and the Wamego City Park, featuring a towering Dutch windmill, is a beautiful park as well.
Council Grove
Just south of Wamego, near the pristine waters of the lake it shares its name with, is the town of Council Grove. A perfect place to stay while enjoying the natural beauty of Morris County, the town has deep connections to the land that surrounds it and offers countless opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves. The Lake is surrounded by recreation areas, such as Neosha Park, which allow for camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. Closer to town, the Flint Hills Nature Trail is another way to get out into the gorgeous green country around Council Grove. After spending a day or two in the landscapes around the town, guests should make sure to check out landmarks like the Kaw Mission Historic Site, a preserved stone mission dating back to the 1850s. The Trail Days Cafe and Museum is another must-see stop in Council Grove, telling the story of the region while also serving a mix of modern favorites and era-appropriate treats.
Marysville
Another Kansas town with deep connections to the state’s history and nature is Marysville. Historically, the town was the first stop on the legendary Pony Express after it left St. Joseph, Missouri, and it remained an important stop in shipping routes long into the railroad era. The Pony Express Plaza downtown honors this heritage and features a bronze statue of a horse and rider. For a detailed history of this slice of the American myth, the Pony Express Barn and Museum, which is housed in stables used by the eponymous ponies, is the perfect spot to be educated and entertained. More history can be accessed at the Historic Marshall County Courthouse Museum & Genealogical Library and at the stunning Koester House, a preserved Victorian house with a series of splendid gardens. The Marysville City Park and the Historic Trails Park are two of the best ways to enjoy the nature that all of this history occurred alongside.
Hays
Lying in the Midwest’s stunning Smoky Hills region is the town of Hays. The town was established as one of America’s wild frontier towns and is today a perfect destination for travelers of all types. The Fort Hays State Historic Site tells the story of the important army post and its connection to the African American “Buffalo Soldier” division through preserved buildings and artifacts. The Sternberg Museum of Natural History tells an entirely different kind of history, displaying fossils and exhibits exploring the prehistoric heritage of the region. Hays is dotted with parks, including the stunning Vineyard Park Nature Area, which is the ideal spot to take in the sights and sounds of the particular nature of the region. Finally, no trip to Hays would be complete without a stop at The Fox Theatre, which retains its 50s charm and presents live entertainment of all kinds.
The beauty of these towns cannot be overstated. A mixture of culture, history, and nature, they all are distinct, and yet all have connections to that which sets the state of Kansas apart. From the magic of a story like The Wizard of Oz to the rugged romance of the frontier West and the uniquely American heritage of the Pony Express, these towns define what makes Kansas unique and memorable. These towns highlight the diversity and richness of Kansas' landscapes and heritage and underscore the state's significant role in shaping the American narrative.
