7 Picture-Perfect Main Streets In Kansas

Kansas, also known as the Sunflower State, is known for its vast agricultural land and strong cowboy culture, palpable throughout the state. Many communities dotted across these farmlands offer great experiences, from outdoor scenery to historic landmarks. However, along with their rural appeal, many towns also boast picture-perfect main streets, lined with all sorts of opportunities. Whether you want to join in on the Oktoberfest celebrations in Hays or learn about Amelia Earhart in Atchison, these main streets are full of life and views. Moreover, with bustling eateries, galleries, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Hays

As the county seat of Ellis County and the largest city in northwestern Kansas, Hays is bound to have a bustling vibe. This is palpable along Main Street and the Chestnut Street district downtown, both of which are full of things to see and do. Cultural travelers can enjoy a show at the Fox Theatre, which is known for showing movies right on the main thoroughfare. Just a short walk down the street and you’ll reach Paisley Pear Bar, Bistro, and Market. This lively spot is ideal for an evening outing, with locals chatting it up, delicious cocktails, the Tequila Sunrise, and yummy sandwiches for a complete experience.

While the downtown area in Hays always has something or the other happening, Oktoberfest is when things are at their peak. Taking place at Hays Municipal Park on Main Street near the end of September, this event is full of German food, music, drink, and dance as a testament to the town’s heritage. Tourists can join in and check out over 45 vendors, each selling something unique that you can eat, try on, or take back home as a souvenir. After the event, those willing to take a detour from the main can head over to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Part of Fort Hays State University, this 100,000-square-foot establishment boasts various exhibits on fossils, geology, botany, mammalogy, and more.

Florence

A much smaller community than Hays, Florence is a quaint reprieve, home to fewer than 500 residents. That said, don’t let its small size fool you, as the downtown area is full of historic landmarks that will transport visitors to the past. Just off Main Street lies the 1876 Harvey House, once known as the Clifton Hotel. This historic structure was built as a rest stop for passengers on the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway until it closed down in 1900. Today, it is a museum detailing the town’s past, and it also serves dinners by reservation. Also nearby is the 1881 Doyle Place, a charming Italian Villa-style home that belonged to Patrick Doyle, a prominent name in Florence’s history. Once you’ve absorbed the history of Florence, it's time to grab some food and explore. Those hungry should head straight to Brandin’ Iron, a local hotspot known for its delicious steak and crispy fries, a meal that most will enjoy.

Abilene

Abilene is a charming town in Dickinson County, offering a mix of Hays’s vibrance and Florence’s history. Home to 6,500 people, the Abilene Downtown Historic District and central hub are great for all sorts of activities, such as a visit to the Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum. Located off the main straight, this landmark features five buildings, including the presidential library, museum, and boyhood home of the 24th president of the United States. History lovers rejoice as they tour the property, showcasing Eisenhower’s life from 1898 to 1911, with rustic furniture in the two-story home and information about his life detailed via exhibits. North along Buckeye Avenue lies Seelye Mansion, another site just as historic. Known as one of the “8 Wonders of Kansas,” this mansion was built in 1905 and offers tours exploring its 25 rooms, lush gardens, and original Edison lighting, a true step back in time.

Back in the present day, there is more knowledge along Buckeye Avenue as visitors will learn at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. As the name suggests, this establishment showcases exhibits and information on greyhounds, from their traits and achievements to their large racing industry. No matter how you choose to explore the mix of attractions in downtown Abilene, don’t forget to grab a bite at Joe Snuffy’s. An American restaurant to the core, tourists will love the energy as they try a cup of coffee or delve into strips of bacon.

Wamego

Offering a more unique experience, especially for fans of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wamego is a city of around 5,000 in Pottawatomie County. Named after a Potawatomi Native American chief, the town’s charm today lies along Lincoln Avenue with the Oz Museum. This downtown establishment is dedicated to the 1900 children’s novel, showcasing over 25,000 artifacts, from the original movie’s production notes to posters from a 1902 stage musical. If that wasn’t enough, the town also has many other small businesses following this theme, like the Oz Winery and Toto’s Tacoz, which are perfect for a day out. Meanwhile, for those visiting in October, the local OZtoberFest is a unique take on Oktoberfest with Oz-related activities and events.

While the Wizard of Oz may be the star of the show, there is more to see in this town. Just a short walk off the main street is Wamego City Park, a 12-acre park with endless opportunities. Tourists can walk along the trails, check out the 1879 Dutch windmill, and have a picnic amidst the rustic features. Before leaving, walk along Lincoln Avenue to the Columbian Theatre, the perfect place to watch a show and end your day in downtown Wamego.

Atchison

While it may not have the largest downtown area and main street, Atchison’s central square boasts a Victorian-era vibe that charms most travelers. The older buildings exude a sense of heritage, and those interested can head to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum on N Terrace Street. This home from 1861 showcases Gothic Revival architecture and was the home of aviator Amelia Earhart, who went missing under mysterious circumstances. One can tour the dining room, back porch, cook’s quarters, and more. Nearby, St. Benedict Catholic Church is home to St. Benedict’s Abbey and offers a religious look into the town’s past. Visitors can join the daily morning mass to meet the local community and connect with religion.

On a different side of things, Atchison is also known for its haunted side. The town has many ghost tours, such as Atchison Ghosts by US Ghost Adventures. The tour lasts an hour and covers sights like the Santa Fe Depot, Sallie House, and Eaven Hearse Manor, each known for apparitions, ominous noises, and unexplained sightings. Those not interested in a spooky end to the night should head to Lopez de Mexico Restaurant just off Main Street for some delicious Mexican fare.

Cottonwood Falls

The scenery of Cottonwood Falls comes from its mix of community spirit and proximity to natural sights. The small town of just 900 people rests along the Cottonwood River, and its Main Street runs just south of it. To this end, visitors can walk for a few minutes to the Cottonwood River Bridge, an arch bridge from 1914 that spans the river. It is open for walking traffic and is an excellent site for some fishing in the warmer months. Back along Main Street, there is a sense of peace with few people rushing about, and most are open to friendly conversations. Those planning on staying the night can also book a room at The Lark Inn on Main St. Guesthouse, a centrally located accommodation option in town.

After settling into your room, explorers can continue east on Main Street for about 2.5 miles to the Chase County State Lake. It is an angler’s dream, home to channel catfish, black bass, white bass, and more. Here, one will also find Chase Lake Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and jagged rocks.

Lindsborg

Lindsborg, also called “Little Sweden USA,” is a cultural gem tucked into McPherson County. Founded by Swedish immigrants in the mid-1800s, its downtown along Main Street still radiates that Old World charm. Visitors can stroll past colorful Dala horse statues painted by local artists, browse Scandinavian-inspired shops, and stop into Hemslöjd for authentic Swedish gifts. For a taste of heritage, don’t miss the biennial Svensk Hyllningsfest, where folk dancing, music, and traditional foods bring the streets to life.

History buffs will appreciate the Smoky Valley Roller Mill Museum, a preserved 1898 flour mill that offers tours into the area’s agricultural past. Art lovers, meanwhile, can visit the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, which showcases the works of the famed Swedish-American painter.

Main Street Exploration In Kansas

From the vibrant Oktoberfest of Hays to the Swedish flair of Lindsborg, Kansas towns prove that their main streets are much more than simple thoroughfares. They are gathering places, cultural hubs, and windows into the state’s history. Whether you’re walking through Florence’s railway past, visiting Atchison’s Amelia Earhart sites, or enjoying the Oz-themed charm of Wamego, each stop brings its own flavor. Exploring these small-town main streets is not just about sightseeing; it’s about slowing down, connecting with communities, and discovering the heart of Kansas in its most authentic form.