7 Small Towns In Kansas To Visit For A Weekend Getaway

Rolling prairies, historic main streets, and warm-hearted locals make Kansas a treasure trove of small-town getaways. Beyond its wide-open skies, the Sunflower State hides charming destinations filled with art, history, and hometown flavor, perfect for relaxing weekends or long, easy-paced stays. From Swedish-inspired villages to riverside retreats and prairie escapes, here are the seven towns that offer scenic beauty, inviting communities, and plenty of things to see and do in 2025, all waiting to welcome you for a refreshing Kansas getaway.

Lindsborg

Steeped in Swedish heritage, Lindsborg, affectionately called “Little Sweden, USA,” offers a cultural experience unlike anywhere else in Kansas. Every two years, the town bursts to life during the Svensk Hyllningsfest, a lively October celebration filled with Swedish food, folk dancing, crafts, music, and the famed smörgåsbord. This festival embodies the community’s strong spirit and deep-rooted traditions, drawing visitors and locals together in joyous celebration.

Beyond the festivities, Lindsborg’s artistic and historical richness shines through landmarks like the Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum and the Red Barn Studio Museum, where regional art and pioneer history come alive. The Bethany Lutheran Church adds architectural grace and quiet reflection to the town’s landscape. Meanwhile, for a comfortable stay, Dröm Sött Inn is an 18-room boutique hotel for a cozy local experience.

Abilene

Abilene feels like a living museum, where every corner tells a story and community pride infuses daily life. Rich in history, this Kansas gem captures the essence of classic Midwestern living with its graceful streets and welcoming atmosphere. The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home honors the legacy of one of America’s greatest leaders, while the Seelye Mansion transports visitors to another era with its lavish rooms, period furnishings, and glowing Edison lights. At the Dickinson County Heritage Center, interactive exhibits and a 1901 carousel make history both lively and personal.

Travelers can step aboard the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad to relive the golden age of rail travel through scenic countryside views. To unwind, Abilene’s Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast provides elegant comfort in a historic setting, a well-suited retreat after a day spent exploring this story-filled town.

Cottonwood Falls

Nestled in the heart of the Flint Hills, Cottonwood Falls embodies Kansas’s peaceful, timeless spirit. The town’s crown jewel, the Chase County Courthouse, is the oldest operating courthouse west of the Mississippi River and a striking symbol of its enduring heritage. Nature enthusiasts find tranquility at Chase State Fishing Lake, where calm waters and abundant wildlife create the ideal setting for fishing, picnics, or unhurried walks.

For those seeking recreation with a local twist, the Cottonwood Falls Country Club offers a classic nine-hole golf experience set amid rolling prairie views. Visitors looking to rest a while can stay at Tired of the City, a cozy retreat with spacious rooms and scenic vistas.

Atchison

Visitors intrigued by the supernatural will find Atchison an irresistible Kansas getaway rich in mystery and local lore. The Sallie House draws thrill seekers with its chilling tales, while the 1889 McInteer Villa adds Victorian grandeur to the town’s haunted heritage. Alongside this, history lovers can explore the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, where the famed aviator’s story unfolds inside her preserved childhood home, celebrating courage and adventure.

Nearby, the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum brings aviation history to life through interactive exhibits and family-friendly displays. After a day of exploration, rest easy at the Quality Inn, known for its inviting pool, cozy sauna, and friendly service.

Fort Scott

Fort Scott shines as a town where history and modern creativity merge seamlessly. At the Fort Scott National Historic Site, visitors can step back into the 1840s, wandering through original military buildings, telling stories of the Civil War and pioneer life. At the same time, the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes adds a meaningful modern touch, celebrating individuals who have made quiet yet powerful contributions to history through innovative student projects.

Art and culture thrive at the Gordon Parks Museum, which honors the legendary photographer and filmmaker whose work continues to inspire across generations. Equally important, for a relaxing stay, the Courtland Hotel & Spa features vintage charm, soothing treatments, and a serene setting in the town’s historic district.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth is an excellent weekend getaway for military history and family-friendly fun-loving visitors. The town is anchored by Ft Leavenworth Army Installation, a well-maintained Army post where military history comes alive. Visitors can grab a map and take a self-guided auto tour, exploring artifacts and stories from the Leavenworth wars, local Native history, and Black Army excellence. Another meaningful stop is the Buffalo Soldier Monument, which shares a glimpse of the valor and sacrifice of the Buffalo Soldiers who served.

For a memorable family experience, the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum is a wonderful spot for the entire family, featuring four antique carousels, including a hand-carved, wood carousel from 1913 that everyone can ride. Shoppers love the Leavenworth Antique Mall, which has an incredible variety of items to choose from across several floors. For accommodations, the Leavenworth Local Hotel has a surprisingly modern extended stay.

Hays

Hays is a lively blend of history, heritage, and small-town warmth, well-suited for those who love downtown strolls, family fun, and a touch of the past. The Bricks Chestnut Street District in downtown Hays pulses with energy year-round, from its award-winning brewery and authentic German dining to seasonal celebrations that keep the community spirit alive. The Hays Aquatic Park adds a splash of excitement with slides, a lazy river, and sun-drenched lounging areas for all ages.

Furthermore, history enthusiasts can explore the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, which showcases fascinating Great Plains specimens, or visit the Fort Hays State Historic Site, where original frontier buildings stand as living testaments to Kansas’ early days. For an inviting stay to fully explore the town, the Bissing House provides Victorian elegance in the heart of downtown.

Endless Weekends Begin In Kansas

From the historic streets of Abilene to the family-friendly charm of Leavenworth, Kansas’s small towns reveal a refreshing blend of heritage, heart, and hospitality. Each destination has its own rhythm, whether it is the nostalgic pull of old railways, the timeless beauty of preserved architecture, or the warm community spirit that makes visitors feel instantly at home. For weekend wanderers or those dreaming of a slower pace, these Kansas gems promise memorable escapes filled with comfort, culture, and connection.