8 Prettiest Downtown Strips In Kansas

If you were to name a small town in America with the prettiest downtown strip, places like Galena, Illinois, and Mystic, Connecticut — but not Kansas — can quickly spring to mind. You may need a bit of persuasion, but Abilene's downtown strip, for example, can go toe-to-toe with the best in the nation. There is something about Abilene's charm-soaked streets and stunning, well-preserved architecture that can make one feel as though they are walking straight into the 1800s. Fortunately, it is not just Abilene. Kansas has a decent number of small, charming towns with eye-catching Main Streets that are well worth exploring. But which ones can instantly hold you in a trance? Take a look.

Abilene

In a speech that Dwight Eisenhower delivered on June 22, 1945, he said that the proudest thing he could claim was that he was from Abilene. And you can’t fault him. Abilene’s historic downtown looks like a preserved piece of the Old West. You will find brick-paved streets, beautiful 19th-century architecture, and small, charming storefronts with a nostalgic look. Spend some time at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, which keeps interesting memorabilia of one of America's greatest presidents. It is on a lovely, well-maintained campus that spans several buildings, including Eisenhower’s boyhood home. Pass by the peaceful chapel, and pay your respect to the Father of the U.S. Interstate Highway system. Alternatively, catch a high-quality performance at the iconic Great Plains Theatre, see a 1901 carousel at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and then enjoy a hearty meal at Joe Snuffy's, a down-home place that serves delicious meals at reasonable prices..

Lindsborg

Lindsborg is among the closest you will get to Europe in the United States. Nicknamed “Little Sweden USA,” a first-time visitor will feel transported over the Atlantic and into the heart of historic Scandinavia. No wonder many people have claimed that Lindsborg feels more Swedish than Sweden itself. You will find bright two-story buildings in the downtown strip, some of which are adorned with ornamental tiles and other catchy elements. You can kickstart your day with a warm cup of coffee at the Blacksmith Coffee Shop and Roastery, a homey place housed inside the town's oldest building. After this, mill around the Red Barn Studio Museum, a whimsical space that keeps a great collection of Lester Raymer’s artwork. There is the Meadowlark Trail, where one can walk, run, or bike, and the Smoky Hill River, a nice place to enjoy cool, waterfront views.

Hays

Hays hosts Fort Hays State University, the largest university in Western Kansas, with a history that goes back to 1902. Therefore, expect a blend of college-town energy and a quaint, small-town ambiance, although you are in the flat expanse of Kansas cattle country. There is beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture to feast one's eyes on, a well-maintained Main Street, and interesting seasonal events and art walks. Augustine's Bakery, conveniently positioned on Main Street, is loved for several items, including its melt-in-the-mouth cinnamon rolls. You can follow this with some rich and creamy ice cream at the still brand-new Cold Stone Creamery, one of America's most notable ice cream brands. There is the Fox Theatre, an intimate space for a mood-lifting show, and the Hays Arts Council, where you can chance upon an amazing art exhibit.

Emporia

Emporia has been called the Disc Golf Capital of the World. What many do not appreciate is how its downtown strip is neat and beautiful, and so unlike your average Kansas town. What makes the stretch steal the show are the handsomely restored brick buildings, colorful murals, and the small family-owned shops and restaurants. If spending the night, Gufler Mansion is an awesome B&B that has been around for more than a century. Patrons rave about many of its architectural elements, including its original woodwork. There is the William Allen White House State Historic Site, an awesome slice of history with beautiful architecture. It was the home of a famed newspaper publisher, once the owner and editor of the Emporia Gazette. Keep in mind that Peter Pan Park offers a shimmering lake, a lovely pond, and an 18-hole disc golf course, and, therefore, deserves to steal a slow and quiet hour.

Wamego

Tucked away in Northeast Kansas, along the picturesque banks of the Kansas River, Wamego boasts a beautiful downtown, historic landmarks, and a gorgeous city park. Wamego’s City Park, which features a historic Dutch windmill dating back to 1879, is often mentioned among the prettiest parks in Kansas. Although beautiful any time of the year, it is something else in fall, when it hosts the colorful Tulip Festival. Also, although the OZ Museum is on the smaller side, it is one of Wamego's most adorable highlights. You will find full figure statues of the Lion, Tin Man, and lots of other interesting Oz trivia. Don't miss the small theatre that often plays the movie on repeat. Steps away is the Oz Winery, a cool place to sit and have a glass of wine with a pairing like delicious artisan cheese or chocolate. Whatever you make of it, the "Land of Oz" is not easy to forget.

Winfield

One of the most endearing features of Winfield's downtown strip is how it is peaceful, tree-lined, and just dropdown gorgeous. You will find wide sidewalks to amble through, and handsome stone buildings to admire. Winfield is set along the Walnut River, a setting that comes with a mist of countryside charm and feeling. The Walnut Valley Festival, an epic carnival that lights up the town in September every year, is one of Winfield's defining draws. Ladybird Brewing, a nice establishment that boasts a 5-star rating on Google Reviews, has a cool patio to sit and enjoy a delicious variety of drinks. There is the aptly named Island Park, a nice place to fish and mingle with ducks on a slow and lazy afternoon. The best part? It is right in the heart of town. Keep in mind that Walnut River meanders around, meaning you can get close and watch it hurrying down.

Atchison

Aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart is one of Atchison's most famous daughters. She was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, and her disappearance in the 1930s while attempting a record-breaking feat has since been a source of much speculation. The town she called home has a downtown that is tastefully perched above the Missouri River, a setting that instantly leaves an imprint on the mind. The beautiful river views and the eye-catching brick buildings enhance the town's rustic look and charm. The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum celebrates the life and work of Amelia, and is often every visitor's ground zero. Taking the cue, the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum is a state-of-the-art STEM museum that keeps the same type of aircraft in which Earhart made her final flight. The trick is to start with a honey cinnamon iced latte at The Sunflower, a homey spot loved for its charming and comfy atmosphere.

Council Grove

It may be home to fewer than 3,000 residents, but Council Grove proves that bigger is not always better. Its downtown strip, once sleepy but not drab, has of late been dusted up and noticeably revitalised. The stretch is beautifully shaded by stately trees, including remnant historic oaks, creating a scene that can pass for a handsomely maintained park, not a bustling downtown strip. With buildings such as the Hays House 1857 Restaurant and Tavern, Council Grove has a nostalgic pull that is difficult to miss. You may already know that Hays House is billed as the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River. Right next is Flint Hills Books, probably the best little bookstore you will ever come across. From the stately building ( it was once a bank) to the heartwarming decor to the great selection of awesome reads, this space is hard to describe. No wonder it boasts a solid 5-star rating on Google Reviews. Crown everything with delicious fajitas at El Rancho Viejo, an awesome Mexican restaurant also right on Main Street.

The Takeaway

Kansas might not be the first state you think of when it comes to eye-catching downtowns, but you could never get it more wrong. Hidden in its rolling plains are several small, charming towns with spellbinding downtown strips, some of which feel like stepping straight into a fairytale. You will find streets that ooze vintage charm, storybook beauty, and artsy ambience. Whether you enjoy strolling tree-lined sidewalks or admiring pastel storefronts, you will find a town that effortlessly steals your heart.