We’ve got so many great small towns in Kansas. Since the state is so spread out, it can be difficult to get to some in a timely manner. One that is not too remote that makes for a great day trip in the Sunflower State is Marysville. It’s the county seat of Marshall County and has a population of just over 3,000. There’s a surprising amount to see and do here. Where is Marysville, Kansas? Let’s find out:

Marysville is in the northeastern part of Kansas about 100 miles northwest of Topeka.
Visit Marysville, KS
Marysville's population is under 3,500, but you'll find a surprising array of things to do in this little town! It's got a fascinating history dating back even prior to its incorporation in 1861.
Let's get Marysville's most famous attraction out of the way first: the city is known as Black Squirrel City thanks to its unusually large population of black squirrels.
Airwolfhound/Flickr
The squirrels are the same species as the more common gray or brownish eastern gray squirrel. Marysville has a squirrel population that's about 20% black due to a genetic anomaly. According to legend, the Marysville black squirrel population is descended from a pair of squirrels that escaped from a circus back in 1912.
The squirrels are beloved in the town and are the city's official mascot.
Black Squirrels on Parade/Facebook
You can find 34 statues of "Black Squirrels on Parade" in front of various businesses throughout the city, among several other unique attractions you'll want to visit:
Historic Trails Park and Rope Ferry Replica
Historic Trails Park & Rope Ferry Replica, 1189 US-77, Marysville, KS 66508, USA
Visit Marysville, KS
Marshall County was once home to eight historic trails, including the legendary Oregon Trail and the Mormon Trail. This park contains signs explaining the historical significance of the various trails. It's a great way to enjoy nature while learning about the history of this small town in Kansas.

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Pony Express Home Station and Museum
Pony Express Home Station and Museum, 106 South 8th, Marysville, KS 66508
Visit Marysville, KS
The Pony Express only ran for about a year and a half (it was simply too expensive to maintain). Even so, the route has a beloved spot in the history of the Midwest. Marysville was home to the Pony Express's home station. The stable is the oldest building in Marshall County and is now a museum housing exhibits on Marysville's role as a transportation hub. Get more information from the Pony Express Facebook page.
Blue River Rail Trail
Blue River Rail Trail, 700 Broadway St, Marysville, KS 66508, USA
Visit Marysville, KS
Kansas is one of many states throughout the country to have begun work on converting unused railroad lines into bike and walking trails. The Blue River Trail runs all the way from Marysville to Nebraska! You can learn more on the trail's website.
Koester House Museum
Koester House Museum, 919 Broadway St, Marysville, KS 66508, USA
Tanya Stegemoller/Google Reviews
The Koester House Museum is the perfect spot to visit when the weather is warm. The museum is a Victorian home that contains fascinating local history, and the gardens are glorious.
Alcove Spring
Alcove Spring, KS 66411, USA
Visit Marysville, KS
Alcove Spring was a major stop on the Oregon Trail that's just south of Marysville. Here, you'll find a 223-acre park. The walk to the spring itself is only about 0.25 miles.

Let's explore the historic downtown of Marysville, Kansas in this video from Walking Thoughts Nebraska:

You can learn more about Marysville and its attractions on the town’s website.

If you had been wondering, “Where is Marysville, Kansas” not only do you have an idea where it is, but you’ve discovered why a visit is definitely in order. Have you visited this great small town in Kansas? Do you have other attractions there you’d recommend? Share your experiences in the comments!

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More to Explore

More small towns in Kansas

Chris Muras | April 25, 2023

What are the best small towns in Kansas for a weekend getaway?

 

With an abundance of small towns, Kansas is a lovely state to enjoy a peaceful vacation away from busy life. Here are a few of the best small towns in Kansas for a weekend getaway:

  • Cottonwood Falls, KS: With fewer than 1,000 residents, this small Kansas town is pretty quiet. But that just adds to its charm. The lovely walkable downtown still has its brick-paved cobblestone streets, which are hard to find these days in a town of any size.
  • Sterling, KS: With around 2,500 residents, this quiet town really comes alive when fall rolls around and school starts up again at Sterling College. It is a welcoming town with access to the southern route of the 5,057-mile American Discovery Trail for hiking, walking, and mountain biking opportunities.
  • Hiawatha, KS: Known as the "City of Beautiful Maples," this charming town is a wonderful destination for a fall colors trip. With around 3,200 residents, it is big enough for plenty of local restaurants and shops, yet small enough that it has a real small-town vibe you don't find in bigger cities.
  • Wakefield, KS: This town of only around 1,000 residents may be small, but the enchanting Milford Lake is a wonderful area to set up your home base for exploring the area. Wakefield is often listed on the best places to visit lists because of the scenic views and welcoming people.

 

Plan your small-town getaway in Kansas with this list of 12 slow-paced towns with big-time adventures waiting for you.

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Marysville, KS 66508, USA