How has life been treating you? Pretty good? Not so good? Just plain stressful? Whatever the case may be, you deserve to unplug and de-stress… and what better way to do so than by traveling back to a simpler time? No, I’m not talking about a time machine. (I wish.) I’m talking about visiting one of these 11 historic Kansas towns:
1. Yoder
Founded in the late 1800s, Yoder is considered to be the largest Amish settlement in Kansas with a population of nearly 400. Unlike most Amish communities, Yoder is progressive in technology when it comes to working the fields (they allow bulk milk tanks, rototillers, and tractors) and in transportation methods (you will see a healthy mix of both horse & buggy AND cars & trucks.) To explore the Amish community, and their lifestyle, plan to attend their annual Heritage Day on Saturday, August 22nd.
2. Baxter Springs
During its heyday, Route 66 (or the Mother Road) was the "Main Street of America" that stretched all the way from Illinois to California. Today, you can still get your kicks on this historic route by visiting Baxter Springs and its iconic Cafe on the Route and Heritage Center & Museum.
3. Cottonwood Falls
They don't make downtown areas like this anymore -- and it's a shame! Enjoy the beautifully maintained brick roads, unique shopping, and tantalizing dining options at this Flint Hills treasure.
4. Athol
Looking for a home where the buffalo roam, and the dear and the antelope play? Discouraging words are seldom heard in Athol, where the iconic "Home on the Range" was penned!
5. Lindsborg
You aren't so much traveling back in time in Lindsborg as you are traveling to a different country... but Little Sweden U.S.A. could be just the break you need!
6. Dodge City
Howdy, partner! Reckon you could use a little time in the Old West? Then strap on your boots and hightail it on down to historic Dodge City for a walk down the Santa Fe Trail, tour of the Boot Hill Museum, and glimpse of the old Fort Dodge.
7. Ellinwood
Here's something you don't see everyday: a turn-of-the-century underground town that features dirt walkways, saloons, and maybe even a ghost or two... Meet you there!
8. Abilene
Abilene doesn't only love Ike... they also love old-time excursion trains, beautifully preserved homes and buildings, and even various museums!
9. Galena
Need a few more kicks? You're in luck, as Route 66 also runs through Galena. While you're there, stop by the 1930's 4 Women on the Route gas station to fill 'er up!
10. Wamego
Everyday is 1939 in Wamego! Experience the magic that original theater-goers experienced when you tour the Oz Museum and (Oz) Winery.
11. Council Grove
Named for the agreement between European Americans and the Osage Nation that allowed settlers' wagon trains to pass through the area and proceed to the West, Council Grove is a beacon of history with its annual Washunga Days, Kaw Mission State Historic Site, and delicious 1857 Hays House (pictured).
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