Looking for a place to visit in 2025? HGTV recommends these Kansas, Missouri towns
Kansas Citians looking for a day trip outside the metro may consider one of these small towns that HGTV recently included in its top 50 list for 2025.
In HGTV’s list, the home improvement network says it’s highlighting the hidden gems of each state: “towns with quaint shops and restaurants, fascinating histories, fun experiences and natural beauty.”
The towns selected for Missouri and Kansas are both around three hours away from Kansas City, so you can take a weekend to visit one of these places in 2025 named one of the top 50 most charming small towns in the United States.
Lindsborg
Lindsborg, also known as “Little Sweden USA,” got its nickname from traditions that come from the Scandinavian country, such as the high school’s Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers. Around a third of the 3,500 residents are of Swedish descent, according to Census data.
The town was settled in 1869 by a group of Swedish immigrants from the Värmland province of Sweden led by Pastor Olof Olsson, according to Lindsborg’s city website. They envisioned a community rich in culture, learning, religion, business and farming.
Many businesses display replicas of Swedish Dala horses, the town mascot. The word “SWEDES” is painted in yellow on the blue stands of the Bethany College football field. Wine and spirits are obtained at Swedes Liquor. The street benches downtown possess a distinctly Scandinavian design quality.
HGTV says you should plan to visit during one of Lindsborg’s festivals, like Svensk Hyllningsfest, which happens every odd-numbered year in October. 2025’s festival is scheduled for Oct. 17 and 18.
Hannibal
The home of famous author Mark Twain, Hannibal has many experiences for visitors based on some of his most iconic characters. The town of 17,312 is home to quite a few festivals, celebrating over 200 years of history.
A week-long Tom Sawyer Days Festival is held each year around July 4 and features a parade, fireworks display and contests inspired by Twain’s novels. The Big River Steampunk Festival has drawn visitors, too, many of whom dress in Victorian-era costumes, HGTV says.
Other festivals that Hannibal hosts include:
- Chocolate Extravaganza in March
- Great Girlfriend Getaway in April
- Twain on Main Festival in May
- Harvest Hootenanny in September
- Folklife Festival in October
Visitors can also explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and see items he used to write his stories.
Like Twain did in his youth, they can also explore Cameron Cave, which is a National Natural Landmark. But make sure you bring knee pads and a helmet.
