Lindsborg KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lindsborg, Kansas.
1. Coronado Heights
HISTORIC SANDSTONE CASTLE
Coronado Heights is a must-see site featuring a castle made of sandstone located where Spanish Explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado stopped in the 1500s. The site, known as the smoky hills, offers visitors a chance to explore historical landmarks while enjoying scenic views. It ranks as the number one attraction in Lindsborg according to visitors.
2. Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum
SWEDISH PIONEER HISTORY
The Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum preserves the rich Swedish cultural history that gives Lindsborg its nickname of 'Little Sweden USA.' Visitors can walk through exhibits showcasing the lives and traditions of Swedish pioneers who settled in the area. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the Swedish influence that continues to shape the community today.
3. Wild Dala Horse Herd
COLORFUL SWEDISH FOLK ART
The Wild Dala Horse Herd is recognized as one of The 8 Wonders of Kansas Customs and features uniquely painted horses scattered throughout Lindsborg. Each horse has been individually painted and named by local artists, creating a town-wide art installation. Visitors can pick up a map at the Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau to locate each dala horse on a self-guided tour.
4. Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery
SWEDISH-AMERICAN ART COLLECTION
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery showcases the works of Swedish-American artist Birger Sandzén alongside other notable artists. The gallery houses an impressive collection that highlights the artistic heritage of the region. Visitors can immerse themselves in Swedish-American cultural expressions through various exhibitions and programs.
5. Red Barn Studio
LOCAL ARTIST WORKSPACE
Red Barn Studio offers visitors a glimpse into the working environment of local artists in Lindsborg. The studio showcases various art forms including paintings, sculptures, and crafts created by talented community members. It represents the thriving artistic culture that permeates this Swedish-American town.
6. Höglund Dugout
PIONEER SETTLEMENT LANDMARK
The Höglund Dugout is a historical landmark that served as an early Scandinavian home built in 1868. Located near Coronado Heights, this preserved dugout offers insight into the challenging living conditions of early Swedish settlers. Visitors can experience a tangible connection to the pioneering spirit that helped establish Lindsborg's cultural foundation.
7. Hemslöjd
SWEDISH HANDICRAFT SHOP
Hemslöjd, meaning 'handicraft' in Swedish, is a distinctive gift shop in downtown Lindsborg featuring traditional Swedish goods and souvenirs. The shop is known for its authentic Scandinavian imports, including dala horses, textiles, and food products. One of the Wild Dala Horses can be found outside the shop, making it a popular stop on the horse-hunting tradition.
8. Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery
SWEDISH-INSPIRED COFFEE HOUSE
Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery serves up coffee, pastries, breakfast items, and Swedish specialties in downtown Lindsborg. The café offers visitors a taste of Swedish culinary traditions with a modern coffee shop atmosphere. It's an ideal morning stop before exploring other attractions in Little Sweden USA.
9. 350 Degrees
ARTISAN BAKERY EXPERIENCE
350 Degrees is a local bakery in Lindsborg offering freshly baked goods and sweet treats to visitors and locals alike. The bakery provides traditional Swedish pastries alongside American favorites, allowing guests to experience the town's cultural fusion through food. Its location near other Main Street shops makes it a convenient stop during a day of exploring Lindsborg.
10. The White Peacock
ECLECTIC CAFÉ EXPERIENCE
The White Peacock is a café in Lindsborg offering coffee, tea, smoothies, and full meals to hungry visitors. The establishment combines Swedish influences with modern café fare, providing a comfortable spot to refuel during a day of sightseeing. Its location on Main Street makes it part of the vibrant downtown scene that attracts tourists to Lindsborg.
11. Main Street Shopping District
SWEDISH-THEMED RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Lindsborg's picturesque Main Street is lined with working artist studios, galleries, boutiques, and Scandinavian import shops, all with distinctive red brick streets. The shopping district offers visitors a chance to browse unique Swedish-influenced merchandise while enjoying the charming small-town atmosphere. Swedish folk tunes often fill the air, creating an immersive cultural experience for shoppers.
12. Prairie Trail Scenic Byway
HISTORIC 56-MILE ROUTE
The Prairie Trail Scenic Byway is a 56-mile historical route that passes through Lindsborg and was once traveled by Native Americans, pioneers, and explorers. The byway connects visitors to numerous roadside attractions and natural landmarks throughout the region. Travelers can experience the same path used by those searching for a better life throughout American history.
13. Svensk Hyllningsfest Festival
BIENNIAL SWEDISH CELEBRATION
The Svensk Hyllningsfest Festival is a celebrated event held in October to honor Swedish pioneers who settled in the Smoky Valley. Visitors can enjoy folk music performances and watch the Swedish Folk Dancers showcase traditional dances during this cultural celebration. The festival represents one of the most authentic expressions of Swedish heritage in Lindsborg.
14. McPherson County Old Mill Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
McPherson County Old Mill Museum preserves the broader historical context of the region surrounding Lindsborg. The museum houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of settlement and development in the area. Visitors can gain perspective on how Swedish immigrants contributed to the larger tapestry of Kansas history.
15. Coronado Heights Park
PANORAMIC NATURAL VIEWS
Coronado Heights Park surrounds the famous castle and offers stunning panoramic views of the Smoky Valley landscape. The park provides picnic areas, hiking trails, and opportunities to connect with the natural beauty that attracted settlers to the region. Its elevation makes it an ideal spot for photography and appreciating the Kansas countryside.