Lindsborg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Lindsborg, Kansas with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lindsborg

Lindsborg, also known as “Little Sweden USA”, is a charming small town located in the heart of Kansas. It is a unique destination that combines the rich heritage and traditions of Sweden with the classic Great Plains of the United States. The town is filled with delightful shops, museums, and art galleries, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic hiking and biking trails. Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Lindsborg, Kansas.

List of Places to Visit in Lindsborg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery - This art museum features works by the Swedish-American painter Birger Sandzén, as well as other artists of the Prairie Print Makers.
  • Old Mill Museum - This museum tells the history of Lindsborg with exhibits on the city’s early settlers, Native American tribes, and agricultural heritage.
  • Coronado Heights - This castle-like structure is located on the highest hill in McPherson County and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Lindsborg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Smoky Valley Ranch - This nature preserve features hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the rolling prairie.
  • Mushroom Rock State Park - This unique geological formation is an excellent spot for photos and exploring nature.
  • Sandzén Memorial Forest - Enjoy a peaceful walk through the beautiful forested area at the memorial dedicated to Birger Sandzén.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lindsborg

  • Lindsborg City Parks Trail - This trail is 4 miles long and starts near the intersection of Grant Street and Swensson Avenue.
  • Smoky Valley Rail-Trail - This trail is 12 miles long and winds through the scenic prairie landscape.
  • Coronado Heights Trail - This trail leads from Coronado Heights to the Smoky Valley Ranch, and is a great way to experience the natural landscape of Lindsborg.

Best Things to Do in Lindsborg: Activities and Tours

  • Swedish Dala Horse Factory - Take a tour of the factory where the iconic Dala horses are carved and painted in traditional Swedish style.
  • Lindsborg Art Walk - Explore the town’s art galleries and studios during the annual art walk.
  • Messiah Festival of the Arts - This annual festival, hosted by Bethany College, celebrates music, drama, and art inspired by the story of Christ’s Passion and Resurrection.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lindsborg

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, enjoy lunch at the Swedish Crown, and spend the afternoon hiking at Smoky Valley Ranch.
Day 2 Explore the Old Mill Museum and take a stroll through Sandzén Memorial Forest. Enjoy dinner at Farley’s Bar and Grill.
Day 3 Visit the Mushroom Rock State Park and return to Lindsborg to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Day 4 Take a bike ride on the Smoky Valley Rail-Trail and have lunch at the Courtyard Bakery. In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Theate on the Avenue.
Day 5 Take a guided tour of the Swedish Dala Horse Factory, and then indulge in a Swedish dinner at Svensk Hyllningsfest Restaurant.
Day 6 Visit the Coronado Heights and enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning views.
Day 7 Attend the yearly Messiah Festival of the Arts.

Food and Drink Scene of Lindsborg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Swedish Meatballs - These savory meatballs are a classic Swedish dish and can be found at several restaurants in town.
  • Lindsborg Summer Sausage - This smoked sausage is a staple of Lindsborg’s culinary heritage and can be found at local meat markets.
  • Krumkake - This sweet, traditional Swedish Wafer Cookie is a favorite of Lindsborg locals and can be purchased at the Swedish Crown Bakery.

Local Beverages

  • Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery Wine - This red wine features the artwork of Birger Sandzén on the label and is available for purchase at the museum.
  • Dala Horse Ale - This beer is brewed by the Lindsborg Brewery and features a picture of the iconic Dala horse on the label.

Where to Stay in Lindsborg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Rosberg House Bed and Breakfast Inn - This cozy inn features elegant guest rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning.
  • Lindsborg Vacation Rentals - Choose from several upscale vacation rentals scattered throughout the town.
  • Hedlund House Bed and Breakfast - This historic home turned bed and breakfast offers charming rooms and a lovely garden for guests to enjoy.

What to Buy in Lindsborg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Dala Horses - These carved and painted wooden horses are a beloved symbol of Lindsborg and can be found in many shops in town.
  • Lindsborg Summer Sausage - Take home a taste of Lindsborg’s culinary heritage with a few links of summer sausage.
  • Kansas Sunflowers - Bring home a bouquet of sunflowers, the state flower of Kansas, to brighten up any room.

Local Culture and Customs of Lindsborg

Lindsborg prides itself on maintaining its Swedish heritage and celebrating the traditions of its early settlers. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s cultural customs, which include the annual Svensk Hyllningsfest celebration, the welcoming of Santa Lucia’s Day, and the love of all things Dala horse-related.

Best Time to Visit Lindsborg

The best time to visit Lindsborg is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny. The town comes to life in the summer months with festivals and outdoor activities, making it a great time to experience all that the town has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lindsborg

Do:

  • Explore the town’s history and heritage by visiting the various museums and cultural attractions.
  • Try the local cuisine, including traditional Swedish dishes and Kansas specialties.
  • Attend one of Lindsborg’s many annual festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the town’s cultural customs or traditions.
  • Litter or damage any of the town’s natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lindsborg

Lindsborg is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take the same precautions they would in any unfamiliar place, such as locking their cars and securing their belongings.

Health in Lindsborg

Visitors to Lindsborg should bring any necessary medications with them, as there is only one small pharmacy in town. In case of a medical emergency, the nearest hospital is in Salina, about a 30-minute drive away.

Getting to Lindsborg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lindsborg

The closest airports to Lindsborg are Salina Regional Airport, about 30 miles away, and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, about 80 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Lindsborg

Greyhound has a bus station located in Salina, about a 30-minute drive from Lindsborg.

Other Options

The easiest way to get to Lindsborg is by car. The town is located right off Interstate 35 and is an easy drive from both Salina and Wichita.

How to Get Around in Lindsborg

The best way to get around Lindsborg is by car or bike, as the town is small and easy to navigate. Many of the town’s attractions are within walking distance of one another, making it an easy town to explore on foot.

Where to Go Next from Lindsborg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Salina, Kansas - This nearby city is home to several museums, art galleries, and restaurants, and is about a 30-minute drive from Lindsborg.
  • McPherson, Kansas - This charming town is home to several historic sites, art galleries, and restaurants, and is about a 20-minute drive from Lindsborg.
  • Wichita, Kansas - This larger city is home to many cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries, and is about an hour’s drive from Lindsborg.

Conclusion

Lindsborg, Kansas, is a small town bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the town’s museums and art galleries or hitting the hiking and biking trails, there’s something for everyone in Lindsborg. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to this charming Kansas destination!

McPherson County Old Mill Museum McPherson County Old Mill Museum Swedish Pavilion Swedish Pavilion