Lindsborg, KS: McPherson County (Our 5th Kansas County)

Native American lands within the Spanish conquest for mass deposits of gold, to Swedish homesteading, to modern day Kansas. This is the region of America that can produce some of the most unique of all Midwest travels. An incredible story in its founding that is still very much enjoyed here in the 21st century. A town with a strong Swedish heritage that invites the cultures of the world to experience. Beautiful landscapes to feast your eyes on no matter which way you look. This is just part one of what we came to love about a small Kansas town called Lindsborg.

Coronado Heights-The Spanish Quest for Kansas Gold

It’s no secret that I have a high regard for the prairies, plains, grassy hills, and vast farmlands of the Midwest. The footprints of visitors into places like Coronado Heights are increasing as many travelers are discovering the vastness and stunning overlooks Kansas has and being increasingly captured by it. Make the extra turn, discover a gravel/dirt road, and find the summit of any hill. This always leads to the endless horizons of the Midwest.

Coronado came to the Lindsborg area, in the 1540s, on the hunt for gold, following stories, legends, and the paths Native Americans have long before blazed in the days when no European had any knowledge of the New World. Deep into middle America and into Kansas was the Spanish prayers for an entire city of gold. They used these hills to gather a vantage point in hopes to see the mythical deposits somehow shining in the distance. What the conquest witnessed wasn’t too much different from today. Minus a few roads, some farmland, and the distant town of Lindsborg, the view from Coronado Heights can be a clear look into historic Kansas. The Spanish gave up on what is now McPherson County. The Swedish saw a land in a much different way and looked to the future seeing a richness that the explorers before them couldn’t see for themselves. Their future wasn’t wealth that could be forged into bricks, jewelry, or doubloons. Their vision gave us Lindsborg and the golden community that occupies it 150 years later.

Take a Hike & Never Leave Town

The biggest tip I can give you when visiting Lindsborg… bring your walking shoes! The Valkommen Trail is yet another scenic and relaxing way you can observe the beautiful Smoky River valley. Miles of this paved path show you a look into the sites and sounds of nature that a Kansas stroll can provide while still keeping you close to the business district in town. We’re not done being active yet!

*Our stay at the Rosberg House Bed and Breakfast was complimentary and so were some of our meals here in Lindsborg. The views expressed are always of our own. Let’s get back to gallivanting!

We checked into the Rosberg House Bed and Breakfast and we were floored by the beauty right when we showed up. Just a few steps from Main Street and all its shops, restaurants, museums, parks, and that scenic walking trail. The flowers, vibrant colors of the house, front porch, and the welcoming energy coming off the property stirred our imaginations when we pulled up. You’ll want to keep your eyes open here on The Iowa Gallivant because we’ll be showing you the rest of this Lindsborg treasure. Time for another walk!

The Swedish Crown Restaurant is a must-have dining experience during your visit to Lindsborg. Fantastic Swedish style fare with classic selections of Americana and prepared by a hospitable staff that loves to see visitors. Bethany College operates the Swedish Crown with some of their staff working there and learning the ins-and-outs of the business. If you love to support hard working individuals and get a truly memorable meal at the same time, then make this restaurant happen. You’ll want to sing from a snowy Swedish cliff after you motor through the platter above. By the way….Lingonberries are my jam!

Main Street Shopping

 

Small World Gallery has many ways to take a little part of Lindsborg home with you. It can be some of their amazing jewelry, stunning photography, literature, and one of a kind souvenirs to remember your travels here. My favorite memento from Small World Gallery is the great conversations with Jim. There’s a lot of tangible gifts you can buy here, but what I personally took home was a genuine feeling of being greeted by a longtime friend that I just met. Through all of Jim’s travels and years of photography there’s a man that still exudes a positive Kansas way about him. It supplies the glow of this gallery and gives you another Lindsborg experience that you can only get in this Main Street community. Jim, and the rest of the Small World Gallery family, knows just how precious this planet is and they are making their little slice of it just as meaningful and unforgettable as they can.

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Go to the Lindsborg CVB website and start planning your trip!