Lindsborg

Lindsborg in Kansas ranks 5th on the list of places in the Midwest that look like they could be in Europe. Originally settled by Swedish immigrants, Lindsborg’s Scandinavian heritage remains palpable through public art (like its Dala horse sculptures, a well-known symbol of Sweden) and plenty of Swedish specialty shops, so prepare to load up on Scandinavian textiles, tinned cookies, and bottles of spiced Glögg. Best of all is the town’s yearly Scandinavian celebrations, like the Midsummer Festival in June, where you’ll find folk dancing performances, bake sales, flower crown-making demos, and tons of other Swedish traditions.

Sweden has made its way into the heart of the Midwest through the town of Lindsborg. The echoes of its Swedish founders are alive and well, displayed through the vibrant Dala horses that can be spotted throughout the city (download a copy of the map ahead of your visit), shops like Hemslöjd filled with handcrafted gifts, and the Old Mill Museum, where you can learn more about the colorful Swedish heritage of this region. In mid-November, holiday traditions get a Swedish twist too. Julotta kicks off a season of celebrations, and downtown shops (and the Välkommen Bridge) turn on their holiday lights for the Holiday Open House.

Location: McPherson County, Kansas, United States

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