Cottonwood Falls and Strong City make up the heart of the beautiful Flint Hills, marked by miles of amber tall grass unique to the Midwest and Kansas. The two centrally located cities are about a 10-minute drive apart, but both have a rich history and landmarks worth a drive for the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and so much more. Word is getting out about these two best-kept secrets. Come explore Cottonwood Falls and Strong City for yourself.

Embark on a Scenic Byway Exploration

Drive along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. This 47-mile-long route has beautiful landscapes of native flowers and grasses. Going south, follow Highway 177 to pass through Strong City and Cottonwood Falls. You will find the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, home to the Flint Hills, just north of Strong City. What once covered 170 million acres of North America, only 4% of the Tallgrass Prairie remains in the Kansas Flint Hills. It is now filled with hiking trails and a bison herd. You may also find Chase State Fishing Lake and the Chase Lake Falls waterfall along the byway in Cottonwood Falls.

Take a Glimpse into the Past

Cottonwood Falls is filled with historical houses, barns, and museums. Stay in The Prairie House or the 1879 Stone House, these guesthouses were built in the late 1800s and 1900s. You can experience all of The Lark Inn Guesthouses that can sleep up to 6 to 8 guests. The Cavalry Historic Barn was once an armory, but now displays infantry equipment from the early 1900s. The barn is located in Swope Park, which is filled with historical locations such as the All Veterans Memorial.

Honor the soldiers who served in the Civil War. You can also check out historic artifacts and photos in the Chase County Historical Society Museum. The Chase County Courthouse, built in the 1870s, holds the annual celebration of Chase County Sesquicentennial Celebration. Enjoy all-day live music, a car show, food and craft vendors, a parade, and end the night with fireworks.
 

Taste the Heartland

Check out some of the tastiest food when you travel to Cottonwood Falls and Strong City. The Cottonwood Falls Grand Central Hotel & Grill has been owned by Suzan Barnes for 27 years, which was originally built in 1884. The Grand Grill is known for their incredible steaks, ribeye and fillets. You can enjoy the hospitality and fine dining. The Doghouse Saloon is the perfect bar to end your day with a drink. Indulge in soup, salad and sandwiches at Chef Stan’s Place in Strong City. 

Whether it’s the few Kansas waterfalls, the All Veterans Memorial or an amazing grill inside a hotel, great places are waiting. Don’t just take our word for it, adventure to Cottonwood Falls or Strong City this weekend. To learn more about Chase County and its cities, check out https://www.heartoftheflinthills.com/.