If you’re searching for a fun, unique and underrated destination to take a Midwest or Kansas road trip this year, look no further. Crawford County and Southeast Kansas surprised us in the best possible way. From a towering mining machine you can climb inside, to Route 66 history, quirky roadside parks, a bookstore where you can cuddle and read to adoptable cats, and one of the most beautiful state parks in the region, this hidden gem in the corner of Kansas blends small-town charm with unexpected adventure.
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Small-Town Surprises: Best things to do in Arma, Kansas
Located 11 miles north of Pittsburg, Arma is not just another Southeast Kansas one-time coal-mining town. Its identity is rooted in Belgian heritage and patriotism, kept alive by a community of welcoming residents who have proudly celebrated it since 1946. Its shops and city park make this a worthy day-trip destination year-round.
Things to do in Girard, Kansas: History, Dining, and Charming Overnight Lodging
From chatting with locals over breakfast to taking a guided tour of its museum, I was pleasantly surprised by Girard’s attractions, and the residents welcomed me warmly.
One Of America’s Most Affordable Destinations In 2025 Is A Kansas Gem Famous For Its Fried Chicken ‘Wars’
Looking for a one-of-a-kind destination that doesn’t break the bank? Consider Kansas, a state filled with smaller cities that pack the flavor and character often missing from better-known hubs. And Pittsburg might just be the perfect example of that.
The Christmas Shoppe’s Opening Sparked by Nostalgia for Christmases Past
The Christmas Shoppe in Pittsburg, Kansas, captures everything people love about the season with lights, music and the smell of cinnamon rolls straight from the oven.
Biking Builds Relationships Amongst Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
Although Pittsburg, Kansas, lifelong resident Tom Swartz has never gotten into competitive mountain biking or any other serious biking races/events, he has a passion for this leisurely recreational sport that has continued for many decades.
College-Town Feel Prevalent in Pittsburg
Some towns have a college. Pittsburg, Kansas, is a college town. You can see it in the Gorilla flags on front porches and the way local businesses turn red and gold every fall.
You can read with a cat on your lap at this bookstore, then adopt the cat
Since Literary Cat Co. opened in Kansas about a year and a half ago, 32 of the store’s foster cats have been adopted by bookstore customers.
Group Travel Out West: Kansas Offers Unique Sites Just Outside the Show-Me-State
For as long as I’ve covered travel and tourism, I’ve heard people say that there’s nothing to do in Kansas. So I decided to spend several weeks exploring Kansas and I wasn’t quite prepared for all that I found simply detouring off the interstate.
Independence Celebrations
Annual celebration dates vary by community. Enjoy fireworks over the lake, or a rodeo with a dance and fireworks.

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