Spend a day in “Little Sweden, USA!” Whether you’re interested in Swedish traditions, outdoor adventures, or art, the entire family will find something enjoyable in Lindsborg, Kansas, a little over an hour drive from Manhattan.
Things to do in Lindsborg, Kansas
Dala Horse Scavenger Hunt
Go on a scavenger hunt to find dala horses. These 30+ public art sculptures are modeled after the shape of the traditional Swedish Dala horse. Get a Google map for a create your own scavenger hunt to find them all!
Hemslojd
Stop by Hemslojd (“handicraft” in Swedish) to learn all about the dala or to shop for a wide assortment of Swedish merchandise. This gift store is the home of the dala horse signs you will see throughout the town and around the nation.
Old Mill and Swedish Heritage Museum
Step back in time and visit the Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum. Once a year, the machinery of the historic mill springs to life during Millfest. Across the street, Heritage Square is home to seven historic buildings. At the north end of the square is the Swedish Pavilion. Fun fact is the pavilion was brought to the U.S. from Sweden for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, before making its way to Lindsborg. How cool!
Trollslända Toy Store
Trollslända (“dragonfly” in Swedish) is an absolutely adorable family-owned and operated toy store. This shop features European, as well as classic American, toys for kids of all ages. Children are encouraged to take time to play with the toy at the store, so there are several play areas set up throughout that makes for a fun adventure that extends beyond just paying for a new toy.
Viking Valley Playground
Let your kiddo’s imagination run wild, as they burn off energy by visiting the Viking Valley Playground. For real, this was one of the coolest playgrounds I’ve ever seen! It features a Viking ship, play structures, and artistic representations of Lindsborg’s history. My boys had a blast pretending to be Vikings and going on a quest to save a princess.
Art Galleries
Lindsborg has a big art scene with a fair number of art galleries. If you have art lovers in your crew, plan to check out Red Barn Studio Museum, Birger Sandzén’s Art Gallery, and Small World Gallery.
Valkommen Trail
Explore the Valkommen Trail (“welcome trail” in Swedish) and see the town’s beautiful countryside and natural landscapes. Pick up some Swedish snacks at White’s Foodliner to enjoy while you’re taking in the views!
Coronado Heights Castle
Coronado Heights is a state park and scenic overlook a few miles northwest of Lindsborg Kansas and is known as one of the Eight Geography Wonders of Kansas. The castle was given its name in honor of Francisco Vasquez de Coronado. It is alleged to be near the place where he gave up his search for the seven cities of gold and turned around to return to Mexico. This is a wonderful place to take in a sunset and enjoy the natural beauty Kansas has to offer.
Where to Eat in Lindsborg
Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery
Built on the original blacksmith forge of early Swedish homesteaders, Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery is one of the oldest structures in town. My boys immediately noticed the super cool interior of exposed pipes on the ceilings and the brick walls. We were told that when they roast coffee beans, the entire town smells like delicious coffee (sign me up!). Aside from coffee, they also have a wide variety of both traditional and exotic smoothies. My boys enjoyed trying the lingonberry smoothie, a popular Swedish flavor. Make sure to snap a photo at the classic telephone booth just outside before you leave!
Crown & Rye Restaurant
If you are visiting Little Sweden USA, you must try some Swedish cuisine, right? So head over to Crown & Rye. They offer a mix of standard American food with some Swedish specialties. Plan to order their Swedish meatballs and don’t forget to check out their bakery!
Ol Stuga
Ol Stuga is a local tavern that is a perfect place to unwind, grab a drink, and get a bite to eat. You must try their famous sandwich (The Brett Nelson), which was a finalist on Good Morning America’s Best Bite Challenge. For the kiddos, they have some nice options like grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and mini corn dogs.
Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream
“No matter your moo’d, homemade ice cream makes life better!” Whenever we visit somewhere new, we try to find a local ice cream shop, and Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream sure was a perfect treat!
Special Events in Lindsborg
One other aspect that makes Lindsborg stand out is how active the town truly is. They host a lot of events throughout the year, and everyone is welcome to join in on the Swedish traditions and fun. Some popular events include the Midsummer’s Festival (a traditional Swedish festival welcoming the arrival of the summer solstice), Christmas in Lindsborg, and Våffeldagen (International Waffle Day), to name a few. Check here for all upcoming events.
