Lindsborg, Kansas

"Little Sweden USA" in the Heart of the Prairie

Discover Lindsborg

Discover Lindsborg: Where Prairie Meets Dala Horses

Lindsborg, Kansas, is where the tallgrass prairie meets the land of Dala horses and Swedish meatballs. Founded by Swedish immigrants in 1869, this artsy, folkloric village is affectionately dubbed "Little Sweden USA", and it absolutely lives up to the name.

With a population of just over 3,500, Lindsborg brings Nordic charm to the middle of Kansas with Viking festivals, painted horses on every corner, and cinnamon rolls the size of your face. It's a cultural time warp where you can visit a Swedish bakery in the morning, a historic Lutheran church at noon, and a downtown art gallery by dusk—all without ever leaving the prairie.

Podcast: Dive Deeper into Lindsborg

Listen to our dedicated podcast episode to get the full scoop on Lindsborg's Swedish charm and prairie spirit!

Your Lindsborg Ebook Guide

Want to take Little Sweden with you? Our comprehensive ebook guide is packed with more tips, Dala horse maps, and festival details.

Ebook Coming Soon!

Top Attractions & Things to Do

Quaint shops and Dala horses in Downtown Lindsborg

Downtown Lindsborg

Stroll among quaint shops, Dala horse statues, murals, and Swedish flags fluttering like prairie prayer flags.

Historic Old Mill Museum in Lindsborg

Old Mill Museum

A 1898 roller mill turned museum—explore Smoky Valley history and Swedish settlement life.

Artwork at Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery

Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery

An art museum honoring the beloved Swedish-American landscape artist—jaw-dropping prairie paintings.

View from Coronado Heights castle-like lookout

Coronado Heights

A stone castle-like lookout on a nearby hill—great views, picnicking, and a dash of conquistador legend.

Campus of Bethany College in Lindsborg

Bethany College Campus

One of the oldest colleges in Kansas, with gorgeous grounds and cultural events year-round.

Eclectic Red Barn Studio Museum

Red Barn Studio Museum

Home and workspace of artist Lester Raymer—eclectic, imaginative, and totally delightful.

Unique Lindsborg Stories & Facts

Dala Horse Capital of the U.S.

Dozens of large, hand-painted Dala horses decorate town—each one themed and photo-op ready.

Välkommen Signs Everywhere

You're welcomed in Swedish on every street—small town, big hospitality.

Midsummer's Festival Royalty

Lindsborg celebrates Midsummer with crowns, parades, and maypoles—skål!

Viking on the Prairie

There's a local Viking mascot named "Välkommen" who shows up to parades in full regalia.

Planning Your Lindsborg Adventure

Best Travel Seasons

  • Spring (Apr–May): 55-75°F, perfect weather for flower crowns and festivals.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): 75-95°F, sunny and active, parades and Swedish pancakes.
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): 50-75°F, golden wheat fields, harvest festivals, heritage events.
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): 25-45°F, quiet and magical, Lucia Fest and cozy cafés.

Travel Essentials

Recommended Stay: 2–3 Days to Dala hunt, picnic, and say "hej hej" to your inner Swede.

What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, camera for horse-spotting, stretchy pants for smörgåsbords, and flower crowns if traveling in June.

Safety: Extremely safe—just watch out for overenthusiastic accordion players.

Accessibility: Downtown and most attractions are wheelchair-friendly; Coronado Heights has limited accessible trails.

Where to Stay in Lindsborg

Rosberg House B&B in Lindsborg

Luxury: Rosberg House B&B

Restored Victorian home with Swedish flair and homemade breakfasts. From $175/night.

Viking Motel in Lindsborg

Mid-Range: Viking Motel

Cozy, clean, and right in town. From $120/night.

Coronado Motel in Lindsborg

Budget: Coronado Motel

Simple, quiet, and affordable. From $85/night.

Lindsborg Old Mill Campground

Camping: Lindsborg Old Mill Campground

Small RV and tent area within walking distance of downtown. From $20/night.

Local Flavors: Dining Highlights

Swedish meatballs at Swedish Crown Restaurant

Swedish Crown Restaurant

Try the meatballs, rye bread, and lingonberry jam—served with small-town warmth and big flavor.

Burger at Farley's Bar & Grill

Farley's Bar & Grill

Casual spot for burgers, beer, and Swedish meatball sliders (yes, they're a thing).

Cinnamon roll from Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery

Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery

Local favorite with killer cinnamon rolls and Viking-themed drinks.

Swedish pastries at Crown & Rye Bakery

Crown & Rye Bakery

Swedish pastries, lefse, and the kind of cardamom buns that ruin you for all others.

Explore Nearby (Within 20 Miles)

McPherson (18 miles)

College town with shopping, coffee shops, and more modern amenities.

Smoky Valley Scenic Byway

Beautiful rolling prairie views and historic sites—perfect for a drive with ABBA playing.

Marquette (15 miles)

Tiny town with the Kansas Motorcycle Museum and vintage charm.

Kanopolis Lake & State Park

Hiking, paddling, and exploring sandstone canyons just a short drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Lindsborg called "Little Sweden USA"?
Lindsborg was founded by Swedish immigrants in 1869 and has proudly maintained its Swedish heritage through festivals, Dala horse decorations, Swedish-themed shops, food, and cultural events, earning it the nickname "Little Sweden USA."
What is a Dala horse and why are they in Lindsborg?
A Dala horse is a traditional carved and painted wooden horse statuette originating from the Swedish province of Dalarna. Lindsborg has embraced the Dala horse as a symbol of its Swedish heritage, with numerous large, uniquely painted Dala horses displayed throughout the town.
What are the main Swedish festivals in Lindsborg?
The main Swedish festivals are Svensk Hyllningsfest (a biennial celebration in October), Midsummer Festival (June), and Lucia Fest (December). There's also a Viking Fest in April.
Is Coronado Heights actually a castle?
Coronado Heights is a prominent hill near Lindsborg with a stone shelter built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s that resembles a small castle. It offers panoramic views and is a popular picnic spot, linked to the legend of explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado.
Can you buy authentic Swedish food and gifts in Lindsborg?
Yes, Lindsborg has several shops and bakeries offering authentic Swedish foods like meatballs, lingonberry jam, rye bread, lefse, and pastries, as well as Scandinavian gifts, crafts, and Dala horses.
What kind of art can I see in Lindsborg?
Lindsborg has a rich arts scene. You can visit the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery featuring the works of the Swedish-American artist, the eclectic Red Barn Studio Museum of Lester Raymer, and various downtown galleries showcasing local and regional artists.